From St. Julian’s: Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon by Powerboat

What makes this experience work so well is the pacing. In one 6-hour day you get a fast powerboat transfer to Gozo and Comino, then real time in the water at the Blue Lagoon. It’s a simple plan, but the speed changes how the day feels.

I especially like two things: the rush of a powerboat ride that gets you there quickly, and the free time you control on both islands. You’re not stuck listening to a script, and you can choose how hard you want to explore.

One thing to weigh is that the Blue Lagoon now requires a government access pass (planned in advance), and the lagoon can be very crowded once you arrive.

Key Highlights and What They Mean for Your Day

• Gozo and Comino in one trip: You’re not choosing between the sister islands. You get both.
• Two free-time blocks: You can go at your own pace in Gozo and again in Comino.
• Blue Lagoon water time: Expect clear, swim-friendly conditions and a sandy bottom where you can actually linger.
• Sea cave stop on the return: You might get a look at the Comino Sea Caves, weather permitting.
• Nonstop powerboat segments: It’s quick and fun, but it can be bumpy, so bring motion sickness help if you need it.
• Your Blue Lagoon logistics are on you: Without the pass, you will be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead.

Powerboat Day Trip to Gozo and Comino: Why This Itinerary Feels Efficient

This is the kind of Malta day trip that respects your time. You’re starting from St. Julian’s at 10:30 AM and you’re back around 4:30 PM. That means you get to see two islands and one of Malta’s most famous swim areas without burning your whole holiday to do it.

The value is in the transportation plus time. For about $77 per person, you’re paying for two powerboat legs (St. Julian’s to Gozo, Gozo to Comino, Comino back to St. Julian’s), plus stopovers that include the Blue Lagoon and a Comino sea cave visit on the way back when conditions allow. You do not get a guide steering your day, which might sound like a negative at first, but it’s actually the point. You get freedom.

Now for the catch. The Blue Lagoon has become harder to access since a government directive in May 2025. You have to plan for the access pass ahead of time, or you will not be able to step ashore at the lagoon. That’s not the tour provider deciding it, it’s the regulation. Build that into your planning, or your day can change fast.

From St. Julian’s Jetty to Gozo: The Fast Start That Sets Expectations

The meeting point is behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel, formerly Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort. The jetty is reached through a black iron gate, down a ramp, then left. Follow the yellow line painted on the ground until you reach where boats and jet skis are parked.

You’ll be on a powerboat, and that matters. Several people note the ride is quick but can feel uncomfortable when conditions are rough. If you know you’re motion sensitive, do not treat that as a maybe. Bring your motion sickness prevention listed in the what to bring section, because you are spending enough time on the water that it can make or break the mood.

Also, don’t expect hotel pickup. You’re walking to the jetty area, so factor that into your morning routine. On a day like this, arriving a little early is smart, not dramatic.

Two Hours in Gozo from Mġarr Harbour: What You Can Do With Real Time

You arrive at Gozo at Mġarr Harbour, Gozo’s main harbor, and you get about 2 hours of free time. Two hours sounds tight until you realize you’re not trying to do everything on Gozo. You’re trying to get a taste, pick a view, grab a quick meal option if you want, and then head back to the boat.

This is the most flexible part of the day because there is no guide funneling you down one route. You can:

• Stay close to the harbor area and soak up the island vibe.
• Take a short trip to a viewpoint or a key landmark.
• Use a bus or taxi depending on your plan and timing.

A practical example from what people have done: some people take a taxi to Victoria, which is a common base for sightseeing on Gozo, and then prioritize things like the Citadel for views and a quick lunch before returning to the harbor. The key idea is timing. Gozo gives you enough time to see one or two highlights, not enough time to turn it into a multi-day deep dive.

If you’re the type who likes to walk and explore slowly, you’ll need to be a bit ruthless. Gozo is great, but your boat is not waiting for your fourth stop.

Comino Blue Lagoon: Swim Time, Snorkel Conditions, and the Pass Requirement

Comino is where the day turns from sightseeing to pure water time. After pickup at Mġarr Harbour around 1:00 PM, you head straight to the Blue Lagoon. You step ashore for the afternoon, then you’ll be picked up at about 3:45 PM to return.

What you’re really buying here is the water. People describe turquoise, crystal-clear water with a sandy bottom. This is the kind of place where you can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and still feel like you’re in a real bay rather than just standing in a crowd. You can also walk some distance over to the opposite side of the lagoon depending on conditions, which turns it from a quick dip into something you can enjoy longer.

That said, the lagoon is famous for a reason, so it can be packed. One common theme is crowding, and shade can be limited. Bring sun protection seriously: sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. If you’re planning to spend real time in the water, you’ll want to be ready to do it comfortably.

The big new rule: you need the Blue Lagoon access pass

Effective May 2025, a government access pass is required to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. You must obtain it in advance through blcomino.com. Pass allocation is limited, so you should plan ahead and choose the afternoon slot for this particular cruise.

If you do not have the pass, you will be taken to Comino’s Santa Marija Bay instead. And there are no refunds if you can’t access the lagoon without it. This is the single most important planning step for your day. If you only remember one thing from this review, make it this.

There’s also practical comfort on-site. One person specifically notes there’s a place for left luggage and that food and drinks are available for sale at the lagoon, so you can handle basic needs without bringing your entire pantry.

Comino Sea Caves on the Return: When You Get the Bonus, and When You Don’t

On the way back, weather permitting, the boat may visit the Comino Sea Caves. This is a nice extra because it adds variety at the end of the day. You’re not just repeating the same shoreline views. You’re getting a different kind of coastline experience while you still have powerboat energy in your system.

But the key word is weather. Sea conditions can affect whether the caves stop happens. Even when you do not get this bonus, you’re still returning around 4:30 PM, so the overall day timing stays practical.

If you tend to get impatient on tours, this stop can be a good reset, because it’s short and scenic, not a full on land excursion. Think of it as a last chapter, not the main story.

Timing and Logistics That Matter More Than You Think

Here’s how the day generally stacks up:

• 10:30 AM depart St. Julian’s
• Direct cruise to Gozo
• Pickup and disembark at Mġarr Harbour, Gozo, with about 2 hours free time
• Around 1:00 PM return pickup from Gozo for Comino
• Afternoon Blue Lagoon time on Comino
• About 3:45 PM pickup from the Blue Lagoon
• Comino Sea Caves stop on the return, weather permitting
• Around 4:30 PM arrival back in St. Julian’s

This timing is tight in a good way. You’re not wasting time on backtracking. Still, it forces decisions. If you want to go inland on Gozo, you’ll likely need transport lined up quickly. If you want to do anything active in Comino besides swimming and snorkeling, you’ll be working around boat pickup times.

What to bring so you don’t lose time later

Bring the essentials listed for the tour:

• Comfortable shoes (you’ll move around harbors and walk on land for the free time)
• Swimwear (you’ll want to get in the water at the Blue Lagoon)
• Sunglasses and a sun hat (shade can be limited)
• Sunscreen
• Motion sickness prevention if you’re prone to discomfort on boats

Also note what you cannot bring: pets, baby strollers, luggage or large bags, non-folding wheelchairs, baby carriages, electric wheelchairs. If you’re traveling light, you’ll have an easier time moving through the meeting area and getting settled on board.

Price and Value: Is $77 a Good Deal for This Much Water Time?

For Malta, $77 per person is not a bargain price. It’s also not “tourist trap” pricing, because you’re paying for speed and convenience. You get:

• A powerboat ride between islands
• Two separate free-time blocks
• Blue Lagoon time where swimming is the point
• A potential bonus stop at the Comino Sea Caves
• Fuel costs covered
• An experienced skipper

The value question really comes down to what you want. If you love water time and want the iconic Blue Lagoon experience without planning ferries and transfers yourself, this price can make sense. You’re also getting your day structured, which is a huge help if you only have a short stay around St. Julian’s.

If you’re hoping for a guided history tour, this is not that. There’s no tour guide for the stops. You’ll be exploring under your own steam.

And if you’re not willing to manage the Blue Lagoon access pass, the value drops fast. Without the pass, your plan changes from Blue Lagoon to Santa Marija Bay. You might still enjoy Comino, but you should know you’re not guaranteed the famous lagoon experience.

Comfort Level: Who This Powerboat Trip Fits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This tour is not for everyone, mainly because of the boat ride and time on the water. It’s listed as not suitable for:

• People prone to seasickness or motion sickness
• People with heart problems
• People with back problems
• People with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
• Pregnant women
• Children under 3 years

That’s a lot of “skip” categories, so it’s worth taking seriously. If you’re generally okay on boats, bring your motion prevention and you should be fine. If you tend to feel rough on water, plan to sit this one out or choose a calmer option.

On the positive side, people describe the skipper as professional and fun. You might even hear familiar names for the captain from past departures, like Abe, Andre, or Mario, mentioned as friendly and safety-minded. That’s what you want in a high-speed situation.

Should You Book This Gozo and Comino Powerboat Tour?

Book it if you want a fast, efficient day that hits Gozo and Comino in one shot, and your priority is the Blue Lagoon swim rather than a long, guided tour. The free time format is also ideal if you like making small choices on the ground instead of following a schedule you didn’t choose.

Think twice if you dread crowds at famous spots, because the Blue Lagoon can be full. Think hardest if you forgot about the access pass rule. Make the pass plan first. Then everything else becomes easier.

If you’re fit, okay with powerboats, and you can sort your Blue Lagoon access pass in advance, this is a very strong “two islands in one day” solution from St. Julian’s.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The duration is 6 hours.

What time does the boat leave St. Julian’s?

It departs from the St. Julian’s base at 10:30 AM.

How much free time do I get in Gozo?

You get 2 hours of free time on Gozo after disembarking at Mġarr Harbour.

Where do we go in Comino?

You spend the afternoon at the Blue Lagoon in Comino, and the boat may also visit the Comino Sea Caves on the return trip if weather permits.

Is this a guided tour?

No. It is not a guided tour. You have free time during the stops on Gozo and Comino.

Do I need a pass to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Since May 2025, you must obtain a government access pass in advance through blcomino.com to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. Choose an afternoon slot for this cruise.

What happens if I don’t have the Blue Lagoon access pass?

If you do not have the pass, you will be taken to Comino’s Santa Marija Bay instead.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and motion sickness prevention.

Where do I meet the boat in St. Julian’s?

Meet at the jetty behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel, near the entrance to the Hotel’s underground parking lot. Go through the black iron gate, down the ramp, turn left, and follow the yellow line to the jetty.