Gozo and Comino in one day without the stress. I like the modern air-conditioned catamaran and I like that you get independent free time on both islands. The main drawback is timing: the Blue Lagoon and Gozo stops are short, and the Blue Lagoon can feel packed.

This trip works best as a comfortable boat transfer with sightseeing windows, not a classic guided tour. You’ll cruise along Malta’s northern coast, hop off in Gozo at Mġarr Harbour, then head to Comino for that famous swim. One big consideration: since you’re on open water, if you’re prone to motion sickness, plan for it.

Key Points You’ll Care About

• Two clear free-time blocks: about 2 hours in Gozo and about 2 hours on Comino.
• Blue Lagoon access pass is mandatory starting May 2025, and you need to book an afternoon timeslot.
• Boarding can involve QR-to-wristband scanning, so don’t assume your tickets work automatically at the gate.
• Sea conditions can change fast, and the crew is used to handing out sick bags when needed.
• Land transport in Gozo is on you (bus/taxi/coaches at the harbour; fares aren’t included).
• Optional motorboat add-on to the caves and Crystal Lagoon costs extra and depends on weather.

Catamaran Cruise From Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay

You can start from Sliema Ferries or the Buġibba Jetty in St. Paul’s Bay, and you’ll pick your departure time when booking. This matters because it shapes how early you’ll need to show up and how smooth your morning feels. It’s also a real help if you’re staying outside Sliema.

Boarding is straightforward in theory, but in practice you want to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early. The process can include scanning QR codes to receive wristbands (red for the ferry side and blue for Blue Lagoon access). If you show up late, you’ll feel the scramble fast—so give yourself slack.

Once you’re onboard, the boat is built for comfort. Expect air conditioning, toilet facilities, and free Wi‑Fi. That’s not just nice-to-have; it helps if the water is choppy and you want a calmer space to wait it out.

Sailing Malta’s Northern Coast to Gozo’s Mġarr Harbour

The cruise is mostly a scenic run along Malta’s northern side, with time to sit back and watch the coastline pass. On the way, you may spend around an hour and a half traveling toward Gozo, and the sea can get choppy. That’s the part of the day you can’t fake—so treat it seriously if you get nausea.

I like that the crew is set up for real conditions. When the sea got rough on some days, staff started handing out sick bags, and the crew stayed helpful. If you’re sensitive, bring your own motion-sickness tablets too, and consider seating where you feel less rocking.

A practical tip from the onboard feel: if you want less sway, you’ll often prefer sitting toward the outside areas/back of the boat when conditions allow. You’re not locked into one spot, so take a quick look around once you’re settled.

When you reach Gozo, you’ll disembark at Mġarr Harbour, which is the main harbour on the island. This is the gateway for most independent plans once you’re there.

Two Hours in Gozo: Mġarr Harbour and Victoria on Your Time

In Gozo, you get about two hours of free time. That’s enough to get your bearings and see something—but it’s not enough to do a long, deep circuit. So your best strategy is choosing one clear direction: either stay near the harbour area or jump into the island’s main hub.

You’ll find transport options right at Mġarr Harbour. You can board a public bus to Victoria, Gozo’s capital, or grab a taxi to go farther out. There are also buses/coaches run by independent transport operators offering roundtrip transfers between Mġarr Harbour and Victoria, but land transport costs aren’t included in the ticket.

If you want the most efficient use of your time, I’d plan for the Victoria option. Some people describe Gozo transport as a bit chaotic on arrival, but once you’re moving, it’s simple: you go from harbour to the main area and spend your limited hours there. One review tip calls out a €5 cash bus to the centre—handy if you’re budgeting on the spot.

Because this is not a guided tour, you’re free to roam, but you also don’t get an expert steering you away from wasted time. If you enjoy jumping between viewpoints, markets, and streets at your own pace, that freedom is great. If you prefer structure and explanations, you’ll likely wish there was a guide.

The Comino Ride and the Blue Lagoon Stop (Pass Required)

After Gozo, you head back to the ferry from Mġarr Harbour and continue to Comino. Your time on Comino is about two hours, and the focus is the Blue Lagoon swim stop.

Here’s the new rule you must not ignore. Starting May 2025, the Government of Malta requires an access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. You need to get it in advance via blcomino.com. Pass allocation is limited, and you’re supposed to book the afternoon timeslot for this trip. If you don’t have the pass, you won’t be allowed to disembark at Blue Lagoon.

This is not a “nice to have.” It’s the difference between swimming and sitting on the boat. So once you book your cruise, treat the Blue Lagoon pass as the next urgent task on your to-do list.

On arrival, you get the classic Blue Lagoon moment: bright, clear water and that famous postcard look. But timing has tradeoffs. The Blue Lagoon can be overcrowded, especially in peak season. If you’re hoping for quiet snorkeling or a calm beach vibe, Comino in summer can feel like a party scene.

Also, don’t assume the beach is soft and sandy underfoot. Some visitors warn the Blue Lagoon shoreline can be rocky and slippery, with sharp rocks. Bring swimwear and use sea shoes if you have them. Add sunscreen and a towel because the boat won’t linger—you’ll be moving again when your stop ends.

Optional Motorboat to Comino Caves and Crystal Lagoon

If you want to go beyond the beach-and-butterfly-photo version of Comino, there’s an optional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and Crystal Lagoon. It’s not included, and the fee is paid on location (about €15 per person).

This add-on is also weather and sea dependent. That means you can’t fully plan your day around it in advance. If you’re the type who likes to keep options open until you arrive, that’s a strength of this cruise format.

If you do take it, treat it as a bonus. Your base plan should still be: enjoy your Blue Lagoon swim stop with the time you’re given, and then decide on the caves if conditions look good.

Price and Logistics: Is $41 Good Value?

At around $41 per person for about 7 hours, this trip is strong value if you’re mainly buying transportation plus short island experiences. What you’re getting for the money is real: a catamaran cruise, stops with free time in Gozo and Comino, air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, toilets, and staff onboard.

But the price is also “value-smart,” meaning key items cost extra:

• Blue Lagoon access pass (mandatory since May 2025; you arrange it)
• Land transport in Gozo (bus/taxi/coaches not included)
• Food and drinks
• The optional motorboat (about €15 if you choose it)

So I’d frame the $41 as transportation and time management. If you like the idea of seeing Gozo and Comino without committing to a full private day, it makes sense. If you want a long, unhurried island experience, you might feel rushed.

Tips to Make the Most of Your 7 Hours

This is one of those trips where the little choices affect everything. Start with timing and comfort.

• Seat early and choose your spot wisely. Some people say arriving early helps you get a better seat. If the sea is rough, your comfort window matters.
• Take seasickness seriously. Choppy water can happen. If you’re sensitive, bring your own tablets and consider sitting where the motion feels less.
• Have cash ready for Gozo transport. One tip calls out a €5 bus fare for the Victoria centre. If you prefer certainty, carry small bills.
• Plan for crowds at Blue Lagoon. In busy months, it’s not a quiet beach. If you’re sensitive to crowds, go with a flexible mindset.
• Move fast during swim time. There aren’t many places to change, so switching quickly and efficiently helps.

One more practical note: this is a ferry-style day. The boat won’t remain at the destination, so you can’t treat it like a hop-on/hop-off beach cruiser.

Who This Trip Fits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This cruise tends to work best for couples and groups who want a simple island day. The free-time structure suits people who enjoy wandering without waiting for a schedule.

It’s also ideal if you want both islands in one shot. Gozo gives you the chance to see Victoria as the island’s main city, while Comino gives you the Blue Lagoon swim moment.

It’s not ideal if:

• You need mobility support. The trip notes it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
• You get sick easily on boats. It’s also noted as not suitable for people prone to seasickness.

If you’re traveling solo and prefer more social or guided support, this day can feel like you’re mostly moving between stops. Still, plenty of people do it fine—just know what you’re signing up for: independent time windows.

Should You Book This Sliema–Gozo–Comino Cruise?

Book it if you want an efficient day that combines transport and two island highlights. The strongest reasons are the comfortable catamaran ride, the two-chunk free-time setup, and the straightforward path to Gozo plus Comino.

I’d say you should think twice if you hate crowds or you’re picky about beach logistics. Blue Lagoon can be crowded, and the stop is timed. Also, the Blue Lagoon access pass rule is strict—so if getting that pass feels like hassle, you could end up with a very disappointing day.

If you do book, do two things early: schedule your Blue Lagoon pass for the correct afternoon slot, and decide whether you’ll prioritize Victoria in Gozo or stay nearer the harbour. That simple plan turns a rushed day into a satisfying one.

FAQ

FAQ

Where do I depart for the cruise?

You can depart either from Sliema Ferries in Sliema or from the Buġibba Jetty in St. Paul’s Bay. Your meeting point and time vary based on the option you book.

How long do I have in Gozo?

You’ll have about two hours of free time in Gozo at Mġarr Harbour.

How long do I have in Comino?

You’ll have about two hours of free time on Comino.

Is this a guided tour with a guide?

No. This is not a guided tour. You get free time in Gozo and Comino on your own.

Do I need an access pass for Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Since May 2025, you must obtain a government-issued access pass in advance through blcomino.com. You also need to book the afternoon timeslot.

Is the motorboat trip to the caves included?

No. The motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and Crystal Lagoon is optional, and you pay for it on location (about €15 per person), subject to favourable weather and sea conditions.

What’s included on the boat?

Included items are a sightseeing catamaran cruise, free time stops in Gozo and Comino, free Wi‑Fi, air-conditioned boat, toilet facilities, and staff on board.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and cash.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Is this trip suitable if I’m prone to seasickness or have mobility issues?

The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and for people prone to seasickness, based on the trip’s guidance.