Half day Cruise – Comino, Gozo, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, and Caves

If you’re looking to explore Malta’s coastline without spending a whole day at sea, this half-day cruise offers a well-balanced taste of some of the most iconic spots. Priced at around $40.33 per person and lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, it’s an ideal option for travelers who want a quick but memorable maritime adventure. Departing from Cirkewwa, the trip packs in several highlights, including swimming in Blue Lagoon, exploring sea caves, and enjoying a scenic visit to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.

What I really like about this experience is how intimate and personal the boat feels. Being on a smaller vessel (as one reviewer pointed out, “his own little boat”), you won’t be packed in like sardines with dozens of strangers. This creates a more relaxed vibe, with plenty of opportunities to jump from the upper deck into the clear waters or take photos of the stunning scenery. Plus, you get a welcome drink and fresh watermelon onboard—small touches that make the trip feel welcoming and relaxed. Another feature I appreciate is the unobstructed view from the upper deck, which makes for fantastic photo opportunities and a true bird’s-eye perspective of Malta’s coastline.

One potential consideration is weather dependence. The description notes that swimming stops are subject to weather conditions, so if the seas are rough or the wind is strong, your swim time might be limited or canceled altogether. Plus, some reviews mention crowded beaches like Blue Lagoon when visiting during peak times, so if you’re seeking solitude, early mornings or less busy times might be better.

Key Points

• Small group, personalized experience: You’re on a smaller boat, making for a more relaxed, less crowded trip.
• Two swimming stops: Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon offer clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Scenic land visits: Time in Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour adds a taste of local life and scenic photography opportunities.
• Beautiful caves and bays: Pass by magnificent caves and the bay known for Malta’s largest sandy beach.
• Great value: For only around $40.33, you get multiple stops, a scenic cruise, drinks, and fresh fruit.
• Flexible timing: The 3-4 hour duration leaves plenty of time for exploring Malta afterward.

Making the most of your Malta boat trip

From the moment the boat departs from Cirkewwa, you can tell this isn’t just another mass-market cruise. The groups tend to stay smaller—capped at 40 travelers—and this creates a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The captain, known from reviews as someone personable like George, is often praised for his easy-going nature and humor, which adds to the relaxed vibe onboard. You’ll enjoy unobstructed views from the padded sun deck—a favorite spot for many travelers looking to catch the sun and snap photos of the coastline.

The itinerary is well-structured to maximize your time at each site without feeling rushed. The Blue Lagoon is the star attraction—famous for its crystal-clear waters—and typically the main reason most travelers book this trip. Expect about an hour here, but be aware that during peak times, it can get overcrowded, as some reviews mentioned. If you want to avoid masses, early mornings or less busy months like November might offer a more tranquil experience.

The Crystal Lagoon is another fantastic spot, with warm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The crew will stop here for about an hour, and many reviews highlight the abundant fish and sea life you can see while snorkeling. If you’re into underwater photography, this stops are a highlight, as many reviewers note the beautiful scenery and chance to see local sea creatures.

On the way, the boat also passes some dramatic sea caves—great for photos and appreciating the natural limestone formations. The Elephant Head cliff, which looks just like its namesake, often catches the eye and makes for fun photo memories. You’ll also pass by the main bay of Comino, known for its expansive sandy beach, although some might find the beach overcrowded, especially during summer.

Along With swimming and sightseeing, there’s the opportunity to hop ashore briefly in Mgarr Harbour, the main port of Gozo. This gives you a taste of Gozitan life and a chance to take photos of the picturesque harbor. One reviewer appreciated this quick land stop, noting, “The scenery here is beautiful,” even if the 15-minute window is brief.

The entire experience is rounded out with refreshments onboard, notably a welcome drink and slices of watermelon, which are simple but appreciated touches to keep you comfortable. There’s also a toilet onboard, so you won’t have to hold it for long.

Who is this tour best for?

If you’re after a short, scenic escape that covers Malta’s most famous coastal spots without a long day at sea, this cruise hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy small-group settings, want to swim in clear waters, and appreciate authentic local scenery. It’s a good pick for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing, well-organized trip.

In terms of value for money, many reviewers feel this experience offers great bang for your buck, especially given the personalized vibe and multiple stops. However, if you’re craving a longer, more in-depth exploration or want to avoid crowded beaches, you might want to consider alternative options or longer tours.

Final thoughts

This half-day cruise from Malta is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation. The small boat size and attentive crew make it feel like a personal trip, while the crystal waters and scenic caves provide enough awe-inspiring moments to justify the trip. The timing and price make it accessible without sacrificing quality, especially for travelers wanting a quick taste of Malta’s coastal beauty.

You’ll love the unmatched views, the chance to swim in some of Malta’s clearest waters, and the authenticity of passing by natural caves and charming harbors. This tour works best if you’re comfortable with occasional crowds at hotspots like Blue Lagoon and are okay with a shorter window to explore each site.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, scenic, and intimate way to experience Malta’s coast, this cruise will likely leave you with plenty of memorable photos and stories. Just remember to bring your snorkeling gear (or rent onsite), and check the weather forecast in advance to ensure your swim stops go as planned.

FAQs

• What is the duration of this cruise?
  The trip lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to see several spots without feeling rushed.

• Where does the cruise start and end?
  It departs from Cirkewwa and returns to the same meeting point, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

• How many stops are there for swimming?
  There are two main swim stops—at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon—weather permitting.

• Can I get off at Blue Lagoon?
  Yes, but you’ll need to book a free ticket online for Blue Lagoon as of May 2025, which is required to disembark at the beach.

• Is snorkeling equipment included?
  No, but it can be rented onboard for around 5 euros if you want to explore underwater more thoroughly.

• Are drinks available onboard?
  Drinks can be purchased at the onboard bar, but they’re not included in the ticket price.

• Is this suitable for families or children?
  Most travelers find it suitable, especially since the boat is small and relaxed, but always check with the operator for specific age restrictions or comfort considerations.

This cruise offers a compact, scenic taste of Malta’s coasts, ideal for those who value authentic experiences and great value. Whether you’re after beautiful photos, refreshing swims, or just a relaxing escape, it’s a solid choice for a half-day adventure.