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Explore Malta’s Stunning Coastline with the Comino Blue Lagoon & Caves Cruise
This popular boat tour offers a fantastic way to see Malta’s northern coast, Comino, and beyond without breaking the bank. With a mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing time at the Blue Lagoon, it promises a memorable day on the water. The experience is especially loved for its knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and the straightforward, affordable price point of just under $35 per person. On the flip side, some travelers find the boat’s age and crowd levels a bit challenging — so it’s best suited for those who enjoy lively, social outings and aren’t overly bothered by a slightly older vessel.
What really catches the eye is the chance to spend more than four hours at the Blue Lagoon, giving plenty of time to swim, soak up the sun, or just relax with a drink onboard. We also appreciate how the itinerary balances iconic highlights like the Santa Maria Tower with lesser-known gems such as Coral Cove and the Elephant Head rock formation. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, affordable day out with plenty of opportunities to explore, take photos, and enjoy the spectacular waters of Malta.
Key Points
- Excellent value for a full day on the water, including snorkeling and sightseeing.
- Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting commentary about Malta’s history and sites.
- Flexible time at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon means you can swim, relax, or explore on your own.
- Comfort and amenities include deck chairs, a slide, and onboard food and drinks at reasonable prices.
- Crowd levels can be high at Blue Lagoon, so arriving early helps secure a good spot or deck chair.
- Age-appropriate for most travelers, with reviews highlighting a family-friendly atmosphere.
A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary
This cruise kicks off at 10 a.m. from the meeting point at 24 Triq San Geraldu in San Pawl il-Baar. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the vessel isn’t brand new but is equipped with enough amenities to keep everyone comfortable. The crew, led by Captain Kevin, are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, with reviews noting they keep safety a top priority while ensuring everyone enjoys the ride.
Early Highlights: Historical and Scenic Drives
The journey begins with a quick lesson in Malta’s religious history, passing by St. Paul’s Island, where an important statue commemorates the shipwreck of St. Paul himself. This part of the trip is more about setting the scene—an interesting conversation starter and a chance for some photos. Next, you’ll cruise past Mellieha Bay, Malta’s largest beach, then enter Ahrax Cave, a spot reviewers say offers great photographic opportunities.
Travelers who love stories of history and nature will appreciate this part — with some reviews mentioning how the guides shared engaging tales, making the scenery more meaningful. The boat also cruises by Coral Cove, a well-known photo spot, before circling around Comino itself, giving you sweeping views of the high cliffs and rock formations—including the distinctive Elephant Head.
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Main Event: The Blue Lagoon
The highlight of the tour, by far, is arriving at the Blue Lagoon on Comino. Described as “Paradise on Earth,” this turquoise haven is truly striking. You’ll have over four hours here to swim, snorkel, or lounge on the boat’s sun deck. Many reviewers mention that the clear, calm waters and the soft sandy bottoms make it perfect for a relaxing dip, especially if you want to avoid the crowds on the tiny beaches.
One reviewer, Jessica, loved how she could walk to quieter spots like Santa Maria Bay for a more peaceful experience, just a 20-minute walk away. Others enjoyed the onboard amenities—such as the reasonably priced cafeteria, a slide, and the opportunity to rent snorkel gear (for €5). Note that the boat’s age doesn’t detract from the experience; many appreciated its charm and the fact that it had everything needed for a fun day at sea.
Exploring the Caves and Crystal Lagoon
On the return leg, cruising through the South Channel reveals the Crystal Lagoon, a favorite with divers for its deeper waters. This bay is accessible by foot from the Blue Lagoon, making it easy to walk over, snorkel, or even cliff jump if you’re feeling brave. With about 4.5 hours allocated here, you can easily explore at your own pace.
The Santa Maria Tower, built in 1618, is another visual treat, offering an insight into Malta’s coastal defense history. Reviewers love passing by it, noting how it adds a historical dimension to the scenic trip.
What to Expect on the Day
Expect a lively, friendly atmosphere onboard, with music, good food, and a relaxed vibe. The onboard cafeteria serves reasonably priced snacks and drinks, which many travelers say are well worth indulging in after a swim. While the vessel isn’t modern, it provides all the essentials, including toilet facilities and deck chairs (though they are limited, so early arrival helps).
The tour’s duration — roughly seven hours — is well balanced, giving ample sightseeing time without feeling rushed. The combined stops and flexible schedule allow you to fully enjoy each location, whether you’re lounging or exploring. The group size can be up to 232, which means a lively communal feel but also the potential for crowded spots, especially at the Blue Lagoon during peak times.
The Crowds and the Crowd-Favorite Spots
Reviewers highlight the Blue Lagoon’s popularity, often arriving early to secure a deck chair on the upper deck or a good spot on the boat. Some mention that the water gets busy, but with over four hours here, you’ll still find plenty of space for swimming or relaxing. Those who are sensitive to crowds might prefer to explore the quieter Santa Maria Bay or the caves further away.
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Food and Extras
While lunch isn’t included, the onboard cafeteria offers affordable options. Many travelers enjoyed the pineapple cocktails (a fun hallmark of the tour), and some appreciated the chance to rent snorkel gear for €5, with a €15 deposit that’s refunded. Speedboat rides to the caves are available seasonally for €15, cash only, and seem to be a hit for those wanting a more adrenaline-pumping experience.
The Real Deal: Reviews and Authentic Insights
Feedback strongly suggests this tour provides great value for its price. Many rave about the guides’ knowledge—reviewers like Kandace say the guides are “helpful and knowledgeable,” making the trip more engaging. Jessica, who took the speedboat to explore caves, calls it “so much fun,” while others note the “good prices” for food and drinks onboard.
A recurring theme is the friendly crew — with reviews highlighting their helpfulness and safety-first attitude. The music playlist is also a point of praise, adding to the lively, fun atmosphere.
Some travelers comment on the boat’s age; it’s not modern, but reviews suggest it’s well-maintained and fully equipped. Others mention that early arrival is key to securing a good spot or deck chair—especially if you want the best views or a quieter experience.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking an affordable, flexible, and fun day on the water. It’s a good choice for families, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a lively social atmosphere and don’t mind larger crowds at the Blue Lagoon. If you love snorkeling, relaxing under the sun, and exploring caves, you’ll find plenty to love here.
However, those after a peaceful, less crowded experience might find the bustling Blue Lagoon less ideal. The vessel’s age and the crowds might not suit travelers looking for a very tranquil or exclusive outing, but for most, the overall value and scenery make it a worthwhile adventure.
The Sum Up
This boat tour strikes a nice balance between affordability, scenic beauty, and fun. With over four hours at the Blue Lagoon, you get enough time to swim, relax, or explore at your pace, making it great value for money. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew add an authentic touch, making the experience feel personal rather than just a generic cruise. The onboard amenities, including reasonably priced food and the option to rent snorkel gear, mean you’re well-catered for throughout the day.
The main draw remains the Blue Lagoon—truly a spectacle that’s worth seeing in person. The caves and Santa Maria Tower add extra layers of interest, offering both natural beauty and a hint of history. While the boat’s age and the crowds can be a consideration, most reviews agree that the lively atmosphere, stunning scenery, and budget-friendly price make this cruise a top pick for Malta visitors.
Ultimately, this tour is best suited for adventurous, social travelers eager to see Malta’s highlights in a single day without overspending. Whether you’re a family looking for fun, a group of friends chasing photo ops, or a solo explorer wanting a lively atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to love here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the boat cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is considered appropriate for most ages. It’s family-friendly and includes stops where kids and adults alike can enjoy swimming and exploring.
How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 4 hours at the Blue Lagoon, which is ample time to swim, relax, or walk to nearby calmer beaches. The cruise itself lasts around 7 hours from start to finish.
What amenities are available onboard?
The boat offers toilet facilities, deck chairs (limited, so early arrival helps), a slide, and a cafeteria with reasonably priced food and drinks. Snorkel gear can be rented at €5, with a €15 deposit refundable upon return.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While it’s not explicitly stated, most on-board cafes offer food and beverages, so bringing additional snacks or drinks is probably not necessary. However, check the policies if planning to bring outside refreshments.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkel gear is available for rent at €5, and you’ll need to leave a €15 deposit, which is refundable. It’s a convenient way to explore the underwater scenes at the Lagoon and caves.
What should I bring for the day?
Towels, sun cream, and a hat are essential. If visiting between March and October, a light jacket or warm layer is recommended due to possible chill during cruising. Cash is required for extras like lockers or additional activities.
Is there an option for a speedboat to caves?
Yes, a seasonal speedboat ride to the caves is available for €15 cash only. It’s highly recommended if you want a bit more adventure and to see the caves closely.
What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, and the tour requires good weather to operate.
This tour offers excellent value, memorable scenery, and a lively crew, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing, swimming, and a touch of adventure in Malta.
