Malta: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise – swim & sightsee

Key Points

• 7-hour full-day tour exploring Malta’s stunning islands of Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon
• Includes swimming, snorkeling, and a 10-meter waterslide in the famous Blue Lagoon
• Highlights feature sea caves, scenic cruising, and photo stops at iconic viewpoints
• Free time in Gozo of about 3 hours, with optional shuttle to Victoria’s Citadel
• Family-friendly atmosphere with onboard amenities like deck chairs, shaded seating, and a lively playlist
• Cost-effective experience with onboard food and drinks at reasonable prices and optional extras like speedboat rides

You can check availability for your dates here:

Comino & Gozo: A 7-Hour Marine Adventure Begins

This Malta cruise departs from Hornblower Cruises in Malta and lasts approximately 7 hours. It’s run by a family-oriented company emphasizing comfort, fun, and informative commentary. The guides and crew are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey engaging and relaxed.

The tour is perfect for those seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation. It features multiple stops at scenic locations, with plenty of time for swimming and exploring. Keep in mind, arriving early is recommended to secure a top-deck seat, as seating is limited and fills up fast.

Departure Point and Arrival Tips at Hornblower Cruises Malta

The meeting point is at Hornblower Cruises Malta, where you’ll find a large white and blue boat marked with “Hornblower” in red. The tour departs promptly at 10:00 AM, with boarding opening at 8:30 AM and closing at 9:45 AM. Arriving at least 45 minutes to an hour early helps secure preferred seating, especially on the upper deck.

Parking near the departure site is limited, and Malta’s traffic can be heavy, particularly in peak season. It’s best to plan extra time for the commute. The coordinates for the meeting point are 35.951942443847656, 14.408121109008789.

Exploring the Northern Coastline and Sea Caves

The cruise begins by sailing along Malta’s spectacular northern coastline, where dramatic cliffs, coves, and rock formations set a vivid scene. The captain shares live commentary with stories and legends about the islands, including the shipwreck of Apostle Paul in 60 A.D..

The boat approaches the Santa Maria Caves and the Ahrax and Santa Maria caves, bringing guests close enough for fantastic photo opportunities only accessible from the sea. Passing St. Paul’s Islands and the statue marking the shipwreck, travelers get an immersive view of Malta’s maritime history.

Scenic Cruising Past Famous Landmarks

During the cruise, you’ll pass Elephants Head rock formation, Santa Maria Bay, and St. Nicholas Bay, with scenic views enhancing the experience. The journey offers numerous photo stops and a chance to appreciate Malta’s natural beauty from the water.

The boat then continues towards Comino, passing the north channel with sights like Santa Maria Bay and St. Paul’s Islands before arriving at the Blue Lagoon.

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The Highlight: Blue Lagoon Swimming & Waterslide Fun

The Blue Lagoon remains the tour’s star attraction, with the boat mooring in a secluded, less crowded area with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Guests have 1.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on deck.

A 10-meter waterslide offers added fun, with buoyancy aids available for those who want to float safely. Many guests enjoy jumping off the boat into the water, while others lounge on deck chairs or find shade for cooling off. The onboard snackbar sells drinks, ice cream, and cocktails, including refreshing pineapple cocktails that are highly praised.

Visitors can choose to stay on the boat or step ashore to explore the sandy beach or walk along the island paths. The facilities include toilets and lockers, making it a comfortable stop for all.

Free Time and Cultural Exploration in Gozo

After leaving Comino, the cruise heads to Gozo, offering approximately 3 hours of free time. Guests may explore independently or join an optional shuttle (costs 5 euros) to Victoria, the island’s capital. This provides access to the Citadel, local shops, and views from scenic viewpoints like Qala Belvedere.

The time in Gozo allows for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing by the harbor. Many appreciate the slow pace, which contrasts with the busy day at sea.

Visiting the Crystal Lagoon and St. Mary’s Tower

The cruise then passes by the Crystal Lagoon, with photo stops at viewpoints like St. Mary’s Tower, a historical site offering impressive scenery. These stops provide ideal photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Gozitan and Maltese coastal views.

The boat continues its scenic cruise back towards Malta, passing Mgarr Harbour, hidden caves, and the South Channel of Comino, enriching the experience with additional viewpoints.

The Return Journey and Final Highlights

On the return trip, the crew shares more live commentary, emphasizing landmarks like St. Mary’s Tower. The cruise passess crystal lagoons and sea caves once more before arriving back at Hornblower Cruises Malta.

Throughout the journey, the lively playlist and friendly hospitality create a relaxed atmosphere, making the full day at sea enjoyable for families, couples, and groups.

Practical Details and Onboard Amenities

The boat is designed for comfort and fun, featuring deck chairs, shaded areas, and sun decks. The upper deck fills up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. The ship has toilets, lockers, and a snack bar serving food, drinks, and ice cream at reasonable prices.

Guests are advised to bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for onshore purchases. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard to ensure safety and compliance.

Optional Extras and Tips for a Better Experience

For those seeking extra adventure, a speedboat ride into the Comino caves is available on-site for an additional fee. This extra activity is highly recommended by many for its spectacular views.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a top-deck seat, especially if they want to enjoy the sunrise in the morning sun. The pacing of the day allows ample time for exploration, swimming, and relaxation, though the 3-hour stop in Gozo might feel brief for some.

Reliable, Well-Organized Tour with High Praise

Multiple reviews highlight the well-organized nature of this tour, with punctual departures and friendly staff. Guides, especially Captain Kevin, are noted for being informative and engaging. The onboard food and drinks are praised for their quality and price, adding to the value.

Many visitors appreciate the balancing act of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with plenty of time at the Blue Lagoon to enjoy the pristine waters. The fun extras, like the slide and cocktails, make the day feel lively and memorable.

Final Thoughts: A Reliable Malta Sea Adventure

This 7-hour cruise offers a solid mix of scenic cruising, island exploration, and water fun. It is especially suitable for families, couples, and groups seeking a day at sea filled with sights, swimming, and onboard comforts.

While the timing in Gozo might feel a little rushed for some, the overall experience delivers excellent value and memorable moments. The friendly crew, stunning views, and well-structured itinerary make it a recommended choice for visitors wanting to see Malta’s best islands in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a 7-hour cruise, stops at Blue Lagoon and Gozo, onboard amenities, and live commentary.

How long do I have in the Blue Lagoon?
Guests enjoy 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Can I explore Gozo independently?
Yes, you can explore on your own during the 3-hour free time. An optional shuttle (costs 5 euros) to Victoria is available.

Is there an extra cost for activities?
Yes, speedboat rides into the caves are available for additional payment on-site.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for onshore purchases.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving at least 45 minutes to an hour early is recommended to secure a top-deck seat.

Is food and drinks included?
Food and drinks are not included in the tour price but are available onboard at reasonable prices.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the waterslides and swimming activities are family-friendly, and the onboard amenities support comfort during the trip.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, with options to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

What are the main highlights of this cruise?
Key highlights include Blue Lagoon swimming, sea caves, scenic cruising, Gozo exploration, and photo stops at viewpoints like Qala Belvedere and St. Mary’s Tower.

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