A Day on the Water: Powerboat Tour to Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon
This tour promises a quick yet memorable escape from Malta’s busy shores, whisking you from St. Julian’s to some of the most iconic spots in just a single day. It’s a straightforward trip that packs in fast-paced boat travel, free time for exploring, and plenty of chances to relax in crystal-clear waters. While the itinerary is tight, the experience offers a great blend of adventure and leisure, especially if you enjoy a high-energy pace on the water.
Two things I really like about this tour are the speed of the boat, which cuts down travel time significantly, and the free time in Blue Lagoon, giving you plenty of opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery. The other standout is the visit to the caves in Comino, a lesser-visited but beautiful part of the island that adds a sense of discovery.
A potential consideration is the strict schedule—you’ll need to keep track of departure and return times carefully, especially since late arrivals aren’t accommodated. Also, the tour is quite active, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on boats and in the water. It’s not aimed at travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, as safety guidelines are quite clear. Still, if you’re looking for an energetic day trip focused on scenery and water fun, this one hits the mark.
Key points / Takeaways
- Fast-paced transport: The tour uses the fastest powerboat in Malta, drastically reducing travel time and maximizing your sightseeing.
- Two-island experience: Visit Gozo and Comino in one day, with dedicated free time to explore and relax.
- Blue Lagoon swimming: Enjoy 3 hours at the Blue Lagoon—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling in its famously clear waters.
- Caves visit: The tour includes a stop at the Comino caves, a hidden gem for photo opportunities and exploration.
- Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
- Strict schedule: The departure and return times are fixed; latecomers risk losing their spot without refund.
The Power of Speed: Fast Boat Travel and Itinerary
One of the biggest draws of this tour is how it uses Malta’s fastest powerboat to cut down on travel time. Instead of a slow ferry, you’ll be zipping across the water, arriving in Gozo in about 30 minutes. This quick transfer means more time to enjoy the islands rather than spend hours on the water.
The itinerary is straightforward: you start from St. George’s Bay, reach Gozo for 2 hours of free time—just enough to explore or grab a coffee—and then head to the Blue Lagoon for 3 hours of swimming and lounging. The boat then picks you up, travels to the caves in Comino, and returns to your starting point.
The review mentions that the boat leaves Blue Lagoon at 16:45 and arrives roughly half an hour later, which some travelers found a bit rushed or confusing. It’s a reminder that the schedule is tight, and punctuality is key if you want to make the most of every stop.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St George S Bay.
Exploring Gozo: A Taste of the Island’s Charm
Your free time in Gozo is a good chance to stretch your legs and see a different side of Malta’s neighbor. With only 2 hours on the island, I’d suggest focusing on a few key sights or a quick local snack. While the tour doesn’t include guided sightseeing, you might find that wandering around the quaint villages or the scenic coastlines offers a genuine taste of local life.
Some travelers appreciate having the freedom to explore independently, especially since the tour does not include organized sightseeing in Gozo. It’s a good opportunity for those who enjoy a bit of spontaneity or want to grab a quick photo of the iconic countryside.
The Blue Lagoon: A Water Lover’s Paradise
Three hours in the Blue Lagoon sounds generous, and it is—especially if you’re a swimmer or snorkeler. The waters here are famously clear, and you’ll likely see plenty of fish while snorkeling. If you prefer lounging, this is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenery.
A tip: bring your own snorkeling gear and beach towel. The water is the main attraction, so being prepared makes a difference. Also, since the tour includes free time, consider bringing snacks or drinks to keep your energy up, as food and drink aren’t included in the price.
Visiting the Caves in Comino: Hidden Gems and Photo Ops
Another highlight is the visit to the caves in Comino. These caves are a quieter, more intimate part of the tour where you can see natural formations and enjoy the sea views. It’s a brief stop but one that many travelers find worthwhile for pictures and a bit of exploration away from the crowds.
The caves are accessible only by boat, which adds to their charm. Keep your camera ready because the scenery here can be quite striking.
Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking
The price of $68 per person is quite reasonable considering it includes high-speed transfers, free time, and the cave visit. For many travelers, this offers good value, especially since it combines multiple highlights into one day.
However, there are important limitations: the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions. Also, the strict schedule means punctuality is essential—if you’re late, you won’t be able to join the trip or will lose your ticket.
What to bring? Pack a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. You’ll likely be in and out of the water, so dress accordingly. Remember to arrive at least 15 minutes early at the starting point to avoid missing the boat, as it won’t wait.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventurers who enjoy fast-paced boat rides and want to see multiple islands in one day. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable on boats and looking for an active, scenic trip with ample free time for swimming and independent exploration.
It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer relaxed, guided tours. The cost-benefit ratio is good—if you value quick transfers, beautiful scenery, and the freedom to swim at the Blue Lagoon, this is a solid choice.
In-Depth Breakdown of the Experience
Starting from St. George’s Bay, the tour kicks off with a short walk through a designated meeting point marked by a yellow line on the jetty. The boat, operated by SNF Operators Ltd, then speeds you across the water, making the trip in around 35 minutes to Gozo.
Once in Gozo, you’re on your own for 2 hours, which I think provides just enough time to explore a bit or grab a quick snack. The lack of a guided tour means you’re free to set your pace and discover at your own leisure. Some travelers mention that the free time is a highlight, giving them a taste of authentic local life or a chance to visit small villages.
At 13:00, the boat departs from Gozo and heads to the Blue Lagoon. Here, you’ll have around 3 hours for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing in the famous waters. The clarity of the water is a real draw—many visitors comment on how spectacular it looks up close.
Following this, the boat ventures to the caves in Comino. This brief stop allows a quick look at natural formations and is often appreciated for its scenic value.
The return journey is about 25 minutes, with the boat arriving back at the original meeting point around 16:45. While the schedule is tight, the flow allows for a full day of activity and sightseeing without feeling overly rushed—if you’re punctual.
The Cost and Overall Value
At $68, this tour offers a compelling value considering the fast boat transfer, free time, and cave visit. Compared to other tours that might charge more for a similar experience, this one strikes a good balance. It’s especially attractive for travelers who want to maximize their time without signing up for a multi-day or guided tour with additional costs.
Keep in mind, food and sightseeing in Gozo aren’t included, so plan for that if you want a full experience. Packing snacks or bringing some money for quick bites will enhance your day.
Final thoughts: Is it worth it?
If you’re looking for a high-energy day packed with scenic views, swimming, and island hopping, this tour delivers. The speedboat experience adds an adrenaline kick, making the entire day feel like an exciting adventure rather than just a routine trip. The free time in Blue Lagoon and Caves lets you indulge in water fun and photography, making it perfect for sun lovers and water enthusiasts.
This tour especially suits independent travelers who value flexibility and quick access to Malta’s top islands. It’s also well-priced for the amount of activity packed into a single day, providing tangible value for your money.
That said, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or guided sightseeing, you might find this tour a bit brisk. Planning ahead and being punctual are key to making the most of this high-speed island hop.
FAQs
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially since you need to reserve access to Blue Lagoon via the official website due to government policies. Booking ahead guarantees your spot and avoids last-minute disappointment.
What should I bring? Pack a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and perhaps a snack or water. Since the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, bringing your own ensures you stay refreshed.
Is this tour suitable for children? Children under 5 aren’t recommended, and children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. The boat ride is active, so it’s best for kids comfortable on boats.
Can I stay longer at Blue Lagoon? No, the schedule is fixed—three hours at Blue Lagoon is the maximum for this trip. If you want more time, consider other tours or private arrangements.
Are there any safety restrictions? Pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or medical conditions should avoid this tour. Passengers must stay seated during the ride for safety reasons.
What happens if I’m late? The boat won’t wait for late arrivals, and you risk losing your ticket with no refund. Arrive at least 15 minutes early at the meeting point.
In summary, this powerboat tour offers a swift, fun-filled day exploring Malta’s highlights at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for water lovers and those who appreciate a bit of speed with their sightseeing. With ample opportunity to swim, snap photos, and enjoy the islands’ beauty, it’s a lively way to see Malta’s turquoise waters and scenic coastlines—all in a single memorable day.