St Paul’s Bay: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo, & Caves Boat Tour

If you’re looking to see some of Malta’s most iconic sights without the hassle of navigating on your own, this boat tour from St. Paul’s Bay might be just what you need. It promises a full day of scenic cruising, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring charming islands—all at a wallet-friendly price. We’ve checked out the reviews, tour details, and itineraries to give you an honest, thorough look at what this experience offers.

Three things we love about it? First, the opportunity to visit the stunning Blue Lagoon and swim in its famously transparent waters. Second, the chance to explore Gozo’s vibrant culture and sights at a relaxed pace. And third, the friendly guides and crew, who make sure everything runs smoothly and with a personal touch.

A potential drawback? The caves and caves’ access depend heavily on weather and sea conditions, which might mean some caves are missed if the conditions aren’t perfect. Also, the time spent at each location is limited, so don’t expect to linger long.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural stops—especially if you appreciate good value and a smaller, more intimate boat experience.

Good To Know

• Affordable price for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring Malta’s coastline.
• Smaller boat size means more access to caves and less overcrowding.
• Well-organized itinerary with enough time at each stop to enjoy the highlights.
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with helpful commentary.
• Multiple stops including Comino, Gozo, and St. Paul’s Island, offering diverse scenery.
• Weather-dependent cave visits can mean some caves are closed if conditions are unsafe.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Boarding

Your adventure begins early in the morning at Mermaid Cruises in Bugibba, a lively seaside town near St. Paul’s Bay. Boarding usually kicks off around 9:30 AM, with departure closing by 9:50 AM. The small, colorful boat, named “The Mermaid,” instantly makes a friendly first impression—less crowded than larger vessels, which is a plus for those who prefer a more personal experience.

According to reviews, the crew—often praised as “friendly and helpful”—sets a welcoming tone. You’ll meet your captain and crew, who provide live commentary in English throughout the day, sharing insights about each stop and local stories that add context to what you’re seeing. The boat features onboard toilets and plenty of space to relax, with some reviews mentioning that opening the top deck allows for better views and a cooler breeze.

The Scenic Cruise & Cave Exploration

Once underway, you’ll cruise along Malta’s rugged coast, passing by dramatic caves and rock formations. The sea views are breathtaking, and many reviews highlight how close the boat can get to caves and cliffs—something larger boats struggle with. The crew often takes time to pass by the Crystal Lagoon Caves and St. Mary’s Caves, with scenic stops that let you snap photos and marvel at the nature’s sculptures.

However, as some reviewers point out, cave visits are weather-dependent. If the sea is rough or conditions are unsafe, the caves might be bypassed or only viewed from a distance. Still, even just cruising past these formations offers a sense of awe and plenty of photo opportunities.

Comino & the Blue Lagoon

The highlight for many is the stop at the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino. For about an hour, you’ll have the chance to snorkel, swim, or simply relax by the water. The water’s clarity earns it glowing reviews, with some describing it as “the most beautiful swimming spot in Malta.”

One reviewer mentioned, “The highlight was the cocktails in a pineapple at Comino,” which hints at the fun, relaxed vibe during this stop. You might find vendors selling refreshments, but bringing your own supplies—like snacks or drinks—is a good idea, especially if you want to stay longer.

Note: The Blue Lagoon can get very crowded, especially in peak season, but many tour operators aim to manage this with shorter stops and smaller groups. The review from a guest who appreciated the less crowded, smaller boat experience underscores this advantage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Gozo

Next up is Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister. The boat anchors off the coast, giving you about two hours to explore. You can opt for a quick walk through Victoria, the island’s lively capital, or simply enjoy the scenery and take photos. The crew often recommends walking around, visiting local shops, or grabbing a quick bite.

One reviewer shared, “We paid for a bus to Victoria, which was totally worth it,” emphasizing that the free time allows for a little extra exploration. The contrast between Malta’s bustling main island and Gozo’s serene pace makes this stop particularly appealing.

The Caves & St. Paul’s Island

Back on the boat, you’ll cruise past the Crystal Lagoon Caves and St. Paul’s Caves. Depending on the weather, you might get to enter these or just admire their stunning facades from the boat. The St. Paul’s Island stop provides an opportunity to walk around, take photos of the iconic statue, or enjoy a swim in the designated area.

A guest mentioned the “beautiful walk up to St. Paul’s statue”—a small but meaningful cultural touchstone. The 30-minute stop here is enough to soak in the views and get a sense of history, without feeling rushed.

Final Swim & Return

Before heading back, you’ll have a final swim at St. Paul’s Island or relax onboard. The crew often encourages everyone to take advantage of the last chance to cool off and enjoy the sea. Many reviewers mention the friendly crew offering fruits or drinks, adding a personal touch to the day.

The cruise concludes with a smooth ride back to Bugibba, where most guests agree the day felt well-paced, with enough time at each stop to truly enjoy Malta’s stunning coast.

The Value of This Tour

At just $34 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the multiple island stops, scenic cruising, and swimming opportunities. The smaller boat size means fewer people and better access to caves and snorkeling spots, which many reviews appreciate, noting how less crowded it felt compared to larger tours.

While food and drinks aren’t included, there are options onboard and nearby, which keeps costs manageable. The optional snorkeling equipment rental (for €10) is a sensible add-on if you want to explore underwater.

The tour is 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, giving you a full, relaxing day without rushing. The live commentary and friendly guides, like Robbie and Matthew, are often praised for making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, well-organized day of sightseeing with gentle swimming and cultural stops. It’s ideal for those who prefer smaller groups or want more authentic, less commercialized interactions. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an affordable way to see Malta’s highlights from the sea.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from St. Paul’s Bay delivers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. The opportunity to swim in Blue Lagoon, explore Gozo’s charming streets, and marvel at caves makes it a well-rounded choice. The friendly crew, good value, and scenic route add to its appeal.

While weather can influence cave visits, the overall experience remains engaging and scenic. For anyone wanting to maximize their time exploring Malta’s coast and islands without breaking the bank, this tour is a solid pick.

If you’re a water lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply want to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty from the comfort of a small boat, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s a memorable way to see some of the most captivating sights Malta has to offer—perfect for a one-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with departure in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat trip, captain and crew, live commentary in English, and stops at Comino and Gozo, along with onboard toilets.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but they are available for purchase onboard. Bringing snacks or drinks is recommended.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for rent with a €10 security deposit in cash.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The review mentions it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, but generally, it’s suitable for families with children who are comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, cash, and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain reserves the right to cancel or alter the trip depending on sea conditions, especially caves’ accessibility.

In wrapping up, this St. Paul’s Bay boat tour offers a genuine taste of Malta’s natural beauty and culture, all wrapped up in a relaxed, friendly package. Whether you’re eager to swim in clear waters or explore local towns, it’s a memorable way to see Malta from the sea.

You can check if your dates are available here: