REVIEW · ST JULIAN S
From St. Julian’s: Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon by Powerboat
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Robert Arrigo & Sons Limited · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Two islands in one day is a rare deal. This high-speed powerboat tour links Gozo and Comino’s Blue Lagoon fast, so your time goes to swimming and sights—not ferry schedules. I really like the full-day pace built into a short 6-hour trip, plus the chance to see Gozo’s island-town side before you head for that famous Comino water.
I also like how the plan gives you genuine freedom. You get 2 hours of free time in Gozo at Mġarr Harbour, then you step ashore at the Blue Lagoon for the afternoon. In other words, you’re not stuck with a rigid guided script—go where you want, when you want (within the pickup times).
My one real caution is the combination of crowds and weather. The Blue Lagoon can get packed, and the ride can feel bumpy at speed—so if you’re sensitive to motion, bring prevention and keep your expectations realistic.
In This Review
- Quick hits before you go
- Why this powerboat day trip works for Gozo + Comino
- Meeting point and the flow of the day (10:30 to ~4:30)
- Gozo in two hours: making Mġarr Harbour time count
- Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon: what makes it special (and what can ruin it)
- Comino Sea Caves: the weather-dependent bonus stop
- The powerboat ride: fun speed, but know what bumpy feels like
- What you’re paying for (and what you still need to cover)
- Who should book this, and who should skip it
- Tips to make your 6 hours feel un-rushed
- Should you book this St. Julian’s Gozo and Comino powerboat tour?
- FAQ
- How long is the Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon powerboat tour?
- Where does the boat depart from in St. Julian’s?
- Is there a tour guide included?
- How much time do I get in Gozo and on Comino?
- Do I need a pass to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon?
- What should I bring for the trip?
Quick hits before you go

- Fast transfer: You reach Gozo and Comino quickly on a powerboat, maximizing your time on the islands.
- Real free time: Two hours in Gozo, plus afternoon time at Comino/Blue Lagoon with no tour guide.
- Blue Lagoon pass rules: Since May 2025, you need a government access pass to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon.
- Caves on the return: The Comino Sea Caves stop depends on weather.
- Skipper matters: The operation is run by an experienced team, with skippers named in feedback like Captain Abe, Andre, and Captain Mario.
Why this powerboat day trip works for Gozo + Comino

If you’re trying to see Malta’s sister islands but you don’t want to sacrifice a full day, this is the basic formula that makes sense: get there fast, stay long enough, and come back before you burn out. A slower ferry-style approach gives you more time on paper, but you lose that time to travel and waiting. Here, the high-speed ride is the point. You’ll feel that ocean air on your face as the boat heads out—and when you arrive, you’ll be ready to use your free time.
I also like that the trip is built around the two islands’ different personalities. Gozo is for exploring at your own pace. Comino is for water time: sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and that stretch of iconic lagoon scenery you came for. Then, on the way back, you might get the Comino Sea Caves add-on if conditions allow.
The “value” isn’t just the price tag. At about $77 per person for a 6-hour day, you’re paying for efficient sea transport plus structured stops where you’re allowed to roam. Since food and drinks aren’t included, your best value comes when you show up ready to spend your money on a snack or lunch when you want it—rather than getting trapped in an included-meal plan you didn’t choose.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Julian S.
Meeting point and the flow of the day (10:30 to ~4:30)

The tour leaves from a jetty behind Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel (St. Julian’s). The meeting spot is specific: you go through a black iron gate near the underground parking entrance, then down the ramp, left, and follow the yellow line to where the boats are parked.
Timing is tight in a good way. You depart at 10:30 AM, cruise directly to Gozo and disembark at Mġarr Harbour. You’ll have about 2 hours to explore. Around 1:00 PM, the powerboat picks you up and heads to Comino. You step ashore for the Blue Lagoon period and then return pickup happens at about 3:45 PM. If weather cooperates, you’ll stop at the Comino Sea Caves on the way back and you’ll be back in St. Julian’s at roughly 4:30 PM.
One more key point: this is not a guided tour. That’s a plus for me when I want control over what I see, and it also means you should be comfortable making quick choices in your limited Gozo and Comino time.
Gozo in two hours: making Mġarr Harbour time count

Your Gozo anchor point is Mġarr Harbour, which is the practical base for reaching several popular areas. Two hours sounds short—because it is. But if you treat it like a “fast highlights run,” it can work really well.
Here are smart ways to use that time, based on how the day is structured:
- Option 1: Taxi to Victoria + quick landmark loop. Some visitors plan a short ride to Victoria and the Citadel, then loop back to the harbour before the pickup. If you want sweeping views and a compact sightseeing hit, this fits the schedule.
- Option 2: Focus on one theme. If you’re more interested in temples, countryside stops, or specific viewpoints, don’t try to “do everything.” Pick one cluster and go.
- Option 3: Stay closer to the harbour area. If you want a calmer pace, you might use your time around Mġarr and nearby streets, but you’ll be choosing a more local feeling over big draw-distance landmarks.
One review detail that’s worth your attention: people who used taxis reported quick, scheduled-style sightseeing—like reaching viewpoints and places such as Ggantija Temples via a driver. Those aren’t included by default, but it shows what’s possible when you use the limited time efficiently.
My practical advice: before you arrive in Gozo, decide what you want most—views, temples, or swimming-on-your-own plan—and then build the rest around getting back to the harbour early. In a timeline this tight, being even a little late can compress your options fast.
Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon: what makes it special (and what can ruin it)

Comino is tiny, but the focus here is the Blue Lagoon. When you arrive, you’re stepping into that famous setting with turquoise, crystal-clear water, a white sandy bottom, and a spot where snorkeling and floating around actually feel like the main event. This is the part where the tour earns its reputation. You’ll have time to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe, and you can also walk around the island areas if you want a break from the water.
Two things I’d highlight from the real-world experience:
- The water is the star. Even visitors who focused on other parts of Malta still described the lagoon swim as the must-do moment—people talked about sandy-bottom swimming and crossing to the opposite side.
- Shade can be limited. If you’re heat-sensitive, plan to protect yourself. Bring a hat and sunscreen and don’t count on a shady spot showing up right when you need it.
Now the part you must not ignore: Blue Lagoon access passes. Since May 2025, you need a government-issued access pass in advance to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. Passes come from blcomino.com, and allocation is limited. If you don’t have the pass, you won’t be forced into a “half day” situation—you’ll be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead. The tour also specifies that there are no refunds if you can’t access the lagoon without the pass, so treat this like a must-do homework item.
If you do secure the pass, aim for the afternoon slot when applying, since the tour’s Blue Lagoon window is in the afternoon. The entire plan depends on that timing.
Finally: crowds. Even with a pass, the Blue Lagoon can be packed. That doesn’t make it bad—it just changes how you plan. Think “swim first, rest second.” If you wait for the perfect empty spot, you might spend your best water time staring at your towel.
Comino Sea Caves: the weather-dependent bonus stop

On the return trip, the boat may visit the Comino Sea Caves before heading back to St. Julian’s. The key word in your head should be weather permitting. That means you should expect the caves to be a bonus, not a guaranteed checkbox.
When conditions do line up, the payoff is that caves can be experienced from the water in a way you don’t get from the beach. One piece of feedback that stood out: people described getting right into the caves with the boat, which is exactly what you want from this kind of stop.
Practical takeaway: if caves are high on your wish list, don’t build a “must-see” mental plan around a single type of scenery. Have a calm backup mindset. If caves happen, great. If they don’t, you still have the Blue Lagoon and Gozo time.
The powerboat ride: fun speed, but know what bumpy feels like

The whole trip runs on speed. That’s why it’s called a powerboat day tour, and that’s why people love it. You’ll feel like you’re on the move—fast transfers, quick sea time, and then suddenly you’re on an island with the day opening up.
But speed has a trade-off. Several people described the ride as bumpy or even a bit uncomfortable. If you’re not used to boats, or if your stomach tends to protest, follow the tour guidance and bring motion sickness prevention. The tour specifically says it’s not suitable for people prone to seasickness, and it also points out limits for people with back problems and heart conditions.
I also like that the boat is run by an experienced skipper, and names from feedback—Captain Abe, Andre, and Captain Mario—show a team that stays professional during the ride. One account mentioned a mechanical issue before the return (a boat not starting right away), and the team handled it promptly and still got everyone back shortly late. Stuff can happen at sea; what matters is how quickly the crew resolves it.
If you’re someone who hates discomfort, choose your “yes” carefully. If you’re someone who loves quick boat energy, this is the right style.
What you’re paying for (and what you still need to cover)

At $77 per person, you’re not paying for an all-inclusive day. You’re paying for transport, time blocks, and fuel.
Included items that matter:
- Powerboat transfers between St. Julian’s, Gozo, Comino, and back
- Two hours free time in Gozo
- Free time at Comino and the Blue Lagoon
- Comino Sea Caves stop if weather permits
- Experienced skipper and all fuel costs
Not included items that can change your real budget:
- The Blue Lagoon access pass (you get it from blcomino.com)
- Food and drinks
- A tour guide (you’re on your own during island time)
- Hotel pickup/drop-off (you meet at the jetty yourself)
One useful on-the-ground detail from feedback: people reported the ability to leave belongings at the Blue Lagoon area, which can reduce stress when you’re swapping between swimming and walking. That said, don’t assume every day will match every setup—use this as a “maybe you’ll find help” tip, not a guarantee.
My “value” calculation for you: this price tends to make sense if you (1) really want Blue Lagoon time, (2) are okay handling your own plans in Gozo, and (3) don’t need a guided commentary. If you want a full guide-led history walk or a slow-andsteady cruise, you’ll likely find better matches elsewhere.
Who should book this, and who should skip it

This trip fits best for people who want a short, intense island hop and aren’t too sensitive to boat movement.
It’s a strong match if you:
- Want to swim in the Blue Lagoon and you’re okay with possible crowding
- Can follow simple instructions and manage a Blue Lagoon access pass in advance
- Like independent time on islands instead of guided pacing
- Are comfortable with a quick “see one thing well” plan in Gozo
You should think twice or avoid it if you:
- Are prone to seasickness or motion problems (the trip isn’t designed for that)
- Have back problems, heart problems, mobility impairments, or need wheelchair access (the activity lists specific limitations)
- Are pregnant or traveling with very young children (it’s not suitable under age 3)
In plain terms: it’s a powerboat trip, not a slow floating day.
Tips to make your 6 hours feel un-rushed

A good day here comes down to preparation and quick decisions.
- Get your Blue Lagoon access pass before you go. Use blcomino.com and choose the afternoon slot. If you wait, limited daily allocation can bite you.
- Pack like you’re swimming twice. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. You’ll want protection both for Comino time and for the Gozo wandering.
- Wear comfortable shoes anyway. Gozo exploration can involve walking and uneven ground around harbour areas.
- Have a Gozo game plan. With only two hours, decide what you want first, then choose transport accordingly. If you’re heading to major sights like Victoria/Citadel, use time buffers so you’re not sprinting back.
- Assume the boat ride may be bumpy. If you’re nervous, take motion prevention. If you’re very sensitive, this may not be your best Malta outing.
These practical steps are what turn the day from “tight and stressful” into “fast and satisfying.”
Should you book this St. Julian’s Gozo and Comino powerboat tour?
I’d book it if your priority is the Blue Lagoon swim plus an efficient taste of Gozo, and you’re willing to handle the pass requirement and your own island exploration time. The ride is part of the fun, and the schedule is built to get you value for your hours.
Don’t book it if you can’t manage the Blue Lagoon pass rules, if crowds at the lagoon would ruin your mood, or if you’re very likely to feel sick on fast boats. In those cases, you’ll spend your limited time worrying instead of enjoying the water and views.
If you want my quick decision checklist:
Yes = you’re a confident swimmer, you’ll sort the pass, and you like speed.
No = you need a guided day, you can’t do powerboat motion, or your schedule doesn’t allow pass planning.
If you match the “yes” side, this is a solid Malta day—built around the two places most people come to see, without wasting time getting there.
FAQ
How long is the Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon powerboat tour?
The tour duration is 6 hours.
Where does the boat depart from in St. Julian’s?
The boat departs from the jetty behind Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St. Julian’s. You’ll find a black iron gate, then follow the ramp and the yellow line to the jetty.
Is there a tour guide included?
No. This is not a guided tour. You’ll have free time during the stops in Gozo and Comino.
How much time do I get in Gozo and on Comino?
You get 2 hours of free time in Gozo at Mġarr Harbour. On Comino, you’ll have free time at the island and the Blue Lagoon during the afternoon.
Do I need a pass to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes. Since May 2025, you must obtain a government-issued access pass in advance from blcomino.com to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. If you don’t have a pass, you’ll be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and motion sickness prevention.













