From Melliea Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour w/ Swim Stop

Exploring Malta’s stunning archipelago through a boat tour offers a unique perspective that combines natural beauty, history, and a touch of adventure. This 6.5-hour boat experience from Mellieha Bay takes you around Malta, Gozo, and Comino, blending sightseeing, swimming, and optional land excursions. It’s a great way to see some of Malta’s most iconic sites without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple tours.

What I particularly like about this trip is the balance of activities—you get a scenic cruise with plenty of photo stops, a dedicated time on the charming island of Gozo, and ample opportunity to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Another highlight is the crew’s friendly approach and the fact that the boat tour is well-organized, making it suitable for most travelers.

However, a word of caution: this tour involves a lot of moving pieces, a fair amount of walking, and a significant time of sitting on a boat. If you prefer a relaxed, slow-paced day or have mobility concerns, you might find the schedule a little packed. Still, the value for money at just $28 per person, including a generous swimming stop and land visits, makes this a tempting choice for most.

Key points / Takeaways

• Excellent value for money with a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and optional tours.
• Expert guides and crew provide helpful commentary and friendly service.
• Well-organized itinerary mixing scenic cruising with land visits and free time for swimming.
• Ideal for travelers who want a compact yet rundown of Malta’s islands.
• The Blue Lagoon swim is the highlight for many, offering clear waters and good snorkeling opportunities.
• Optional land tours in Gozo allow for a deeper exploration, though they are an extra cost.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point at Mellieha Bay

The adventure begins at Mellieha Bay around 9:30 am, a convenient launch spot directly accessible from the main resort area. The meeting point, marked by a Starbucks and the activity provider’s office, is straightforward to find. From here, the boat departs, and the first sights are already on the horizon.

Cruising past Smugglers’ Caves and Elephant Rock

As the boat pulls away, you’ll quickly see the smugglers’ caves, historically used for covert activities, now a favorite for photographs. This initial leg sets the tone with a blend of scenic cliffs and sea caves. On Comino, the Elephant Head Rock stands out—a natural formation resembling an elephant’s trunk, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

Visiting Santa Maria Caves and Cave Exploration

The Santa Maria Caves are another highlight, offering scenic views and photo opportunities. The cruise around these caves provides a sense of their scale and beauty, accessible only by sea, which adds an element of exclusivity and adventure.

The Gozo Stop: Culture and Landmarks

The first major stop is Gozo, where you’re free to explore or opt for the exclusive 2-hour 45-minute Open Bus Tour. This is a real perk, as it’s reserved solely for your group, avoiding crowded tourist buses. You’ll visit Victoria City, the Old Citadel, and landmarks like Fungus Rock and Ta Pinu Cathedral—a site Pope John Paul II once visited.

Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, making the land tour engaging and informative. You’ll see a different side of Malta’s sister island—more rural, traditional, and steeped in history. The Blue Hole and Inland Sea are other popular spots you might consider visiting if you prefer exploring independently after the bus tour.

Swimming at Blue Lagoon

After the land exploration, it’s time for the Blue Lagoon—a 1.5-hour swim stop that many travelers say is the highlight. The water here is famously clear, blue, and inviting. You can snorkel, relax, or just soak up the sun. Several reviews mention that swimming from the boat itself is preferable to crowded beaches, making this a peaceful, picturesque experience.

Returning via Caves and Scenic Stops

On the way back to Mellieha, the boat continues to visit the Crystal Lagoon, Poppy’s Caves, and Lovers’ Caves, each offering their own scenic vistas. Passing by Santa Maria Tower and WWII Santa Maria Battery adds a touch of historical context, even if just from a distance.

End of the Tour

The boat arrives back around 4:00 pm at Mellieha Bay, ending a day packed with diverse experiences. The entire trip is designed to give a well-rounded taste of Malta’s islands, combining natural beauty, cultural sights, and the fun of sea exploration.

What This Tour Means for You

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring the islands without the stress of planning individual excursions. The price point of around $28** makes it an excellent value, especially considering the inclusive swim stop and land visit options.

It’s also ideal for those who enjoy being on the water and appreciate a lively, friendly crew. The tour’s mix of scenic cruising, historical sights, and free time at Blue Lagoon ensures that different interests are covered without feeling rushed.

Who This Tour Is Best For

• Budget-conscious travelers seeking a full day of experiences for a reasonable price
• Visitors wanting a guided land tour of Gozo without the hassle of independent transport
• People eager to swim and snorkel in Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon
• Those who prefer a small group or exclusive land tour option
• Families or groups who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and casual exploration

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives

• Those with mobility issues might find the schedule demanding, though the boat is wheelchair accessible
• Anyone seeking a very relaxed, slow-paced day may find this itinerary a bit packed
• Travelers looking for a culinary or luxury experience may prefer other options

Practical Tips for a Great Day

• Bring cash for optional extras like the land bus tour or snorkeling equipment.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—the Malta sun can be fierce.
• Pack a towel and swimwear if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Arrive early to ensure a smooth start, especially during peak seasons.
• Keep in mind, no glass objects or fireworks are allowed on the boat.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $28, this boat trip packs a surprising amount of value—natural beauty, historical sights, and the chance to swim in one of the world’s most famous lagoons. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a fun, active day that combines sightseeing with relaxation.

The friendly guides and crew, along with the well-organized itinerary, make it a dependable choice. The inclusion of land exploration in Gozo adds depth that many similar tours lack, giving you a taste of island life beyond the coast.

If you’re comfortable with a full day on the water and enjoy a little adventure, this tour will not disappoint. It offers a well-rounded snapshot of Malta’s islands, with enough flexibility to tailor your experience—whether that’s relaxing at Blue Lagoon, exploring Gozo’s historic streets, or snapping photos of sea caves and rock formations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since it involves swimming and sightseeing. Just keep in mind the schedule and ensure kids are comfortable with boat rides.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are available on board but not included in the ticket price. You might want to bring cash or buy refreshments during the day.

Can I swim at Blue Lagoon without snorkeling gear?
Yes, you can swim and relax without snorkeling equipment, but gear is available for rent if you’d like to explore underwater.

How long do we stay on Gozo?
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, enough for a quick exploration or to relax independently.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, though the land tours and some stops may have limitations for those with mobility issues.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour operates during the warmer months, typically spring to early autumn, when swimming and outdoor sightseeing are most enjoyable.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but very young children should be supervised, especially during swimming stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, cash, and possibly snacks or drinks.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot online with “reserve now & pay later” options, offering flexibility and peace of mind.

What happens if it rains?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This boat tour from Mellieha Bay offers an engaging, value-packed way to see Malta’s beautiful islands. With friendly guides, scenic stops, and plenty of water fun, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to combine adventure with sightseeing in this Mediterranean paradise.