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

High-speed rides can make or break a day at sea. This one trades long ferry waits for a fast powerboat loop that hits Gozo, Comino’s Blue Lagoon, and the sea caves on the way back. I love that you get real freedom on both sister islands, not a strict, guided script.

Two things I especially liked: the quick transit time (so you actually have hours ashore), and the chance to swim in clear, shallow water at the lagoon. The other part to plan for is the new Blue Lagoon access pass rule, since you won’t get refunded if you cannot step ashore without it.

Key things to know before you go

• Gozo for 2 hours with free time from Mġarr Harbour, enough to reach Victoria if you plan your transport early
• Blue Lagoon afternoon stop with swimming and snorkel time, but limited shade and a lot of people
• Comino Sea Caves can be visited on the return trip when weather allows
• Not a guided tour, you’ll be on your own during island time
• No food or drinks included, so budget for meals or snacks on Comino
• Blue Lagoon access pass required from May 2025, and it’s your responsibility to secure it

High-Speed Malta Sister-Islands in One 6-Hour Sprint

This is a straightforward, do-it-all powerboat day: Gozo first, then Comino, then back to St. Julian’s. If your goal is sister-island highlights without turning your vacation into a logistics problem, this itinerary is built for that.

The pace is the whole point. You depart St. Julian’s at 10:30 AM, return around 4:30 PM, and you spend your time where it matters, on the islands and at the water.

Meeting the Boat Behind St. Julian’s Marina (So You Do Not Stress)

Your departure point is a jetty tucked behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St. Julian’s. It’s specifically behind the hotel at 8, Ix-Xatt Ta’ San Ġorġ, and you’ll look for a black iron gate near the entrance to the underground parking lot.

Go through the gate, down the ramp, turn left, and follow the yellow line on the ground to the boats and jet skis area. I like this kind of clear, on-site direction because it reduces the chance you show up late after getting turned around.

Tip from the real world: if you’re prone to motion sickness, take your prevention plan seriously before you arrive. The ride is described as quick, but also bumpy for a powerboat style.

Gozo First: Two Hours from Mġarr Harbour (Plan It Like a Local)

You land in Gozo at Mġarr Harbour and get about 2 hours to explore the island on your own. That time window is short, so your best strategy is to pick one area and commit.

A common approach is using a taxi to Victoria to see major sights like the Citadel and cathedral area, then return to the harbour on schedule. In at least one case, a taxi pick-up for the return journey was arranged to fit the boat timing, which is exactly how you want to think on a half-day schedule.

If you prefer public transport, there’s enough time to move around quickly, but you still need a realistic plan. Some people managed fast sightseeing by bus to Victoria to catch a few key stops like the cathedral, without trying to cram too much.

What I like about Gozo in this format is that it gives you the island vibe without pretending you can do everything. You get that sense of a slower, more authentic place, even if you only touch the surface.

Comino and the Blue Lagoon: Swim Time, Snorkel Views, and Crowd Reality

Then it’s off to Comino for the main water stop. The schedule has you stepping ashore at the Blue Lagoon for the afternoon, with a pick-up around 3:45 PM.

This is the part most people remember. The lagoon water is described as turquoise and crystal-clear, with a sandy bottom, and it’s a great spot to swim and snorkel. One practical bonus: there can be a left-luggage option at the lagoon area, which helps if you do not want to carry everything into the water.

Here’s the trade-off I would plan around: the lagoon can be packed, and shade can be limited. Bring sun protection early. Sunscreen and a sun hat are on your packing list for a reason, and you’ll feel it fast once the midday sun hits.

The Blue Lagoon access pass rule (May 2025 and after)

This matters more than comfort. Since May 2025, you must obtain a government-issued access pass in advance to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. Passes are handled through blcomino.com, and daily availability is limited.

For this cruise, you need to select the afternoon slot when applying. If you do not have the correct pass, you will not get a refund, and you will be taken instead to Comino’s Santa Marija Bay.

So do this before you ever leave home: check your email and confirmation details for the pass, then keep it handy. This is the single biggest “gotcha” risk on the day.

Comino Island Time: Use It for the Water or the Walks

Your Comino time includes free time on the island area tied to the Blue Lagoon visit. That means you can choose your style, swim and snorkel, hang out on the sand, or wander along the countryside paths if you want a break from the water.

I like having options here because your energy level can change with sun, heat, and crowd level. If you want something calmer between swims, you might find a side moment to take a slower stroll before going back in.

Food and drinks are not included, but snacks and drinks are typically available for purchase at the lagoon area. If you want a comfortable day, plan for that and bring extra water if you’re the sort who hates waiting in lines.

Comino Sea Caves on the Return: Weather Permits, So Expect a Plan B

On the way back, the boat may visit the Comino Sea caves, weather permitting. This is scheduled on the return trip, after your Blue Lagoon pick-up, so it works like a bonus.

Do not count on it in the same way you count on the lagoon stop. If the sea conditions are rough, the caves might not be possible, but you still get the main island experiences.

Either way, the return ride is part of the charm for many people, because you’re looking back at the coastlines and cliff edges from sea level. Just keep your motion-sickness prevention plan in mind if you’re sensitive.

The Powerboat Ride: Fun Speed, Real Bumps, and a Few Safety Notes

This tour runs on a high-speed powerboat, with an experienced skipper and fuel included. The vibe is energetic, and the transfer time is quick enough that you do not feel trapped on a boat all day.

But you should also respect the physical reality of speed on open water. One negative note that shows up is that the boat can feel uncomfortable if you’re sensitive to rougher conditions, even though it still gets you there fast.

If you’re worried about comfort, bring motion sickness prevention. The tour is also listed as not suitable for people prone to seasickness and includes restrictions for people with heart problems, pregnancy, and mobility impairments.

Price and Value: What You Pay For, What Costs Extra

The price is $77 per person for about 6 hours. For that, you’re paying for powerboat transport between St. Julian’s, Gozo, Comino, and back again, plus fuel and an experienced skipper.

What’s not included is where you need to budget attention:

• the Blue Lagoon access pass (required since May 2025)
• a tour guide (this is free time, not guided)
• food and drinks
• hotel pickup and drop-off (you meet at the jetty)

I think the value is strong if you want the sister-island highlights in one day without renting a car or building a complicated route. It’s also a good match if you like active sightseeing and do not want to spend half your vacation on transit.

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

This is best for independent travelers who enjoy a timed day, quick connections, and water-based sightseeing. If you love swimming, snorkel-style exploring, and seeing multiple places without waiting around, you’ll likely feel like you got your money’s worth.

It’s also a solid pick if you’re staying around St. Julian’s since the meeting point is close to the marina area. Some people specifically noted that the walk from nearby hotels was convenient.

If any of these apply, you should think carefully: the trip is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, people with back problems, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, people with heart problems, and anyone prone to seasickness or motion sickness.

One more practical note: the tour does not allow luggage or large bags, and it does not allow pets or strollers. If you travel light and pack only essentials, the day is smoother.

Should You Book This Gozo and Comino Powerboat Tour?

I’d book it if your priority is a classic Malta day trip with maximum variety: Gozo island time, Comino’s Blue Lagoon swimming, and a chance at the sea caves. The speed is genuinely useful here, because it protects your time for water and sightseeing instead of long travel days.

I would hesitate only if you cannot confidently handle the Blue Lagoon access pass requirement, or if you know you get sick on choppy water. In particular, double-check the pass process and timing for the afternoon slot, because that is the one issue that can ruin the day with no refund.

If you want one high-impact day that feels like Malta rather than a transport puzzle, this is a strong choice.