St. Paul’s Bay: Gozo, Comino & St. Paul’s Bus & Boat Tour

Discover Malta’s Gems: A Detailed Look at the St. Paul’s Bay: Gozo, Comino & St. Paul’s Bus & Boat Tour

Malta is small but packed with so many sights that fitting them into a single day can feel overwhelming—unless you choose the right tour. This 7-hour combined boat and bus experience offers a practical way to see some of Malta’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We’re here to give you a thorough rundown of what to expect, based on extensive reviews and the tour itinerary.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning Blue Lagoon at Comino—you’ll get an hour to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge in that crystal-clear water. Second, the visit to the Gozitan capital, Victoria, where the combination of history, shopping, and quaint cafes creates a relaxed but lively vibe. And third, the chance to explore the secluded St. Paul’s Island, perfect for a final swim and some peaceful reflection.

One thing worth considering: the timing in each location can feel quite tight, especially if you want to soak in the atmosphere or explore more thoroughly. However, for those wanting a well-organized, affordable, and scenic overview of Malta, this tour hits many key points efficiently. It’s best suited for travelers eager for a full day of sightseeing without the stress of logistics, especially if you prefer guided experiences with local insights.

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Good To Know

• Value for Money: A comprehensive 7-hour experience at just $40 per person offers excellent value.
• Balance of Activities: Combines boat cruising, swimming, sightseeing, and short bus excursions.
• Guidance and Comfort: Live commentary in English by knowledgeable guides enhances understanding.
• Flexible & Practical: Includes essentials like toilets, WiFi, and optional cave visits, making the day comfortable.
• Timing Tips: You’ll have around 1 hour at Comino, 2 hours in Gozo, and 30 minutes at St. Paul’s Island; plan your expectations accordingly.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on natural beauty and local culture, with optional additional purchases like food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Meeting Point & Departure

The adventure begins early at Bugibba Jetty, where your friendly Mermaid Cruises representatives greet you. Boarding begins at 9:30 am and closes around 9:50 am, so arriving on time ensures you don’t miss the boat. The boat itself is described as smaller than average, which many reviews appreciated because it meant fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere. You’ll board the “Mermaid” boat, easily recognizable by its red, white, and blue colors.

The Cruise Up North: Coastline and Comino

Once underway, you’ll cruise past popular spots like Mellieha, soaking in views of the Maltese archipelago. This part of the trip sets the tone—relaxing with plenty of photo opportunities of the rocky coastline and shimmering waters.

The first major stop is the Blue Lagoon on Comino. This spot is a highlight for many travelers. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with a generous 1-hour window to jump in or just sunbathe. One reviewer noted, “The Blue Lagoon was absolutely stunning—unreal clear water that looked almost unreal,” which echoes the general consensus.

However, some mention that the lagoon can get crowded during peak summer months, and there’s some debris left behind by travelers. Still, the natural beauty tends to outweigh these minor disappointments, especially if you go early or later in the day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Gozo: The Capital & Beyond

After a refreshing hour, the boat heads to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where a bus transfer takes you to Victoria, the island’s charming capital. This part of the tour is particularly valued by travelers for giving a quick but rich glimpse of Gozitan life.

In Victoria, you might choose to walk the Cittadella, a fortified city with narrow streets and panoramic views. Shoppers will enjoy the local markets and small boutiques, while food lovers can sample local Gozitan cuisine at nearby restaurants. Reviewers mention that two hours feels a bit rushed, with many wishing for more time to explore.

Guides, like Captain Matthew, known for their helpful explanations, ensure you get a good overview of the area. One guest commented, “The captain made sure we saw as much as possible and explained the history clearly,” adding that the guided narrative enriches the experience.

Returning to the Boat: Caves and Coastline

Back at the harbor, the boat resumes cruising along the coastline, giving you more chances to snap photos of Malta’s scenic cliffs. The smaller boat size allows easier access into caves—something many reviews highlight as a favorite part.

Depending on the weather, you may enter notable caves like Crystal Lagoon or St. Mary’s Caves. The access is weather-dependent, but the opportunity to see these natural formations up close is a bonus for those interested in geology, photography, or simply the awe of natural landscapes.

Final Stop: St. Paul’s Islands

The last leg involves a 30-minute stop at St. Paul’s Island, known for its quiet charm and historical significance. Here, you can take a quick swim or walk up to see the statue of St. Paul. Many reviewers appreciated this peaceful ending, with one noting, “It’s a perfect spot for a last swim and some quiet time before heading back.”

The boat then begins its return journey to Bugibba, arriving around 5 pm. This allows plenty of time for reflection—and perhaps a cold drink after a busy day.

The Experience and Practicalities

What’s Included & Not

For $40, you get a well-rounded day with live English commentary, WiFi, access to toilets, and most activities like the cave entry and bus ride included. You’ll also enjoy 1 hour at Comino, 2 hours in Gozo, and 30 minutes on St. Paul’s Island—a good balance for a day trip.

Snorkeling equipment is available for rent (€10 deposit), and food and drinks are not included but can be purchased on board or at stops. Many reviewers recommend bringing snacks, water, and sunscreen, especially during summer.

Transportation & Group Size

The small boat size means fewer people, which many guests appreciated. The bus transfer to Victoria is straightforward, although some wish for longer in Gozo, suggesting that more time in the capital might improve the experience.

Timing & Weather

Since the trip is weather-dependent, the captain reserves the right to cancel or alter the itinerary. It’s wise to check the forecast and arrive early, as boarding time is strict.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a cost-effective way to see multiple highlights of Malta and Gozo in one day. It balances scenic boat rides, cultural stops, and natural wonders, making it suitable for those with limited time or a preference for guided tours. While the schedule is tight, many users find the organized approach worth it, especially given the friendly guides and beautiful scenery.

It might not be perfect for those wanting to explore in depth or for travelers with mobility issues, as the tour involves some walking and boat entry into caves (weather-dependent). Still, the overall value, scenic variety, and relaxed pace make it a worthwhile choice.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the St. Paul’s Bay: Gozo, Comino & St. Paul’s Bus & Boat Tour offers an engaging, scenic snapshot of Malta’s best spots at a reasonable price. With stunning views, friendly guides, and a good balance of activities, it’s well-suited for travelers eager to tick off multiple highlights in a single day.

The blend of boat cruising, cultural exploration, and natural beauty makes it a memorable way to experience Malta’s diverse landscape. Just remember, for the most enjoyment, arrive early, bring essentials, and keep expectations flexible for weather and timing.

Who’s it best for?

Those who want an affordable, guided overview of Malta without the hassle of planning every detail will love it. It’s especially good for first-time visitors, families, or groups seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day trip. If you’re looking for a deep dive into history or longer exploration, you might want to add extra time or explore other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially with the boat’s smaller size offering a more personal experience. However, very young children or those with mobility issues may find some aspects challenging.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included but can be bought on board or at stops. It’s wise to bring snacks, water, and sunscreen for comfort and convenience.

How long do we spend at each location?
You’ll have approximately 1 hour at Comino, 2 hours in Gozo, and 30 minutes at St. Paul’s Island, which suits travelers who prefer a quick overview rather than in-depth exploration.

Can I snorkel or swim at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, you’re encouraged to swim and snorkel, with equipment available for rent (€10 deposit). Keep in mind that during peak seasons, the lagoon can be crowded.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunhat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking. Weather-dependent, so check the forecast.

Is the boat entry into caves included?
Yes, weather permitting, you’ll be able to enter the caves without extra charge, which many reviews highlight as a favorite part of the cruise.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Embark on this journey with realistic expectations, and you’re sure to enjoy Malta’s scenic beauty, warm waters, and welcoming guides. Whether it’s your first trip or a follow-up adventure, this tour makes hitting the highlights both easy and memorable.

You can check if your dates are available here: