Best of Gozo & Comino

Exploring Malta becomes truly memorable with the Best of Gozo & Comino tour. Priced at $52.14 per person, this 7.5-hour private journey offers a compact yet rich experience of two standout islands. Departing from Sliema Ferry, the tour includes visits to Bugibba, the Cittadella in Victoria, the Santa Marija Tower in Comino, and a relaxing swim in the Blue Lagoon.

This trip is particularly appealing for those who want a self-paced, flexible day with a focus on scenic stops and minimal guided narration. The vessels are modern and air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride, with Wi-Fi onboard to stay connected. While the tour is generally praised for its value and variety, it’s important to note that it isn’t guided in detail at each stop, which may suit travelers who prefer independent exploration.

Key Points

• Full-day private tour lasting approximately 7.5 hours in Malta
• Visit Gozo’s Cittadella and Victoria’s historical sites for free
• Swim in the Blue Lagoon with admission included
• Depart from Sliema Ferry with Wi-Fi onboard for easy connectivity
• Flexible, self-paced experience with only your group participating
• Cost of $52.14 per person, booked on average 15 days in advance

The Departure Point at Sliema Ferry

The tour begins at Sliema Ferry, a convenient spot near public transportation in Malta. This location serves as the easy access point for travelers arriving from different parts of the island. The ferry terminal offers a quick check-in process, and the vessel feels brand new, as reviewers highlight, with full air conditioning ensuring comfort during the boat ride.

The return also concludes at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The timing allows travelers to plan their day with ease, knowing that the entire experience fits within a well-organized schedule.

Traveling to Bugibba and its Seaside Vibe

Bugibba is the initial stop on this tour. Known as a lively seaside destination, it also functions as a pick-up and drop-off point for the group. The five-minute stop is usually free of charge, giving travelers a quick chance to stretch and get a feel for Malta’s coastal atmosphere. Its popularity makes Bugibba a natural starting point for this journey.

While the stop is brief, it sets the tone for the day—highlighting Malta’s scenic coastal life before heading further afield. The emphasis remains on efficient sightseeing rather than in-depth exploration here.

Exploring the Historic Cittadella in Victoria

A major highlight of the tour is the Cittadella Visitors’ Centre in Victoria, Gozo. This 45-minute stop is free of charge and provides a chance to walk through a site inhabited since the Bronze Age. The ancient Punic-Roman city once occupied this hilltop, and the Cittadella still offers panoramic views and a peek into Malta’s layered past.

Visitors can wander the fortress walls, view exhibits, and enjoy the stunning vistas of Gozo’s landscape. The free admission makes this stop especially valuable, and the guide or staff can answer quick questions, though detailed guided tours are not included.

Santa Marija Tower in Comino

The Santa Marija Tower, built in 1618, is a key stop on the tour’s Comino segment. It was part of a defensive network linking Gozo and Mdina. Today, this historic tower provides a glimpse into Malta’s defensive architecture of the 17th century.

The view from the tower offers a scenic perspective of the surrounding waters, making it a worthwhile photo opportunity. The tour includes a quick stop here, giving travelers a chance to learn about the island’s military history without extensive guided commentary.

Swimming and Relaxing in the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon in Comino is the most famous spot on this tour. With admission included, visitors spend around 2 hours swimming or lounging in the clear waters. The lagoon’s turquoise hues and calm environment make it a favorite for many.

However, reviews note that the Blue Lagoon can become overcrowded, especially during peak times, which may diminish the experience. Still, the opportunity to swim in such a beautiful setting is a key highlight, and many appreciate the extra time allocated for this activity.

Not Guided but Self-Exploration

This tour is explicitly not guided at each stop. Instead, it offers a drive-around experience with short stops for sightseeing. The mini van takes travelers past Victoria’s alleys, the Ta Pinu Shrine, and other sites, but with minimal narration.

Some reviews mention that this results in a more independent experience, which appeals to travelers who prefer exploring at their own pace. Others note that the lack of detailed explanations means the trip may feel rushed or somewhat disorganized if expectations are not set properly.

The Boat Experience and Comfort

The vessels used for this tour are highly praised for being brand new, comfortable, and air-conditioned. The fast boat ride to Gozo is often highlighted as a smooth and enjoyable part of the day, making the transfer between islands quick and pleasant.

Wi-Fi onboard allows travelers to stay connected, and reviewers mention that the ride is swift and efficient, reducing travel fatigue. This aspect adds real value, especially for those wanting a luxurious and relaxed journey across the waters.

The Pacing and Flexibility of the Tour

One of the tour’s greatest strengths is its self-paced structure. With only your group participating, travelers can decide how long to stay at each stop and explore as they wish. The overall pacing is flexible, with around 7.5 hours to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

While some reviews mention that exploration time in Victoria is limited to about three hours, the two hours in Comino generally allow ample time for swimming and sightseeing. The absence of guided commentary at each stop emphasizes independence, which suits some travelers perfectly.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are positive, some mention crowds at Blue Lagoon or lack of detailed information during stops. A few travelers note that the mini van in Gozo is not air-conditioned and may feel less comfortable during hot days.

Plus, adverse weather conditions can lead to cancellations, with minimal notice, and full refunds are offered if the trip is canceled due to safety concerns. It’s advisable to book at least 15 days in advance to secure spot availability.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This private, self-paced experience is ideal for travelers who want a broad overview of Malta’s highlights without a guided tour’s rigidity. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate scenic boat rides, independent exploration, and relaxing swims in iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon.

However, those seeking in-depth guided narration or extensive sightseeing time in Gozitan towns might find the experience somewhat limited. The tour offers excellent value for money, especially considering the comfortable vessels and the variety of stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour guided at each stop?
No, it is not a guided tour with detailed narration at each site. It involves a drive-around experience with short stops for sightseeing and swimming.

What’s included in the price?
The admission fee for the Blue Lagoon is included, as well as the boat transfer and a self-paced itinerary. The Wi-Fi onboard is also provided.

Can I swim at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the tour allocates around 2 hours for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the lagoon’s scenery.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If adverse weather conditions lead to cancellations, the tour provider offers a full refund or a rescheduling option. The safety of travelers is the priority.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made approximately 15 days before the scheduled date, allowing for availability and planning.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and walking during stops. Accessibility details are limited, so plan accordingly.

This Best of Gozo & Comino tour offers a practical and flexible way to see Malta’s two most famous islands, combining scenic boat rides, historic sites, and relaxing swims—all in a single, well-priced package. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a balance of independence and sightseeing, with the comfort of modern vessels and the convenience of a private group experience.