From Sliema: Gozo, Comino & The Blue Lagoon Boat & Bus Tour

The turquoise water at Comino is the headline, but the clever part of this day is how much ground you cover without arranging separate ferries, buses, and taxis. You cruise north from Sliema, cross Gozo by minibus, then finish with the Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves.

I like the scenic boat ride, with coastline commentary, outdoor seating, toilets, a bar, and a water slide. I also like the efficient Gozo connection: a bus takes you from Mgarr Harbour to Victoria, leaving you time for the Citadel, a snack, and a quick look around town. The catch is simple: this is a transport-focused outing, not a fully guided tour, and 75 minutes in Victoria will feel short.

• Cruise from Sliema to Gozo: See Malta’s northern shoreline, rugged coast, and sea views from the boat.
• Victoria and the Citadel: Spend about 75 minutes in Gozo’s capital, with time for the medieval fortress, cafes, and shops.
• A quick Gozo viewpoint stop: Pause for about 15 minutes at a bay or Qala Belvedere for photos.
• Blue Lagoon access: Enjoy roughly 90 minutes at Comino for swimming, sunbathing, walking, or snorkeling.
• Comino Caves on the return: The boat passes close to the sea caves before returning to Sliema.
• A practical day out: The $51 price covers the cruise, Gozo transport, commentary, and major transfers, but not food, admission fees, or the new Blue Lagoon shore pass.

One Day, Two Islands, and a Famous Swimming Stop

This 7.5-hour trip is designed for people who want a first look at Gozo and Comino in one day. It is less about slow exploration and more about making the most of a packed schedule without hiring a car.

You leave from Sliema Ferries in the morning. The outward cruise gives you a useful view of Malta from the water, with English commentary about the shoreline and sights along the coast. Recorded commentary is also available in other languages on the boat, according to the information provided for the cruise.

The boat itself is part of the experience. You can sit outside for the best views or inside if the sun and wind become too much. There are toilets and a cash bar selling snacks and drinks. Some boats also have underwater windows, which can be fun for children when the water is calm.

The trip has earned a 4.4 rating from 1,931 bookings, and the strongest theme is organization. Staff give repeated reminders about departure times, and the boat crew and Gozo drivers keep the day moving. That matters here because missing the bus or boat could leave you trying to arrange your own way back.

Gozo by Minibus, With a Short Bay Stop

Mgarr Harbour is Gozo’s main port. Once you arrive, you transfer to a bus or minibus for the ride toward Victoria. The exact vehicle can feel tight when the group is large, so do not expect a roomy private tour.

Before Victoria, the bus makes a photo stop of about 15 minutes. This may be at one of Gozo’s bays or at Qala Belvedere, depending on the day. It is enough time for a few photographs and a quick look, but not enough for a walk or a long coffee.

The ride itself gives you a useful first taste of Gozo. You pass churches, villages, and open countryside as the driver heads inland. The views are one of the better reasons to choose the boat-and-bus format instead of simply taking a ferry and figuring out Gozo alone.

Keep your belongings with you and listen carefully to the driver’s instructions. You must return to the same bus at the agreed time, and changing vehicles can cause confusion. The staff are clear about this, but the transfer is still a group operation rather than a flexible private outing.

Victoria and the Citadel in 75 Minutes

Victoria, also called Rabat, is Gozo’s capital. The stop lasts about 75 minutes, which gives you a taste of the town but not a full visit.

The main target is the Citadel, a medieval fortress rising above Victoria. Its elevated position gives you wide views over Gozo, and the stone walls make it the most rewarding use of your limited time. You can also look around the cathedral area, browse shops, or stop for coffee, an ice cream, a pastizz or another quick snack.

I would head directly toward the Citadel instead of wandering first. The clock moves quickly, and the fortress is the reason many people find Victoria worthwhile. If you prefer relaxed meals or detailed visits to churches and museums, this stop will feel rushed.

Several people would prefer two or three hours in Victoria. That is a fair criticism. You are getting an introduction, not a proper day in Gozo. Still, the short visit works if your goal is to see the Citadel and get a feel for the island before moving on.

The trip does not include admission fees, so check the cost of any site you decide to enter. There is no dedicated walking guide in Victoria, and the bus ride comes with transport rather than a full history lesson.

The Boat to Comino and the Blue Lagoon

After Gozo, you return to the boat and sail toward Comino. The approach to the Blue Lagoon is the most photogenic section of the day, with clear turquoise water and pale rock around the narrow inlet.

You have about 90 minutes at Comino. Depending on the boat’s arrangement and your preference, you can go ashore, swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or stay near the boat. The included water slide gives you another way into the sea, and some people prefer swimming from the vessel because the shore can be extremely crowded.

Set your expectations carefully. The Blue Lagoon is beautiful, but it is also one of Malta’s best-known sights. In the warmer months, the small shore area can feel packed, and food stalls tend to offer similar fast-food choices. I would bring water, wear secure sandals, and consider eating your main snack in Victoria.

A practical change took effect in May 2025. Anyone who wants to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon must obtain a government access pass in advance through blcomino.com. The allocation is limited, and for this cruise you need to select the afternoon slot. The pass is your responsibility, and you will not receive a refund if you cannot go ashore without it.

You can still enjoy the water and boat facilities, but do not assume that booking the cruise alone gives you permission to land. Check the official pass system before your day out.

Comino Beyond the Lagoon

Comino is tiny and has no cars or urban areas. The Blue Lagoon gets most of the attention, but the island is also useful for a short walk and photographs, especially outside the swimming season.

The island has trails leading toward St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery. With only about 90 minutes, you will need to choose between swimming and walking. Trying to do everything will make both feel hurried.

In spring, autumn, and winter, the water may be too cold for a comfortable swim. That does not make the stop pointless. Clear weather can make the boat ride and shore views excellent, and the quieter island is better suited to walking and photography than a summer visit.

The Blue Lagoon can also be windy or rough in poor weather. People prone to seasickness should think carefully before booking and may want to take suitable medication after checking with a medical professional. A stormy morning can make the crossing uncomfortable even when the rest of the day is enjoyable.

Comino Caves on the Return to Sliema

After the Blue Lagoon, the boat passes the Comino sea caves before heading back to Sliema. The crew takes the boat close enough for a better look, which adds a pleasant final sightseeing moment rather than ending the day with a plain transfer.

The return ride is also when the boat’s facilities matter. A toilet, indoor seating, outdoor areas, and the bar make the long crossing easier. Arrive early if you want an open-air seat, especially in summer. The top deck can fill well before departure.

The boat may feel crowded on the one-hour trips between Malta and the islands. Some departures have spacious seating, while others can feel more packed than expected. I would treat the cruise as a scenic group transfer, not a quiet private yacht trip.

What the $51 Price Really Covers

At $51 per person, this is a fair price for a full day of island transport. The cost includes the sightseeing cruise, English commentary, the Gozo bus connection, the viewpoint stop, free time in Victoria, the Comino stop, the water slide, and the return route past the caves.

The value is strongest if you would otherwise pay separately for a ferry, Gozo transport, and a boat trip to Comino. You also avoid the work of coordinating connections at Mgarr Harbour.

The price does not include food, drinks, admission fees, hotel transfers, a walking guide, or the government Blue Lagoon shore pass. You need to reach Sliema Ferries yourself, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments.

The main thing you are buying is convenience. You are not buying long, detailed visits to either island. If you want freedom, local meals, and several hours at one Gozo village, rent or arrange separate transport. If you want a reliable first look at two islands in one day, the price makes sense.

Who Will Enjoy This Day Most

I would choose this trip if you have limited time in Malta and want to see more than Valletta, Sliema, and the main island. Families may appreciate the clear schedule, the boat’s toilet, the snack bar, and the water slide.

It also suits independent sightseers who do not need a guide beside them at every stop. You receive transport and timing instructions, then decide how to spend your free time in Victoria and Comino.

It is less suitable if you dislike boats, get motion sick, need step-free access, or want a slow cultural tour. The itinerary contains several transfers, a short Gozo stop, and a busy Blue Lagoon visit during high season.

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a small bag. Oversize luggage and large bags are not allowed. I would also keep a little cash for the boat bar and snacks.

My Take: Book It for a First Look

Book this tour if your priority is efficient island-hopping with strong sea views. You will see Gozo’s Citadel, get a photo stop, swim or walk at Comino, and pass the caves, all without arranging the transport yourself.

Skip it if you want a quiet Blue Lagoon experience or a full day in Gozo. The best approach is to treat the trip as a scenic transfer with well-chosen stops, not a traditional guided tour.

The biggest practical tip is to secure the correct afternoon Blue Lagoon access pass before you go. Then arrive early for a better boat seat, head straight to the Citadel in Victoria, and keep your return times firmly in mind. Done that way, the $51 fare offers a useful and enjoyable taste of Malta’s two smaller islands.

FAQ

How long does the Gozo and Comino boat tour last?

The full activity lasts about 7.5 hours, including the cruise from Sliema, transport around Gozo, time in Victoria, the Comino stop, and the return journey.

Where does the tour depart?

The boat departs from Sliema Ferries in the morning. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is this a guided walking tour?

No. The experience provides boat commentary and transport, but the stops in Victoria and at the Blue Lagoon are free time. There is no traditional walking guide.

How long do you spend in Victoria?

You have about 75 minutes in Victoria, Gozo’s capital. This allows time for the Citadel, a snack, shopping, or a short walk.

Is the Citadel included?

Transport to Victoria is included, but admissions to sites in Gozo are not included. You can visit the Citadel during your free time, subject to any applicable admission requirements.

How long do you spend at the Blue Lagoon?

The stop at Comino and the Blue Lagoon lasts about 90 minutes. You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, walk, or remain near the boat.

Do I need a pass for the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. From May 2025, anyone wishing to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon must obtain a government access pass in advance through blcomino.com. Select the afternoon slot for this cruise.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, but a cash bar on the boat sells some snacks and beverages.

Does the boat have a toilet?

Yes. Toilet facilities are available on the boat.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. It is also not recommended for people prone to seasickness or motion sickness.