Blue water, and you still have space. On this small Turkish gulet, I love the three swim-and-snorkel stops across Comino and Gozo, plus stand-up paddleboarding at the best moments. One heads-up: the Blue Lagoon can be packed, so you might not sit right where you’d hoped.

You start in Sliema, then spend the day moving at a relaxed sailing pace instead of doing a sprint-and-grab. I also like that the vibe stays easy on board, with time to actually swim and not just get photographed from the deck. The main drawback to plan around is simple: there’s no hotel pickup, and you’ll need to be on time for check-in.

Key points to know before you go

• A smaller boat, around 20–23 people: more deck space and less crowd pressure.
• Real swimming time: multiple water stops add up to a big chunk of the day.
• Blue Lagoon includes snorkeling and SUP: two hours is long enough to do what you want.
• Gozo focus without a hike: Ħalfa Rock gives you dramatic coast views and another swim chance.
• Snacks and drinks for purchase: you’ll want to budget for it, since lunch isn’t included.
• Wifi onboard: useful for keeping your day plan straight while you’re out at sea.

From Sliema out to Comino and Gozo: how the day actually moves

This is an 8-hour day cruise that’s built around water time first. You meet opposite Land’s End Boutique Hotel in Sliema and check in about 30 minutes before departure. No hotel pickup means you’ll want to plan for getting there early, especially if you’re driving and still finding the right spot.

Once you’re aboard, the day flows like a gentle route: sail time to the first bay, then swim stops, then more sailing back toward Sliema. The schedule includes several cruising segments (for example, a longer 75-minute stretch early on), plus short scenic/photo moments later in the day.

If you like the idea of a “floating day” where you can lounge between swims, this works. If you’re looking for lots of walking tours, this isn’t that kind of day. You’re paying for the water—and you’ll feel it in how the itinerary is paced.

Why a Turkish gulet day cruise feels calmer than big-boat tours

The standout here is the boat type. You’re on a traditional wooden sailing boat (a Turkish gulet), with a deck that’s meant for relaxing. On a smaller cruise, you’re not fighting for space every time the boat shifts position.

I’d call out the group size as a big part of the value. The experiences I saw described this as a smaller group, about 20-odd people including the skipper. That matters because it changes the whole tempo: you get a calmer onboard atmosphere, and the staff can manage the boat without feeling like everything is rushed.

One practical note from real-world experiences: boarding may involve a small step down from the dock. So if you’re traveling with heavy bags or you’re not steady on stairs, arrive with enough time to take it slow and get settled.

Selmun Bay (Imgiebah area): your first chance to get in the water

After the initial cruising stretch, you’ll reach Selmun Bay, described as calm and clear with rocky cliffs and greenery around it. The stop is around 1 hour for swimming and snorkeling, plus scenic views as you approach.

This is a good “warm-up” stop. Not everyone nails snorkeling on the first try, and having a shorter bay stop first helps you find your rhythm. You’ll have snorkeling equipment available on board, so you’re not trying to solve that part at the dock.

What I like about starting here is that it’s less about the hype and more about the water itself. Even if the more famous spots get crowded later, you can still have a satisfying swim early in the day—right when the sea mood can be at its best.

Blue Lagoon for two hours: snorkel, swim, and stand-up paddleboard

The Blue Lagoon is the headline stop for a reason: the water turns intensely turquoise, and the snorkeling reputation is well earned. You get about 2 hours here, which is a rare gift on a day cruise. It gives you time to swim first, then snorkel, then go back for a second look without rushing.

Do know this part of the itinerary comes with one reality check: the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, and the boat might not anchor where you’d expect. In those cases, the skipper may take you to a nearby alternative bay so you still get the water time you paid for.

You can also use stand-up paddleboards at this stop. Two boards are included, so you’ll likely get a turn, especially if you’re flexible on timing. If you’re new to SUP, it can help to do a short practice before you head out farther—just to avoid doing your first attempt in choppy excitement.

If you want photos, the best angle usually comes from the deck when you’re close enough to see the shoreline. For actual swimming, think more about where the water feels easiest to enter and where you can relax into the snorkel.

Ħalfa Rock in Gozo: a dramatic coast stop without the long outing

After Blue Lagoon, the cruise heads toward Gozo and stops at Ħalfa Rock. This is where you trade the classic “pretty postcard water” for sharper cliffs and a more rugged feel.

You’ll have about 45 minutes here for sightseeing and optional swimming/snorkeling. This is enough time to get a quick sense of the coast, take a few photos, and still jump in if conditions feel right. It’s not a long land excursion, so the focus stays on sea-level views and water time.

One of the nicer touches people pointed out is how the crew keeps the atmosphere friendly during these stops—ready with drinks and ready to talk about where you’ve been. If you like hearing quick stories instead of a constant lecture, this matches that style.

Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock photo stops: quick sights from the water

Later in the day, you’ll have short photo stops at Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock. Each is about 10 minutes, with scenic viewing as you pass.

These moments are for snapshots and quick admiration, not for walking around. If you want to stretch your legs or spend an hour exploring on land, this part won’t satisfy that itch. But if you’re happy with a “see it, shoot it, move on” rhythm, these stops help you feel like you saw more than only bays.

I also like that the cruise doesn’t overload the day with too many stops. There’s still plenty of water time overall, which is what keeps the experience feeling worth it.

On-board rhythm: wifi, drinks, and when you’ll feel hungry

This tour gives you a full day at sea, but it doesn’t include lunch. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, and snacks are sold during the day.

From real comments, drinks and snacks were described as reasonably priced, and that matters. If you’re going to spend most of your day in swim mode, you’ll probably want water, something light, or a cold drink as the afternoon warms up.

The onboard free wifi can be useful for practical things like messaging your ride in Sliema or checking your next stop. It’s also a good backup for maps if you’re trying to plan dinner once you get back.

Between cruise segments and swim windows, you’ll feel the day’s rhythm quickly. Bring your best “sea day mindset”: expect delays tied to sea and crowds, and don’t treat every minute like a strict checklist. That’s how you stay relaxed.

What to bring (and what to avoid) for a smooth swim day

You’ll be in and out of the water multiple times, so pack like a pro. Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, and sunscreen. Expect changing weather too—so plan for wind and sun, not just sunshine.

A couple of key rules are clearly stated: no pets, and no glass objects. That’s mostly about safety on board, especially around water activities.

If you tend to get sunburned easily, sunscreen isn’t optional here. And if you think you can get by with one towel for the whole day—don’t. You’ll want something you can dry off with between swims.

Price and value: is $59 fair for this 8-hour water day?

At about $59 per person, the price is easier to judge when you look at what’s included. You’re getting a full 8-hour cruise on a traditional gulet, with swimming and snorkeling stops at Selmun Bay and Blue Lagoon and Ħalfa Rock. Snorkeling equipment is included, and stand-up paddleboards are included too, plus a skipper and crew.

That makes the deal feel more like “pay for time on the water” than “pay for transportation.” The cruise setup is part of the attraction, and it’s also where you can save money compared with piecing together multiple tickets and rentals on your own.

Two costs you should plan for: food and drinks (not included), and your own travel to the meeting point in Sliema (no hotel pickup). If you’re the type who wants lunch sorted for you, this will feel slightly less convenient. But if you’re happy buying a snack onboard and spending the day swimming, the overall value is strong.

Also, the smaller boat size can change the math. Less crowd fighting often means more comfortable time in the water, which is hard to price until you’ve tried the big-boat version.

Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)

This tour is a great match if you:

• Want a relaxed day on the sea with real swim time
• Like snorkeling but don’t want to manage equipment logistics
• Prefer smaller-group sailing over huge crowds
• Want a quick Gozo highlight (Ħalfa Rock) without committing to a long land tour

You might want to skip or think twice if you:

• Need a guaranteed uncrowded Blue Lagoon experience (the area can be full)
• Want lots of guided history on land
• Don’t want to handle boarding logistics yourself (meeting point is in Sliema and you check in without pickup)

Should you book the Malta 3-Bay Cruise to Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon and Gozo?

If your goal is time in the water—swimming, snorkeling, and trying SUP—you should book. The included snorkeling gear and paddleboards add real value, and the smaller-boat feel makes the day feel calmer than the high-volume alternatives.

Book with one expectation set: the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, and you may not be right where you pictured. That said, the skipper’s ability to adjust and still deliver a great swim is part of why people felt it was worth choosing this smaller tour.

If you want an easy Malta day that’s mostly sea time (not lectures or long walks), this is a smart pick.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The duration is 8 hours.

Where do I meet the tour?

The meeting point is opposite Land’s End Boutique Hotel in Sliema.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What swimming and snorkeling stops are included?

You’ll have swimming and snorkeling stops at Blue Lagoon, Selmun Bay, and Ħalfa Rock. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Are stand-up paddle boards included?

Yes. Stand up paddle boards are included (2 boards).

Is lunch or food included?

No. Lunch and drinks are not included, but snacks and refreshments are available for purchase.

What should I bring, and what isn’t allowed?

Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Pets and glass objects are not allowed.

Is free cancellation available?

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