Malta: Gozo Full-Day Jeep with Lunch and Boat Transfers

Exploring the island of Gozo via this full-day Jeep tour offers a mix of adventure, nature, and history, with the added bonus of boat transfers that highlight Malta’s beautiful waters. The experience is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Gozo’s most iconic sights, from ancient temples to rugged coastlines, all within about seven hours. It’s especially appealing if you like a mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it combines comfort and adventure—modern jeeps make the bumpy roads manageable, and your driver acts as both guide and storyteller, enriching the day with local insights. Plus, the boat ride to Comino and the Blue Lagoon is a highlight, offering a chance to relax and take in Malta’s celebrated crystal-clear waters. On the flip side, if you’re not a fan of tight schedules or long group tours, this might feel a bit rushed, especially with numerous stops packed into one day.

Another point to consider is the weather dependency—some highlights, like the boat rides or Blue Lagoon views, depend on good weather, which can mean a different experience in winter versus summer. Also, while the lunch at Mariblu Restaurant is well-liked, it’s a buffet, so if you prefer more gourmet dining, you might find it simple. Still, for the price, many find this tour offers remarkable value—a full day of varied sights, local cuisine, and scenic cruising.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Comfortable Modern Jeeps: The vehicles are praised as comfortable and well-equipped, making bumpy roads more tolerable.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Peter, Alex, and Johnny get high marks for being knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about sharing local stories.
• Stunning Scenery & Photo Stops: From Ramla Bay’s iconic red sands to the Dwejra Inland Sea, the views are memorable and ideal for photos.
• Boat & Transfer Logistics: The scenic boat rides, weather permitting, add a special touch, and the hassle-free ferry transfers make logistics smoother.
• Variety of Stops: You’ll visit a mix of beaches, caves, inland sights, and historic sites like the Ggantija Temples and the Citadel, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Good Value: Many reviews highlight the fair price considering the length of the tour, included meals, and multiple attractions.

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and want to see its quieter, more pastoral sister island, this Gozo full-day jeep tour with lunch and boat transfers offers a lively, authentic way to do it. It’s a well-structured adventure that balances scenic drives, cultural highlights, and relaxing stops, all led by guides who truly know their stuff.

The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or pre-arranged location, followed by a scenic boat crossing to Gozo. This ferry ride alone sets the tone—quick, hassle-free, and a lovely way to start your day on the water. Once on the island, your driver and guide will whisk you from one memorable spot to another, showing you the hidden gems alongside the well-known attractions.

Why this tour stands out

Two features stand out immediately. First, the expert guides like Peter, Alex, and Johnny are consistently praised for their friendly attitude and wealth of knowledge. As one reviewer says, “Alex made our day absolutely amazing,” by sharing stories and ensuring everyone stayed engaged, even when the weather didn’t cooperate. Second, the scenery—from the stunning cliffs at Dwejra to the tranquil Xlendi Bay—makes every stop worthwhile and provides plenty of photo opportunities.

The boat ride to Comino, passing the Blue Lagoon and the Caves, is a particular favorite. Many mention how this short cruise offers a refreshing break and a chance to enjoy Malta’s luminous waters—something that truly enriches the day.

What to Expect on the Day

Your adventure kicks off with pickup from a list of 49 locations, including major hotels and central spots. Expect a comfortable transfer to the harbor, followed by a speedboat ride that’s quick but scenic, setting the tone for an active day. The tour incorporates about 7 hours of travel, with numerous stops that blend sightseeing, exploring, and relaxing.

The first major sight is the Salt Pans in Mgarr, where the salt production process has remained largely unchanged for centuries. It’s a unique photo spot and gives insight into traditional industries. Then, you’ll visit the Citadel in Victoria, a hilltop fortress that offers panoramic views over Gozo’s landscape—perfect for those postcard shots.

Next, you’ll find yourself at Ramla Bay, renowned for its distinctive red sands and clear waters, perfect for a quick dip if weather allows. Nearby, the legendary Calypso Cave offers a glimpse into local mythology and stunning vistas. The Ggantija Temples—some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world—are a must-see for history lovers. Even if you’re not a history buff, the scale and age of these megalithic structures are impressive.

Following a one-hour free time for exploring and grabbing a snack or drink, you’ll head to the charming village of Xewkija for a lunch break at Mariblu Restaurant. Many reviewers mention the local wine and well-prepared buffet lunch as a highlight, providing a taste of Gozitan hospitality and cuisine.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Xlendi Bay, a peaceful spot perfect for a quick walk or photo, and then make your way to the Dwejra Inland Sea, renowned for its dramatic limestone formations and water-filled grottoes. If weather permits, there’s also a boat ride at the Inland Sea, which many find to be a memorable experience.

The tour winds down with a visit to the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, an important religious site with a lovely setting, and then a quick stop at Marsalforn, a fisherman’s village with excellent views and a relaxed vibe. The salt pans at Xwejni are often the last stop, offering a chance to cool off with a swim or simply admire the craftsmanship of centuries-old salt harvesting.

The Practical Details

This experience is packed, so expect a full day, with a 7-hour duration that includes multiple stops and transfer times. The transportation—modern, comfortable jeeps—means getting around is a breeze, even on rougher roads. The group size varies but generally feels intimate enough for everyone to get a good view and hear the guide’s stories.

Included in the price are ferry tickets, lunch with water and local wine, speedboat transfers, and the driver-guide. However, a few things aren’t included—entry to the Ggantija Temples, boat rides at the Inland Sea, and drinks beyond what’s provided with lunch.

The tour provides flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before, and you can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan your trip without financial stress. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you want to take a dip, and your camera.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, fun-packed day with a mix of scenery, history, and local flavor—all without the hassle of organizing individual transfers or guides. It’s especially good for those who appreciate authentic insights from guides like Johnny or Peter, who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

If you’re visiting Malta and want to see the quieter, scenic side of Gozo, along with some stunning coastlines and ancient monuments, this tour offers remarkable value. Just be prepared for a full, active day with plenty to see.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes two-way transportation by jeep, lunch with water and wine, ferry tickets, and a 30-minute boat ride, weather permitting. Guides are knowledgeable and speak multiple languages.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, allowing for numerous stops and sightseeing, with some flexibility depending on weather and group pace.

Do I need to pay extra for attractions?
Entry to attractions like the Ggantija Temples isn’t included, so you might want to budget for those if interested. However, most major highlights are covered with the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families or kids?
Yes, the jeeps are modern and comfortable, and stops are generally short with no long walks. It’s a good option for families with children who enjoy sightseeing and boat rides.

Can I swim during the tour?
There’s a swim stop at Xwejni Salt Pans if the weather is warm enough, and some tours include a swim at a beach or bay in summer.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, and some water. Remember your passport or ID for certain sites, and avoid large bags or luggage.

This full-day jeep adventure combines the best sights of Gozo with the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary. It’s a well-rounded, cost-effective way to experience Malta’s sister island, especially if you value authentic experiences, scenic views, and a touch of leisure on the water.