Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Caves Cruise

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, stunning sea caves, and a leisurely day on the water, this boat tour in Malta might just be your perfect escape. Offered by Hornblower Cruises at a very reasonable price, this experience packs a lot into a 4-7 hour window — including swimming in famous spots, exploring caves, and soaking in the coastal scenery.

One thing we really appreciate about this trip is how it balances relaxed sunbathing with active exploration. From the fun slide into the Blue Lagoon to the informative commentary from Captain Kevin, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. That said, the tour can get busy, especially at the Blue Lagoon, so arriving early for a good spot is recommended.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who love water-based activities, want a taste of Malta’s iconic sights, and enjoy a friendly, family-run atmosphere. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with family or friends who are keen on swimming, snorkeling, and making the most of Malta’s scenic coastlines — all without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Value: At just $34 per person, this tour offers a full day of exploring with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning views of caves, islands, and the surrounding Maltese coastline.
• Flexible Time: Between 4 and 7 hours, with a generous 4.5-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and sunbathing.
• Family-Friendly Features: Slides, deck chairs, and shallow mooring areas make it suitable for families, although it’s not ideal for mobility-impaired travelers.
• Authentic Atmosphere: A family-run operation with friendly staff and knowledgeable guides, notably Captain Kevin, who adds extra charm.
• Extra Options: You can rent snorkel gear, try a speedboat cave tour (cash on-site), and purchase food and drinks onboard.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure Details

The tour kicks off from Hornblower Cruises Malta in St. Paul’s Bay, a convenient location easily accessible by bus, car, or taxi. The dock is behind LOA Restaurant, marked by a large white and blue boat with “Hornblower” in red. Guests are advised to arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour early to secure a good spot and avoid any last-minute stress.

Travelers frequently mention how easy it is to find parking in the free roadside white boxes or nearby parking area, and the boat’s proximity to bus stops makes it a practical choice for those without a car.

Itinerary Breakdown & What You Can Expect

The Tour’s Route:

• The trip begins with a scenic cruise along Malta’s northern coast, passing iconic sights like St. Paul’s Islands and a famous statue of St. Paul himself. This initial stretch provides a great opportunity to snap photos and soak in the views while the crew shares interesting facts about the coastline.
• As you cruise past Ahrax Point, the boat will enter the north channel of Comino, passing notable landmarks such as Santa Maria Bay, St. Nicholas Bay, and the Comino Hotel. The captain, famously known as Kevin, will fill you in on local stories and site highlights, adding a personal touch to the journey.
• Two stops are dedicated to exploring Santa Maria Cave and Ahrax Cave, with brief but memorable visits that allow you to appreciate their unique formations from close up.

The Main Attraction: Blue Lagoon

After about an hour of sightseeing and cave visits, the boat arrives at Comino Island and moors in the Blue Lagoon. This is the highlight for most travelers — a stretch of turquoise waters surrounded by rugged cliffs and limestone formations. The boat stays here for 4.5 hours, giving ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Guests often comment on the excellent location for jumping into the water, with a slide from the top deck that provides a quick thrill. The water’s incredible clarity makes it perfect for snorkeling, and many reviews mention renting gear on-site for just €5 (deposit required), which is a good deal for such a pristine environment.

Additional Stops and Scenic Cruising

From the Blue Lagoon, the cruise continues around nearby points like Crystal Lagoon for a quick photo stop and St. Mary’s Tower, where you can take pictures or enjoy some free time. The return trip includes cruising through caves along the south channel, passing St. Mary’s Tower once more, offering more scenic views and photo opportunities.

Facilities & Comfort

The boat offers limited deck chairs on the upper deck, perfect for sunbathing, while shaded areas on the main deck are available if you prefer some relief from the sun. The toilet facilities are basic but functional, with some reviews noting they could be cleaner, which is worth mentioning if comfort is a priority.

The onboard cafeteria sells hot and cold beverages, and the crew keeps the atmosphere lively with good music and friendly service. During the trip, Captain Kevin and his crew are praised for their informative commentary and helpful attitude — making the experience more engaging than a simple boat ride.

Tips for a Great Experience

• Arrive early: As many reviewers have pointed out, securing a top deck spot is worth the effort.
• Bring your gear: Masks and snorkels are available for rent, but if you have your own, bring them along. The water clarity at Blue Lagoon is excellent for underwater exploring.
• Prepare for crowds: The Blue Lagoon gets busy, especially midday. Visiting early or late in the day can help you avoid the busiest times.
• Sun protection: Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses — the Maltese sun can be intense, especially when sunbathing on the deck.
• Optional extras: The speedboat cave tour is a fun add-on, but remember it’s cash-only (€15) and requires some flexibility in timing.

Authentic Experiences & Real Feedback

Many guests praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides. “Captain Kevin was great, going the extra mile to show us dolphins!” one review mentions. Others loved the informative commentary that enhanced their understanding of the sights without feeling overly scripted.

The Blue Lagoon’s beauty consistently impresses visitors, with some describing it as “out of this world,” and others noting how much they enjoyed just lounging on the deck chairs, soaking up the sun and sipping drinks. The slide and opportunities to jump into the water are big hits, especially for families and kids.

A recurring theme in reviews is how the tour offers excellent value, combining sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing for a price that doesn’t break the bank. Many mention that they would happily repeat the experience, citing the friendly crew, stunning scenery, and well-organized itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for water lovers, families with children, or anyone wanting a laid-back day exploring Malta’s coast. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling and swimming in clear waters, as well as travelers looking for a friendly, authentic atmosphere with a family-run vibe.

However, it’s worth noting that the boat isn’t designed for mobility-impaired passengers, as access to certain areas might be limited. If you’re after a more private or exclusive experience, you might find the crowded spots at Blue Lagoon less appealing. Still, for most, the combination of scenic views, fun activities, and good value makes this trip a standout.

The Sum Up

This Malta boat trip offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, all led by a friendly crew with local insights. The 4.5-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon is a highlight, giving plenty of time to enjoy the water and snap those Instagram-worthy photos. The scenery along the coast, caves, and islands adds a layer of authenticity and wonder, making it a memorable day out.

For travelers who want to see Malta from the water without spending a fortune, this cruise hits all the right notes. The added touches like a slide, deck chairs, and informative guides ensure you’ll be entertained from start to finish.

In short, if you’re after a fun, affordable, and scenic day in Malta’s famous waters, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those eager to combine sightseeing with active water fun in a friendly environment.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience ranges from 4 to 7 hours, with a typical stop of 4.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, depending on the specific schedule and availability.

Where does the tour depart from?
Departure is from Hornblower Cruises Malta at Sirens Quay 24, St. Paul’s Bay, behind LOA Restaurant. It’s easily accessible by bus, car, or taxi.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. You might also want to bring your own snorkel gear if preferred, although rentals are available on board for €5.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes, snorkel masks and fins can be rented for €5, with a €10 deposit refunded afterwards.

Is there food and drink available on the boat?
Yes, beverages are sold onboard, both hot and cold, at reasonable prices. Food is available for purchase but not included in the ticket price.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to access limitations.

Can I do the speedboat cave tour?
Yes, you can opt for the additional speedboat ride near Comino’s caves, payable in cash (€15). It’s a popular extra that adds a fun, adrenaline-filled dimension to the trip.

This Malta cruise offers a genuine mix of scenic beauty, water activities, and friendly service — perfect for travelers looking for a memorable day on the sea.