Malta: Full-Day Gozo and Blue Lagoon Cruise

Malta: Full-Day Gozo and Blue Lagoon Cruise Review

Exploring Malta’s coast with a full-day cruise to Gozo and the Blue Lagoon offers a mix of scenic views, historical stops, and time to relax. While it’s an affordable way to tick off major sights, the experience has some nuances worth considering. We’ll break down what makes this trip appealing—and what might give some travelers pause—and help you decide if this cruise fits your Malta adventure.

What we love about this experience:

• The breathtaking views along Malta’s northern coast, including sightings of St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha, which lend a sense of the island’s rugged beauty.
• The chance to visit Gozitan capital Victoria, with some free time to explore, offering a glimpse into the local life and history.
• The Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun in a picture-perfect setting.

One thing to consider: The tour’s timetable can feel a bit rushed, especially in Gozo, where reviews mention limited time to fully explore. If you’re after a deeper cultural experience or more leisure time at each stop, you might find this trip somewhat brief.

Who it’s best suited for:
This cruise is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a quick, scenic overview of Malta and its nearby islands without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re okay with a packed schedule and want to combine sightseeing with some beach time. If you prefer a relaxed, in-depth exploration, you might prefer other options.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $45 per person, the trip offers good value for a full day of sights and swimming.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy views of iconic Maltese landmarks from onboard, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Limited Time in Gozo: The visit to Victoria and Cittadella is brief, which may leave some wanting more.
• Popular Blue Lagoon Stop: Known for its crystal-clear waters, it’s a highlight for swimming and snorkeling.
• Organized and Punctual: The tour includes transportation and an onboard cruise experience, with reviews praising its organization.
• Mixed Review on Comfort: Some mention the boat can get crowded, and the single small toilet might be inconvenient.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at Sliema Ferries, opposite McDonald’s, around 10:00 AM. The boat departs promptly at 10:30 AM, so arriving a little early helps avoid rushing. The meeting point is marked by a yellow Malta Sightseeing booth, making it easy to find. From there, you set off along Malta’s northern coast, with views of St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha providing an enjoyable backdrop.

The Coastal Journey

The cruise itself is the backbone of this experience. Expect a comfortable boat with onboard facilities—though some reviewers mention the limited toilet space, so plan accordingly. The vessel’s size allows for some sunbathing on the top deck, with optional sunbeds for an extra fee (€10). On the water, you’ll see dolphins, jellyfish, and schools of fish—adding a touch of marine magic that comes up regularly in reviews.

Visit to Gozo – Rabat and Cittadella

Upon arrival at Gozo, a bus takes you to Rabat, the heart of Gozitan life. You get about 75 minutes of free exploration, which has its pros and cons. Several travelers praise the organization, noting the ease of getting from the pier to the city, and the opportunity to stretch your legs and take in the local atmosphere. You’ll have time to visit the Cittadella—a historic fortress with panoramic views—and grab a snack.

One reviewer pointed out that the brief stop limits deeper exploration: “Wish there was a little more time in Gozo,” they said. The tight schedule means you’ll see highlights but won’t have time for extensive wandering or detailed sightseeing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Afternoon at Blue Lagoon

Later, you board the boat again and head to Comino Island’s Blue Lagoon. The turquoise, tranquil waters make this stretch a favorite among travelers, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the boat. Many reviews highlight how stunning and peaceful this spot is, with some mentioning dolphin sightings during the cruise—an unexpected bonus.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, which gives enough time to cool off in the water and take photos. If you want to stay longer, you might need to organize your own return, but generally, the schedule is well-maintained.

Returning to Malta

The tour wraps up in the late afternoon or early evening, with the boat returning to Sliema around 4:00 or 5:00 PM. The organized transport back ensures a smooth end to your day, though some reviewers note that the pick-up details are sometimes sent late, leading to last-minute stress.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price:

• Transportation to Victoria, Gozo’s capital, and Qala Belvedere.
• The full-day cruise with onboard facilities.
• Ease of organizing a transport and cruise combo.

Excluded:

• Food and drinks—though some reviews mention complimentary beer, current info states these might no longer be available.
• Snorkeling equipment—available for rent if you wish to explore underwater more thoroughly.
• Additional activities or guided tours within Gozo, which are limited due to time constraints.

Practical Tips

• Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen—the water and sun are the main attractions.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Rabat or the Cittadella.
• Plan for limited onboard toilets, especially if traveling with kids or sensitive travelers.
• Consider upgrading to the sunbeds if you want a more relaxed experience on deck.

The Review from Travelers

Many guests highlight the well-organized nature of the trip, praising the pick-up and drop-off service. One reviewer even joked about the free beer, which, if available, would add a nice touch of relaxation. The boat’s size and the opportunity to sunbathe on deck make for a pleasant day out, despite some noting that the boat can get crowded.

The short time in Gozo is a common complaint; travelers often wish for more hours to explore the citadella or enjoy the local cafes. The Blue Lagoon, however, remains a firm highlight, with its crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance. Several reviewers also mention seeing dolphins and marine life, which adds a special touch.

Final Thoughts

This Malta full-day cruise offers a value-packed introduction to the island’s most famous sights. With moderate pricing and organized logistics, it’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Malta’s coast, history, and beaches without fussing over details.

While the schedule is somewhat tight—limiting time in Gozo and on Comino—the experience is straightforward, scenic, and generally well-received. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to soak up Maltese scenery, cool off in the Blue Lagoon, and get a quick glimpse of Gozitan charm, this tour is worth considering.

For those seeking more time, in-depth exploration, or a more relaxed pace, you might prefer private tours or other options with longer stops. But for a fun, organized day out that ticks multiple boxes, this cruise does a decent job.

FAQs

What is the meeting point for this tour?
You meet at Sliema Ferries, opposite McDonald’s, at 10:00 AM, near a yellow Malta Sightseeing Booth.

What time does the boat leave?
The boat departs promptly at 10:30 AM after check-in, so arriving a little early helps.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Some reviews mention free beer, but current details suggest these are no longer available.

Is snorkeling equipment available?
Yes, snorkeling gear can be rented if you wish to explore underwater during your time at the Blue Lagoon.

How long is the stop at Gozo?
You have about 75 minutes to explore Rabat and the Cittadella before heading to the Blue Lagoon.

Can I upgrade my experience on the boat?
Sunbeds are available for an additional €10, allowing for a more comfortable sunbathing experience on deck.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is mentioned as wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are recommended for enjoying the day.

To sum it up, this cruise delivers a solid, scenic taste of Malta’s coast, Gozitan charm, and the Blue Lagoon’s beauty—all at a reasonable price. It’s a great pick for travelers who want a well-organized, picture-worthy day with some swimming and sightseeing. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and limited time at each stop—perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here: