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

Introduction

Thinking of exploring Malta’s coastline and islands? This boat tour from St. Paul’s Bay offers a fantastic way to see some of Malta’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

We love that this experience combines stunning natural scenery, friendly guides, and great value for money — all packed into just over five hours. Plus, the stops at Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Gozo give you a chance to swim, take photos, and soak in the local vibe.

One thing to consider: the Blue Lagoon tends to get quite crowded, especially during peak season, so you might want to arrive early or be prepared for some hustle.

This trip is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day at sea with plenty of swimming, beautiful views, and authentic island atmosphere. It suits travelers seeking an affordable, well-organized outing that shows off Malta’s best coastlines.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $24 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering all the stops and activities.
• Small Boat Comfort: The smaller vessel means less crowding, easier access to caves, and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Stops: Significant time in Blue Lagoon and Gozo allows for swimming, exploring, and photos.
• Expert Guides: Friendly crew and live English commentary enrich your understanding of the sights.
• Photogenic Views: Caves, rock formations, and the iconic Elephant Rock make for memorable photos.
• Weather-Dependent: Cave visits depend on sea conditions; sometimes, weather may alter the planned route.

Discover Malta’s Coastal Treasures on a 5.5-Hour Boat Trip

Malta offers some truly breathtaking scenery, and what better way to see it than from the deck of a boat? This tour departs from Bugibba Jetty and takes you on a scenic ride through the Mediterranean, stopping at some of the most photogenic and relaxing spots around the islands of Comino and Gozo.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The journey kicks off with a one-hour sightseeing cruise along the coast. The crew, including a captain and friendly staff, provides lively commentary in English, pointing out caves, rock formations, and notable landmarks like Elephant Rock and St. Mary’s Caves.

Your first major highlight is Comino, a tiny island famed for the Blue Lagoon. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore, swim, or snorkel in water renowned for its clear, turquoise hues. Reviewers highlight how gorgeous the lagoon is, though some mention it gets very busy — so arriving early might help you find a calmer spot.

Next, the tour moves to Gozo, where you’ll enjoy a two-hour stop. This break is perfect for a walk around the island’s charming streets, taking photos, or grabbing a quick bite. Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to see Gozo’s vibrant local culture and scenery, but some wished for more time to delve deeper into the island’s attractions.

Following Gozo, you’ll cruise past the Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock, enjoying scenic views and photo opportunities. The boat then circles back with a 50-minute cruise before ending at your starting point at Bugibba Jetty.

Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities

Throughout the trip, there are several stops for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment rentals available for a small fee (€10 security deposit). Reviewers describe the Blue Lagoon waters as crystal-clear, perfect for a relaxing dip or exploring underwater life.

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Cave Adventures and Sea Formations

One of the trip’s highlights is the visit to Crystal Lagoon Caves and St. Mary’s Caves, where weather and sea conditions dictate if entering is possible. The caves provide impressive photo opportunities and a sense of discovery, although some reviews note that rougher seas can limit access.

The Blue Lagoon Experience

Many travelers mention that the Blue Lagoon is beyond beautiful — a highlight for swimming, relaxing on the boat, or simply taking in the scenery. However, the reviews suggest that time at the lagoon is limited (about an hour), and it can get crowded quickly. Some recommend coming prepared to settle into a spot early or explore beyond the main area for a quieter experience.

Visiting Gozo

The two-hour stop in Gozo offers flexibility. You can choose to relax at local cafes or venture further with a mini bus (extra cost) to see the island’s capital, Victoria. Reviewers praise the option to explore independently, which adds to the tour’s flexibility. However, a common sentiment is that more time in Gozo would make the experience even better.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

The Boat and Crew

The smaller vessel, called “The Mermaid,” is praised for being less crowded than larger boats, offering a more comfortable and relaxed environment. Reviewers note the crew as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, with many highlighting how their enthusiasm made the trip more enjoyable.

The captain’s live commentary in English is both informative and engaging, pointing out interesting formations and providing background about the sites. Several reviews mention the crew’s generosity, like offering free pineapple towards the end of the trip or affordable drinks on board, which added a nice touch of hospitality.

Value for Money

At $24 per person, this tour is hard to beat. Considering the multiple stops, swimming opportunities, and scenic views, many reviews emphasize the excellent value. Additional costs are minimal — snorkeling gear can be rented (€10 deposit), and food is available for purchase on the islands.

Duration and Timing

The 5.5-hour schedule balances sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each location. Reviewers love the well-organized itinerary, which ensures you’re not rushed and can make the most of each stop. The tour departs in the morning, giving you a full day of fun without feeling hurried.

Accessibility and Limitations

This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, mainly due to the rocky terrain around some stops (like Blue Lagoon). Also, the caves and certain scenic spots are weather-dependent, so weather conditions can influence how much you see and do.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Multiple reviews mention how the crew went above and beyond — offering insider tips, providing a relaxed vibe, and ensuring everyone felt safe. One reviewer from Ireland noted how the crew was polite, helpful, and made everyone feel welcome, especially with their helpfulness at the Blue Lagoon.

Another highlighted how the boat’s small size meant they could get into caves inaccessible to larger vessels, making the experience more authentic and personal. Many travelers appreciated the informative guides, who shared interesting facts and navigated the boat safely through sometimes choppy waters.

Several reviewers complimented the low prices for drinks and snacks, making it easy to stay refreshed without breaking the bank. Some even took advantage of the mini bus service to Gozo’s capital, Victoria, which adds flexibility for those wanting a deeper dive into local culture.

What Could Be Improved

A few comments suggest that more time at the Blue Lagoon would be ideal, especially to find a peaceful spot for swimming. Others wish for additional time in Gozo to explore more leisurely. As one reviewer put it, “The trip was exactly what it says on the tin,” but more time would make it even better.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from St. Paul’s Bay offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and swimming fun, all at a very accessible price point. Its smaller boat size makes for a more intimate and comfortable experience, perfect for travelers who prefer avoiding crowded tours.

The highlights — Blue Lagoon, caves, and Gozo — are all well worth the visit, especially with the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew providing a warm and relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for those on a budget who want to see Malta’s stunning coastlines, enjoy some leisure time in crystal waters, and explore key islands without a fuss.

While the time at each stop might feel a bit rushed for some, the overall organization and value make this a standout choice. Just remember to arrive early for the Blue Lagoon to snag a quieter spot and bring your sun protection and cash for snacks or equipment rentals.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photo ops, and authentic island sights. If you want a well-priced, friendly, and scenic Malta experience, this boat trip will not disappoint.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 5.5 hours, including stops for swimming, exploring, and cruising.

Where does the tour depart from?
The trip starts at Bugibba Jetty, where you’ll see the boat “The Mermaid” ready for boarding.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat, captain, crew, live English commentary, and stops at Comino and Gozo. Toilets are on board, and there’s a 1-hour stop at Comino and 2 hours at Gozo.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase on the islands and on the boat. Alcoholic beverages are reasonably priced.

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

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best for those without mobility impairments, as some stops involve rocky terrain, and caves are weather-dependent. Children are welcome, but supervision is advised during swimming stops.

This boat tour offers a well-paced, scenic, and friendly way to experience Malta’s coastal highlights. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking authentic beauty with a laid-back vibe, all at a price that makes it accessible.

You can check if your dates are available here: