From Sliema/Bugibba: Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour VT

Key Points

• Seven-hour tour departing from Sliema or Bugibba includes boat trips and land visits
• Visit the Citadel in Victoria, Gozo, with air-conditioned chauffeur-driven transfer
• Enjoy free time at Blue Lagoon in Comino, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters
• Tour is unguided but offers onboard WiFi, restrooms, and indoor/outdoor seating
• Includes all ferry rides and transport to key locations, with options to sit comfortably
• Booking Blue Lagoon Access in advance is mandatory for the afternoon slot

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Malta’s Smaller Islands by Catamaran

This 7-hour catamaran tour offers a comprehensive way to experience Gozo and Comino without the hassle of planning multiple transports. Starting from Sliema or Bugibba, you’ll board a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly 33-meter catamaran, which takes you along Malta’s northeast coast. The journey itself is a highlight, with free onboard WiFi, restrooms, and the option to sit indoors or outdoors, making the cruise comfortable regardless of the weather.

The most appealing aspect of this tour is the combination of sea travel and land visits. While the cruise portions provide stunning views, the land-based stop at Victoria’s Citadel in Gozo allows for exploration of the fortress city at your own pace. The tour’s design is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and swimming. A key consideration is that the tour is unguided, so it’s best suited for visitors comfortable with self-directed exploration.

Departing from Sliema or Bugibba: Convenient Start Points

The tour begins at either Sliema or Bugibba, giving flexibility based on your accommodation or preference. The meeting points are at specific locations, including Captain Morgan in each area, making the start straightforward. Once aboard, the 40-minute cruise takes you across the Malta’s coast toward the islands.

From the start, the focus remains on efficient transportation. The ferry ride offers scenic views of the Malta coastline, and the air-conditioned, chauffeur-driven transfer in Gozo takes you from Mgarr Harbour to the Cittadella in Victoria. This seamless logistics setup ensures you maximize your time on each island, without long transit waits.

Visiting Gozo’s Fortress City, the Citadel in Victoria

The highlight on land in Gozo is the Cittadella in Victoria. You get about 1.5 hours to wander through the fortress, which is admired for its stunning views and historic architecture. The air-conditioned transfer from Mgarr Harbour to Victoria makes this visit comfortably accessible, especially after the early morning cruise.

While the tour is unguided, the freedom to explore the Citadel independently allows you to appreciate the small streets, panoramic vistas, and unique atmosphere of this fortress city. This stop provides a break from the boat, giving a glimpse into Gozo’s distinct charm away from Malta’s main island.

The Blue Lagoon in Comino: Crystal-Clear Waters and Free Time

After returning to Mgarr Harbour, the boat cruises for about 20 minutes to the Blue Lagoon in Comino. This spot is famous for its turquoise, crystal-clear waters that invite swimmers and sunbathers alike. The free time of approximately 105 minutes here is ample for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the island independently.

To access the Blue Lagoon, it is mandatory to reserve Blue Lagoon Access beforehand through the Malta Tourism Authority’s website, ensuring environmental protection and visitor capacity control. The QR code you receive must be presented on the ferry and when disembarking. This process helps maintain the lagoon’s delicate ecosystem and prevents overcrowding, a key aspect to consider.

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Cruising Back: From Blue Lagoon to Malta

Following your leisure time at Blue Lagoon, the catamaran returns to Malta with a 50-minute cruise back to either Sliema or Bugibba. The return trip offers more stunning views and the comfort of onboard amenities. The tour provides organized transport from Sliema or Bugibba to your hotel, simplifying the logistics after a busy day.

The entire experience, including the ferry rides, land transfers, and leisure time, spans around 7 hours, making it an ideal day trip for those wanting to see key highlights of Gozo and Comino without the hassle of separate bookings.

Practicalities: Transport and Comfort

This tour emphasizes comfort and convenience. The chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned transfers in Gozo ensure a relaxed journey from Mgarr Harbour to Victoria. The catamaran itself features indoor and outdoor seating, along with restrooms and free WiFi, allowing you to enjoy the voyage in relaxed surroundings.

The unguided nature means you can explore at your own pace, though it’s important to plan your Blue Lagoon Access reservation ahead of time. Plus, the onboard facilities are suitable for most travelers, but the tour requires minimal physical activity—comfortable shoes, beachwear, and a towel are recommended for the time spent at the lagoon.

Important Booking and Environmental Details

Booking the Blue Lagoon Access is mandatory and must be done before purchasing your ferry tickets. The process involves applying online and presenting a QR code for access. Without this, you cannot disembark at the Blue Lagoon, and ferry refunds are not issued if you lack the QR code.

The tour is conducted in English, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure. This makes it flexible to adjust plans if needed. The tour’s rating of 4.3 out of 5 reflects a generally positive reception, with many appreciating the stunning scenery and easy logistics.

Why This Tour Appeals and Its Limitations

This best of Gozo and Comino trip appeals most to travelers seeking a relaxed day with scenic boat rides, self-guided exploration, and ample leisure time. The free WiFi onboard helps stay connected, and restrooms add comfort during the cruise.

However, the unguided format might not suit travelers looking for guided commentary or historical insights. The limited time on land in Gozo and the need for pre-booked Blue Lagoon Access are factors to consider. Also, food and drinks are not included, though they are available for purchase on the boat and in the stops.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed, Scenic Day on Malta’s Islands

This 7-hour catamaran tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining sea travel, independent exploration, and relaxation at two of Malta’s most famed locations. The stunning Blue Lagoon, combined with the historic Citadel in Victoria, makes for a memorable day — especially for those who enjoy scenic boat rides and flexible schedules.

While some may wish for guided commentary or more structured land visits, the comfortable cruise, ease of logistics, and beautiful views compensate. The requirement to reserve Blue Lagoon Access in advance is a key step to enjoy the lagoon responsibly, ensuring a sustainable visit. This tour stands out for its efficiency and stunning natural scenery, making it a solid choice for a day trip from Malta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and outdoor activities make it suitable for families, but children should be comfortable with boat travel and self-guided exploration.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, but they are available for purchase onboard and at stops.

Can I swim at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the free time at Blue Lagoon is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in the crystal-clear waters.

How do I reserve Blue Lagoon Access?
You must apply online via the Malta Tourism Authority’s website, receive a QR code, and present it during ferry boarding and disembarking.

Is the tour guided?
No, the tour is unguided, giving guests the freedom to explore at their own pace during land stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, beachwear, and a towel are recommended for the day, especially for time spent at the lagoon.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby