Discover Malta’s Blue Lagoon and Sea Caves on a Full-Day Cruise
Trying to choose between relaxing by the beaches or exploring caves and islands? A cruise around Malta offers a perfect mix of both, especially if you opt for the Gozo Blue Lagoon and Sea Caves Full Day Cruise Tour. While it might not be perfect for every traveler—some reviews mention tight schedules or crowded moments—it delivers a scenic, fun-filled day on the water with plenty of opportunities to dip into crystal-clear waters and take sweeping photos of dramatic rock formations.
What makes this trip stand out? We love the breathtaking views of natural caves, the opportunity to visit Gozo, and the relaxing stop at the iconic Blue Lagoon. The value for the price is quite good, considering the included stops, snorkeling gear, and the chance to explore multiple islands in one day. However, some travelers find the itinerary a little rushed, especially if they want to explore Gozo more thoroughly.
This cruise generally appeals to those who enjoy nature, photography, and water-based activities. If you prefer a more leisurely, in-depth tour of each stop or dislike crowds, it might be worth considering other options. But for an energetic, scenic day at sea with friends or family, this tour offers a lively and picturesque experience.
Good To Know
- Stunning coastal scenery with impressive rock formations and caves.
- Visit to Gozo with a flexible 2-hour stop, plus the option to explore the main town Victoria.
- Blue Lagoon stop for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in turquoise waters.
- Family-friendly amenities like snorkeling equipment, a diving platform, and shaded decks.
- Affordable price point with all major stops included, plus optional extras like a shuttle to Victoria.
- Important update from May 2025: a free QR code is required to step onto the Blue Lagoon, which can be booked in advance.
Enjoy boat trips? More Malta water tours we've written about
The Full Experience: What You Can Expect
Starting Point and Departure
The tour kicks off from Siren’s Quay in Bugibba at 10:30 AM, with check-in likely involving a straightforward process thanks to the mobile ticket system. The boat, operated by Seahorse Cruises, has been running for over 30 years, emphasizing a family-friendly atmosphere and attentive service. The group size is capped at around 90 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and comfort.
Scenic Passage and Cave Exploration
As the boat departs, you’ll immediately be treated to views of Malta’s rugged coastline. The crew, known for their professionalism, will point out notable rock formations and caves along the way. Expect to see some of the most renowned caves near Comino and approach the Elephant’s Head rock for excellent photo opportunities.
One of the standout features here is the chance to see natural caves up close, which are often elusive from land. Reviewers mention that the caves’ formations are striking, and the boat allows enough time for photos—just be prepared for some crowding around top spots during peak seasons.
Disembarking at Gozo
The first major stop is Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where you have two hours of free time. Many passengers take the optional mini-bus shuttle for €5 to Victoria, the island’s main town, which is a great way to see a little more without feeling rushed. Although the tour doesn’t include a detailed tour of Gozo, travelers have the freedom to explore at their leisure.
Reviewers note that the Gozo visit is often too short—one even mentions, “there are many interesting things to do, but the time is limited,” which is pretty common on day trips like this. Still, the opportunity to walk around and soak in the local vibe adds a nice layer to the experience.
More tours and activities we've covered in Malta
The Blue Lagoon: Swimming and Relaxation
The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon stop on Comino. The boat anchors away from the crowded tourist areas, giving you peaceful access to its famous turquoise waters. You can swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat’s sun deck, making the most of a 1.5-hour break.
You’ll find that the boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, a diving platform, and shaded areas, which are great for those who want to avoid the sun or need a break from swimming. Many reviews highlight the crystal-clear water as a major draw, and some travelers note that the boat drops anchor far enough from the crowds for peaceful swims—perfect for relaxing.
Note: To step onto the Blue Lagoon, you’ll need to book a free QR code online beforehand, with a specific time slot recommended (13:30-17:30). If you prefer to stay on the boat, no QR code is necessary.
Pass by Additional Caves and Elephant’s Head
On the return journey, you’ll pass more caves and get a close-up view of the Elephant’s Head rock, which makes for fantastic photos. The crew often points out features of interest and shares tidbits about the geology and history, adding some educational flavor to the scenic ride.
Return and End of Tour
The boat arrives back at Siren’s Quay around 5:00 PM. The experience wraps up with plenty of memories—and plenty of photos—of Malta’s rugged coastline, caves, and the turquoise Blue Lagoon.
Practical Details: What You Should Know
Duration and Group Size
At approximately 6.5 hours, this tour hits the sweet spot for a day trip—long enough to cover the main sights but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. The group size is capped at 90, offering a lively but manageable atmosphere.
Price and Value
For $46.26 per person, the tour covers all the major highlights: cave viewing, Gozo stop, Blue Lagoon swimming, snorkeling gear, and scenic boat passages. Considering the included stops, optional shuttle, and equipment, this is a reasonable price for a full day of sea-based adventures in Malta.
Facilities Onboard
Expect a well-equipped boat with toilets, shaded decks, sun decks, and showers. The snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to jump into the water without extra hassle. The boat’s facilities are designed to keep you comfortable, whether you’re sunbathing or cooling off in the water.
Booking and Flexibility
The tour uses a mobile ticket system, simplifying the check-in process. Remember, a free QR code to access the Blue Lagoon is required from May 2025, so plan to book this in advance if you want to swim there.
Reviews and Honest Feedback
While most reviews highlight the stunning scenery and enjoyable stops, some travelers mention feeling rushed—particularly at Gozo—and crowded moments at the Blue Lagoon. One reviewer even shared a negative experience about the trip being canceled without notice, which underscores the importance of checking weather conditions and communication.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For
Sea lovers and water activity enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy with snorkeling, swimming, and admiring caves. The scenic nature of the cruise appeals to photographers and those looking for memorable landscape shots. Families or groups wanting a lively, social experience will appreciate the boat’s amenities and crew’s friendly service.
However, if you’re after a deep cultural exploration of Gozo, or prefer quieter, less crowded experiences, this tour might feel a bit hurried. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full, scenic day with a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Final Thoughts
The Gozo Blue Lagoon and Sea Caves Full Day Cruise offers a lively, picture-perfect way to explore Malta’s stunning coastline and nearby islands. For a reasonable price, you’ll enjoy scenic boat passages, a peaceful swim in the Blue Lagoon, and a taste of Gozitan charm—all with the comfort of good facilities and friendly crew.
While the schedule can feel tight, especially if you want to explore Gozo more thoroughly, the overall experience is memorable for its natural beauty and water-based fun. Just be sure to plan ahead for the Blue Lagoon QR code and prepare for some crowds during peak season.
Designed for those who love scenery, swimming, and spontaneous adventures, this cruise is an excellent choice for families, friends, or solo travelers eager to soak up Malta’s coast from the water.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s family-friendly facilities and activities like swimming and snorkeling make it suitable for children, though supervision is recommended.
How long is the stop in Gozo?
You get about 2 hours to explore Gozo at your own pace, with an option to take a €5 shuttle to Victoria for a quick look at the main town.
Can I stay on the boat during the Blue Lagoon stop?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to swim or explore the lagoon, you can stay on the boat and relax on the shaded or sun decks.
What facilities are available on the boat?
The boat is equipped with toilets, showers, a diving platform, shaded and sun decks, snorkeling gear, and side ladders for easy water access.
Do I need to book anything in advance?
Yes, especially for the Blue Lagoon QR code, which you must book online ahead of time for your preferred time slot.
What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the tour worth the price?
Considering the included stops, snorkeling gear, and scenic views, most find it offers good value for a full day at sea exploring Malta’s coast.
How crowded does it get?
During peak season, expect some crowding, particularly at the Blue Lagoon and along popular cave viewpoints. The boat’s capacity ensures a lively atmosphere without feeling overly cramped.
To sum it up, the Gozo Blue Lagoon and Sea Caves Full Day Cruise balances scenic beauty, water fun, and island exploration at an accessible price point. Whether you’re after stunning photos, a relaxing swim, or a lively boat ride, this tour provides an engaging Malta experience. Just remember to plan ahead for the Blue Lagoon access and be prepared for a busy but beautiful day on the water.
More Boat Tours in Malta
- Malta: Marsamxett Harbour and Grand Harbour Cruise by Night
- MALTA Comino BlueLagoon Private Boat trips
- Malta: Gozo, Comino Island and Blue Lagoon Cruise
- Malta: Lazy Pirate Boat Party with Drinks & Food
- Malta: The Three Fortified Cities Tour including Boat Trip
- The Best Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise of Malta
More Tours in Malta
More Tour Reviews in Malta
Looking for something different? Other Malta activities we've written about
- Valletta: Vintage Bus to Valletta, Sliema, Rabat & Mdina
- Valletta: Private Massage from a world renowned masseuse
- Valletta: Guided Walking Tour with Optional Cathedral Tour
- Valletta and 3 Cities Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion
- The most emblematic photo
- Private Charter to Comino & Surroundings
- Prehistoric Temples of Malta Tour
- Photo Sessions in Golden Bay
- On the Footsteps of the Knights – Valletta and Vittoriosa
- Half-Day Tour of Mosta, Ta’Qali Crafts Village & Mdina
- Malta: Sunset Group Tour with Pro Photographer
- Malta: Dingli Cliffs & Buskett Gardens Segway Tour