Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon Crystal Lagoon and Sea Caves

This Malta boat tour offers a captivating half-day adventure that takes you around Comino from Mgarr, with stops at some of Malta’s most famous spots — the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the enchanting sea caves. For just $31 per person, you get a taste of Malta’s stunning coastlines, vibrant marine life, and picturesque landscapes, all aboard a comfortable cabin cruiser. It’s an experience packed with enough activity, relaxation, and scenery to make your Maltese trip truly memorable.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances adventure and leisure. You get to swim, snorkel, explore caves, and simply soak up the sun while enjoying a wine on deck. The route is well-crafted, passing by iconic landmarks like Santa Maria Battery and Elephant Rock, which adds a layer of scenic discovery to the journey. The only point to consider? The crowds at popular spots like the Blue Lagoon can make the water less tranquil than you’d hope. Still, for travelers craving a value-packed, authentic Maltese experience, this tour hits the spot.

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and active swimming and don’t mind sharing the waters with fellow travelers. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a cost-effective experience that emphasizes scenic beauty and local charm without the fuss of private charters or longer excursions.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling
• Affordable price point offers good value considering the stops
• Experienced skipper and guides enhance safety and knowledge
• Comfortable onboard amenities including freshwater showers and clean facilities
• Crowd levels might be high at popular stops like Blue Lagoon
• Ideal for active travelers who want scenic beauty plus time to relax

A Closer Look at the Malta Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Setup

The tour begins at Marfa Jetty, a convenient spot close to the Riviera Hotel. Arriving 5-10 minutes early is advised to secure your place and settle in comfortably. The boat itself is a cozy cabin cruiser, allowing for an intimate experience despite the popularity of the destinations. Onboard, you’ll find clean toilets and freshwater showers, factors that significantly boost comfort during a day in the sun.

The Route and Its Highlights

The journey to Comino is a scenic cruise that also functions as a sightseeing tour. As you glide past Santa Maria Battery, Elephant Rock, and St. Marija Bay, you’ll get glimpses of Malta’s rugged coastline and interesting landmarks, offering plenty of photo opportunities. The 15-minute sightseeing cruise between stops keeps the momentum lively and gives you ample time to soak in the views.

Blue Lagoon – The Iconic Spot

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the star of this tour. With 1 hour and 30 minutes allotted for swimming and relaxing, it allows enough time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life that make this spot famous. One review mentions that it’s best enjoyed from the boat, suggesting that a quick explanation from guides about the quieter side of Blue Lagoon could help guests appreciate it more fully.

However, many visitors note that the crowds are intense, especially during peak season, which can make the water feel busier than ideal. Some guests found that the larger boats anchored further from the caves, requiring a short walk, slightly diminishing the tranquility. That said, the water’s transparency and the scenery’s beauty make it worth the visit.

Crystal Lagoon – A Natural Marvel

Next, the tour heads to the Crystal Lagoon, where you’ll have 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge. The area’s dramatic cliffs and vibrant marine life are often highlighted as a highlight, with one reviewer remarking that the lagoon’s dramatic cliffs and marine ecosystems are mesmerizing. It’s an idyllic setting that offers a peaceful contrast to the busier Blue Lagoon.

Some guests noted the difficulties of swimming in the Crystal Lagoon if you’re not confident in the water, so it’s worth considering your swimming comfort level. Snorkel gear is recommended to maximize your experience, and you might find that the vibrant underwater scenery is worth the effort.

Sea Caves Exploration

The tour also features sea cave tours, adding an element of adventure. Many travelers appreciated this aspect, as the caves lend a sense of exploring hidden, natural formations. The guided sea cave tours allow you to appreciate Malta’s rugged coastline and geological features from a unique perspective.

Visiting Mgarr Harbour in Gozo

After the lagoon stops, the boat sails towards Gozo, where you can enjoy a brief photo stop at Mgarr Harbour. This offers a glimpse into the neighboring island’s charm and provides a nice break before the final stretch back to Malta. Travelers who love coastal scenery and small port towns will enjoy this quiet moment of reflection.

The Return Journey

As the tour winds down, you’ll cruise back to Marfa Jetty, passing by Fort Chambray and other scenic coastline spots. The whole experience lasts about 4 hours, providing a well-paced adventure that balances sightseeing with swim stops.

Comfort and Practicalities on Board

The boat’s amenities contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment. The freshwater showers are a thoughtful touch after multiple swims, keeping you refreshed. The skipper and crew are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey informative and relaxed. The boat’s size and layout make it suitable for small groups, fostering a more personal experience.

Food and Drinks

Note that food and extra drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or water is a good idea, especially during the summer heat. The wine offered on board is a popular addition, making relaxation even more enjoyable during the cruise.

What’s Not Included

The tour does not cover hotel pickups or drop-offs, so plan to meet at Marfa Jetty. It’s also worth noting that there’s no included food, meaning you might want to pack some snacks or plan to eat afterward.

Reviewing the Experience: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Danny, who made the experience engaging and informative. One reviewer from the US called it a “breathtaking excursion” and praised the “excellent personal tour, very kind.” On the flip side, some found the crowds at Blue Lagoon a bit overwhelming, noting that the water felt busier than it should be which is typical in high season.

Another reviewer from Switzerland mentioned that it’s better to enjoy Blue Lagoon from the boat rather than on land, which suggests that the expert commentary and scenic views from deck level can enhance your appreciation of the spot. The value for money is consistently praised, with many feeling that the experience delivers plenty of scenic beauty and fun for the price.

Considerations Based on Reviews

• The larger boats sometimes anchor farther from caves, requiring a short walk.
• The crowds at Blue Lagoon can be intense, affecting the tranquility.
• Swimming in the Crystal Lagoon might be challenging for less confident swimmers.
• Guides are generally knowledgeable, which greatly enhances the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for active travelers who want to see Malta’s highlights without the fuss of a full-day excursion. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and scenic cruising and are comfortable sharing popular spots with other visitors. It’s also a great value for anyone wanting a quick but comprehensive taste of Malta’s coast, especially if you’re keen on a relaxed, guided experience.

Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, scenic adventure will find this tour engaging. While not suited for anyone over 95 or those with limited mobility, it offers a comfortable, fun way to explore Malta’s iconic waters and landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Mgarr delivers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and active fun. You’ll love the chance to swim in famous spots like Blue Lagoon and explore sea caves that are usually hidden from view. The experienced guides and well-maintained boat ensure safety and comfort, making it suitable for most travelers.

The value for money is another plus, with the price covering multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a relaxed cruise along Malta’s rugged coast. The main consideration is the crowd levels at popular sites, but even that offers a lively, energetic atmosphere that many find enjoyable.

Overall, if you’re looking for a half-day adventure that highlights Malta’s stunning waters, this tour is a fantastic choice. It caters well to those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, with enough time to truly enjoy each stop.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Marfa Jetty, in front of the Riviera Hotel. Arrive 5-10 minutes early to check in and board comfortably.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including stops for swimming and sightseeing.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Santa Maria Bay (swimming), Blue Lagoon, Mgarr Harbour (photo stop), and Crystal Lagoon, with sightseeing cruises between locations.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and extra drinks are not included. You can bring your own snacks and water, and enjoy on the deck.

What amenities are available onboard?
The boat features freshwater showers, clean toilets, and comfortable seating. Plus, you can enjoy a selection of wines on deck.

Can I swim at Blue Lagoon?
Yes, you have about 1 hour and 30 minutes at Blue Lagoon to swim, snorkel, or relax on the boat. Be prepared for potential crowds.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
While not explicitly stated, it’s recommended to bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant marine life.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for those over 95 years old or with limited mobility.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot. The tour can be canceled with a full refund up to 24 hours before.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly your own snorkel gear. Arrive early and be prepared for sun exposure.

This Malta boat tour provides a fantastic snapshot of the islands’ stunning waters, blending scenic cruising with swim stops and cave explorations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find the experience engaging, relaxing, and worth every euro spent.