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

Explore Malta’s smaller islands, Gozo and Comino, on a 7.5-hour combined boat and bus tour departing from Sliema for just $49 per person. This tour offers a well-rounded experience with a scenic cruise, guided bus trip, and ample time to enjoy the Blue Lagoon’s famous waters. While the tour is praised for its organized pace, helpful staff, and stunning vistas, it does not include lunch or site admissions, making it a flexible, budget-friendly option ideal for those eager to see Malta’s island highlights in a single day.

Starting in the morning from Sliema Ferries, the journey takes you across the Malta coastline to Gozo, where you’ll explore the capital city of Victoria and the Citadel fortress. Following that, the cruise continues to Comino to visit the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the shore. This tour is particularly suited for visitors who want a comprehensive taste of Malta’s islands without the hassle of organizing multiple trips independently.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Just $49 per person for a 7.5-hour trip, including both boat and bus segments.
• Multiple Stops: Highlights include Gozo’s Citadel, a photo stop at a scenic bay, and the Blue Lagoon with 90 minutes for swimming and relaxing.
• Scenic Cruise: Enjoy the boat ride, with water-level windows to observe fish and sea caves during the return journey.
• Organized Pacing: The timetable balances sightseeing, free time, and leisure, with timely departures and helpful staff ensuring smooth transitions.
• Limited Access for Non-Participants: A government-mandated Blue Lagoon access pass is needed to disembark ashore, so plan ahead if you wish to step onto Comino.

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From the Sliema Departure Point to the Northern Coast

The tour begins at Sliema Ferries, where you board a scenic cruise heading north along Malta’s rugged shoreline. The boat ride offers sweeping views of the coastline, with large windows on the lower deck providing excellent sightlines beneath the water, perfect for spotting fish and underwater features. The crew provides English commentary, sharing insights into Malta’s seascapes and landmarks, which keeps the experience engaging.

The cruise from Sliema to Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour is described as spacious and clean, with an open upper deck for sitting in the sun. During the ride, the sea caves along the coast are visible, and the helpful crew ensures everyone feels comfortable, even during rougher seas. This part of the journey sets the tone for an enjoyable, well-paced day exploring Malta’s islands.

Exploring Gozo’s Capital and the Citadel Fortress

Once docked at Mgarr Harbour, the bus takes visitors on a 15-minute photo stop at a scenic bay, offering a glimpse of Gozo’s rugged coastline and a chance to capture memorable photos. The main touring component is a 75-minute stop in Victoria, the island’s capital, where travelers can wander freely.

Within Victoria, the Citadel fortress is a key attraction, standing as an imposing medieval structure with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The guides explain the fort’s history and significance, enriching the experience. Visitors have the option to visit shopping centers or cafes, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this small Gozitan town.

The timing for exploring Victoria is considered just right in most reviews, giving enough free time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. However, some reviewers note that more time in Victoria might enhance the experience for those wanting to explore deeper.

Scenic Drive Through Gozo’s Countryside

Before reaching Victoria, the bus passes by churches and other local landmarks, driving through Gozo’s stunning countryside. The impressive landscape features hilly terrain, verdant fields, and picturesque villages. This drive itself is praised for giving a taste of rural Malta, emphasizing the peaceful and authentic side of the island.

Travelers appreciate that the bus stop offers a photo opportunity at a gorgeous bay, making it easy to capture the natural beauty of Gozo. The guided commentary provides context for the sights, making the drive both informative and visually appealing.

Cruising To Comino and the Blue Lagoon

After the sightseeing in Gozo, the cruise heads towards Comino, a tiny island famous for the Blue Lagoon. The approximate 90-minute stop allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or just strolling along the rocky shoreline. Many visitors praise the turquoise waters of the lagoon, describing it as absolutely beautiful.

In the off-season, when the weather is cooler, swimming might be less appealing, but the hike around Comino offers a different perspective, with trails leading to St. Mary’s Chapel and St. Mary’s Watch Tower. The island’s car-free environment makes it a peaceful spot for hikers and photographers.

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The Blue Lagoon Access Pass

Since May 2025, a government mandate requires visitors wishing to disembark ashore at the Blue Lagoon to obtain an access pass in advance via the official website. The daily pass is limited, so travelers must plan ahead if they want to step onto Comino. The tour does not include this pass, so it’s the customer’s responsibility to secure one, or they can choose to stay on the boat.

Viewing the Comino Caves and Return Journey

On the return trip, the boat passes by the stunning Comino sea caves, offering excellent views from the water. The crew plays music during the return, adding to the relaxed atmosphere, while the large windows continue to provide scenic views.

Many reviews highlight the well-organized nature of the return journey, with timely departures and helpful staff. The crew also takes care of those feeling seasick, making sure everyone remains comfortable. The water slide onboard adds a fun element for those seeking a bit of extra entertainment.

Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a scenic cruise with English commentary, a bus trip in Gozo, land transportation, a photo stop, and free time in Victoria. You also get to visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon, with water activities like swimming and snorkeling. The water slide is a popular feature, and toilet facilities are available onboard.

However, the tour does not include lunch, admissions to sites, or a tour guide. There’s also no hotel pick-up or drop-off, which keeps the price low but requires travelers to be punctual at the departure point.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Malta’s islands without extra costs. It suits families, couples, and groups looking for scenic views, water activities, and short guided visits. Those prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly, as the boat ride can be choppy at times.

The helpful staff, organized schedule, and beautiful scenery make this tour a reliable choice, especially for visitors wanting a light, active day with plenty of photo opportunities and swimming.

Final Thoughts on the Sliema to Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Tour

This tour offers excellent value at $49, providing a balanced itinerary of sightseeing, leisure, and scenic cruising. The helpful crew, well-organized schedule, and stunning stops make it a practical choice for those eager to see Malta’s islands in one day.

While more time in Victoria or at the Blue Lagoon might enhance the experience, the current pacing already allows for a good overview. The additional preparations for the Blue Lagoon access pass are important to consider, especially if you want to disembark ashore.

This combination tour is well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, historic sites, and beach time without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s a reliable, enjoyable, and cost-effective way to experience Malta’s smaller islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join, and the group size makes for a friendly experience.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a cash bar onboard serving snacks and beverages.

Can I swim in the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the 90-minute stop allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the water.

How do I get the Blue Lagoon access pass?
The pass must be obtained online via the official government website blcomino.com in advance of your trip.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen are recommended.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip operates in most weather conditions; however, rough seas may affect comfort and safety, and crew members are trained to assist during such times.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are there any site entries included?
No, the tour does not include entry fees to sites like the Citadel or churches.

What if I want to stay longer in Gozo or Comino?
Additional time is not provided, but some reviews suggest that extra time in Victoria or more in Gozo could improve the experience for some travelers.

This tour from Sliema provides a practical, scenic, and affordable way to explore Malta’s smaller islands, making it a solid choice for those looking to combine sightseeing, water activities, and cultural highlights in a single day.

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