Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon

Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon — A Complete Guide

If you’ve ever dreamt of spending a day swimming in turquoise waters surrounded by stunning scenery, this Malta cruise promises just that — along with a few extras to make it a memorable outing. Whether you’re planning your first visit or a repeat trip, this tour offers a good mix of relaxation and adventure, with plenty of time to soak up the island’s best natural sights.

One element we really appreciate is the ample snorkeling time — over four hours at the Blue Lagoon means plenty of opportunity to explore underwater life. Plus, the included commentary and scenic photo stops enrich the experience, making it more than just a boat ride. That said, a potential downside is the crowd level, especially at peak times, which might impact your comfort and photo opportunities. Still, this cruise tends to suit water enthusiasts, families, and those wanting a straightforward day trip to the beautiful Maltese waters.

Key Points

• Value for money: At around $35, it offers a full day of activities, with optional amenities onboard.
• Flexible itinerary: Catch the scenic cruise, a quick photo stop at Crystal Lagoon, and plenty of swimming time.
• Comfort and amenities: Air-conditioned cabins, snacks, bar, and toilet facilities make the trip more comfortable.
• Limited snorkeling gear: Equipment is available on board at extra cost, so plan accordingly.
• Departure flexibility: Two pick-up points (Bugibba and Sliema) with slightly different times.
• Booking update: As of May 2025, all visitors need a free online ticket to walk on Comino, which must be booked in advance for the allocated time slot.

An In-Depth Look at the Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise

Starting Point and Timing

The tour launches from two main locations: Bugibba Jetty at 1130 hrs or Sliema Ferry at 1030 hrs. Both options are designed to suit different travelers’ schedules, though the slightly earlier departure from Sliema provides more flexibility for the afternoon. The return times are also staggered—around 1730 hrs from Bugibba and 1830 hrs from Sliema—so you can choose based on your preferred timing.

This flexibility is useful, but keep in mind that the duration can range from 6 to 8 hours, depending on factors like weather, crowd, and the exact itinerary flow. The cruise is designed to maximize your time at the Blue Lagoon, with plenty of opportunities to relax or explore.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Scenic Cruise (2 hours)
The journey begins with a comfortable cruise across Maltese waters, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views. The onboard commentary (in English) points out sights along the way, adding context that enriches your understanding of the local landscape and history.

2. Photo stop at Crystal Lagoon (10 minutes)
This quick stop is perfect for snapping bright blue waters and scenic coastline photos. Reviewers mention that this is a nice break from the boat, giving you a chance to stretch and capture images of the unspoiled surroundings.

3. Time at Blue Lagoon (about 4.5 hours)
The main event — swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing — makes the whole trip worthwhile. The Blue Lagoon is a basin of crystal-clear water with a white sandy bottom, attracting marine life and making it a favorite for photographers and water lovers alike. Most guests spend a good chunk of their day here, with some reviewers noting they appreciated the ample time to really enjoy the surroundings.

4. Return cruise (2 hours)
After soaking up the sun, it’s time to head back. The cruise provides a scenic and comfortable return trip, often accompanied by relaxing music or additional commentary.

What to Expect Onboard

The boat itself is equipped with air conditioning, bar facilities, and toilets, so you’ll stay comfortable and refreshed. Many reviewers highlight the friendly staff, who are helpful with questions and offer insights during the trip. You can purchase snacks and drinks onboard — including soft drinks, alcohol, and small snacks — or bring your own.

Snorkeling equipment is available for rent at an extra cost, a small inconvenience considering the quality of the snorkeling at Blue Lagoon. Many travelers mention that bringing your own gear can be more convenient, especially if you’re planning to snorkel extensively.

The Blue Lagoon Experience

The highlight of this cruise is, of course, the Blue Lagoon itself. While the water is stunning and perfect for photos, some review comments note that it can get crowded during peak season. The lagoon’s popularity means you should arrive prepared for a bustle, especially if you’re hoping for quieter moments or perfect photo ops.

The marine life is abundant, so bringing or renting snorkel gear enriches the experience. One reviewer even mentioned paying an extra 10 euros for a sun lounger on the sun deck, which can be a nice touch if you prefer lounging in the sun rather than swimming.

Additional Considerations

A recent update states that from May 2025, visitors will need a free online ticket to walk on Comino, scheduled between 1330 and 1730 hrs. This is crucial to know beforehand, as failure to present the QR code will mean you can’t step onto the island itself — though you can still swim nearby from the boat.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, limiting accessibility for some travelers. Also, the group sizes tend to be moderate, but during busy periods, the boat can feel crowded, particularly at the Lagoon.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer appreciated the “super kind and friendly” staff, while others highlighted the good value for such a full-day experience. The ample time at Blue Lagoon often gets a thumbs-up, with many saying they’d do it again.

However, some mention that the speed boat ride (if included) is very short — around 10 minutes — which might leave you wanting more of that adrenaline rush. Also, a few guests noted that restaurant options (like vegetarian sandwiches) could be better, but generally, onboard amenities and snacks are sufficient.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for water lovers, families, and solo travelers eager for a day in the sun and sea. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing on a boat, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The relatively affordable price point makes it accessible for many, especially considering the full-day itinerary.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for a self-paced experience with enough time to enjoy the Lagoon without feeling rushed. However, if you’re concerned about crowds or a lack of privacy, you might want to consider visiting during shoulder seasons or choosing another experience with fewer guests.

Final Thoughts

The Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic cruising, beach-time, and underwater exploration, all at a reasonable price. The value for money is evident in the full-day itinerary, onboard amenities, and scenic stops. The friendly guides and stunning views are among the highlights, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to make the most of Malta’s natural beauty.

While it’s not the most exclusive or secluded experience, it’s a reliable, enjoyable option for those wanting to relax by the water, take beautiful photos, and explore the clear waters of the Mediterranean. Just be prepared for some crowds and plan ahead for the island entry tickets.

Who should consider this tour?

It’s best suited for travelers interested in swimming, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides. If you’re on a budget but want a comprehensive day out with plenty of time in the water, this cruise ticks all the boxes. Families, groups of friends, or solo explorers who love water-based activities will find it particularly appealing.

FAQs

Is snorkeling equipment included?
No, snorkeling gear is available to rent onboard at an additional cost. You might find bringing your own gear more convenient.

What are the departure times?
From Sliema, departure is at 1030 hrs; from Bugibba, at 1130 hrs. Return times are around 1730 hrs and 1830 hrs respectively.

Do I need a ticket to walk on Comino?
Yes, starting May 2025, you must use a free online ticket with a specific time slot, which can be booked on the official website. Make sure to bring the QR code for entry.

How long is the time at Blue Lagoon?
Expect around 4.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the lagoon.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to accessibility limitations.

What’s the typical group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest moderate-sized groups, which can get crowded during peak times.

Can I bring my own food or drinks onboard?
You can purchase snacks and drinks on the boat, but bringing your own is also fine, subject to any restrictions.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a practical, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy Malta’s iconic Blue Lagoon. Perfect for water enthusiasts and those seeking a straightforward day trip, it provides a reliable taste of Malta’s stunning maritime environment with helpful amenities and a friendly crew.