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

Two islands, one busy but rewarding day. This 7.5-hour trip from Sliema combines a scenic boat ride, a short bus tour through Gozo, free time in Victoria, and a stop at Comino’s famous Blue Lagoon. I like the way it lets you see Malta’s smaller islands without arranging separate ferries, buses, and return connections.

I also like the friendly crew, clear time reminders, onboard toilet, bar, and waterslide. The main drawback is the limited time in Victoria, about 75 minutes, and the Blue Lagoon can be intensely crowded in warm weather. This is best understood as an efficient island sampler, not a slow, fully guided tour.

What makes this day trip worth considering

• A full northern Malta circuit: You see Gozo and Comino in one outing, with the return cruise passing the Comino sea caves.
• Victoria and the Citadel: Gozo’s capital gives you a taste of local life and access to its dramatic medieval fortress.
• A practical Gozo transfer: Buses meet the boat at Mgarr Harbour, saving you the trouble of planning island transport.
• A choice at Comino: Swim from the boat using the waterslide, or go ashore at the Blue Lagoon if you have the required pass.
• Useful boat facilities: There are indoor and outdoor seats, toilets, a cash bar, snacks, and drinks.
• Strong value at $51: The price covers the cruise, Gozo transport, commentary on the boat, and both islands in one day.

The morning cruise from Sliema

You begin at Sliema Ferries in the morning. The boat heads north along Malta’s shoreline toward Gozo, giving you a long look at the island from the water. Expect roughly an hour each way, depending on conditions, so the boat itself is a large part of the experience rather than just a transfer.

I like this opening because Malta’s coast is easier to appreciate from offshore. You see rugged rock, small inlets, and coastal sights that pass quickly when you are on a road. English commentary explains some of what you are seeing, and an audio guide is available in English. The commentary may not always be easy to hear from every seat, so I would treat it as a useful extra rather than a full history lesson.

Arrive early if you want an open-air seat. One account described arriving 20 minutes before departure and finding most of the upper deck already occupied. The boat has indoor seating too, but the upper deck is the better place for photographs and fresh air.

The vessel is fitted with toilets, which matters on a day with long stretches at sea. There is also a cash bar with drinks and snacks. Prices have been described as reasonable, but I would still carry water and bring something small to eat, especially if you prefer more choice than a boat bar provides.

If you are prone to seasickness, this is the part to plan for. Calm weather can make the cruise smooth, but a recent storm made the ride uncomfortable for some people. Take suitable medication if you already know you need it, and choose a central, lower seat when possible. The experience is not recommended for people prone to motion sickness.

Arriving at Mgarr Harbour on Gozo

Mgarr Harbour is Gozo’s main port, and the handoff from boat to bus is designed to keep the day moving. Buses or minibuses take you inland toward Victoria, Gozo’s capital. You are not left to work out the island’s public transport system on your own.

That convenience is one of the strongest reasons to choose this outing. Gozo is compact, but arranging a taxi, bus, or rental car for a short visit can eat into your day. Here, land transportation is included and the driver gives instructions about where and when to return.

The transfer does have a practical weakness. At busy times, several groups may be loading at once, and you need to pay attention to your assigned bus. Do not change vehicles casually, and listen carefully to the driver’s return instructions. Some minibuses can feel tight, especially when everyone boards with bags.

The ride gives you a quick look at Gozo’s countryside. You pass churches, local landmarks, and open views before reaching the capital. This is not a narrated bus tour, so you should not expect a guide to explain every building or village. It is transport with some sightseeing along the way.

The Gozo photo stop, bay or Qala Belvedere

On the way to Victoria, the bus makes a photo stop of about 15 minutes at one of Gozo’s attractive bays or at Qala Belvedere. The exact location can vary, so you should think of this as a short viewpoint stop rather than a particular attraction with a fixed itinerary.

Fifteen minutes is enough to stretch your legs, take photographs, and enjoy a quick coastal view. It is not enough for a proper walk or a relaxed coffee. Keep your camera ready and do not wander far from the bus.

Several people would prefer more time here, but the short stop makes sense given the day’s tight schedule. The tour is trying to include two islands, Victoria, the Citadel, and the Blue Lagoon before returning to Sliema. If you want to explore Gozo’s bays at length, a dedicated Gozo day would suit you better.

Victoria and the Citadel in 75 minutes

Victoria, also called Rabat, is Gozo’s capital and the main land stop. You have about 75 minutes of free time. You can walk around the city, stop for coffee or a snack, browse shops, or visit the Citadel.

I would make the Citadel your first priority. This medieval fortress rises above Victoria and gives you broad views over Gozo’s countryside. Its walls and elevated position are the most memorable part of the stop, and reaching it first protects you from losing your short visit to shopping or lunch.

The Citadel is not included as a private guided visit, and admissions to Gozo sites are not included in the price. You explore at your own pace, which is useful if you want photographs, but less helpful if you want detailed historical context.

The 75-minute stop is the clearest compromise in the itinerary. It is enough for a quick Citadel visit, a snack, and a little walking. It is not enough to see Victoria thoroughly, visit several interiors, eat a leisurely meal, and shop. I would bring a plan and avoid trying to do everything.

A useful tactic is to eat something simple in Victoria rather than waiting until Comino. Food options at the Blue Lagoon are limited in choice, with food trucks selling familiar burgers and fries. A pastizzi or snack in Gozo may be a more enjoyable use of your money and time.

The Citadel also involves walking and uneven surfaces. This outing is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. Comfortable shoes are essential, even if you plan to spend much of your time on the boat.

Sailing onward to Comino

After Gozo, you return to the boat and sail toward Comino. The mood changes here. Gozo gives you a brief taste of an inhabited island with towns, churches, and historic buildings. Comino is much smaller and has no cars or urban areas.

The main stop is the Blue Lagoon, where the water can look remarkably clear and turquoise. The boat stays for about 90 minutes, giving you time to swim, sunbathe, snorkel, walk, or simply enjoy the view.

The water is often the star of this part of the day, but the famous name brings crowds. In summer, the shore can feel packed, and the lagoon may be less peaceful than photographs suggest. If you want a quiet beach experience, this stop could disappoint.

I like the fact that you are not forced to go ashore. You can swim from the boat, and the waterslide provides a playful option for getting into the sea. Several families have found this especially fun, while others have stayed onboard to avoid the congestion on land.

One strong strategy is to treat the boat as your base. Swim from the vessel, use the slide, and enjoy the views from the deck. If the shore is crowded, you can still experience the clear water without squeezing onto a busy patch of beach.

The new Blue Lagoon access pass

Since May 2025, anyone who wants to disembark at the Blue Lagoon must obtain a government-issued access pass in advance through blcomino.com. Daily numbers are limited.

For this cruise, select the afternoon slot when applying. The pass is not included in the $51 price, and the operator states that no refund is provided if you cannot go ashore because you failed to secure one. This is the single most important planning detail for a post-May 2025 booking.

You do not need the pass simply to remain on the boat, but you do need it to step ashore. Check the official government site before your trip rather than assuming you can sort it out at the pier.

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen if you plan to use the water. A phone case or small waterproof pouch would also be sensible, although it is not specifically listed as required equipment.

Comino beyond the lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the headline, but Comino offers more than swimming. With no cars or developed urban center, the island has walking routes to St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery.

The 90-minute stop is enough for a swim or a short walk, but probably not for a relaxed visit to all three sites. If you choose to walk, watch your time closely and return to the agreed meeting point before departure. Missing the boat is not a small inconvenience on an island day trip.

Comino can also be worthwhile in cooler months. The water may be too cold for swimming, but the open setting and walking routes still give you something to do. Winter and early spring trips may feel more comfortable for walking, while summer is better suited to swimming and the waterslide.

The return route past the sea caves

On the way back to Sliema, the boat passes close to the Comino sea caves. This is a fine final touch because you get a different view of the island’s rock formations from the water.

The boat may slow or angle toward the caves for photographs, but the exact viewing experience depends on sea conditions and the captain’s route. Keep your camera ready and stay aware of announcements.

The crew has earned repeated praise for being friendly and clear, especially with departure reminders. Captain Jean-Paul has been singled out for his coastal commentary and helpful manner on one sailing. Staff have also assisted families and passengers who were uncomfortable at sea.

What the $51 price really buys you

At $51 per person, this is good value if you want transport and a broad first look rather than a detailed cultural tour. The price covers the scenic cruise, English boat commentary, the Gozo bus transfer, the photo stop, free time in Victoria, the Comino stop, the waterslide, and the return route past the caves.

You still pay for food, drinks, and any admissions in Gozo. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you need to reach Sliema Ferries independently. A private taxi day or several separate transport tickets could cost more, but they might give you more time at each place.

The main thing you are buying is convenience. You can see two islands in one day without coordinating boats and buses yourself. The tradeoff is that you accept a fixed schedule and limited free time.

Who should book this excursion?

I would recommend it to first-time visitors who want to sample Gozo and Comino in a single day. It also suits families who value clear meeting times, onboard facilities, and a simple transfer from port to port.

It works well for anyone who prefers independent exploring. You receive transport and basic information, then choose how to spend your time in Victoria and at the Blue Lagoon. I would not book it if you expect a full-time historian, a private guide, or long visits at several Gozo attractions.

People with mobility problems should think carefully because of the walking, Citadel access, boat boarding, and uneven ground. People who suffer from seasickness should also plan ahead or choose a land-based outing.

My practical plan for the day

I would arrive early for a better seat, keep valuables and bags small, and bring water, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel. Large bags and oversize luggage are not allowed.

At Mgarr Harbour, I would stay close to the assigned bus and note the exact return time. In Victoria, I would go straight to the Citadel, then use any remaining minutes for a snack or short walk.

At Comino, I would secure the official afternoon access pass before departure. Once there, I would decide based on the crowd: go ashore if I wanted the lagoon experience, or stay on the boat for a swim and waterslide if the shoreline looked too congested.

Should you book the Gozo and Comino boat tour?

Book it if you want maximum coverage in one day, easy transport, good coastal views, and a flexible visit rather than a guided history lesson. The organization, friendly crew, clean boat, and practical facilities make the $51 fare a sensible deal.

Skip it if you want several quiet hours in Gozo, a detailed tour of Victoria, or a peaceful Blue Lagoon beach. The best version of this experience comes from accepting its limits: it is a scenic, well-managed sampler of two islands, with enough time to get a taste but not enough to know either island fully.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with morning departure from Sliema and return after the Comino sea cave cruise.

Where does the boat depart?

The boat departs from Sliema Ferries in Sliema, Malta. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is a tour guide included?

This is not a traditional guided tour. The cruise includes English commentary and an English audio guide, but the stops in Gozo and Comino are free time. The bus transfer in Gozo does not include audio commentary.

How much time is spent in Victoria?

You have approximately 75 minutes in Victoria, Gozo’s capital. You can visit the Citadel, walk around, shop, or stop for food and coffee.

How long is the Blue Lagoon stop?

The boat stops at Comino and the Blue Lagoon for approximately 90 minutes. You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, walk, or use the waterslide from the boat.

Do I need a pass to visit the Blue Lagoon?

Since May 2025, you need a government-issued access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. Apply through blcomino.com and select the afternoon slot for this cruise. The pass is limited and is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Pets, oversize luggage, and large bags are not allowed.