From Sliema: Gozo & Blue Lagoon in 1-day (CMO_TWO ISLANDS)

This one-day trip is interesting because you get two islands worth of scenery in a single stretch, starting at Sliema and ending back at the same dock. I like the scenic north-coast cruise views and the built-in Blue Lagoon swimming time. One drawback to plan around: weather can disrupt Comino time, and in rougher seas you may feel it on the way back.

You’ll spend part of the day in Gozo on your own, then shift gears to Comino for water and shore time. It’s a 7-hour experience with Maltese and English support, and it can be a great fit if you’re comfortable with a semi-flexible day at sea.

Key Things To Know Before You Go

• Sliema start, same-day return: You meet at Sliema Ferries (opposite Marks and Spencer) and go back there.
• Cruise first, then land time: The day mixes scenic cruising with a free window in Gozo.
• Comino focuses on Blue Lagoon: Expect swimming in the crystal-clear waters and relaxing on sandy shores.
• Weather can change the plan: If Comino facilities close, you may lose time on land and stay on board longer.
• New Comino access ticket rules: Since May 2025, you need a Comino access ticket booked at blcomino.com for your time slot.
• Language is English and Maltese: If you rely on Spanish, plan for a possible communication gap.

A One-Day Two-Islands Break From Sliema

The big draw here is how neatly it compresses Malta’s island hopping into one day. You cruise along Malta’s north coast, then you’re off to Gozo, followed by Comino’s Blue Lagoon.

I especially like the rhythm: cruise, explore, swim. That mix matters because it prevents the day from feeling like one long waiting game, even though the sea always has the last word.

Getting Oriented at Sliema Ferries (Opposite Marks and Spencer)

Your day starts at Sliema Ferries, right across from Marks and Spencer. The tour ends back at the meeting point, which is great for your mental load, because you do not have to figure out a complicated return.

This matters because a lot of Malta day trips leave you stranded elsewhere. Here, at least the “how do I get home” part stays simple.

Malta’s North Coast Cruise, Then Mgarr, Gozo

The morning begins with a scenic coastal cruise along Malta’s north side. You’re taking in views while you travel, and the goal is a relaxed start rather than a rushed transfer.

Then you arrive in Mgarr, Gozo. From there, the experience shifts from “moving through scenery” to actually having time to explore Gozo at your own pace.

Free Time in Gozo: Using Your Own Pace in Mgarr

Once you reach Gozo, you get free time to explore the island’s unique charm. The key phrase is at your own pace, meaning you’re not boxed into a scripted, timed tour the whole time.

What I’d do with this window depends on your style. If you like wandering slowly, use it to soak up the island feel around Mgarr and follow what looks interesting nearby.

If you prefer structure, set a simple plan before you get off the boat. Pick a rough “go and see” area, keep one eye on the time, and leave yourself buffer room, because island hopping days often run on boat schedules rather than your watch.

Comino and the Blue Lagoon Swim, Plus Sandy Shore Time

Comino is the other half of the day’s payoff. You’ll head to the Blue Lagoon area for the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters and unwind on the sandy shores.

In a smooth scenario, this is the part that feels like a mini vacation inside your vacation. You get water time, you get a place to relax, and the whole day starts to feel worth it.

But here’s the reality check. If weather turns bad, Comino can become unpredictable. One experience included heavy rain, with the group staying on the boat for two hours in Comino while things were closed, and then feeling the sea on the way back due to choppy conditions.

So, plan for two versions of your day: the ideal swim-and-sun version, and the stay-on-board-longer version. Either way, bring what you need to be comfortable for a longer-than-expected stretch on the water.

What the Flexible Vessel Schedule Means for Your Day

The trip is described as following a flexible vessel schedule. In plain language, it’s designed to reduce stress by letting the day run according to boat timings rather than forcing you into rigid stop-by-stop transitions.

That flexibility is a plus, especially when sea conditions or local operations shift. Still, it also means you should treat the day as “semi-controlled,” not guaranteed to follow your exact dream timeline.

In rough weather, the flexible schedule doesn’t always save your land time. It may shift it, shorten it, or keep you on board longer, which is exactly what can happen if Comino access or facilities are affected.

The New Comino Access Ticket Rules You Must Follow (May 2025)

This is the part that can make or break your day. Malta introduced new regulations for visitors who want to set foot on Comino. You need to secure a Comino access ticket by booking through www.blcomino.com.

A few specific rules are worth highlighting because they are easy to miss:

• You can book up to 4 tickets per time slot.
• For the Two-Islands Return Trip package (the one matching this trip name), you must book the AFTERNOON slot only, 13:30 to 17:30.
• If you buy a vessel return ticket but are denied disembarkation on Comino because you did not comply, no refunds are issued.

This is not scare tactics. It’s a practical warning that the schedule can still go wrong even if the boat runs on time. If your Comino access ticket is booked for the wrong slot, your whole “swim and shore time” plan can collapse.

Price and Value: Is About $41 Worth It?

At $41 per person for a roughly 7-hour day, the value depends on how smoothly the Comino portion works. You’re paying for cruise-style transport, your Gozo window, and the Blue Lagoon swim time, plus a schedule designed to keep the day running without you micromanaging ferries.

Where it can feel worth every cent is when you get the land time in Gozo and a proper Blue Lagoon window. That’s when the day feels like a packed two-islands sampler.

Where it can feel frustrating is when weather forces longer boat time and cuts your actual time on Comino shores. If you’re sensitive to sea motion or you hate “waiting around,” factor in that risk.

Comfort Tips That Actually Matter on This Route

Since you’re on the water for a long stretch, your comfort can make or break the day. If seas get choppy, you might get seasick, and you’ll wish you prepared.

Bring a plan for motion, not just a plan for sun. Pack a rain layer even if the forecast looks promising, because heavy rain has already been a real factor on this route.

Also remember the rules: alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and explosive substances are not allowed. Keep your day simple and follow the rules on board.

And because the host greeter languages listed are Maltese and English, don’t count on Spanish being available. If you only speak Spanish, you might find it harder to understand any last-minute clarifications.

Who This Trip Fits Best (And Who Might Feel Frustrated)

This trip is a good match if you want a relaxed day with free time in Gozo and a focused water highlight at Comino. It works well for people who can handle a schedule-driven day and accept that weather is part of island life.

It may be a poor match if you strongly prefer guaranteed time on land at Comino. You should also think twice if you’re very prone to seasickness, because rougher conditions have affected comfort on at least one return crossing, with the crossing described as lasting about an hour and a half.

Finally, if you hate uncertainty around cancellations or missing updates, keep extra attention on your departure details. There have been cases where the activity was cancelled or no contact was received, so it’s smart to confirm before you head to the dock.

Should You Book This One?

I’d book this if you’re excited by the idea of Gozo + Comino in one day, and you’re willing to plan around weather. If you do book, your #1 job is to correctly follow the Comino access ticket time slot rule for your package.

I would hesitate if you need a predictable, long Blue Lagoon stop no matter what, or if seasickness is a major issue for you. This is a water route, and the sea can take away time even when everyone does everything right.

If you’re flexible, bring the right gear, and follow the Comino ticket rules, this can be a fun, value-heavy way to see Malta’s sister islands without turning your vacation into a logistics project.

FAQ

How long is the Gozo and Comino day trip from Sliema?

The duration is listed as 7 hours. Starting times can vary, so check availability for your preferred departure.

Where do I meet for the trip in Sliema?

You meet at Sliema Ferries, opposite Marks and Spencer.

Does the tour return to the same meeting point?

Yes. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The activity is described as wheelchair accessible.

What languages are used by the host or greeter?

The host or greeter language is listed as Maltese and English.

Do I need a Comino access ticket for this trip?

Yes. New Comino regulations require you to secure a Comino access ticket by booking through www.blcomino.com.

Which Comino time slot do I need for this Two-Islands Return Trip?

For packages including Two-Islands Return Trip, you must book the AFTERNOON slot only, 13:30 to 17:30.

Is alcohol allowed on the activity?

No. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Can I get a refund if I cancel ahead of time?

Yes. The trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.