Exploring Malta and its surrounding islands often involves a mix of busy boat trips and crowded tourist spots. This particular tour from Gozo offers a more intimate approach, combining a short but memorable 20-minute cave boat ride with a relaxing Blue Lagoon stop. While it’s not the longest or most exhaustive tour, it hits many of the highlights and does so with a friendly, small-group vibe.
Two things I genuinely appreciate about this experience: first, the chance to enter the Santa Maria Caves by boat, which is a thrill in itself; and second, the extended free time at the Blue Lagoon, giving you room to truly enjoy the stunning scenery. The only consideration? If you’re looking for a tour that covers every corner of the island or includes a full-day itinerary, this might feel a bit light. Still, for a quick highlight reel with some water fun, it’s a solid choice.
Key points / Takeaways
- Intimate size group ensures a more personal experience and better interaction with guides
- Inside the caves by boat offers a unique, up-close view of Malta’s rugged coastline
- Flexible Blue Lagoon stop allows for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing as you see fit
- Guides like the friendly, humorous crew make the trip more enjoyable and informative
- Weather-dependent route changes mean your experience might vary slightly on the day
- Good value for a half-day outing that combines sightseeing with leisure
A Quick Look at the Experience
If you’re visiting Malta and want a taste of its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, this tour from Gozo hits some high points without overly demanding your day. It’s a full-day outing, but the core highlights are concentrated in roughly a few hours, making it perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed pace.
Meeting your guide at Hondoq Bay in Qala, Gozo, you’ll start with a friendly introduction before stepping aboard a small boat. This isn’t a giant cruise ship – think more like a cozy watercraft that makes the experience feel more personal and less commercial. The boat ride itself is a treat, offering scenic views of Gozo’s coastline, and is only about 5 to 20 minutes between stops.
The real star of the trip is the Santa Maria Caves. The boat slips inside these caves, giving you a rare chance to see their rugged walls and formations up close. Swantje, one of the recent reviewers, mentioned that “booking was smooth and easy, and everybody was really friendly,” highlighting the professionalism and warmth of the crew. The guide’s role here is key—expect knowledgeable commentary and some good humor, making the cave visit both fun and informative.
The route then takes you past Santa Maria Bay and the Comino Hotel, with a brief cruise before your main stop at the Blue Lagoon. This is the highlight for many—turquoise waters and stunning scenery. You can choose to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat or nearby rocks. The flexibility here is a big plus, and the tour operator is happy to arrange pick-up at a later time, allowing you to soak in the tranquil setting at your own pace.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Qala.
Exploring the Santa Maria Caves
The boat enters the caves, and I love the way this feels more like an adventure than just a sightseeing stop. It’s a chance to get inside Malta’s natural formations, which can be tricky to access otherwise. Being inside these caves provides a sense of discovery, and you’ll love the way the sunlight filters through the water and illuminates the cave walls.
Guides like the one referenced in reviews make the experience richer—they bring the landscape to life with stories, facts, and a friendly attitude. The 20-minute duration means it’s enough time to appreciate the caves without feeling rushed. I’d suggest bringing a camera, as the inside of the caves offers some striking photo opportunities, especially when the sun hits the water just right.
Blue Lagoon: The Main Attraction
Once you reach the Blue Lagoon, you’ll understand why this spot is a Maltese icon. The clear, blue waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the scenery is postcard-perfect. You might find it a bit crowded—Olena mentioned in her review that the lagoon is “completely overcrowded,” which is common, especially in peak season.
However, part of the charm is the freedom to stay as long as you like. You can stroll along the sandy shores, take a dip, or just relax on a boat or rocky outcrop. The tour offers a pre-arranged pickup, making it easy to plan your time without worrying about missing the last boat back at 6 PM.
A tip from a reviewer: if crowds bother you, ask the crew if they can drop you at a less crowded bay. The tour company’s flexibility might surprise you—at just €15 when booked directly, it’s a very affordable way to access this stunning spot.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a short, scenic escape from the more crowded parts of Malta and Gozo. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group tours where guides can be personable and knowledgeable. If you’re a water enthusiast, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the Blue Lagoon adds real value.
However, if you’re looking for an all-day, in-depth exploration of Malta’s diverse attractions, this tour might be a bit limited. It’s more about the highlights—a quick taste of caves and turquoise waters—rather than comprehensive sightseeing.
Logistics and Practical Tips
The tour lasts about 1 day, with the last boat returning at 6 PM. The meeting point at Hondoq Bay is straightforward, and guides are English-speaking, ensuring clear communication. The boat ride itself is short but scenic, with the possibility of route changes depending on the weather—so keep an eye on the forecast and dress accordingly.
Since food and drinks aren’t included, consider bringing snacks and water. Sunscreen and beachwear are recommended, especially if you plan to swim. The tour includes luggage storage, which is handy if you’re coming from a hotel or another part of Malta.
Pricing is reasonable for what’s offered—the core experience costs around €15 if booked directly, which is a good value considering the boat ride, cave visit, and time at the lagoon. The flexibility to reserve and pay later adds peace of mind, especially if your plans are still up in the air.
Final Thoughts
This small-group boat tour from Gozo offers a compact yet memorable slice of Maltese coastline. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see caves from the inside and enjoy free time at one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta. The guides are friendly and engaging, making the experience more personable, and the scenery is simply stunning.
While it might not cover every corner of Malta or include gourmet meals, it provides a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without the crowds. The option to stay longer at the Blue Lagoon and the flexible pickup times make it a practical choice for many.
If you’re craving a short adventure with scenic water views and a touch of exploration, this tour is worth considering. It’s a good balance of activity and leisure, ideal for those who want to make the most of a day on Malta’s coast.
FAQ
How long is the boat ride to the Santa Maria Caves?
The boat ride to the caves takes about 5 minutes, with the actual cave visit lasting around 20 minutes.
Do I need to bring my own snorkel or swimming gear?
While not explicitly included, bringing your own mask, snorkel, and beachwear is recommended for enjoying the Blue Lagoon.
Can I stay longer at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the tour offers a drop-off and pick-up at your preferred time, allowing you to stay and relax as long as you like before your return trip at 6 PM.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The small boat and gentle pace make it generally suitable for families and older travelers, but always check individual health needs and comfort with boat rides.
What if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?
The captain reserves the right to cancel or alter the route based on weather conditions, so check the forecast and be flexible if needed.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks and water for your comfort.
This tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience some of Malta’s most picturesque spots without overextending your day. With friendly guidance, stunning scenery, and the freedom to relax at the Blue Lagoon, it’s a solid choice for a scenic water adventure.