Malta: Gozo, Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, & Caves Cruise

If you’re looking to explore Malta’s stunning coastlines and nearby islands without the hassle of organizing transport or tours yourself, this boat cruise might just be your answer. It offers a well-rounded day out, combining scenic cruising, refreshing swims, and a taste of Gozo’s charm—all for a reasonable price.

What makes this trip particularly appealing are the beautiful Blue Lagoon, the caves and sea formations, and the three-hour free time in Gozo. Plus, the crew’s friendly vibe, the innovative 10-meter slide, and the ample opportunities to snap gorgeous photos all add to the experience.

On the flip side, some travelers mention that getting a good spot on the upper deck can require arriving early, especially in peak season. Also, while the price covers most essentials, optional extras like a speedboat ride or bus transfer come at additional costs. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with a mix of swimming and sightseeing, this cruise could be perfect—especially for families, first-timers, or those short on time.

Good To Know

• Excellent value at around $34 per person for a full-day adventure.
• Multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring Malta, Comino, and Gozo.
• Friendly, knowledgeable crew with engaging commentary throughout the day.
• Flexible options for extra activities like speedboat rides and bus transfers.
• Ideal for families and first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive Malta experience.
• Arrive early to secure a prime spot on the upper deck and maximize your comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

This cruise departs from Hornblower Cruises in St Paul’s Bay, located behind Loa Restaurant. The address is Sirens Quay 24, Triq San Geraldu. The boat is a sizable white and blue vessel, easy to spot. It’s wise to arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour early—especially if you want a deck chair on the upper sun deck, which are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.

For those traveling by bus, three nearby stops are within walking distance, and if you’re driving, free parking is available in white boxes on the road. Taxis should have no trouble finding the location too. The cruise starts promptly at 10:00 AM, so punctuality is key to avoid missing the boat.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Scenic Cruising and Cave Visits

The journey kicks off with a cruise along Malta’s northern coast, where you’ll see dramatic rocky cliffs, coves, and fascinating sea caves. A highlight is passing by St. Paul’s islands and the impressive St. Paul’s statue, a reminder of Malta’s historical ties to the shipwreck that brought St. Paul to the island in 60 A.D.

Captain Kevin, with his crew, make this part educational and lively, offering live commentary about the landmarks, caves, and local lore. Notable stops include Ahrax and Santa Maria caves, where the boat can get surprisingly close for good photo opportunities—reviewers like Anna and Ella appreciated the helpful crew, especially when helping elderly guests or taking extra time for photos.

The Santa Maria caves are among the most photographed spots, thanks to the boat’s proximity and the stunning rock formations. You’ll also cruise past Santa Maria Bay, with its pristine coastline and scenic views.

Blue Lagoon: The Highlight Swim Spot

After about an hour of sightseeing, you’ll reach the Blue Lagoon, often described as a slice of paradise. The lagoon’s reputation for crystal-clear waters, silky white sand, and incredible photo ops is well-deserved. Many reviewers like Terri and Asia rave about this stop—“Blue Lagoon is amazing” and “the water is unbelievable”.

You’ll have around 1.5 hours to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat or sandy beach. The waters here are so clear that snorkeling is highly recommended—rental gear is available on board for about €5, with a deposit of €15, which is a good value considering the quality of the experience.

You can also take the 10-meter slide into the water, a favorite for kids and the young at heart, as noted by Jodie and others. Some reviewers mention that the speedboat ride offered in the Blue Lagoon is worth considering, but it’s an optional extra (€15) paid on the spot.

Exploring Gozo’s Charm

Post-lunch, the cruise heads towards Gozo, Malta’s quieter, more rural sibling. You get about 3 hours of free time—enough for a quick wander or a more in-depth exploration if you choose the optional bus (€5, paid in cash). Many travelers, like Kelly and Aurora, found the bus transfer convenient and worthwhile, especially for reaching Victoria, the Gozitan capital.

During this time, you can stroll around Victoria’s narrow streets, visit the Citadel, or grab a quick snack and local shopping. A popular stop is Xlendi Bay, where you’ll get scenic views in just 20 minutes and a chance for some photos or a quick walk.

Travelers also find the scenic drive to Victoria very enjoyable, with plenty of photo stops and local scenery. The bus transfer is highly recommended by reviewers who want to see more of Gozo without renting a car.

Returning to Malta

The cruise wraps up by cruising back along the south channel of Comino, passing by the Crystal Lagoon, caves, and St. Mary’s Tower. The views on the return trip are equally impressive and perfect for catching sunset photos if timing allows.

The boat gets back to the original meeting point in St Paul’s Bay by late afternoon, completing a full yet relaxed day packed with sights, sun, and sea.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Experience and Extras

Included in your ticket:

• Round-trip cruise from St Paul’s Bay
• 1.5-hour stop at Blue Lagoon
• 3-hour free time in Gozo
• Access to the 10-meter slide and deck chairs (limited)
• Live commentary from the crew

Extras available:

• Lunch, available for purchase on board
• Minibus transfer in Gozo (€5, payable in cash)
• Speedboat ride at Blue Lagoon (€15, cash, depending on availability)
• Snorkel gear rental (€5)
• Lockers (€2, limited supply)

What Reviewers Love

Many comments highlight the friendly and helpful crew, especially Captain Kevin, who’s known for his engaging commentary and relaxed vibe. Ella appreciated how the crew assisted her elderly grandmother, which speaks to the family-run feel of the operation.

The scenic stops, especially Blue Lagoon, consistently get top marks. Reviewers also love the value for money, noting that the trip offers a comprehensive taste of Malta’s coastlines and islands for a very reasonable price.

Considerations and Tips

• Arrive early to secure a top deck spot and deck chair.
• Bring sunscreen, towels, and beachwear—the Malta sun can be intense and you’ll want to stay comfortable.
• The optional extras are worth considering but come at additional costs—plan accordingly.
• The timing is strict; the boat departs at 10:00 AM sharp, and late arrivals forfeit their spot or miss the cruise.
• If you plan to explore Gozo independently, the €5 bus transfer makes it easy and inexpensive.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet scenic day without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy photo opportunities, swimming in turquoise waters, and learning about Malta’s coastal features.

While not ideal for those with mobility issues (as noted, it’s not wheelchair accessible), it’s great for active, adventure-minded travelers who want a taste of Malta’s stunning sea and islands in one straightforward package.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise delivers a well-rounded Maltese adventure—combining scenic cruising, a gorgeous lagoon swim, and a taste of Gozo’s charm—all at a very reasonable price. The friendly crew, excellent views, and flexible options make it attractive for a wide range of travelers.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and social day out with plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos, this trip offers great value. The only caution is arriving early to snag your ideal spot on deck and bringing your sun protection.

Overall, it’s a reliable, enjoyable choice that balances sightseeing, swimming, and a touch of local culture—perfect for making the most of your Malta holiday.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children will love the chance to slide into the water and explore the Blue Lagoon, though parents should supervise around the boat’s edge and the slide.

Can I buy lunch on board?
Lunch isn’t included in the ticket price but can be purchased on the boat at reasonable prices.

How long is the stop in Gozo?
You get approximately 3 hours to explore, shop, or relax in Victoria or Xlendi Bay.

Is there free time at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, you have 1.5 hours to swim, snorkel, or relax on the boat or at the beach.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras or small purchases.

Are the upper deck seats guaranteed?
No, they are first come, first served. Arriving early is recommended, especially in peak season.

Can I do the speedboat ride?
Yes, it’s an optional activity at €15, paid in cash, subject to availability.

Is there a bathroom on board?
Most boats of this kind typically have basic facilities, but check in advance if this is a concern.

What happens if I’m late?
No refunds are issued for late arrivals, and the cruise departs promptly at 10:00 AM.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users due to limited accessibility.

This comprehensive day trip offers a fantastic way to see Malta’s coastlines and islands, combining scenic views, swimming, and cultural stops—all at a fair price. If you’re seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure with friendly hosts, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: