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

Gozo and Comino are the kind of Malta side quest I love, because you get two smaller islands without the hassle of figuring out ferries all day. This boat-and-bus combo makes the day feel efficient, and I especially like the mix of Gozo Victoria time for real sights plus Comino Blue Lagoon time for swimming and photos. One thing to consider: the Blue Lagoon is tightly managed now, and you need to plan for the required government access pass in advance.

I also appreciate how much of the day is built around clear logistics and comfort. The boat includes English commentary during the cruise, a bathroom, and even a water slide at Comino, so the trip is more than just “get transported.” The possible drawback is that you’re not getting a guided, stop-by-stop tour of every viewpoint, so you’ll have to be a little proactive with what you want to see during free time.

Key Highlights You Should Care About

• One-day Gozo plus Comino without changing your plans mid-trip
• Victoria free time plus a chance to visit the Citadel with major views
• Photo stops in Gozo for quick scenic breaks on the way to Victoria
• Blue Lagoon stop with swim time and a water slide option
• Comino Caves pass-by return cruise for extra coastline scenery

A One-Day Route to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon

This is a smart “sampler” day if you want more than one island but you still want it to feel simple. You start in Sliema, go by boat to Gozo, use a bus to explore the capital, then switch back to the water to reach Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

The big win is variety. You get a town feel in Victoria, fortress views from the Citadel, and then that classic Blue Lagoon water scene that looks like it belongs on a postcard.

Just know the day moves at a steady clip. Your time on Gozo and Comino is good, but it is not meant for deep, slow wandering of every corner.

From Sliema Ferries to Gozo, and How the Day Actually Moves

The day starts with a morning cruise from Sliema Ferries. You’ll travel north along Malta’s shoreline and then cross over to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where you switch from boat to bus.

This is a transport-focused tour, not a full-on guided tour. The schedule is built around timing you can count on, and most of the “guiding” you’ll get is via English commentary during the cruise plus clear crew instructions about when to be back for the next leg.

I’d treat the first hour as the time to get your bearings. Pick a spot early on the boat, and follow the staff guidance about where you need to gather when you arrive.

A comfort note that matters

Open-air seating can fill quickly, and the boat ride can feel packed on busy days. If you want a calmer ride, plan to arrive early to your departure point so you can grab a seat that matches how you like to travel.

Gozo by Bus: Bays, Qala Belvedere, and the Quick Scenic Break

Once you’re on Gozo, the bus ride is part of the experience. You’ll pass churches and landmarks as the countryside rolls by, then you’ll get a short photo stop, about 15 minutes, at a gorgeous bay or at Qala Belvedere.

This stop is short on purpose. It’s the kind of break that helps you reset your eyes before you hit Victoria, which can feel like a different world once you step into the capital area.

Bring your camera-ready mindset for this segment. The photo stop windows are brief, and it’s better to plan what you want than to wander and lose minutes.

Victoria, Gozo’s Citadel, and How to Use 75 Minutes Well

Victoria is the heart of Gozo, and this part of the day is your best chance to feel the island’s character. You get around 75 minutes of free time to roam, grab a coffee or snack, shop a bit, or just walk and find your favorite street.

The Citadel is the main reason to come here. It’s an imposing medieval fortress with a view over the island, and it’s been considered as a possible UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even if you don’t do every nook, the viewpoint angle alone makes it worth the time.

How to make the Citadel time work

With a limited window, I’d aim for a simple goal: arrive, orient yourself, and choose one main viewpoint route. If you like history, you’ll naturally want more time, but with 75 minutes you’ll get a strong taste without exhausting the day.

Also, don’t overpack your plan with extra stops. The schedule is designed so you can see the Citadel and still have enough time to return to your meeting point.

Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon: the Pass Rule You Must Follow

This is the headline moment. After Gozo, the boat sails to Comino, and you get about 90 minutes at the Blue Lagoon.

You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or simply enjoy a walk around Comino depending on conditions. You’ll also have access to a water slide, which is one of those practical bonuses that makes the day fun even if the water is cooler than you expected.

The government access pass (starting May 2025)

Here’s the one detail I’d highlight the strongest. Malta requires a government-issued Blue Lagoon access pass in advance. The pass allocation is limited, and if you can’t access the lagoon without it, there are no refunds.

For this cruise, you’re instructed to apply for the afternoon slot when you request the pass. That means you should plan ahead before your departure day, not after you arrive. The easiest way to ruin a great day is to treat the pass like an optional extra.

What to do if the lagoon feels too crowded

The Blue Lagoon can get busy, which is normal for such a famous spot. If you arrive and it feels chaotic, you still have options:

• Use the water slide area and focus on a shorter swim window
• Stick to sun time and photos rather than trying to fight for prime shoreline space

This is a rare case where being flexible helps you keep the day enjoyable.

Comino Caves on the Return, Plus the Boat Details That Boost Value

On the way back, you’ll cruise past the Comino sea caves. Even when you’re tired, this pass-by adds a nice “one more thing” effect, because the caves give the coastline some drama and texture.

Back on the boat, you’ll find the practical stuff that keeps a day trip from feeling stressful. There’s toilet access, and there’s a cash bar on board with snacks and drinks.

I also like that this tour is structured around rest opportunities. You’re not constantly climbing or changing locations by yourself, which is great if you’re trying to fit this day trip into a Malta visit without going full travel mode fatigue.

Price and Value: Is $51 Worth It?

For about $51 per person and a 7.5-hour day, the value comes from what’s bundled. You’re paying for:

• A scenic boat transfer from Sliema to Gozo
• A bus ride around Gozo’s main sights
• A separate boat sailing to Comino
• Time at Victoria and Blue Lagoon
• A boat experience with English commentary and on-board facilities
• The water slide at Comino

What’s not included is equally important. Food and drinks are not included (you’ll rely on whatever you buy on shore or the cash bar on board). Also, site admissions in Gozo aren’t listed as included, so plan for potential entry fees if you choose to go beyond viewpoints.

Finally, remember that the Blue Lagoon access pass is required by the government and is your responsibility. That can add cost on top, depending on your situation, and it is the one extra planning step that can make or break the day.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This works best if you want a fast, well-paced taste of two islands and you mainly care about getting to the big highlights without dealing with ferry schedules.

It is a weaker fit if you:

• Are prone to seasickness or motion sickness
• Need wheelchair access or have mobility impairments
• Rely on a fully guided experience with a tour leader at every step

If you do okay with boats, like to move with a schedule, and want one memorable swimming stop, this is a solid choice.

A few practical tips that improve your day

• Pack swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The lagoon stop is the centerpiece.
• Bring comfortable shoes. Victoria walking time can add up, and Comino paths are part of the experience.
• Leave extra room in your day for the pass requirement. Apply early for the correct slot so you do not scramble later.
• Follow the crew timing closely. You’ll need to be at the meeting point on time to catch the return boat.

Should You Book This Sliema to Gozo and Comino Day Trip?

Book it if you want a one-day route that covers Gozo plus Comino and gives you real time in Victoria and a dedicated Blue Lagoon swimming stop. I also think it’s a great deal if you like boats and you value convenience, because transportation between islands and the water experience are built into the day.

Skip it if you hate crowds at the waterline, need constant guided context, or you know seas and schedules don’t work for you. Also, if you cannot plan for the Blue Lagoon access pass, this tour can turn into wasted time.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes stepping off, seeing the main sights, and getting back with a camera full of moments, this tour is a strong yes.

FAQ

Where does the tour depart from?

It departs in the morning from Sliema Ferries.

How much free time do I get in Victoria (Gozo)?

You get about 75 minutes of free time in Victoria.

Do I need a Blue Lagoon access pass?

Yes. Starting May 2025, visitors must obtain a government-issued Blue Lagoon access pass in advance, and access depends on having the pass.

What time is the Blue Lagoon stop?

The Blue Lagoon stop is about 90 minutes.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, though there is a cash bar on the boat.

Is this a fully guided tour with a tour guide throughout?

No. It is not described as a guided tour. You have free time on Gozo and Comino, with English commentary during the cruise, while the Gozo bus portion is not listed as having audio commentary.