Full Day Cruise to Gozo & Blue Lagoon with visit to Rabat

Discover the Beauty of Malta with a Full-Day Cruise to Gozo and Blue Lagoon

This full-day cruise offers an affordable way to explore some of Malta’s most iconic sights. Priced at $50 per person and lasting about 8 hours, it combines scenic boat rides, visits to Rabat in Gozo, and plenty of opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. The tour departs from Sliema Ferries, with a meeting point opposite McDonald’s, and includes commentary throughout to enhance the experience.

While the tour offers a fantastic view of Malta’s coastline and access to beautiful locations, it’s important to note that food and drinks are not included. Guests can rent snorkeling equipment and should come prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. The trip is suitable for most travelers, including those who are wheelchair accessible, but the limited free time in Gozo and some logistics details may influence your enjoyment.

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Key Points

• Full-day cruise lasting 8 hours with scenic boat rides along Malta’s northern coast
• Visit Rabat in Gozo with 75 minutes of free exploration and a view of Cittadella
• Swim in the Blue Lagoon’s tranquil turquoise waters — a major highlight
• Transportation to Gozo’s capital and other viewpoints included
• Cost is $50 per person, with options to rent snorkeling equipment
• Food and drinks are not included; guests should bring their own or rent on board

Starting Point and Trip Duration

The tour begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. at Sliema Ferries, across from McDonald’s. The boat departs at 10:30 a.m., ensuring an organized start. Expect to spend about 8 hours exploring Malta’s northern coast, with the itinerary designed to make the most of the daylight hours.

The return time can be around 5:00 p.m., depending on the day’s schedule, with some reviews noting slight variations in timing due to operational factors. The tour’s length makes it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip without feeling rushed.

Scenic Cruise Along Malta’s Northern Coast

The boat ride along Malta’s northern shoreline features views of St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha, offering beautiful vistas of the coastline. During the cruise, commentary is provided in English, giving context about the landscape and islands, which adds a layer of understanding to the sights.

Passengers can enjoy the onboard facilities and the chance to relax on the deck, soaking in the sun and taking photos of Malta’s dramatic coast. Some reviews mention the boat’s size, noting that the big vessel provides ample space and sunbeds for those wanting additional comfort (costing around EUR 10 for access).

Visiting Victoria and Rabat in Gozo

Once the boat docks at Gozo, a bus takes travelers to Victoria, the island’s capital city. The 75-minute free exploration time allows for wandering through the town, visiting shops, or taking in the views from Qala Belvedere.

The highlight is a visit to Rabat, where guests can explore the Cittadella, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of Gozo. The visits are structured to give a glimpse of the town’s character, although some reviews express a desire for more time in Gozo to explore further.

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Swimming and Relaxation at the Blue Lagoon

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Comino Island, where the Blue Lagoon awaits. This location is famous for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere, making it a central part of the experience.

Guests can swim or snorkel in the calm turquoise waters, or simply relax on the beach. The lagoon provides a refreshing break from the boat ride and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy Malta’s warm climate. Reviewers often praise the beauty of the Blue Lagoon, considering it a worthwhile highlight of the trip.

The Comino Ticket Requirement and Entrance Process

Starting May 1, 2025, travelers will need a free ticket to walk on Comino. This ticket can be obtained online at www.blcomino.com, with a QR code issued for scanning upon arrival. Visitors who do not have the QR code will not be allowed to walk on the island but can still swim next to the boat.

The ticket booking involves selecting a time slot between 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.. This system helps manage the number of visitors and ensures a smooth experience during busy periods.

Transportation, Accessibility, and Practical Tips

The tour includes transportation to Victoria in Gozo and Qala Belvedere, making it convenient for those who prefer not to walk long distances. The pickup and drop-off service is managed to keep logistics straightforward, although some reviews mention unclear instructions beforehand.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen for comfort and protection. Given the limited free drinks, bringing water or beverages is recommended.

Onboard Facilities and Extra Costs

The boat features onboard facilities for comfort during the cruise. Some passengers opt for additional amenities like sunbeds on the upper deck, available for EUR 10.

Snorkeling equipment can be rented if you want to explore beneath the water. The trip does not include food or drinks, so packing snacks or purchasing on the boat is advisable. Be aware that free drinks are limited to specific times (from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.), and some reviews mention changes in this offering.

Pacing, Duration, and Time in Each Location

The time allocated for each stop is relatively brief: around 75 minutes in Rabat, about 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, and a couple of hours in Gozo. Some reviews note that the time in Gozo is not enough to explore extensively, with a quick visit to the Cittadella and a snack break.

The pacing of the day aims to balance sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation but may feel rushed for those wanting to explore more deeply. The limited time at each stop is a clear consideration for travelers who prefer in-depth exploration.

Comparing Similar Tours and Options

This tour is one of several options available for island hopping and scenic trips in Malta. It stands out for including Rabat in Gozo and comino’s Blue Lagoon, with transportation and commentary included.

Other experiences offer different combinations, such as sea caves, lunch options, or longer stays in Gozo. Travelers interested in a budget-friendly yet comprehensive experience** will find this tour appealing, particularly if they value scenic views and swimming opportunities.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Cruise to Gozo & Blue Lagoon

This 8-hour cruise provides a cost-effective and scenic way to see Malta’s northern coast, Gozo’s capital, and the stunning Blue Lagoon. The value for money is generally good, especially considering the included commentary and transportation.

However, the limited free time in Gozo and some logistical details—such as the ticket system for Comino—may influence the experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to swim and enjoy scenic views without the need for extensive exploration.

For those comfortable with a structured schedule and willing to bring their own food and drinks, this tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy Malta’s most popular spots in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but guests can rent snorkeling equipment and buy snacks on board or bring their own.

What is the meeting point and departure time?
The tour departs from Sliema Ferries, opposite McDonald’s, with the boat leaving at 10:30 a.m. Prompt arrival by 10:00 a.m. is recommended.

How long is the free time in Rabat and the Blue Lagoon?
Guests get about 75 minutes to explore Rabat in Gozo, and approximately 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon for swimming or relaxing.

What are the ticket requirements for Comino?
Starting May 2025, a free online ticket with a QR code is needed to walk on Comino. The ticket must be booked for the 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. slot.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Snorkeling equipment can be rented for an additional fee, making it easy to explore the lagoon’s clear waters.

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