Malta: Gozo Full-Day Jeep with Lunch and Boat Transfers

Planning a trip to Malta and wondering how to make the most of its sister island, Gozo? This full-day Jeep tour offers an adventurous way to see the highlights, combining scenic drives, historical sites, and a boat trip—all within about seven hours. While I haven’t done it myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded, value-packed excursion perfect for travelers who love a mix of culture, nature, and a bit of thrill.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides really seem to make a difference, offering insights that bring the island’s sights to life. Second, the stunning panoramic views at key stops like the Citadel and Xlendi Bay are often described as breathtaking. Third, the delicious included lunch with local wine adds a lovely touch of local flavor. On the flip side, some travelers note that the transportation can be a bit crowded or that certain activities are weather-dependent, so flexibility helps.

This tour is best suited for those who want to explore Gozo in a relaxed, guided setting without the hassle of planning transport or logistics. It’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a taste of authentic Maltese culture with a comfortable, well-organized schedule.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major sights, beaches, and historical landmarks.
• All-inclusive experience: Includes lunch, ferry, boat rides, and transportation.
• Expert guides: Known for engaging and informative commentary.
• Scenic beauty: From cliffs and bays to caves and salt pans, the views are varied and stunning.
• Weather considerations: Boat trips depend on weather, so flexibility is key.
• Value for money: At $91, the tour offers a lot of sightseeing packed into one day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Pick-up and Transportation

The journey begins with a pick-up from over 40 convenient locations across Malta, including major hotels and popular spots like the Hyatt Regency and The Westin Dragonara. This extensive list makes it easy to find a close starting point. From there, you’ll board a comfortable minibus or coach, which, according to reviews, is generally modern and air-conditioned. Expect a roughly one-hour drive to the ferry port—not long, but enough time to settle in and get ready for the island adventure ahead.

Once on Gozo, your main mode of exploration is a jeep, which is described as modern, comfortable, and equipped with seat belts—a comfort that matters over bumpy roads. The guides are often praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and patient explanations, making each stop more meaningful.

The Scenic Speedboat Transfer

One of the highlights is the speedboat transfer to Gozo, which travelers say adds a touch of excitement and scenic beauty. Passing from Malta to Gozo via boat allows you to enjoy the sea breeze and glimpse the coastlines from a different perspective. The boat rides, including the return trip passing the Blue Lagoon and Comino, are weather-dependent. Some reviews mention that the boat ride might be less speedy than the name suggests but remains enjoyable and a vital part of the experience.

Exploring Gozo’s Gems

Once on Gozo, the real fun begins. The itinerary includes visits to iconic sites like the Citadel in Victoria, a fortified city with panoramic views over the island. The guides typically provide rich historical insights here, although some reviewers note that entry fees to sites like the Ggantija Temples aren’t included, so budget for additional costs.

Next, you’ll visit Salt Pans—a photographer’s paradise with shimmering white salt flats that have been in use for centuries. Many reviewers mention the Salt Pans as impressive and interesting, especially for those curious about traditional industries.

A trip to Ramla Bay offers a chance to relax on one of Gozo’s most famous beaches, with its distinctive red sand and stunning backdrop. The Calypso Cave, tied to local legends and mythology, is another highlight, although the guided tours here are brief—about 20 minutes.

The Cittadella in Victoria provides a glimpse into Gozitan history, with narrow streets, historical buildings, and sweeping views. Visitors often find this spot charming and educational, with plenty of photo opportunities.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Coastal Beauty and Nature

The Dwejra Inland Sea is a dramatic spot for photos and exploration. The guided tour here includes a short walk and some insight into the geological features that create the area’s unique landscape. Many travelers mention this as a memorable highlight, especially if weather conditions allow for decent sightseeing.

The Xlendi Bay stop, although brief, is often appreciated for its quaint charm and seaside vibe, perfect for a quick stroll or photo.

The Lunch Experience

A buffet lunch at Mariblu Restaurant is included, with local wine and water. Reviewers describe the meal as tasty and satisfying, often highlighting the homemade feel and generous portions. It’s a good chance to relax and enjoy Gozitan hospitality while soaking up the scenic surroundings.

Additional Stops and Free Time

The tour offers a roughly one-hour break for lunch and free time, giving you a chance to explore or relax. Many find this flexible enough to visit small shops or simply unwind. The Xwejki Salt Pans and Zebbug are also included with a short swim or sightseeing break, adding a touch of leisure to the day.

Final Highlights and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll return to Malta via boat, passing the famous Blue Lagoon—a perfect photo op. The return journey is often described as smooth, with some noting that the boat ride could be longer or more speedy, but it remains a pleasant way to conclude the trip.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Multiple reviews emphasize the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. For example, Johnny, Peter, and Alex are praised for making the day engaging, informative, and fun. These guides’ local insights and accommodating manner significantly enhance the experience, transforming sightseeing into storytelling.

Practical Considerations

At a cost of $91 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering it covers transportation, lunch, boat transfers, and multiple scenic stops. However, travelers should note that entry to attractions like the Ggantija Temples is not included, so additional entrance fees may apply. Also, boat rides are weather-dependent, so it’s good to have flexible expectations or a backup plan for bad weather days.

The tour duration is about 7 hours, which includes travel, sightseeing, lunch, and boat rides. The start times vary, so checking availability in advance helps plan your day better.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy guided experiences with a structured itinerary, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of rental cars or planning complex logistics. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate historical sites, scenic views, and cultural insights will find this tour rewarding. It also offers a good balance of activity and relaxation, with opportunities for photos, swimming, and enjoying local cuisine.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest that the tour is family-friendly, especially as it involves short walks, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace. The jeep ride and boat cruise are generally safe and manageable for kids, but it’s always best to check with the provider if you have very young children.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), swimwear and towel if you want to swim, a camera, and water are recommended. Carrying a light jacket might be useful if it gets windy or cooler in the evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides a buffet lunch, including water and local wine, which many reviewers found tasty and filling. Drinks outside the meal are available for purchase.

Is the boat ride optional?
The boat transfer is part of the package, but weather conditions can affect it. If canceled, the tour still proceeds, but you might miss the boat part.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from 10 to 30 minutes, with longer at major sites like the Citadel and the Salt Pans. Some reviews mention that the schedule is flexible enough to allow brief exploration or photography.

What about the transportation?
Expect modern, comfortable jeeps with seat belts. The guides are known for their friendly attitude and clear explanations, making the ride informative as well as fun.

Can I buy additional souvenirs or drinks?
Yes, there are shops at some stops, and drinks can be purchased during the meal or at certain sites.

Does the tour include entry fees?
No, attractions like the Ggantija Temples require separate admission. It’s worth considering this when planning your budget.

Is there any free time for personal exploration?
Yes, the tour includes about an hour for lunch and free time, which is enough to explore a bit or relax at your leisure.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Jeep tour of Gozo offers a lively and engaging way to get to know Malta’s charming sister island. Combining scenic drives, historical sites, and a boat cruise, it provides a well-rounded glimpse into Gozitan culture and natural beauty. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach are frequently praised, making the experience even more memorable.

For travelers who value convenience, good value, and authentic sights, this tour ticks many boxes. While weather can impact some activities, the flexibility and variety of stops ensure you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re into history, landscapes, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, this full-day adventure can be a fantastic addition to your Malta itinerary.

Ideal for those wanting a structured, guided exploration with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a mix of adventure and comfort packed into one memorable day.

Note: Always check the latest availability and weather forecast before booking, and plan for some extra costs if you wish to explore attractions more deeply or purchase souvenirs.

You can check if your dates are available here: