A gulet day trip can feel like vacation mode. This one runs from Valletta on the Turkish gulet Fernandez, with stops in Gozo and then Comino’s famous Blue Lagoon for swimming time, plus snacks, a buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks onboard. Pickup is offered, so you’re not stressing about finding your own way to the dock.

What I like most is how much food and drink you get without extra thinking. You’ll have hot and cold buffet options plus snacks (morning and afternoon) and a buffet lunch, with unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and water. A second big win is the easy sailing rhythm: anchor, swim, snack, repeat, with time built in for a proper swim at each stop. The main drawback to consider is that this is a group sail with a possible large headcount (up to 180), so it can feel crowded—especially around lunch seating and deck space.

Key things to know before you go

• Round-trip transfers offered from Malta accommodations, which removes a lot of hassle
• Two water stops: Gozo for a bay swim, then Comino for the Blue Lagoon swim time
• Unlimited drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, water) plus snacks and buffet lunch
• Snorkeling is workable during the Blue Lagoon stop, and gear is available onboard
• Not everything is included: coffee, ice cream, and the cave speed boat ride are extra

Valletta to Gozo and Comino in One Smooth 7.5-Hour Stretch

This day trip is built for “show up, relax, swim.” It starts at 9:00 am and runs about 7 hours 30 minutes, which is a good length for people who want a full day without losing the entire evening. You’re cruising on a Turkish gulet (a traditional-style sailing boat), and the whole structure is designed around comfort and simple logistics: the crew manages the sailing and the stops, and you mostly manage sunscreen.

The route makes practical sense, too. You’re based in Valletta and you’re not trying to stitch together separate buses, ferry schedules, and random boat tickets. With pickup offered, it can be especially convenient if you’re staying in Malta’s busier areas and want a single plan from morning to return.

A quick reality check on group sailing

The tour caps at 180 travelers, which tells you the vibe: fun and social, but not quiet. On a day-boat, crowding tends to show up in the same places—sunbathing deck space, bathroom lines, and lunch seating. Some people find that part easy; others want more elbow room. If you’re the type who hates feeling shoulder-to-shoulder, plan to spend more time moving between deck areas and less time staying glued to lunch tables.

Price and Value: Why $85.98 Can Actually Feel Like a Good Deal

Let’s talk money in plain terms. At $85.98 per person, this isn’t a bargain-feeling deal if you compare it only to a one-stop boat ticket. But compare it to what you’d pay for the same day if you did it yourself: boat time plus beach/anchoring access plus snacks plus lunch plus drinks. Those add up fast.

Here’s why the value works for many people:

• Transfers are included via pickup offered, which is often the hidden cost in DIY plans.
• You get unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and water, plus morning and afternoon snacks.
• You also get a hot and cold buffet and a buffet lunch—so you’re not hunting down food in-between swims.

One practical tip: set your expectations for drinks and meals as “included cruise food,” not gourmet dining. The reviews lean positive about taste and the way the crew handles service, but you might still prefer eating small portions more often instead of loading a huge plate and waiting for ideal seating.

Onboard Comfort and Crew: Friendly, Organized, and Built for a Long Day

When a day trip promises an all-in plan, the crew’s role matters. In this case, the staff and captain are consistently described as friendly and helpful, and that changes the whole mood on a group boat. You’ll want that energy because you’ll spend a lot of time in transit and at anchor, and you’re relying on the crew to run the day cleanly.

Boat condition also comes up. The Fernandez is described as new and well cared for. That’s not a small detail. A better-maintained boat typically means a smoother ride, cleaner facilities, and fewer “why is this broken” moments.

What you should watch for: seating and table space

One caution shows up in the feedback: on busy days, some guests say there isn’t enough space for everyone to sit comfortably at lunch, or that seating can feel tight. If you’re sensitive to crowding, do yourself a favor:

• Go in ready for a “take what you can get” seating approach.
• Plan to eat, not linger forever.
• Use deck space between swim breaks to stretch and cool down.

If you’re easygoing and focused on the water stops, this is usually fine.

Stop 1 in Gozo: A Secluded Bay Swim Before the Blue Lagoon Rush

The first stop is Island of Gozo, with about 1 hour 30 minutes on the timetable. You’ll drop anchor in a secluded bay, which is exactly what you want before the more famous Comino area gets busy. The whole point here is to get your first swim started without turning it into a waiting game.

Why the Gozo stop is worth it

Gozo is different from the main Malta coastline, and the bay setting helps you feel like you’re getting away even if you’re still on a scheduled tour. This first water break is a great time to:

• Put your swimsuit on early, so you’re not rushing when the boat stops.
• Do a quick snorkel-check if you brought goggles or want to use onboard gear later.
• Take a photo or two, but not at the cost of getting in the water.

The practical trade-off

This stop is shorter than the Blue Lagoon time, so you shouldn’t expect a full “beach day.” Think swim session with some time to enjoy the surroundings. If you’re chasing a slow, lazy soak on sand, this may feel more time-efficient than relaxing.

Blue Lagoon in Comino: Famous Water, Real Swim Time, and Snorkel Options

Then comes the big one: Blue Lagoon in Comino. You get about 2 hours here, which is a fair amount for swimming and time to hop in and out without feeling constantly rushed. The water is the headline. And yes, it’s known for a reason.

What to do during the Blue Lagoon window

You’ll get the most out of this stop if you treat it like a mini schedule:

• Start with a swim and take in the area before the crowd peaks.
• If you want snorkeling, you can do it off the boat. Equipment is available onboard, so you’re not forced into buying or packing gear.
• Then take a slower pace moment. The boat day is long; you don’t want to spend it only moving.

One more thing: during the Blue Lagoon stop, there are typically other activities available in the area. If you prefer “swim and explore,” you’ll have options. If you prefer “stay close to the boat,” you can do that too.

A note for people who get seasick or sunburn fast

You’ll be out on deck in the sun for long stretches, and the stops are water-first. Bring what you need to prevent an early vacation burn:

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• A swimsuit you don’t mind getting saltwater on
• Basic water-friendly comfort, because you’re switching between deck and sea

Food and Drinks: Buffet Lunch That Keeps You from Spending Money Mid-Trip

This is one of the most practical reasons people pick this tour. Included on board you’ll find a hot and cold buffet, unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and water, plus snacks in the morning and afternoon. It’s the kind of setup where you can eat when you feel hungry instead of chasing food at random times.

What you should expect from an all-included buffet

On a boat day, buffet food usually works best when you:

• Eat in smaller chunks.
• Don’t expect fine dining plating.
• Use lunch as fuel for swimming, not as a culinary destination.

Still, the general feedback points to satisfying meals and a positive onboard vibe. If you’re worried about food quality, use this approach: plan to nibble a little, then go back out to swim. The goal is water time, not a restaurant review.

Drinks: unlimited, but pace yourself

Unlimited drinks sounds carefree. And it can be. Just remember you’re still on the water and you’ll be in and out of sun and shade. Staying hydrated helps you swim longer and feel better when the boat is moving.

Snorkeling and Swim Timing: How to Make the Water Stops Work for You

The tour is built for swimming. You’ll have time at Gozo’s bay and again in the Blue Lagoon. That gives you a simple pattern: two swim chances, plus the ability to do snorkeling during the Blue Lagoon window.

If you want a smooth experience:

• Start your day with a quick check of what you’re bringing (swimwear, towel if you like, sunscreen).
• Bring simple swim gear like goggles if you have them, since the included setup may cover snorkeling equipment onboard but you may still prefer your own items.
• Be ready for anchor-time boarding and exit. That’s normal on these trips—boats stop, the crew coordinates entry, and you follow the flow.

And if you don’t want to swim far: no pressure. Most people just float, swim nearby, and enjoy the water view from the surface.

Weather, Cancellations, and Safety: The One Thing You Can’t Control

This experience depends on good weather. When sea conditions aren’t suitable, trips can be canceled for safety, and you may be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s not a “gotcha,” it’s how water travel works.

If you’re planning your Malta days like a strict itinerary, keep this in mind:

• If possible, avoid scheduling other must-do plans right after your tour.
• Have at least one flexible option on the same day or nearby day.

If your holiday is tight and this tour is a top priority, build it into your schedule early enough that you have backup time.

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

This is a strong choice if you want:

• A single-day itinerary that handles transfers, food, and water access
• A real swim day with two anchoring stops
• Included snacks and a buffet lunch so you’re not hunting for meals on the fly
• A social atmosphere where it’s easy to chat with other visitors

It may be less ideal if:

• You hate crowds or want lots of personal space on deck and at lunch
• You’re picky about seating comfort and table availability
• You prefer a quieter, independent trip with more control over your own timing

Think of it as a “big day out” option. The trade-off for convenience and included extras is that you’re sharing the boat with a lot of people.

Should You Book Fernandes Gozo & Comino?

If you want a stress-light day on the water, I think this is worth booking. The biggest reason is value: unlimited drinks, snacks, and a buffet lunch are included, and you also get pickup offered from Malta. Add in the two swim stops—Gozo’s calmer bay time and Comino’s Blue Lagoon window—and you’ve got a full day that doesn’t require planning gymnastics.

Just go in with the right expectations about crowding and seating. If you can handle a lively group atmosphere, you’ll likely have a great time. If space and comfort are your top priorities, choose your timing carefully and consider whether a smaller boat day trip would suit you better.

FAQ

What time does the Fernandes Gozo & Comino tour start?

The start time is 9:00 am.

How long is the tour?

It runs for approximately 7 hours 30 minutes.

Is pickup from accommodations in Malta included?

Pickup is offered, which makes it easier to get from your accommodation to the meeting point.

Where do the boat stops happen?

The tour stops at the Island of Gozo and then at the Blue Lagoon in Comino.

How much time is spent at each stop?

Gozo is listed as 1 hour 30 minutes, and the Blue Lagoon stop is listed as 2 hours.

What food and drinks are included?

You’ll have a hot and cold buffet, unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and water. There are also included morning and afternoon snacks and a buffet lunch.

What is not included?

Coffee, ice cream, and the cave speed boat ride are not included.

How many travelers are on the tour?

The tour can have a maximum of 180 travelers.

Does the tour run in all weather?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.