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

Blue water starts fast on this powerboat day trip. I like the quick, no-fuss transfers that get you from St Julian’s to Gozo quickly, and then swing you over to Comino for swimming and wandering. You get real island time too, not just a quick look and go.

One thing to plan around: the Blue Lagoon stop depends on getting a government access pass in advance (if you miss it, you do not go ashore at the lagoon).

Key highlights

• 10:30 AM departure and a return around 4:30 PM, built for a full day without the long ferry shuffle
• 2 hours in Gozo with plenty of freedom to hop to Victoria, the Citadel area, or just wander
• Blue Lagoon time on your own for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in clear water
• Comino Sea Caves are visited on the return trip, weather permitting
• Experienced skipper and fuel included, so you’re really paying for the water time
• The Blue Lagoon crowd can be intense, so go in ready to share the shoreline

Two Sister Islands in One 6-Hour Sprint

This is a high-speed way to see Malta’s sister islands in one day, without betting your schedule on ferries. You start from St Julian’s, then split your time between Gozo and Comino, ending with a return ride that can include a stop at the Comino Sea Caves.

I like the structure because it matches how most people actually vacation. You’re not stuck in transit for half the day. Instead, you get a clear block of time in Gozo (two hours) and then a larger chunk of your Comino time focused on the water, with free time at the Blue Lagoon.

The tradeoff is that this is not a slow, guided walk-through of everything. It’s a “go fast, see the big stuff, and enjoy your own pace” day. If you love rushing? You’re in luck. If you prefer long lounging time on land? You’ll want to make peace with the fact that Gozo is intentionally brief.

St Julian’s Jetty to Gozo: Fast Ride, Real Island Time

The day begins at the jetty behind Verdi St George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St Julian’s, formerly known as Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort. It’s easy to miss if you don’t follow directions, so I’d treat it like you’re navigating an airport gate, not a casual meetup.

Once you’re aboard, expect a real powerboat experience. One common theme from people is that the ride is fun, fast, and sometimes a bit bumpy. That speed is the whole point here. You trade comfort for momentum, and you get rewarded with time on Gozo.

You cruise straight to Gozo and disembark at Mġarr Harbour, Gozo’s main harbour. Then it’s hands-off time, meaning you’re free to do your own thing for about two hours.

That two-hour window is just enough to get a taste of Gozo without turning your day into a checklist. It’s also long enough to get a quick transport plan in place if you want to reach viewpoints or major sights in the time you have.

Gozo at Your Own Pace: Two Hours Worth Planning

Two hours in Gozo sounds short, but it’s workable if you decide what you want before you arrive. Mġarr Harbour is the practical starting point, and from there you can either stay local and explore nearby or take a taxi or bus toward Victoria.

If you want the classic Gozo views and atmosphere, I’d aim for Victoria and the Citadel area, since it’s often the easiest way to get those postcard angles without needing a car. Some visitors have used taxis with pickup arranged for the return trip, and the cost they reported was around 5 euros per person. Others have used buses to Victoria, then made quick time for key landmarks like the cathedral.

If you’re the type who likes to roam without a strict plan, you can still make it work. You’ll just want to keep walking efficient: find your best street or viewpoint, enjoy the view, then head back to the harbour with time to spare.

Also note the practical reality. If you spend too long at the harbour area and then decide you want to see Victoria late, your return boat time will come fast. The schedule moves you on to Comino for the Blue Lagoon, so build in a buffer.

Blue Lagoon Access Pass and Your Comino Swim Afternoon

Comino’s Blue Lagoon is the main event, and it’s easy to see why people talk about it like a must. The water is bright and clear, with that sandy, shallow feel that makes swimming and snorkeling more enjoyable.

Here’s the key planning twist. Starting May 2025, Malta requires an access pass in advance for visitors who want to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. The pass is managed through blcomino.com, and daily allocations are limited. For this cruise, you need to choose the afternoon slot when applying.

If you do not have the pass, you won’t be refunded, and you will be taken to Comino’s Santa Marija Bay instead. That means your day can shift from the iconic lagoon to another swim stop, still on Comino but not the same experience.

Once you’re ashore at the Blue Lagoon, you’re on your own. People love the freedom to swim, snorkel, and even island-hop by swimming toward the opposite beach area. Some also mention there’s a spot for left luggage, which is useful if you want to keep your belongings handled while you’re in the water.

One more reality check: the Blue Lagoon can be packed, and shade is limited. If you burn easily, bring sunscreen and consider something for sun protection beyond just sunglasses. The crowded feel doesn’t ruin the water, but it does shape how you enjoy it.

Comino Sea Caves on the Way Back (Weather Permitting)

On the return journey, the boat can visit the Comino Sea Caves if conditions allow. This is a nice add-on because it adds a scenic, coastal element after your swim time.

The important word here is weather permitting. Powerboats are at the mercy of sea state, and the timetable can change if the skipper needs to adjust for safety and comfort. Still, the cave stop is a strong bonus when it happens, because you get a different view of the coastline than you would from shore.

Also, remember that your boat pick-up from the Blue Lagoon is around 3:45 PM. That means your afternoon is designed as a swim-first block. Plan to head back to the boat with a little breathing room, especially if you’re in a crowded area and you have to locate where you came ashore.

Powerboat Comfort, Seasickness, and Who Should Skip

This is a powerboat day. That’s exciting, but it comes with physical considerations.

You should bring something for motion sickness prevention, and you should take seriously the note about seasickness and motion sickness. The trip is not suitable for people prone to seasickness or with motion sickness, and it’s also listed as not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, people with heart problems, and wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

If you’re generally fine on boats but sensitive to bumps, expect it to be uncomfortable for some people. One person described the speedboat as a bit uncomfortable. Another mentioned the ride felt bumpy, though the schedule still ran well overall.

So my advice is simple: if boat waves bother you on normal ferry rides, this high-speed style may not be the right match. If you’re okay with choppier rides and you prep for it, you’ll likely enjoy the speed and the fun factor.

Price and Value at $77: What You Get, What You Must Bring

At $77 per person for a 6-hour outing, you’re paying for three things: transportation by powerboat, access to specific stops, and the time on both islands.

Included:

• Powerboat trips between St Julian’s, Gozo, Comino, and back
• Two hours of free time in Gozo
• Free time at Comino Island and at the Blue Lagoon
• Comino Sea Caves visit on the way back, weather permitting
• An experienced skipper and all fuel costs

Not included:

• Government-issued access pass for the Blue Lagoon (when required)
• Tour guide
• Food and drinks

That last bullet matters. Blue Lagoon days are easy to turn into a spending spree if you show up hungry, so plan to bring cash or be ready to buy food and drinks on site. One review also noted food and drinks are for sale at the lagoon, so you’re not stuck without options.

Value-wise, I think the best buy here is for people staying around St Julian’s who don’t want long, slow transfers. The powerboat cuts travel time and gives you structured island time. If you love self-paced exploring, it’s a good fit. If you want a guide to manage logistics and fill in stories, you’ll miss that because this is not a guided tour.

What to Pack and How to Make the Day Feel Effortless

Pack for water time and for fast movement. Comfortable shoes matter because Gozo and harbour areas mean walking on uneven ground. Sunglasses and a sun hat are also worth it, since you can spend meaningful time outdoors without much shade.

You should bring:

• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses and a sun hat
• Comfortable shoes
• Motion sickness prevention

There are also restrictions. Pets aren’t allowed, baby strollers and luggage or large bags aren’t allowed either. If you travel light, that’s easier. If you’re the kind of traveler who brings a big beach bag, you’ll want to slim it down.

One more practical tip: because the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, consider keeping essentials minimal and easy to manage when you’re in and out of the water. It’s easier to enjoy the lagoon when you’re not constantly reorganizing gear.

Should You Book This St Julian’s to Gozo and Comino Powerboat?

I’d book this if you want a straightforward, high-energy day that hits Gozo, the Blue Lagoon, and the Comino Sea Caves in one run. It’s especially appealing if you’re staying around St Julian’s and want to avoid extra transfers. The free time approach also works well if you like choosing your own pace, whether that’s a quick Victoria sprint or a long swim session.

Skip it if any of these apply: you’re likely to feel seasick, you have mobility limitations, or you want a fully guided experience. Also think twice if you hate crowds, because the Blue Lagoon can be packed and shade is limited.

Finally, if you plan to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon, treat the access pass as your first booking task. Get it sorted ahead of time, choose the afternoon slot, and you’ll keep your day on track.

If you meet those conditions, this is one of the better ways to make Malta’s sister islands feel like part of one vacation, not two separate trips.

FAQ

What time does the tour depart from St Julian’s and when do we return?

The boat departs from St Julian’s at 10:30 AM and you arrive back at approximately 4:30 PM.

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

Meet at the jetty located behind Verdi St George’s Bay Marina Hotel (formerly Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort). There is a black iron gate near the entrance to the hotel’s underground parking lot. Go through the gate, down the ramp, turn left, and follow the yellow line painted on the ground to the jetty.

How much free time do I get in Gozo?

You get two hours of free time in Gozo after disembarking at Mġarr Harbour.

How much time do I spend at the Blue Lagoon in Comino?

You spend the afternoon at Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon with free time. You are picked up from the Blue Lagoon at approximately 3:45 PM.

Do I need a Blue Lagoon access pass?

Yes. Since May 2025, visitors who want to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon must obtain a government-issued access pass in advance through blcomino.com.

What happens if I do not have the Blue Lagoon access pass?

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

Is this a guided tour?

No. It is not guided. You’ll have free time during the stops in Gozo and Comino.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

What should I bring, and are there restrictions on items?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and motion sickness prevention. Pets are not allowed, baby strollers are not allowed, and luggage or large bags are not allowed.