Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island)

If you’re dreaming of a day spent soaking up Malta’s jaw-dropping coastal scenery, a boat trip to Comino and the famous Blue Lagoon is hard to beat. This 7 to 7.5-hour cruise promises a relaxing day on the water, with plenty of chances to swim, explore, and enjoy the views from a modern catamaran. It’s a popular choice for visitors craving a mix of scenic cruising and leisure time on a tiny, car-free island.

What really stood out for us is how smooth the whole process is—departure points are flexible, and the boat itself is comfortable, with perks like free Wi-Fi and clean facilities. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that entering the Blue Lagoon requires an advance government-issued access pass; without it, you can’t disembark ashore, which might be a bit of an extra step. This tour is best suited for travelers who love stunning coastlines, swimming, and a laid-back day, with plenty of opportunity for photo-taking and relaxing in nature.

Key Points

• Comfortable modern catamaran with amenities like Wi-Fi and toilets
• Flexible departure points from Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay
• Leisurely day at Comino, with free time to swim, sunbathe, or explore
• Optional boat trip to caves and crystal lagoons (extra fee)
• Requires an advance access pass for Blue Lagoon disembarkation
• Not guided—free time at Comino means you explore at your own pace

An Overview of the Experience

This cruise is designed to deliver a relaxed, scenic day around Malta’s northern coast, with a focus on comfort and stunning scenery. You’ll start your journey from either Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay, depending on your booking choice. The modern catamaran, with its sleek design and air-conditioning, makes for a pleasant voyage, especially in Malta’s summer heat. As you glide along the coast, you’ll pass notable sights that dot the shoreline, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views.

The cruise is not just about the boat ride—it’s about the experience of being on the water, with ample opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. You’ll appreciate the friendly crew, who are there to assist and ensure your comfort. According to reviews, the staff’s friendliness is a standout feature, with one reviewer mentioning how “really friendly staff” made the trip smooth and enjoyable.

The Stops and What You Can Expect

The main highlight is clearly Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon. Once you arrive, you’ll step ashore for some free time—an experience that many find enchanting. The Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters and white sandy seabed create a picture-perfect setting for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers like Lisamarie describe it as a “truly magical day,” emphasizing the beauty of the water and the relaxed atmosphere.

Before reaching Comino, the boat makes a brief stop at Marr Harbour in Gozo. Some guests choose to disembark there, which is worth knowing if you’re planning to explore Gozo further. However, the main focus remains the time on Comino, where you’ll have several hours to enjoy the environment.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Optional Boat Trips

The highlight for many is the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters. The shallow, transparent waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and snorkel gear is ideal here to see the marine life. You can also opt for an additional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and the Crystal Lagoon—an extra expense paid on-site, subject to weather conditions. One reviewer called this “the best trip option” they’d made, indicating it adds a memorable dimension to the day.

Exploring Comino on Foot

With no cars on the island, walking around Comino feels like stepping into a quiet paradise. Trails lead to sites such as St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery—perfect for those interested in a bit of light hiking or photography. Visiting during the winter months is also a plus, as the island remains charmingly unspoiled by crowds or urbanization.

Practical Details and What To Expect

Departure Points and Timing

You have the flexibility to start your trip from Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay. Booking in advance allows you to select your preferred departure time, which typically runs in the morning to early afternoon. The entire cruise lasts about 7 to 7.5 hours, giving you plenty of flexibility at the island.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers your ferry cruise in a fully air-conditioned boat with free Wi-Fi, toilet facilities, and assistance from friendly crew members. The trip includes the disembarkation at Comino but not the government-issued access pass necessary for stepping ashore at the Blue Lagoon—these must be obtained separately online ahead of time.

Extras like food and drinks, land transport, or guided tours are not included. If you want to explore Gozo further or visit caves, those are optional extras, with the boat trip to caves costing around €15 per person.

Tips for a Great Day

• Arrive 15-20 minutes early for your departure to avoid any stress.
• Bring sunscreen, a towel, water, and your swimwear—comfort is key for a relaxing day.
• A camera is a must for capturing the stunning scenery.
• Cash is recommended for optional extras or the cave trip.
• Remember, pets, oversized luggage, smoking, and non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed onboard.

Important Regulation

A key point to note is the new government regulation—from May 2025, you’ll need to pre-book an access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. This pass is limited and should be obtained via the official website, blcomino.com. Without it, you won’t be able to step ashore, making pre-planning essential.

Authentic Experiences Shared by Others

One guest described the trip as “straightforward,” appreciating how efficient the logistics are, from pickup to drop-off. The staff’s friendliness was highlighted to enhance the experience, and many found the boat modern and comfortable.

A standout review from Kozma-Perge mentions Steve, the guide and driver from Barbarossa, who was “very funny, informative, and caring.” His stories and insights about Malta and Gozo added a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

Another review called the trip “truly magical,” emphasizing how punctual and well-organized the day was, allowing guests to relax and truly enjoy the scenery without worries.

The Sum Up

This Coastal Ferry Cruise to the Blue Lagoon offers a well-rounded, relaxing day out in Malta. The combination of a modern catamaran, scenic cruising, and free time at the iconic Blue Lagoon makes it an excellent choice for those who want a hassle-free way to see Malta’s coastline and unwind in crystal-clear waters.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy stunning views, swimming, and exploring at their own pace. The optional boat trip to caves adds a layer of adventure, making the day even more memorable. The experience strikes a good balance between comfort, convenience, and natural beauty, all at a price that offers solid value considering the amenities and scenery.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic day trip, and you’re prepared to plan ahead for the Blue Lagoon access pass, this cruise is a practical, enjoyable way to spend a day on Malta’s waters.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for the Blue Lagoon disembarkation, as you need an official access pass which is limited and must be pre-ordered through the government website.

What time does the cruise depart?
Start times vary; you’ll select your preferred departure point and time when booking. Check availability for specific slots.

Is the boat comfortable?
Absolutely. The cruise features a fully air-conditioned modern catamaran with amenities like Wi-Fi and toilets, ensuring a pleasant ride.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, and outside food may not be permitted onboard. It’s best to bring essentials like water and sunscreen.

How long is the free time on Comino?
You’ll typically have several hours to swim, sunbathe, or explore on foot. The exact timing depends on the schedule and weather conditions.

Is this suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
The tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments, and seasickness-prone travelers should consider their comfort.

Are guides provided during the stop at Comino?
This is a self-guided stop, giving you freedom to explore at your own pace. No guided tour or commentary is provided during the free time.

What if I want to visit the caves?
An optional motorboat trip to the caves and Crystal Lagoon is available for about €15 per person, weather permitting.

This detailed, honest review should help you decide if this scenic Malta cruise fits your travel style. It’s an enjoyable, value-packed way to experience Malta’s coast and the famed Blue Lagoon, especially if you enjoy a combination of beautiful scenery, swimming, and relaxed exploration.