Kayak Gozo and Comino Guided Kayak Adventure

A guided kayak tour that captures the essence of Malta’s beautiful coastlines, Kayak Gozo and Comino offers an engaging adventure for all levels at an accessible price of $61.40 per person. This 3-hour experience departs from Hondoq Bay in Gozo, a Blue Flag beach known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. The tour is designed to take small groups—limited to 10 participants—ensuring a personal and attentive experience, with friendly guides leading you through caves, bays, and rock formations that are only accessible from the water.

What makes this adventure particularly appealing is its inclusiveness: basic kayaking instruction is provided, making it suitable for beginners and those with limited experience. The tours are highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 score based on 297 reviews, and 100% of reviewers recommend the activity. The tour features free photos taken during the trip, adding a memorable keepsake without extra cost, and its flexible itinerary allows for weather-dependent adjustments, ensuring safety and the best possible experience.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure: At $61.40 per person, the tour offers excellent value for a 3-hour guided water excursion.
• Suitable for all levels: Includes basic instruction and double kayaks when needed, making it accessible for beginners and families.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Exploration highlights: Pass by caves, bays, rock formations, and the iconic Blue Lagoon, with opportunities to swim at select stops.
• Expert guides: Known for knowledgeable, friendly guides like Andrew, who are praised for safety, storytelling, and photography.
• Flexible itinerary: Routes are adjusted based on weather and water conditions, with stops at Hondoq Bay, Santa Marija Bay, San Niklaw Bay, and Qala Rock.

Starting Point at Hondoq Bay in Gozo

The adventure begins at Hondoq Bay, a Blue Flag beach where participants meet their guide. Here, you’ll receive kayak equipment—including a life vest, paddle, dry bag and sunglasses straps—and a safety briefing. Hondoq Bay is a peaceful spot to get comfortable in your kayak before the crossing.

This initial setup takes about 30 minutes, providing ample time for introductions and equipment checks. Its scenic setting makes it an ideal launchpad, with the calm waters perfect for warming up before the open sea crossing. The bay’s tranquil environment is well-suited for those new to kayaking or those who appreciate a relaxed start.

Crossing the Gozo Channel to Comino

The core of the tour involves a roughly 20-minute paddle across the Gozo Channel, covering about 800 meters at its narrowest point. The crossing is a highlight, offering stunning views as you leave the coastline behind and approach the uninhabited island of Comino.

The water can be calm, but weather conditions vary, so guides monitor safety closely. This crossing marks the transition from land-based scenery to the adventurous exploration of caves and bays, making it a memorable part of the experience. The group is guided in a manner that prioritizes safety, even if the sea gets a bit choppier.

Exploring the Blue Lagoon and Comino’s Caves

One of the main stops is the Blue Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant scenery. The tour spends about 30 minutes here, with only a brief visit due to its popularity and potential crowding. Instead, the guides focus on quieter, scenic bays nearby, avoiding the busiest times for visitor spots.

The route offers a chance to paddle through caves and observe rock features along the coast. The guides take care to find peaceful spots where groups can enjoy the scenery without the crowds. This part of the trip is praised for the stunning views and the chance to see hidden caves, which can only be appreciated from the water.

Stops at Santa Marija Bay and Nearby Caves

Depending on weather conditions, the tour often includes a 30-minute stop at Santa Marija Bay, Urinch Bay, or Dalet il-mara. These locations provide opportunities to swim, explore, or simply relax on the shore. The stops are well-timed to give participants a break from paddling while enjoying the natural beauty.

At Santa Marija Bay, visitors can see an Instagram-worthy archway and an ancient tunnel, along with millennia-old rock formations. These geological features are visually striking and add a sense of history to the natural landscape.

Discovering San Niklaw Bay and Marine Life

Another highlight is the hidden gorge around San Niklaw Bay, affectionately called Urchin’s Bay by guides. This secluded spot is accessible only by water, making it a special place for swimming and marine life observation. The bay’s waters are teeming with marine creatures, offering an enriching experience for those interested in underwater life.

The tour typically allocates 30 minutes here for swimming or exploring the marine environment, making it one of the most popular stops among regular participants.

Visiting Qala Rock, the Pirate History, and Roman Salt Pans

Near the start or end of the tour, the guide leads the group to Qala Rock (Il-ebla tal-alfa), a notable geological formation. Here, stories of Dragut, the famous pirate lord, are shared, enriching the experience with local legends.

The area also offers views of St Anthony’s Battery and a 700-year-old hermit hut, along with Roman-era salt pans still visible today. These historical and geological highlights provide context and deepen appreciation for Malta’s layered past.

Physical Requirements and Safety Precautions

Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level. The activity is suitable for anyone able to swim at a basic level and who wears a life vest at all times. The tour includes double kayaks for groups with medical or other needs, but solo paddlers can be accommodated with prior approval.

Children aged 10 and above can join, with those under 15 required to paddle in a double kayak with an adult. The guides are praised for their safety instructions and attentive supervision, making it a safe option even for novices.

Weather Dependence and Route Adjustments

As with all outdoor water activities, weather conditions influence the tour’s specifics. The guides may change the route or skip certain stops if winds or safety concerns arise. Participants are advised to stay alert for messages from the tour provider before the activity, especially if weather looks uncertain.

The tour has a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance due to weather or other issues, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind.

Logistics, Group Size, and Booking Details

The tour departs from Hondoq Bay in Gozo and concludes at the same point. It is designed for groups of up to 10 people, fostering a personalized experience. The meeting point is easy to find, and mobile tickets streamline check-in.

Booking usually occurs about 21 days in advance, reflecting consistent demand. The activity is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, and pregnant women up to 27 weeks can participate, provided they notify the provider beforehand.

Why This Kayak Adventure Stands Out

This tour’s frequent 5-star reviews highlight the quality of guides like Andrew and Laura, praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel safe. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the scenic route offers a mix of caves, bays, and historic sites.

The value shown by inclusion of photos and the flexibility of stops make this trip stand out among water-based activities in Malta. It caters well to beginners and families, with accessible equipment and clear instructions.

Final Thoughts on the Kayak Gozo and Comino Adventure

This 3-hour guided kayak trip combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural stories in a way that appeals to a broad audience. Its affordable price, small group size, and expert guides make it a reliable choice for anyone wanting to explore Malta’s coast from the water.

While weather can influence the experience, the guides’ professionalism ensures safety and the best possible route. If you enjoy water activities and want to see hidden caves, beaches, and historic sites, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 10 and above can join, but children under 15 must paddle in a double kayak with an adult.

What should I wear or bring?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and bring a swimsuit. The tour provides a dry bag for personal items and sunglasses straps to prevent losing your glasses.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance due to weather concerns or other issues.

How physically demanding is the activity?
The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness, as it involves paddling and some walking at stops. Guides provide basic instruction to help beginners feel comfortable.

What makes this tour different from other boat trips?
Unlike larger boat tours, this experience is small-group oriented, with the chance to paddle into caves and visit secluded bays that boats can’t reach, plus personalized guidance and photo services.

Is this activity accessible for those with medical issues?
Participants should report any medical issues beforehand. The provider may require the use of double kayaks or advise against participation based on safety considerations.