From Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

If you’re looking to see Malta from the water and revel in its most famous swimming spots, this cruise from Sliema offers an exciting day out. It’s a well-reviewed, reasonably priced tour that takes you past some of the most eye-catching sights—think turquoise waters, dramatic sea caves, and the iconic Blue Lagoon. With a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and laid-back exploration, it’s a nice way to spend a day, especially if you love being on the water.

What we really like about this experience is how flexible it is. Whether you want to relax on the boat, hop into the water, or explore a little land on Gozo, there’s options to tailor your trip. Plus, the crew’s attention to safety and their friendly attitude are often highlighted in reviews. The only thing to keep in mind? It can get crowded at the Blue Lagoon, so planning ahead for a good spot or early arrival is advised.

This tour suits travelers who crave a mix of adventure and relaxation, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to see Malta’s most famous natural attractions without spending a fortune. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo explorers eager to dip their toes into Malta’s famous waters.

• Flexible itinerary options: Choose between more time in Gozo or in the Blue Lagoon, depending on your interests.
• Great value for money: At $41, it offers a comprehensive experience with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and comfort.
• Knowledgeable crew: Reviewers mention friendly, attentive staff and a captain who shares interesting insights.
• Seasonal stops: Crystal Lagoon and St. Nicholas Bay are only available from May to October, weather permitting.
• Ample swimming opportunities: Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with access to waterslides and caves.
• Busy but well-organized: Expect crowds at popular spots like Blue Lagoon, but the boat’s setup helps manage this.

This cruise is designed to be a full-day adventure, lasting roughly 5.5 to 7.5 hours. Departing from Sliema’s Luzzu Cruises, the journey begins with a scenic sail past Malta’s northern coast, giving you your first glimpses of the island’s lively coastlines. The route takes you past St. Julian’s and Qawra, with notable sights like St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha Bay along the way—perfect for snapping photos and getting a sense of Malta’s lively seaside vibe.

The Journey and First Stops

As you cruise north toward Gozo, the captain will likely share bits of info about the islands and landmarks, making the ride educational as well as scenic. Many reviews praise the crew for their friendliness and professionalism—one reviewer even mentioned that the staff kept watch over everyone, helping kids into the water and supervising water slide users, which adds a reassuring touch for families or less confident swimmers.

Once at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, there’s a short, five-minute photo stop. This provides a snapshot of the island’s rugged beauty and a perfect chance for some quick pictures before moving on to the main swimming stops.

Crystal Lagoon (Seasonal May-October)

Depending on your chosen option, the boat will anchor at Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay (from May to October). The Crystal Lagoon is renowned for its clear, turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers describe it as “the best,” with one saying the waters were “perfect for snorkelling” and praising the fun waterslide. The 45-minute stop here is enough to indulge in a quick swim, jump from the boat, or explore the caves nearby.

It’s worth noting that, although the lagoon’s beauty is undeniable, it can get crowded, especially during peak season. Several reviewers specifically mention that the crowds can be intense, but the boat’s location often provides a quieter area to enjoy the water. One advised getting there early or turning left upon disembarking to find less crowded spots.

Blue Lagoon: The Highlight and Its Challenges

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the star attraction of this cruise. With three and a half hours allocated here, you will have plenty of time to sunbathe on the sandy beach, snorkel in the crystal waters, or just relax and people-watch. Many reviews mention how breathtaking the lagoon’s waters are, with some comparing the color favorably to tropical destinations.

However, the Blue Lagoon can be very busy. Multiple reviews noted that the area is overcrowded and littered with plastic and cigarette butts, especially in the main spots, which can detract from the natural beauty. To counteract this, some travelers choose to explore quieter parts of the lagoon or venture to nearby calmer areas moored by the boat.

On the upside, the boat’s crew makes a point of mooring at quieter zones, away from the densest crowds, which helps make your time more enjoyable. Also, the fun waterslide from the boat into the water is a hit—reviewers consistently mention how much they enjoyed jumping in or sliding in for some extra fun.

Exploring the Caves and Scenic Photos

On the return trip, the captain often takes a detour to admire the spectacular sea caves surrounding Comino. These caves, with their dramatic formations and striking colors, offer excellent photo opportunities. Several reviews highlight how the crew’s knowledge and friendly attitude made this part of the trip memorable.

Optional Land Tour & Extra Time

For those who want a bit more exploration, there’s an optional add-on: a mini bus ride from Gozo to Victoria, costing just €5 per person. This gives you a quick peek into the Gozitan town, but reviews suggest that an hour or so isn’t enough to really soak in the island’s charm. If you prefer more land-based exploration, this might be worth considering.

For $41, this cruise offers remarkable value, including the ferry ride, stops at key locations, and use of the waterslide. Plus, you get around 3.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, which many reviewers find is a generous amount of time for swimming and relaxing.

However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing some cash is essential if you want to buy refreshments or snacks on board. Hotel transfers are also absent, so travelers should plan to arrive at the departure point on their own—look for the Luzzu Cruises boat, Mv Kataleya or Mv Lady Shelley.

• Arrive early to secure a good seat, especially on the top deck, as it fills up quickly.
• Bring cash for onboard purchases—snacks, drinks, or the optional bus tour.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops or water shoes (helpful for rocky areas), a towel, and your camera.
• Consider the crowds at Blue Lagoon—early or late in the day might be less busy.
• Register for the Blue Lagoon QR code beforehand if you want to disembark there, especially in peak seasons.
• Be prepared for the weather—the tour runs rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Boarding is straightforward, but get there early to avoid missing the top deck.

Reviewers consistently praise the crew’s friendliness and professionalism. One mentioned that the staff kept a careful eye on everyone, offering help where needed—especially on the waterslides and in the caves. The captain’s commentary is appreciated for providing some context without overwhelming, making the ride both informative and relaxing.

Many mention how the boat itself is clean, spacious, and well-equipped, with a bar offering reasonably priced drinks. The inclusion of a waterslide adds a playful touch that appeals to families and young travelers alike.

Several travelers expressed that the trip’s timing felt just right—three hours at Blue Lagoon strikes a good balance between exploration and relaxation, with many wishing they had even more time.

This cruise from Sliema offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, swimming in Malta’s most famous spots, and a bit of land exploration. It’s a smart choice for those looking for a fun, laid-back day with the freedom to choose their preferred stops. The friendly crew and great value make it a reliable option, especially during the warm months when both lagoons are open and the sea caves are at their most photogenic.

While it can get crowded, especially at the Blue Lagoon, many travelers find the experience well worth the price and time. Just plan to arrive early, bring cash, and prepare for a day filled with sun, sea, and stunning views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews indicate that families enjoy this trip. The boat crew supervised children well, and the waterslide adds extra fun for the kids.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring some cash for onboard purchases or to pack snacks and water.

Can I disembark at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, but you need to register beforehand on www.blcomino.com to obtain a free QR code. Disembarking is available during the afternoon slot (13.31 – 17.30).

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll have about 45 minutes at Crystal Lagoon/St. Nicholas Bay (seasonal), and 3.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon. The stop at Mgarr Harbour is around five minutes for photos.

Is there an option to visit Gozo?
Yes, the tour offers an optional land transfer to Gozo’s Victoria for €5, giving you a quick glimpse of the island, though many reviews suggest the time there is limited.

Are there any special features on the boat?
The vessel is described as clean and spacious, with amenities like toilets and a waterslide. The crew also provides interesting commentary during the cruise.

What should I wear?
Bring beachwear, flip-flops, and a towel. Comfortable shoes are advised for walking on rocky areas or ashore.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour runs rain or shine. The captain reserves the right to alter or cancel based on weather conditions, but generally, trips proceed unless conditions are unsafe.

Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
No, unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

If you’re after a day of fun in Malta’s clear waters, this cruise hits the spot. It balances sightseeing with plenty of swimming and offers good value for the price. The crew’s friendliness and the boat’s comfort mean you’ll be well looked after, even during the busiest times. Just remember that popular spots like Blue Lagoon can get crowded, so arriving early or being flexible with your plans will help you get the best experience.

Ideal for those who like a mixture of adventure and downtime, this tour provides a memorable way to enjoy Malta’s stunning coastline and natural beauty without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a group of friends, it’s a day that delivers both relaxation and excitement.

Note: For more options and detailed itineraries, check out similar experiences listed on GetYourGuide.