Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay: Best of Gozo and Comino Day Trip

Explore Malta’s Iconic Islands with the Best of Gozo and Comino Day Trip

The Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay: Best of Gozo and Comino Day Trip offers a well-rounded taste of Malta’s neighboring islands in just 7 to 7.5 hours. For $50 per person, travelers enjoy a mix of scenic boat cruises, land excursions, and free leisure time on two of Malta’s most captivating spots: Gozo and Comino.

Departing from Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay, this tour combines a modern catamaran cruise with land transportation in Gozo, including a visit to Victoria and the Citadel. The highlight is the Blue Lagoon in Comino, where visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax amid breathtaking turquoise waters.

While the average rating of 3.9 out of 5 reflects mostly positive experiences, potential guests should consider that free time at the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, and no guided tour is included during the visits, giving travelers flexibility but also requiring some planning. Still, this trip suits those eager to see Malta’s islands with valuable scenery, affordable pricing, and laid-back exploration.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $50 per person, offering good value for a full-day tour.
• Duration: Approximately 7 to 7.5 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and leisure.
• Departure Points: From Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay; check your preferred start time.
• Highlights: Cruise along Malta’s coast, visit Victoria and the Citadel in Gozo, relax at the Blue Lagoon in Comino.
• Activities: Sightseeing, free time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring.
• Additional costs: Blue Lagoon access pass and optional boat trips are not included.

Departing from Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay

This tour begins with a morning departure from either Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay. Guests choose their preferred location and time when booking. The modern catamaran is equipped with WiFi and toilet facilities, making the cruise comfortable for all. The vessel’s fully air-conditioned interior offers a nice respite from the sun.

The departure points are easily accessible, and the scenic cruise along Malta’s northeast coast** sets the tone for the day. The boat’s English commentary helps guests understand the sights, although there are no audio guides during the bus tour portion.

Cruising the Coast of Malta Towards Gozo

The cruise takes travelers along the Malta coast, offering impressive views of the shoreline and coastline cliffs. The breathtaking scenery is a major part of what makes this trip memorable. As the boat makes its way to the main harbor of Gozo, Marr Harbour, the gentle sea breeze and panoramic views create a relaxing atmosphere.

This part of the tour is perfect for snapping photos and soaking up the Mediterranean vibes. The modern catamaran provides a stable ride, ideal for those prone to seasickness, though it’s recommended to have motion sickness prevention if needed.

Discovering Gozo’s Charm in Victoria

Upon arrival at Marr Harbour, guests board a bus to explore Victoria, the charming capital of Gozo. The bus ride passes by churches and landmarks, giving glimpses of the distinctive landscape and traditional fishing villages.

Guests enjoy around 1.5 hours of free time in Victoria, giving them a chance to wander, browse local shops, or visit the Citadel. The medieval fortress stands prominently within the city, featuring imposing walls and a distinctive skyline. It’s the major landmark of Gozo, visible from across the island, and offers great views of the surrounding countryside.

The free exploration time allows visitors to sit at a café, take photos, or visit small shops at their own pace. The Citadel’s historical architecture and its commanding position make it a highlight of the trip.

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Visiting the Citadel: Gozos Medieval Fortress

The Citadel inside Victoria is a major historical site with medieval walls and military architecture. It provides insight into Gozo’s past, with panoramic views from its ramparts. Visiting the Citadel is optional but highly recommended, as it enhances the experience of understanding the island’s history.

The 1.5-hour free time at Victoria and the visit to the fortress are flexible, allowing travelers to ascend the walls, explore the narrow streets, or visit local museums. The fortress’s distinctive silhouette is iconic and visible from all over Gozo.

Return to Marr Harbour and Journey to Comino

After exploring Gozo, the bus returns to Marr Harbour, where guests reboard the catamaran for the trip to Comino. The boat ride offers another chance to enjoy coastal views and marine scenery as the vessel heads toward the Blue Lagoon.

The journey between the islands is smooth, with the crew providing English commentary. The boat is fully air-conditioned with WiFi and toilet facilities, ensuring comfort during the transfer.

Relaxing at the Blue Lagoon in Comino

The main highlight in Comino is the Blue Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy base. Here, travelers disembark for approximately 2 hours to swim, snorkel, or simply sunbathe in this picture-perfect setting.

Access to the Blue Lagoon requires an government-issued pass to step ashore, which must be booked in advance through the official government website. This regulation, effective from May 2025, limits daily passes and is not controlled by the tour operators.

Because Comino has no cars or urban areas, it’s also a popular destination for hikers and photographers, especially during the winter months when tourism is lower. Visitors can explore walking trails to spots like St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The tour package covers the scenic cruise, land transportation in Gozo, free time at Victoria, and free time at Comino and the Blue Lagoon. The fully air-conditioned boat comes with WiFi, toilet facilities, and English commentary.

However, admission to sites in Gozo and food and drinks are not included. Guests should also budget for the Blue Lagoon access pass and any additional boat trips, such as a speedboat tour of caves, which is around €15.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and swimwear for the Blue Lagoon. Towels and cash are recommended for purchases or optional extras.

Motion sickness prevention is advised, especially for those sensitive to sea travel. The boat is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or large luggage. Visitors must arrive on time for the meeting points to avoid missing the boat or transportation.

The tour does not include a guide during the stops, so guests should plan accordingly. The timing ensures that travelers do not linger too long at any one spot, with the Blue Lagoon offering relaxing but crowded hours during peak season.

Final Thoughts on the Best of Gozo and Comino Tour

This 7 to 7.5-hour trip offers a great balance of coastal cruising, land exploration, and relaxation at two of Malta’s most dramatic locations. The cost is reasonable, especially considering the scenic cruise and free time included.

Highlights include the visit to Victoria and the Citadel, which provide insight into Gozitan culture, and the Blue Lagoon’s iconic waters. The professional crew and modern boat contribute to a comfortable experience, though the crowd at the Blue Lagoon can be overwhelming during peak times.

This tour appeals most to those seeking scenic views, leisurely exploration, and a taste of Malta’s island life. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or large luggage but remains a value-packed option for adventurers eager to explore Malta’s islands in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from hotels?
No, the tour starts at Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay, with no hotel transfers included.

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon access pass separately?
Yes, starting May 2025, visitors need to obtain an access pass via the official government website to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon.

How much time do I get at each stop?
Guests enjoy approximately 1.5 hours in Victoria and free time of around 2 hours at Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

Can I visit sites inside the Citadel?
Yes, visiting the Citadel during the free time in Victoria is possible and highly recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, cash, and motion sickness prevention if needed.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included; guests should bring their own or purchase on-site.

This Best of Gozo and Comino Day Trip offers a memorable way to experience Malta’s sister islands with a balance of scenic cruising and leisure exploration.

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