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Explore Malta’s Islands with a Full-Day Boat Tour from Mellieha Bay
This $28 boat tour offers a comprehensive day trip through Malta, Gozo, and Comino, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to see multiple islands in one go. Starting at Mellieha Bay, the tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing, swimming, and optional exploring. With a rating of 4.4 from 255 reviews, this experience combines affordability, engaging stops, and the chance to appreciate Malta’s stunning coastlines and caves.
The tour is ideal for those interested in sea caves, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites. It also suits travelers who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, thanks to the generous 1.5-hour swim stop at Blue Lagoon. While it’s mostly suitable for able-bodied participants, people with mobility impairments should note that some stops involve walking or sitting on the bus.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Cost-effective at only $28 per person for a full-day experience
- Departs from Mellieha Bay at 09.30hrs and returns around 16.00hrs
- Multiple stops including the Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and sea caves
- Optional Gozitan bus tour for exploring highlights like Victoria City and the old citadel
- Swim and snorkel for 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon
- Includes visits to Santa Maria Caves, Crystal Lagoon, and scenic viewpoints
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Starting Point at Mellieha Bay and Departure Time
The tour begins at Mellieha Bay, with the meeting point identified near Starbucks on the seafront. The cruise departs promptly at 09.30hrs, giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy the day. The boat is operated by Oh Yeah Malta Cruises and Water Sports, and the activity ends back at the same meeting point around 16.00hrs.
Being aware of the departure time helps ensure a smooth start, and it’s recommended to arrive a little early to settle in. The tour offers easy access for wheelchair users, but it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and boarding requirements.
Visiting the Smugglers Caves and Elephant Head Rock on Comino
One of the early highlights includes viewing the Smugglers Caves, a favorite for their historical intrigue and photogenic appeal. The boat passes by Elephant Head Rock on Comino, a distinctive sea formation that’s only accessible from the water, making it an exciting sight for photography.
Travelers can also see Shearwater birds nesting around Comino, adding to the natural beauty of the cruise. These caves and rock formations are part of the sea caves tour, with some available for optional exploration at extra charge.
Gozitan Stop and the Exclusive Bus Tour
After cruising past Santa Maria Caves, the boat drops anchor at Gozo. Here, you have a roughly 2 hour 45-minute window to explore. The tour offers a free time option or the opportunity to join an exclusive open-top bus tour.
This 2hr 45min bus tour takes you through Victoria City, where you can visit the old citadel, and see sites like Fungus Rock and Ta Pinu Cathedral—a religious site visited by Pope John Paul II. The bus is reserved solely for tour participants, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.
Whether choosing free time or the bus tour, this stop provides a chance to enjoy Gozitan culture, views, and landmarks at your own pace.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Blue Lagoon Swim and Snorkeling Experience
The Blue Lagoon stands out as the highlight for many participants, with 1 hour 30 minutes allocated for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The crystal-clear waters invite visitors to enjoy a refreshing dip and the chance to snorkel among vibrant marine life, all from the comfort of the boat.
Many reviews note that swimming at Blue Lagoon directly from the boat is preferable to the main beach, as it tends to be less crowded. The water is calm, making it suitable for all levels of swimmers and snorkelers, and the relaxed environment makes it easy to unwind or take photos of the stunning surroundings.
While you're exploring Mellieha, here are other experiences we've looked into
Scenic Passages to Crystal Lagoon and Sea Caves
On the way back to Mellieha, the boat passes Crystal Lagoon, a scenic spot known for its pale turquoise waters and caves. There are photo stops at this lagoon and Poppy’s Caves and Lovers’ Caves, which add to the scenic variety of the cruise.
Travelers get brief opportunities to appreciate these natural formations and take photos during transit, with the guide pointing out notable features such as Santa Maria Tower and the WW2 Santa Maria Battery along the route.
Comfortable and Informative Cruise Experience
Throughout the trip, the crew and guides are praised for being friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. They do their best to explain the sites, ensuring that participants understand the significance of each cave and landmark. The English-speaking hosts provide a relaxed environment, making it easy to ask questions and enjoy the scenery.
The boat itself is equipped for a comfortable ride, with plenty of space for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking photos. The scenic views are spectacular, and the pauses at key points allow for photo opportunities and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Practical Details and What to Bring
This tour’s duration of 6.5 hours includes all the stops and travel time, making it a full but manageable day. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking on land, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and swimwear for the swim stop. A towel and beachwear are also recommended to enjoy the Blue Lagoon comfortably.
Cash is advised for optional activities like the bus tour, cave visits, or renting snorkeling equipment, as some card terminals may not be functional. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, mainly due to walking and boarding procedures.
Overall Value and What Makes This Tour Stand Out
At $28 per person, this boat trip provides excellent value for the variety of sites visited and the length of time spent exploring multiple islands. The combination of sightseeing, swimming, and optional land exploration makes it an efficient way to experience Malta’s coast and islands in a single day.
The reviews regularly highlight the friendly crew and the quality of the sights, with many pointing out how the dolphin sighting near the end of the trip added a special touch. The tour’s organized stops, scenic views, and manageable schedule make it a popular choice for travelers seeking an affordable, engaging day on the water.
Final Thoughts on the Mellieha Bay Boat Tour to Gozo, Comino, and Malta
This full-day boat tour from Mellieha Bay offers a practical way to enjoy Malta’s stunning coastlines and islands without the hassle of separate transport arrangements. Its well-organized itinerary includes key stops like the Blue Lagoon, Sea Caves, and Gozitan highlights, all led by a friendly crew that enhances the experience.
While it’s primarily designed for able-bodied travelers who enjoy sea and land excursions, it provides enough flexibility for those who want to relax, swim, or explore on their own. The affordable price point coupled with the scenic stops and swimming opportunities makes this tour a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to see Malta’s waters and islands.
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From Melliea Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour w/ Swim Stop
“Enjoyable journey and great sights and experiences”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at Mellieha Bay, with the activity provider’s office located near Starbucks on the seafront.
What time does the tour depart and return?
It departs at 09.30hrs and returns around 16.00hrs, with the trip lasting about 6.5 hours.
Is there an option to explore Gozo separately?
Yes, there is an optional open-top bus tour lasting 2hr 45min that takes you around Gozitan highlights during your stop.
What can I do during the swim stop at Blue Lagoon?
You can swim, snorkel, relax in the sun, and take photos. The stop lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, providing plenty of time for water activities.
Are there any physical limitations I should know?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and boarding requirements, but it is wheelchair accessible.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and cash for optional extras.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available on board for purchase, but they are not included in the ticket price.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the family-friendly stops and swimming opportunities make it suitable for most age groups, provided the children can handle the boat ride and walking involved.
What makes this tour stand out compared to other Malta trips?
Its combination of affordability, diverse attractions, and the exclusive Gozitan bus tour during the stop in Gozo, combined with scenic sea caves and the Blue Lagoon swim, make it a comprehensive and value-packed option.
