Golden Comino Escape to Blue Lagoon round trip ferry from Sliema

Planning a day trip in Malta that combines stunning scenery, relaxing swims, and a touch of luxury? The Golden Comino Escape offers exactly that—a leisurely cruise from Sliema to the iconic Blue Lagoon on Comino, complete with plenty of time to soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy picturesque views. This tour is a solid choice for those who want an easy, comfortable way to experience one of Malta’s most photographed spots without the hassle of organizing transportation or navigating crowds.

What we find especially appealing about this trip is the comfort of the catamaran, which provides air-conditioned indoor seating and outdoor decks—perfect for taking in the scenery or catching some sun. Plus, the complimentary pineapple cocktail for adults adds a fun and tropical touch to the afternoon. The trip’s timing, starting at 4:30 pm and returning by 8:00 pm, makes it ideal for those who want a laid-back, post-sightseeing escape.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the lack of an included guide or tour narration—this is an unguided trip, so you’ll be relying on your own curiosity and exploration. Also, transportation to the departure point is not included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to Sliema’s Strand.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic afternoon on the water, especially if you’re interested in swimming and enjoying Malta’s beautiful coastline without the fuss of a guided tour. It’s a good fit for couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking to unwind in style.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran: Offers both outdoor and indoor seating, with air conditioning and restrooms.
• Scenic and Relaxing: Focused on leisurely swim, sunbathing, and enjoying the views of Comino’s cliffs and Blue Lagoon.
• Value-Added Perks: Free pineapple cocktail for adults, WiFi onboard, and access to the beautiful Blue Lagoon.
• Flexible Timing: Ideal for those who want an afternoon escape without a rush, with a 4.5-hour total duration.
• Unguided Experience: No guided commentary, perfect for independent explorers or photo enthusiasts.
• Self-Arranged Access: Travelers need to arrange their own transport to the departure point, opposite the Sliema Hotel.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure Timing

The adventure begins at Sliema’s Strand, directly opposite the Sliema Hotel by ST Hotels at 59 The Strand. The tour departs promptly at 4:30 pm, so arriving at least 25 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth check-in and to settle onboard comfortably. Keep in mind that transportation to this point isn’t included, so planning your arrival ahead of time is essential—whether you’re staying nearby or taking public transport.

The Catamaran Experience

The vessel itself is described as “comfortable,” and with WiFi onboard, you can share your scenic moments in real-time or simply relax with your favorite playlist. The air-conditioned interior offers refuge if the Maltese sun gets too intense, yet most people will prefer the open decks to fully appreciate the sea breeze and panoramic views. Restrooms onboard are handy for longer trips or for travelers with small children.

Blue Lagoon and Comino Highlights

The main event is, of course, the Blue Lagoon—a shimmering stretch of water famed for its exceptional clarity and inviting appearance. Once anchored, we loved the way the lagoon beckons swimmers with its turquoise hue, contrasting sharply with the rugged cliffs of Comino. You’ll get around 2.5 hours here to swim, relax on the boat, or explore the shoreline.

Some reviewers mention that the beach can get crowded, especially during peak times, but with the boat’s allocated time, you can find a quiet spot or simply enjoy floating in the calm waters. The lagoon’s shallow, crystalline waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and some travelers have noted the variety of amenities nearby, including rental beds and umbrellas for €15 per day, along with small eateries.

Sunset Views and Photography

One of the tour’s highlights is witnessing the sunset behind Comino’s cliffs. As the day progresses, the sky shifts into golden hues, making for memorable photos and a peaceful atmosphere. The boat’s crew makes a point of offering ample time for lounging and appreciating the scenery, which is a real plus.

Return Journey

At 8:00 pm, the vessel departs the Blue Lagoon for the return to Sliema. The evening cruise makes the most of the magical light, offering another chance to relax with a drink and reflect on the day. Travelers often mention the smooth ride back and the calming effect of sailing along the coast at dusk.

The Free Pineapple Cocktail

A sweet touch is the complimentary pineapple cocktail given to each adult upon arrival in Comino. This gesture, while simple, adds a bit of tropical indulgence to your experience and provides a refreshing sip after your swim. Reviewers found this to be a charming perk that enhanced the overall value.

Additional Amenities and Considerations

The WiFi on board is a rare bonus on boat tours, letting you share your adventure or check messages while enjoying the sea breeze. The availability of indoor and outdoor seating means you can choose your comfort zone, whether you want to soak up the sun or stay cool inside.

Keep in mind that food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty—though bringing some snacks and water is advisable, especially if you want to avoid the extra costs. Since this is an unguided trip, there’s no commentary, but the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere compensate for the lack of narration.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who prioritize relaxation over guided storytelling. It’s ideal for those who want a flexible, low-stress outing with plenty of time to swim and take photos. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy soaking up scenery without feeling rushed will find this a good fit.

However, if you’re after a more comprehensive guided experience or want included transportation from your hotel, this might not meet those needs. Also, those with small children should plan for their own transport to Sliema.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoyment

• Arrive early to secure a good spot and make sure you’re ready for the 4:30 pm departure.
• Plan your transport to Sliema’s Strand in advance, as it’s not included.
• Bring sunscreen, water, and a towel—the sun can be strong, and you’ll want to stay comfortable.
• Consider bringing your own snacks if you prefer not to purchase onboard.
• The tour runs regardless of weather, but if the weather is poor, it can be canceled for a full refund or rescheduling.
• Group size is capped at 200, so it’s a fairly intimate experience compared to larger tours.
• Don’t forget your camera or phone—the views at Blue Lagoon and during sunset are worth capturing.

Summary: Who Will Love This Experience?

This ferry trip is perfect for travelers looking for a laid-back afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, and scenic sailing. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy outdoor adventures without strict schedules or guided commentary. The comfort onboard and the free pineapple cocktail make it feel like a little taste of luxury during your Malta holiday.

If you’re after a relaxing, picturesque getaway in a short amount of time, this tour hits the right notes. While it isn’t the best choice for those seeking guided insights or a full-day adventure, it offers great value for its price, especially considering the scenic beauty and amenities.

For travelers who want a peaceful escape with plenty of time to enjoy the water and stunning views at an affordable price, the Golden Comino Escape is a charming and uncomplicated way to experience Malta’s iconic Blue Lagoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the departure point?
Yes, you’ll need to get to the Sliema mooring at 59 The Strand on your own, as transportation isn’t included in the package.

What time does the tour start?
The boat departs promptly at 4:30 pm, so arriving 25 minutes early is recommended to check in and settle onboard.

Is there an indoor area on the boat?
Yes, the catamaran has air-conditioned indoor seating, along with outdoor decks for enjoying the scenery and sunshine.

How long is the stop at Blue Lagoon?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes at Blue Lagoon, enough time for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are available for purchase onboard—bringing some snacks or drinks is a good idea if you want to avoid extra costs.

Is the tour guided?
No, this is an unguided experience, so you’ll explore at your own pace with no official commentary.

What should I bring with me?
Sunscreen, a towel, water, and your camera/phone are recommended. If you want to stay comfortable, a hat or sunglasses are also helpful.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but note that transport to the start point is not included, so plan accordingly for families with small children.

To sum it up, if your goal is to spend a relaxing afternoon on Malta’s most famous waters, soaking up sun and scenery without feeling rushed, the Golden Comino Escape offers genuine value. It’s especially suited for those who love swimming, scenic cruising, and enjoying a tropical drink while watching the sunset. While it’s not a guided tour, the comfort, amenities, and beautiful views make it a worthwhile addition to any Malta itinerary.