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

Planning a day trip around Malta’s scenic waters and islands? We’ve taken a close look at the popular 4-hour boat tour by Barbarossa Excursions, and here’s what you need to know. This tour promises a mix of relaxing swimming stops, scenic views, and some adventure with cave visits—perfect for those who love a bit of everything on the water.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning natural sights like the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, with informative guides who point out interesting formations and landmarks. The boat’s onboard amenities—comfortable decks, a water slide, and a full bar—add to the fun. However, one thing to consider is that the tour can be crowded, especially at the Blue Lagoon, and some stops may feel rushed if you’re keen to explore every corner.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting a quick but comprehensive taste of Malta’s waters. If you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of sun and sea, and don’t mind sharing the boat with others, this trip fits the bill perfectly.

Good To Know

• Stunning Stops: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and nearby caves are the highlights.
• Comfort & Amenities: Spacious decks, sunbathing areas, water slide, and onboard toilets.
• Informative Guides: Friendly crew like Mattia and Augustine add value with fun facts and local insights.
• Flexible Timing: Multiple departure times, with options for different durations and stops.
• Value for Money: Includes swimming, snorkeling, and scenic cruises; add-ons like cave visits are extra.
• Crowd Levels: Can get busy at peak times, especially at Blue Lagoon, so early booking is recommended.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Honest Look at the Malta Boat Tour

Setting Out from Mgarr Harbour

This adventure begins at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where the boat departs promptly. The boat by Barbarossa Excursions is well-equipped, with plenty of space to relax on the sun deck or lounge on the rooftop with deck chairs—ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying the sweeping views. The crew, including guides like Mattia and Augustine, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey smooth from start to finish.

One reviewer, Shelley, mentioned how the trip was relaxing and great value, especially noting the opportunity to snorkel amid abundant fish. The boat’s facilities are clean, and the onboard water, toilets, and freshwater showers keep guests comfortable throughout.

The Scenic Cruise and Key Landmarks

The tour quickly gets under way with a sightseeing cruise passing by notable landmarks such as Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Bay, and St. Nicholas Bay. These stunning formations and bays offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Malta’s diverse coastline. The crew’s commentary—by guides like Mattia—adds rich context, making each stop more memorable.

A highlight for many is the visit to Santa Maria Caves, where the boat slows for a quick photo stop and some exploration. Reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and fun facts about the caves, which add educational value to the trip. It’s worth noting that the tour’s schedule can shift based on weather or operational considerations, so flexibility is key.

The Blue Lagoon Experience

The Blue Lagoon on Comino is arguably the star of the day. With around 1 hour and 30 minutes here, you get ample time to swim, snorkel, and just unwind in the famously turquoise waters. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking the lagoon is—crystal clear, warm, and perfect for a dip.

Shelley from a recent trip noted the abundance of fish visible while snorkeling, making it a favorite for water enthusiasts. Laura, on the other hand, appreciated how easy it was to get in and out of the boat and the overall relaxed atmosphere. Be prepared for some hustle during peak times, as this spot is very popular, potentially leading to crowded conditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Crystal Lagoon and Its Thrilling Slide

Next, the boat anchors at Crystal Lagoon for an hour-long stop. This spot offers more secluded waters with dramatic cliffs and vibrant marine life, making it ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. The highlight here is the onboard water slide, which adds a splash of excitement—especially for families or thrill-seekers.

According to reviews, the slide is only available on certain trips (like the 9 am and 1 pm departures), so if this feature is a priority, plan accordingly. Guests enjoy the freedom to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the shores, with some reviewers mentioning how the scenery here feels untouched and peaceful.

Visiting Mgarr Harbour & Return

After the Lagoon stops, the boat heads back towards Mgarr Harbour, passing by more scenic coastlines and landmarks like Fort Chambray. From here, guests disembark, with the option to explore Comino island further if they pre-book land tickets online (a must for those keen to walk around).

The return journey offers a last chance to enjoy the views and reflect on the day. For guests returning to Malta, the trip concludes at Marfa Jetty, where many reviews mention how smoothly everything runs, and how friendly and helpful the crew remains throughout.

The Experience In Depth: What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in the Tour

• Boat cruise with a knowledgeable captain and deckhand
• Comfort amenities: deck chairs, rooftop sunbathing area, freshwater shower, toilets
• Swim & snorkel stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon
• Scenic views: Mgarr Harbour, Santa Maria Bay, caves, and more
• Optional cave visit (extra cost) with pre-booking
• Water, drinks available at the onboard bar
• Water slide (available on certain trips)

Extra Costs & Optional Add-ons

While the tour covers most of the key experience elements, some extras require payment:

• Speedboat cave trips cost around 10 EUR
• Tickets for land visits to Comino island need to be purchased online in advance
• Food and drinks (snacks and additional beverages) are available for purchase onboard

What’s Not Included

• Drinks and snacks are available for sale, but you may want to bring your own
• Towels for swimming
• Additional land exploration unless you pre-book tickets

Timing & Group Size

The tour’s structure offers flexibility with multiple departure times—most trips last around 4 hours. The boat can accommodate a decent number of guests, but reviewer comments suggest it can get busy, especially at popular spots like Blue Lagoon. For a more intimate experience, booking early or choosing off-peak times might be advantageous.

Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

Reviews shed light on the practicality and enjoyment of the tour. Shelley called it a “relaxing trip” with “good value,” especially highlighting the snorkeling at Blue Lagoon. Joseph found the journey “seamless and great,” praising the friendly crew and holiday atmosphere. Nabil appreciated the staff’s helpfulness, especially if you decide to visit the caves for an extra fee.

Several reviewers mentioned the guides’ knowledge, with Mattia being specifically noted for fun facts about the rock formations, and Augustine for detailed explanations of caves and landmarks. This added depth makes the trip more engaging beyond just sunbathing and swimming.

The onboard amenities, like the water slide, are also a hit, offering moments of fun for all ages. Guests often comment on how the boat feels spacious and comfortable, contributing to a relaxed vibe.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Arrive early—especially if you want a good spot or are going on popular trips.
• Pre-book your land tickets if you wish to explore Comino island on foot.
• Bring your own snacks and water to save money and stay refreshed.
• Wear suitable clothing: swimsuits, cover-ups, and sun protection are essentials.
• Bring a camera—the scenery is Instagram-worthy.
• Consider the weather: the captain might modify stops if conditions are rough.
• Book the right trip: check if the water slide or cave visits are available on your chosen departure.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In short, this Malta boat tour offers an efficient way to see some of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders, with plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The friendly guides, clean boat, and well-planned stops make it a reliable pick for a short adventure.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, scenic landscapes, and social atmospheres. Families, first-timers, and those eager to tick off Malta’s top spots will find this trip delivers good value for the price, especially considering the included swim stops and amenities.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic experience with just enough adventure and expert guidance, this tour ticks all the boxes. Be mindful of the crowds, plan ahead for land visits, and bring your own essentials—then sit back and enjoy a memorable day on Malta’s sparkling waters.

FAQ

Do I need to pre-book tickets for the tour? Yes, you should reserve your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

What time does the tour start? Departure times vary based on the season and trip selected, with most trips starting between 8:30 am and 1 pm.

Can I visit Comino Island on land? Yes, but you need to buy tickets online beforehand. The tour itself doesn’t include land visits unless you pre-book.

Is there enough time at each stop? Yes, most stops like Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon have around 1 to 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and photos.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are available for purchase onboard, but you can bring your own water and snacks.

Is the boat suitable for people prone to seasickness? Since this is a boat trip, those sensitive to seasickness should take precautions like medication.

What amenities are on board? The boat features toilets, freshwater showers, a water slide (on certain trips), deck chairs, and a rooftop sunbathing area.

Can I go for a walk on Comino? Yes, you can explore the island if you purchase land tickets in advance; walkability depends on the terrain and your fitness.

How crowded does it get? The Blue Lagoon can be busy, especially in the afternoon, so early booking and departure times may help avoid the crowds.

Is the experience family-friendly? Yes, the boat’s amenities and stops suit families, though kids should be supervised around rocks and cliffs.

This boat tour offers a well-rounded day on Malta’s waters, balancing relaxation, scenic beauty, and some adventure. It’s a fantastic way to see the highlights without the fuss, making it perfect for a memorable half-day escape.

You can check if your dates are available here: