Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise w/ Lunch+Drinks

Planning a day on the sea in Malta? This 7.5-hour cruise aboard a traditional Turkish gullet offers a fantastic way to see some of the archipelago’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a sun seeker, a water lover, or just looking to relax with good food and drinks, this tour hits all the right notes — with a few things to keep in mind along the way.

What really makes this experience stand out are the crystal-clear waters of Blue Lagoon, the authentic feel of sailing on a wooden gullet, and the all-inclusive drinks and buffet lunch. It’s a pretty good deal for a full day of exploration and relaxation. That said, it can get crowded, especially at popular stops like Blue Lagoon, so if you’re after a quiet escape, you might find the pace a bit lively.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day on the water — with plenty of opportunities to swim, enjoy good food, and take in stunning scenery. If you love being on a boat but prefer a relaxed, friendly vibe over a party atmosphere, this tour could be your Maltese highlight.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Sail on a traditional Turkish gullet with knowledgeable crew.
• Swim Stops: Two well-spaced swim spots, including the famous Blue Lagoon.
• All-Inclusive: Unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and mineral water.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Comino and Gozo with enough time to enjoy the scenery and water.
• Food Quality: Buffet lunch served on board with hot and cold options.
• Convenient Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from selected hotels or meeting points in Sliema.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect from Start to Finish

This cruise offers a well-paced, scenic journey that balances cruising, swimming, eating, and relaxing. It begins with a pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point, usually between 8:15 AM and 9:30 AM, depending on your location. The transportation is optional, and many reviews mention that walking to the departure point at Sliema Ferries works fine for those nearby.

Boarding the Turkish Gullet

When you arrive at Sliema Ferries, you’ll look for the boat called “The Fernandes”—a traditional wooden vessel with all the charm of a classic Turkish gullet. The boat, according to reviews, is spacious enough to avoid feeling cramped, and the crew is noted for being friendly and attentive. On board, you’ll quickly get a sense of the authentic maritime vibe, with plenty of space to find a spot in the sun or shade.

Cruising along Maltese Shores

The cruise kicks off with a gentle sail along Malta’s northern coast, giving you views of rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and serene inlets. The scenery is stunning and perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the sun. As you drift past the coastline, the soothing sounds of music and the gentle sway of the boat create a relaxing atmosphere.

First Stop: Blue Lagoon on Comino

The highlight for most travelers is the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its translucent turquoise waters and soft white sands. This location is perfect for a swim or simply lounging on the boat with a drink in hand. Reviewers mention spending around 45 minutes here, which feels just right — long enough to cool off and enjoy, but not so long that the crowds spoil the experience.

The reviews also note that Blue Lagoon can be quite crowded, especially during peak season. If you’re a fan of quieter spots, arriving early or opting for less busy times might enhance your visit. For some, it’s a postcard-perfect setting, but keep expectations realistic in high season when it can get lively.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Second Stop: Secluded Bay in Gozo

After Blue Lagoon, the cruise heads towards Gozo, where the crew anchors at a peaceful, less-trafficked bay. This stop is an appreciated change of pace; you can jump in for another swim, unwind with a cold drink, or just enjoy the calm surroundings. Several reviews praise this as one of the most relaxing parts of the day.

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet lunch is served on the boat, with both hot and cold options. Reviewers highlight that the food is plentiful and satisfying, with many saying it exceeded expectations for a packaged cruise meal. You can enjoy this meal while cruising or during the stop in Gozitan waters.

Unlimited drinks are included throughout the day — beer, wine, mineral water, and soft drinks. Many reviewers mention the drinks selection as a highlight, noting they could enjoy a glass of wine or beer while taking in the views without worrying about extra costs.

Returning Journey

As the day winds down, the cruise leisurely heads back towards Sliema. The sail back is accompanied by relaxing music, and some reviews mention that the crew keeps everyone well-informed and cheerful. The overall vibe is easygoing, making it a perfect way to end your Maltese day at sea.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

One of the most appreciated aspects of this cruise is the all-inclusive nature — unlimited drinks and a buffet meal for around $84 per person. Considering the length of the trip and the quality of the scenery, this is quite reasonable. Many travelers comment on the generous portions and the quality of the food, especially the variety of drinks.

The flexibility and organized transfers also add to the value. Pickup from selected hotels relieves the hassle of finding your way, though some reviewers note that if you’re staying within walking distance of Sliema Ferries, you’ll need to walk to the departure point.

On top of that, the friendly crew and knowledgeable guides (though not explicitly named in the data, reviews mention staff friendliness and helpfulness) contribute significantly to a smooth, enjoyable experience. The presence of decent music and a relaxed party vibe make this cruise suitable for a wide range of travelers, from families to couples and groups of friends.

What Could Be Better

While most reviews are positive, some travelers point out potential drawbacks. The Blue Lagoon can be very crowded, which might detract from the postcard perfection some expect. Arriving early or choosing a less busy time could help counter this.

Plus, the boat can become quite crowded, especially in peak season, and some reviewers mention that seating on mats or hard benches might be uncomfortable, particularly for older guests or those with mobility issues. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a quieter atmosphere, this kind of lively, social trip might not be your first choice.

Another consideration is the timing of the included meals; some travelers found the lunch window a bit tight, with only about 30 minutes to eat and swim before the boat moves on. Planning accordingly can help ensure you get the most out of each stop.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and good food without the hassle of planning. It suits those who appreciate authentic boat experiences and enjoy an upbeat, social atmosphere with unlimited drinks and a hearty buffet.

It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to relax and soak up Malta’s stunning waters and landscape. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet fun day at sea with plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy local scenery, this cruise is a winner.

However, if you prefer quiet, less crowded spots or have mobility limitations, you might want to consider other options or arrive early to avoid the bulk of the crowds.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is available at selected hotels and meeting points. Many reviews mention arranging pick-up between 8:15 AM and 9:30 AM, but you need to confirm your exact time with the tour operator.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for additional purchases or optional extras. It’s best to arrive prepared for sun and water activities.

Can I step ashore at Blue Lagoon?
Yes, but you’ll need to request a government-issued access pass online beforehand, as Malta has implemented new regulations from May 2025. The pass allows limited daily disembarkation at Blue Lagoon.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited beer, wine, mineral water, and soft drinks are included throughout the day, making it great value for those who enjoy a drink in the sun.

Is the buffet lunch hot or cold?
The lunch includes hot and cold options, with many travelers noting it is plentiful and satisfying, exceeding expectations for a boat-based meal.

Is this trip suitable for children or older adults?
While the trip is generally relaxing, some reviews highlight that seating can be uncomfortable and that there’s limited shade or seating for those with mobility issues. Arriving early for a good spot is recommended.

How crowded does Blue Lagoon get?
It can get quite busy, especially in peak season. Early arrival can help secure a better spot, and some travelers find the crowds diminish slightly later in the day.

Final Thoughts

This Sliema cruise around Malta’s top sights on a traditional Turkish gullet offers a mix of scenic views, water fun, and hearty food at a reasonable price. The all-inclusive drinks and well-organized stops make it a fantastic value, especially for those looking to combine relaxation with a bit of adventure.

It’s a tour that balances authentic maritime charm with practical comfort, making it perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day at sea. While it can get crowded and lively, that’s part of the experience — a social, fun way to see Malta’s coastlines and islands.

If you’re seeking a hassle-free, friendly, and scenic way to spend a day in Malta, this cruise is likely to meet your expectations — and maybe even surpass them.

You can check if your dates are available here: