Gozo & Comino: Guided Kayak Tour with Caves & Swim Stop

Summary

Kayaking Gozo to Comino with sea caves, hidden bays, and local stories

You’ll paddle from Gozo to Comino with a small group, guided by locals who know every bay and cave. Expect cool echoes inside sea caves, a swim break in quiet waters, and stories about pirate lords or ancient salt pans. It’s active but relaxed — you’ll feel part of something simple and genuine out on that channel between islands.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — paddles knocking gently against plastic kayaks while we waited at Hondoq Bay, that salty breeze already sticking to my skin. Our guide, Mark, handed me a life vest and grinned, “You’ll get used to the wobble.” I wasn’t sure if he meant the kayak or my nerves. The water between Gozo and Comino looked calm enough but wide — it’s about 800 meters across, he said. I glanced at the others; some were chatting in Maltese, one guy nervously re-tightening his sunglasses strap for the third time.

We set off along Gozo’s coast first — easier than jumping straight into open water. The cliffs were pale and rough under the sun, and there was this faint smell of thyme from somewhere inland. Mark pointed out St Anthony’s Battery up on the ridge (I’d never have noticed). Crossing over to Comino felt like a small adventure; my arms started burning halfway through but then you get into a rhythm. The main keyword here is patience — not speed. When we reached the first cave, it was cooler inside and echoey, with tiny fish darting around our paddles. It’s funny how quickly you stop worrying about tipping over once you’re distracted by shadows on limestone walls.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much during a day trip from Gozo to Comino — especially when Mark tried teaching us the Maltese names for different bays (I still can’t pronounce “Daħlet il-Ħmara” right). At our break spot in Santa Marija Bay, I flopped onto warm rocks while some people swam; others just lay back with their eyes closed. There was this moment where everything felt quiet except for distant gulls and someone opening a packet of biscuits (which they shared — bless them). We only popped by Blue Lagoon for a few minutes since it gets packed; honestly, I liked our little hidden bay better anyway.

On the way back we passed Qala Rock — apparently there’s an old pirate story tied to it but I only caught half of what Mark said because I was too busy watching sunlight flicker across the water. My shoulders were sore by then but in that good way that makes you feel like you actually did something. Sometimes I still think about those blue-green shadows under my kayak and wonder if next time I’ll remember how to say “urchin” in Maltese without making everyone laugh again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided kayak tour from Gozo to Comino

• Meet guide at Hondoq Bay
• Get equipment and safety briefing
• Kayak along Gozo coastline
• Cross Gozo Channel to Comino
• Explore caves, bays, and rock formations
• Visit Blue Lagoon briefly
• Take 30-minute break to swim and relax
• Explore eastern Comino archway and rock formations
• Visit Urchin's Bay swimming spot
• See Qala Rock and learn local history
• Return kayak tour to Hondoq Bay

Top questions

Is this kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome. The guide teaches basics before starting.

How long does the kayak tour last?

The guided tour lasts about 2.5 hours on water plus a 30-minute break.

Where does the kayak tour start?

The tour starts at Hondoq Bay on Gozo.

Is swimming ability required?

Yes, all participants must be able to swim at a basic level.

Are single kayaks available?

Double kayaks are standard for even groups; singles may be requested in advance.

What happens if weather is bad?

Tours are weather-dependent; routes may change or tours may be rescheduled if needed.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Hondoq Bay on Gozo.

Can children join this kayak adventure?

Children aged 10+ can join; those under 15 must share a double kayak with an adult.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all kayaking equipment—kayak, paddle, life vest, dry bag—and free photos taken during your trip. There’s also a lockable area for your things (shared space), plus guidance from locals who help with technique and safety throughout your adventure between Gozo and Comino.