Comino water in your arms? This 3-in-1 Gozo outing strings together a kayak along Hondoq Bay, a Santa Maria Caves boat tour, and then a Comino drop-off for swimming. I like that it’s active in the morning, scenic by boat right after, and then totally flexible once you hit the Blue Lagoon. The one drawback to plan for: Comino is popular, so your Blue Lagoon time may be busy no matter what month you go.

You’ll meet at Hondoq Bay (Qala) under a big yellow umbrella, get geared up with life vest and paddle, and follow a guide for about an hour along the coastline, including a quick stop at a small beach. Then the day shifts gears—there’s a short break, a speedboat ride into the caves, and finally the drop-off where you can stay as long as you wish before the last return boat.

If you want value, this is a smart way to spend a few hours on two islands. Just know you’ll need to handle the Comino/Blue Lagoon time-slot system for 2025, or you simply won’t be able to board the trip.

Quick hits before you go

• Three activities, one smooth flow: kayak → cave boat ride → Blue Lagoon drop-off
• Small group feel: better attention on the water and quicker pacing through the day
• Santa Maria Caves inside access: the boat takes you right into the caves
• Blue Lagoon time you control: swim and snorkel at your pace after drop-off
• Included gear helps you travel light: life vest, paddle, and a water bottle are on them
• Real “splash” energy: the speedboat can get you wet (plan accordingly)

The 3-part plan that keeps things fun, not rushed

This tour is built like a good day of sightseeing: do something hands-on first, switch to low-effort cruising second, then finish with freedom. The kayak portion gets you out on the water without feeling like you’re committing to a full-day sea paddle. The cave stop adds a story-and-scene moment, since the Santa Maria Caves were used in the 2003 movie Conte of Monte Cristo. Then the Blue Lagoon becomes your blank space—swim, snorkel, or just float and watch the water color change as clouds move.

That structure also helps if you’re traveling with mixed interests. One person can be focused on paddling and views early on, while everyone else gets a break during the boat rides. And once you’re dropped at Blue Lagoon, you can choose your intensity: quick dip or longer session, depending on how your energy holds up.

Meeting at Hondoq Bay: easy to find, but arrive early

You meet at Hondoq Bay jetty in Qala, Gozo, under a big yellow umbrella. The stated meeting time is 10:30am, and they ask you to arrive 20 minutes early. That buffer matters because Comino’s ferry timing and dock traffic can make the overall flow feel crowded, especially around midday transfers.

Once you arrive, you’ll sign a disclaimer form and store your items in a lockable area on land (shared space, at your own risk). After a quick welcome, you’ll get briefed on what’s next and where you’ll paddle.

Practical note: this tour includes life vests and paddles, so you’re not hunting for equipment. You still want to come ready for sun—sunglasses and sunscreen matter fast in Malta.

1 hour of kayaking along the Hondoq Bay coastline

The main paddling portion runs for about an hour, following the coastline of Hondoq Bay with your guide. They’ll explain how to paddle, and then you follow along to see the spots along the coast. There’s also a quick stop at a small beach, which breaks up the paddle and gives you a moment to stretch and re-orient before heading back toward the starting jetty.

The timing is set to land you back around the 11am–12pm window. That’s a good pace: enough time to feel like you did a real water activity, not so long that you’re exhausted before the boat portions begin. If you’re the type who gets nervous about doing something “technical,” the guided setup helps you get your bearings quickly—especially since you aren’t expected to navigate on your own.

What to watch for:

• You’ll be on the water with sun exposure, wind, and spray, even if the day looks calm from shore.
• The tour isn’t listed as suitable for low fitness levels, people prone to seasickness, or people with back problems. If any of those apply, it’s worth thinking twice before signing up.

Quick break at Hondoq Bay: reset time before the caves

After the kayak loop, you get a break. The schedule mentions a break around 30–35 minutes, which is enough time to grab yourself a drink, use public restrooms at Hondoq Bay, and decide if you want to change into swim clothes early.

This is also the moment to fix the little things that can ruin a fun day later: wipe off sunscreen if it’s getting sticky, reapply if you need to, and double-check you’ve got what you want at Blue Lagoon (towel and beachwear are key). The tour includes a bottled water, but bringing your own basics is still smart since lunch isn’t included.

Santa Maria Caves: a 20-minute boat ride right inside the rock

Around 12:45pm, a boat departs from the Hondoq Bay jetty for the Santa Maria Caves. The caves tour is about 20 minutes, and the boat can take you inside the caves—so you’re not just looking at them from the outside like a drive-by viewpoint.

This part is short, but it’s the kind of short that works. You get the dramatic “we’re in the cave” feeling, plus a clear transition toward Comino without burning half the day in a stop-and-go sightseeing rhythm.

And there’s a neat movie connection: these caves were filmed for Conte of Monte Cristo in 2003. Even if you don’t care about film trivia, it helps you understand why people get excited about this specific cave system—it’s built for close, memorable viewing.

Blue Lagoon drop-off: how to use your free time well

After the cave stop, you head toward the Blue Lagoon on Comino. The day ends with a drop-off where you can stay as long as you wish, with pickup timing arranged by the operator. The last boat return from Blue Lagoon to Gozo is listed as 6pm, so your best strategy is to decide when you want to be done and work backward.

The Blue Lagoon is for swimming and snorkeling. They also describe options like walking and self-guided sightseeing around Comino once you’re there. The water is the headline here—people come for the turquoise look, but the practical reason to plan carefully is that the lagoon can be crowded, even outside peak summer. That doesn’t automatically ruin it. It just means you should expect other swimmers, and you’ll want to time your snorkel session when you can find space.

Here’s how I’d handle it:

• If you want calmer water for snorkeling, aim to start earlier rather than last-minute.
• Bring a towel and change of clothes since you will likely be wet.
• Have a plan for sun: sunscreen and sunglasses aren’t optional in that glare.

Also, the tour doesn’t include dry bags. If you’re trying to keep your phone and valuables dry (and you probably are), pack a small waterproof pouch or dry container of your own. Avoid oversize luggage—large bags aren’t allowed.

Speedboat transfer: fun, fast, and often wet

There’s a short speedboat element on the way back during the day flow. Expect it to be energetic. The water around the Comino route can splash, and you should assume you’ll get some spray. That’s not a reason to cancel. It’s just a reminder to dress smart: quick-dry clothes help, and it’s better to wear swim-ready layers than fuss with a fragile outfit.

If you hate getting wet, this part will test your tolerance. If you like laughing through the splash, it’s a fun pulse in the middle of a day that otherwise includes two slower-water experiences.

Timing reality: the day fits in 3 hours, but Blue Lagoon can stretch

The tour is advertised as about 3 hours, but it also includes a longer Blue Lagoon window where you can stay as long as you want. In practice, think of it as a half-day block with a flexible swim period rather than a tight, clockwork 3-hour adventure.

Why that matters: you’ll be coordinating your return based on the last boat at 6pm. If you show up late or leave Blue Lagoon too close to the deadline, you’ll feel rushed at the end. If you manage your time, you get the best of both worlds: guided activities early, then the choice to linger at the water.

Price and value: what $41 covers (and what it doesn’t)

At about $41 per person, the appeal is that a lot of the cost is “baked in.” You get life vest, a bottle of water, and a paddle. You’re also paying for guided paddling along the coastline and the boat time for the Santa Maria Caves plus the transfer toward Blue Lagoon.

What’s not included is also clear:

• transportation to and from your hotel
• lunch
• dry bags

So the value depends on how you plan your day before and after. If you’re already in the area and you’re fine skipping a sit-down lunch, this price can feel like a bargain for the mix of activities. If you need taxi costs or want a full beach-day meal break, budget a bit more.

The smart way to think about it: you’re paying to not do the hard logistics yourself—equipment, guides, and the cave/Blue Lagoon transfers are all handled. That saves stress, and stress is one of the most expensive travel costs.

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

This experience is a good match for people who want a guided water outing without spending a full day on the water. It also works well for families with kids older than the minimum listed age. The tour specifies it’s not suitable for children under 3 years, so kids above that threshold may be fine with the right comfort level around water.

It’s not a good match for:

• non-swimmers
• people prone to seasickness
• pregnant women
• people with back problems
• people over 243 lbs (110 kg)
• people over 70 years
• anyone with low level of fitness

If you fall into any of those groups, you’ll want to look for a different activity. It’s not about bravery—it’s about safety and comfort with paddling and boat movement.

What to pack for Comino day comfort

This is the day where you’ll feel every small planning decision. Bring:

• change of clothes
• towel
• sunscreen
• beachwear
• sunglasses

And wear something you’re okay getting splashed in. The tour also flags that smoking isn’t allowed, and oversize luggage/larger bags aren’t. Keep your load light and easy to manage during storage on land.

One more practical thought: since you won’t have dry bags included, plan how you’ll protect your phone, camera, and wallet. A waterproof pouch is the simplest fix.

Comino Blue Lagoon entry rules for 2025 time slots

As of May 1, 2025, Comino/Blue Lagoon access uses a pre-booking time-slot system through the official site: www.blcomino.com. You pick from three time windows:

• 08:00 – 13:30
• 13:31 – 17:30
• 17:31 – 22:00

When you arrive for your boat trip, you show the valid ticket and the operator issues a boarding pass for their service. There’s currently no charge to book the visit for the 2025 season, but delays are expected because docking and boarding/unloading involve lots of people adjusting to the new system. So give yourself mental slack.

Should you book this kayak + caves + Blue Lagoon drop-off?

Book it if you want maximum variety with minimal hassle: guided paddling in Gozo, a short cave boat ride, and then free time at the Blue Lagoon where you can snorkel and swim at your pace. The small-group setup is also a big reason to choose this, since it’s easier to get help and stay comfortable on the water.

Skip or rethink it if you’re not comfortable around boats and water movement, you’re prone to seasickness, or you know you’ll struggle with sun and crowded conditions at Blue Lagoon. Also, if you haven’t planned for the 2025 time-slot system, you’ll have a problem boarding without the correct confirmation.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the kayaking portion?

Kayaking along the Hondoq Bay coastline lasts about 1 hour.

When and where do we meet?

You meet at the Hondoq Bay jetty in Qala, Gozo, under a big yellow umbrella at 10:30am. They ask you to arrive about 20 minutes early.

Is any equipment included?

Yes. You get a life vest and a paddle, plus a bottle of water.

Will there be restrooms during the tour?

Yes. There are public restrooms at Hondoq Bay during the break.

How long is the Santa Maria Caves part?

The Santa Maria Caves boat tour is about 20 minutes.

How much time do I get at the Blue Lagoon?

You’ll be dropped off at the Blue Lagoon and can stay for as long as you wish. The last boat back to Gozo leaves at 6pm.

Do I need to pre-book for Comino/Blue Lagoon in 2025?

Yes. As of May 1, 2025, you must pre-book your time slot through www.blcomino.com and show your valid ticket to receive a boarding pass.

What should I bring, and is lunch included?

Bring sunglasses, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Lunch is not included, and dry bags are also not included.