Sliema/St. Paul’s: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Ferry Cruise

Malta’s sister islands feel like a different world, and this day trip is a smart way to see both Gozo and Comino without renting anything or dealing with schedules all day. You get a smooth, air-conditioned catamaran ride along Malta’s northern coastline, plus free time on your own once you reach each island. It’s also one of those itineraries that works well even if you like a plan but also want room to wander.

My favorite parts are the practical ones. I like the modern, spacious boat feeling, with cold AC when the sun is cooking and free Wi-Fi onboard for quick maps and message checks. I also like that the trip gives you real flexibility at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo and again on Comino, instead of forcing you through a script.

One thing to consider: the biggest cost and stress is often outside the ticket. You need an official Blue Lagoon access pass arranged in advance (required by Malta from May 2025), and on Comino the best swimming areas can feel crowded depending on the season.

Key highlights worth your attention

• Catamaran comfort with air-conditioning, toilets, and free Wi-Fi, plus staff onboard to help you during the day
• Northern coast sightseeing from the water, with big-window views that are easier on a day trip than island buses
• Two separate free-time stops: about two hours in Gozo and about two hours on Comino
• Mġarr Harbour base in Gozo, with easy options to reach Victoria by bus or taxi using transport providers at the harbor
• Blue Lagoon swim time, but only with the official government access pass arranged beforehand
• Optional Comino Caves motorboat trip available on location (weather dependent), usually an extra fee

From Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay to Gozo, in comfort

This is a one-day “see and swim” ferry cruise built for convenience. You choose your departure point and time when booking, either Sliema Ferries in Sliema or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay. The catamaran leaves in the morning and cruises along Malta’s northern coastline, so you get a moving view of the shoreline attractions rather than staring at the same streets all day.

A quick detail that matters: this isn’t a guided tour. You get onboard guidance from staff and clear instructions, then you operate on your own during the island free-time windows. If you like the feeling of having a ferry organized for you, but you want to set your own pace, this works.

On the practical side, the boat is modern and air-conditioned, with toilet facilities and free Wi-Fi. Multiple people also call out how comfortable and spacious it feels, and that the AC can be very cold. If you get overheated easily on warm days, you’ll appreciate this.

The cruise portion: views, timing, and sea conditions

After departure, the catamaran travels along Malta’s northern coast, then reaches St. Paul’s Bay briefly to collect passengers coming from that side. After that, the route continues to Gozo.

One review-based reality check: the ride to Gozo can take around an hour and a half, and the sea can get choppy. That doesn’t mean it’s unbearable, but it does mean you should take seasickness seriously if you’re prone to it. The activity itself is not recommended for people who are prone to seasickness, and if you know your stomach hates ferry rides, plan accordingly.

A good move is to dress in layers. Even when it’s hot outside, the AC can be cold, so having a light layer helps you feel comfortable inside and outside.

Gozo free time from Mġarr Harbour: what you can actually do

When you arrive in Gozo, you disembark at Mġarr Harbour, Gozo’s main harbor. You get about two hours of free time before you board again for Comino.

This is the part where your expectations should match the schedule. Two hours in Gozo is not enough to “cover everything,” but it is enough to get a taste of island life and do one meaningful visit.

Here are your main options once you’re at the harbor:

• Explore around Mġarr Harbour at walking pace. It’s a good way to get oriented fast and grab something to drink if you need it.
• Take the bus (or a taxi) into Victoria, the island’s capital. You’ll find independent transport operators at the harbor that offer roundtrip transfers between Mġarr Harbour and Victoria, and the cost is not included in your ticket.
• If you want to keep it simple, stay closer to the harbor area and enjoy the views rather than rushing.

A practical tip from real-world experience: if Victoria is your goal, you should seriously consider going. The harbor area is convenient, but Victoria gives you more of the “big island” feel in a short time, including the kind of places people tend to seek out when they first plan a Gozo visit.

Also note the way you’ll travel in Gozo. It’s free time, so transportation is on you. Some people find the handoff to local transport a bit chaotic, but once you’re on the right bus or taxi it moves fine.

Gozo timing reality: two hours goes fast

In two hours, you’ll likely do one “core” thing plus a bit of wandering. That might be a quick walk and photos, a walk around Victoria’s center, or a short sit-down break. If you’re the type who likes museums plus long meals plus a slow stroll, you may feel rushed. If you like picking one highlight and soaking up the atmosphere, you’ll be happy.

Comino free time: how to make the most of the island

After Gozo, you board again at Mġarr Harbour and travel to Comino. You’ll have about two hours of free time to enjoy the island, with the big focus being the Blue Lagoon area.

No cars and very little urban feel means Comino is mostly about the water and the immediate shoreline. For people who like photos, walking paths to viewpoints can be a satisfying use of time. For swimmers, the main question is where you’ll be able to get in, where you can rinse off, and how quickly you can get your perfect swim window.

Season matters here. In peak months, Blue Lagoon can feel very crowded, and the beach is small. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it does affect comfort.

If your priority is swimming, keep your routine tight. Bring your swim kit, change quickly, get in, enjoy the water, then move on when it gets too packed. There are limited places to change, and if you arrive late in the swim window, you’ll feel it.

What the water experience is like at Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon’s reputation is earned, especially if you want that clear, turquoise look for photos and a refreshing dip. You’ll spend your time in the area designated for swimming during the stop.

A detail worth knowing: some people point out that the shoreline can be rocky and slippery, with sharp spots. That’s why I strongly suggest sea shoes. If you’ve only ever used flip-flops, skip them here. Wear something with grip so you can walk in without stressing over your footing.

Also, plan for limited space. When the bay is full, there aren’t many places to sit. A numb bum is real, so either pack a small towel solution for comfort or accept you’ll be shifting your position often.

The non-negotiable: Blue Lagoon access pass requirements

This trip includes a swim stop, but disembarking at Blue Lagoon now depends on a government-issued access pass. Effective May 2025, you must obtain this pass in advance via blcomino.com.

Two important practical notes:

• The pass is not included with your cruise ticket, and you must arrange it yourself.
• The pass allocation is limited daily, so book early. For this trip, you are required to book the afternoon timeslot when applying for your pass.

If you forget this step, you could be denied entry to the Blue Lagoon disembark area. So make the pass purchase your first action after booking, not your last-minute task.

Optional Comino Caves motorboat trip: worth it, only if conditions cooperate

During your time on Comino, you may have the chance to join an optional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and the Crystal Lagoon. It’s typically around €15 per person, paid on location.

This option depends on favorable weather and sea conditions, so don’t treat it as guaranteed. If the day is calm, it can be a nice “extra layer” beyond swimming. If the sea looks rough, you may find it not offered or not comfortable.

Extra costs to budget for, so the $40 price feels real

The advertised price is about $40 per person for a 7 to 7.5 hour day. That’s solid value for what you get: a full-day catamaran ride, two island stopovers, staff onboard, toilets, and onboard Wi-Fi.

But you should budget for the stuff that’s not included:

• The Blue Lagoon access pass (required by government rules, arranged separately)
• Land transport in Gozo if you want Victoria (buses or taxi operators at the harbor, fees not included)
• Food and drinks (not included)
• Optional motorboat trip to Comino Caves and Crystal Lagoon (about €15 per person)

Once you factor those in, it’s still often cheaper than a private setup, but your final cost depends on how much you plan to do in Gozo and whether you add the caves boat.

Who this trip suits best

This is a good fit if you want:

• A single day that covers both Gozo and Comino without driving
• Comfort on the water with air-conditioning and a big, modern catamaran
• Freedom to choose how you spend your time in Gozo and Comino
• A swimming-focused stop with a famous destination

It may be less ideal if you:

• Want a deep, slow Gozo exploration with lots of time in specific sights
• Get seasick easily, since it’s a ferry cruise and the sea can be choppy
• Have mobility limitations, because the activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments

Small practical tips that make the day smoother

• Arrive early, about 15 to 20 minutes before departure. This helps you find the right place and board calmly.
• Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash for any on-location costs.
• Pack comfortable shoes for rocky sections around the lagoon.
• If you hate cold AC, bring a light layer so you can sit comfortably inside.

Also, since there’s no guide shepherding you between stops, think in “zones.” In Gozo, pick either harbor wandering or a bus to Victoria. In Comino, decide whether you want mostly swimming time or also some walking and photos around the island.

So, should you book this ferry cruise?

If you want an easy, comfortable Gozo and Comino day trip from Malta that includes the major transport pieces and gives you freedom on both islands, I think it’s a strong booking. The air-conditioned catamaran, the two island free-time windows, and the Blue Lagoon swimming focus make it a practical use of a day.

I would only hesitate if your main goal is a long, detailed Gozo itinerary or you’re not willing to manage the Blue Lagoon access pass step ahead of time. If you plan for that pass and you’re okay with a taste-sized Gozo visit, this is one of the best ways to do both islands in a single day.

FAQ

Where do I depart for this Gozo and Comino ferry cruise?

You depart from either Sliema Ferries in Sliema or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay. You choose your preferred departure point and time when booking.

How long is the trip?

The duration is about 7 to 7.5 hours, and starting times vary by option. The cruise includes travel plus free time stops in Gozo and Comino.

Is this trip guided?

No. It is not a guided tour. You have free time in Gozo and Comino to explore on your own, with staff onboard for general assistance.

How much free time do I get in Gozo and Comino?

You have about two hours of free time in Gozo and about another two hours of free time on Comino.

Is the Blue Lagoon access pass included?

No. You must arrange the official government access pass independently. Disembarking at the Blue Lagoon requires a pass, and it must be booked in advance.

Do I need to pay for transportation in Gozo?

Land transportation in Gozo is not included. You can arrange buses or taxis on location through independent transport providers at the harbor, and any fees are not included in the tour price.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included.

What’s optional on Comino?

You can take an optional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and the Crystal Lagoon. It is subject to weather and sea conditions, and you pay about €15 per person on location.

Is the boat comfortable and does it have facilities?

Yes. The boat is air-conditioned, has toilet facilities, and offers free Wi-Fi. Staff are onboard as well.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.