Malta: Around Comino Cruise and Gozo Jeep Tour with Lunch

Traveling through Malta can be an adventure packed with sun, history, and stunning scenery. This tour, offered by Barbarossa Excursions, combines a scenic boat cruise around Comino with a lively jeep safari across the rugged landscapes of Gozo — all topped off with a delicious lunch. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this trip firsthand to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Maltese adventure.

What we love about this experience: the knowledgeable guides who make the journey engaging, the breathtaking views that are perfect for photos, and the inclusion of local wine with lunch which adds a special touch.
One thing to consider: the tour involves a fair amount of time on boats and jeeps, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical activity and motion.
This tour is a fantastic option for those seeking a comprehensive taste of Malta’s islands without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, or for anyone wanting a well-organized day that hits all the highlights.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Combines boat cruise, jeep safari, and lunch, saving you the effort of booking separate activities.
• Authentic Locals’ Spots: Visits lesser-known sites like Qala Belvedere, Calypso Cave, and Xwejni Salt Pans, offering a more genuine Maltese experience.
• Informed Guides: Several reviews praise guides like George and Nick for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the trip’s enjoyment.
• Value for Money: At $81, including lunch, wine, and snorkel equipment, many find this a good deal for a full day out.
• Flexible and Seamless: Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and transition between boat and land activities is well managed.
• Mixed Feedback on Comfort: Some travelers note that jeeps are crowded and old, and boat rides can be busy, so packing light and being prepared helps.

Analyzing the Itinerary

Comino: The Blue Lagoon and Mgarr Harbour

The tour kicks off with a boat ride to Mgarr Harbour, where you’ll meet your guides and jump into a jeep for the land part of the tour. The boat ride itself gets mixed reviews; while some loved the refreshing swim stops at the Blue Lagoon, others found the boat crowded. Expect to spend about an hour exploring Comino’s coastline, with opportunities to swim and snorkel.

Review insight: One guest mentioned, “The boat was incredibly packed — lots of standing room only,” but others appreciated the chance to see the famous Blue Lagoon’s stunning waters. The boat trip allows you to experience the calm, turquoise waters that make Comino such a sought-after spot.

Jeep Safari: Discovering Gozo’s Hidden Gems

Once on land, the real adventure begins. Your guide (often praised in reviews, like George or Nick) will take you through some of Gozo’s lesser-visited locations. Stops include:

• Qala Belvedere: Offers panoramic views of Comino and Malta, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.
• Calypso Cave at Xagra: Known as a must-see natural wonder, this cave grants spectacular views of the coastline and water.
• Xwejni Salt Pans: Learn about traditional salt harvesting and enjoy the striking patterns of these historic salt flats.
• Ta’ Pinu National Shrine and Dwejra Bay: Iconic landmarks with sweeping views and chance for relaxed exploration.
• Santa Marija Bay Caves: Natural formations carved by nature, ideal for photos and appreciating the island’s geology.

Review insight: One traveler noted, “Nick was a super friendly guide, and the jeep tour was very well organized,” highlighting how the guides add local flavor and insights to the experience. The stops are carefully chosen to balance popular spots with hidden corners, making the tour engaging and varied.

Lunch and Rest

A highlight for many is the included buffet lunch. Guests generally find it satisfying, with some reviews mentioning it offers local flavors alongside local wine. Lunch can be served onboard or at Mariblu Guesthouse, depending on your schedule, giving you a chance to relax and refuel.

Review insight: Several reviewers mention the lunch as a pleasant break from sightseeing, with “delicious, filling food and a relaxing atmosphere,” making it a good value addition.

Blue Lagoon and Swim Stops

After lunch, the tour transitions back to the boat for a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Expect about an hour here to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sand.

Review insight: Multiple guests appreciated the time at Blue Lagoon, describing it as “breathtaking” and a highlight of the day. The calm waters lend themselves well to casual swimming or exploring underwater with snorkel gear.

Return Journey and Final Views

On the way back, you’ll pass Dwejra Bay, where you can marvel at the natural caves, another chance for some photos. The tour concludes at Mgarr Harbour, with some travelers noting the transition from boat to jeep feels seamless, although boat crowding can be an issue for some.

Practical Details and Value

Duration and Group Size

This tour lasts roughly 6.5 hours, with most of the time split between boat, land, and lunch. The group size can be up to 65 travelers, but many reviews mentioned smaller, more intimate guides like George or Nick making the experience personal and informative. The mix of activities ensures a full day, but be prepared for some hours on the move.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels, which saves the hassle of finding your way to the port. However, a few reviews pointed out that the vehicles used for transfers are sometimes older and not always in pristine condition, and on one occasion, buses without air conditioning caused discomfort. The jeeps are described as crowded and sometimes uncomfortable, which is something to consider if you prefer more space and comfort.

Cost and Value

At $81 per person, including lunch, wine, snorkeling gear, and boat rides, many see this as a good deal for a full-day experience. The combination of activities and stops offers a comprehensive look at Malta’s islands, making it more budget-friendly than booking separate excursions.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather can lead to cancellations, with an option for a full refund or alternative date. Most reviews reflect positive weather conditions, but travelers should keep an eye on forecasts. Also, note that the tour can be canceled if minimum numbers aren’t met, so booking early is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-organized, active day exploring Malta’s scenic islands. It’s ideal for those comfortable with boat rides and jeeps, and who enjoy a mix of nature, photo opportunities, and local culture. Families with children over 10, groups, and couples looking for a balanced day will find plenty to love here. However, if you prefer ultra-comfortable transport or have mobility issues, some aspects like the crowded jeeps may be less appealing.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from selected hotels, making logistics easier for travelers.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride, including stops at Blue Lagoon, usually lasts around an hour, depending on weather conditions.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the underwater beauty of the Blue Lagoon and other swim spots.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and a towel. Comfortable shoes for the jeep tour and camera gear for photos are also recommended.

Is lunch vegetarian?
The buffet offers options suitable for vegetarians, with additional choices like chicken or omlette for non-vegetarians. Specific dietary needs should be checked in advance.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a full refund policy if canceled due to weather or minimum participant requirements.

Final Thoughts

This Malta: Around Comino Cruise and Gozo Jeep Tour combines scenic water and land adventures into a full, engaging day that covers the essentials while offering unique local insights. The presence of experienced guides, stunning viewpoints, and a relaxed pace make it perfect for travelers wanting to see both islands without the stress of self-planning.

While some may find the jeep rides crowded or the boats busy, the overall value and variety make this a popular choice. It’s especially suitable for those looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and leisure, all wrapped into one memorable day.

If you’re after a lively, well-organized tour that includes some of Malta’s best natural scenery and cultural sights, this trip could be just what you need to enhance your Maltese holiday.