St Julian’s: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day

If you’re after a quick yet memorable escape to Malta’s most celebrated swimming spot, the Comino Blue Lagoon half-day tour offers an appealing mix of scenic cruising, refreshing swims, and scenic cave visits. Priced at around $51 per person, this five-hour trip from St Julian’s provides a balanced blend of guided sightseeing and free time to enjoy Malta’s famously clear waters.

What makes this tour stand out is its short, manageable duration—perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer a relaxed pace—plus the convenience of direct transfers from a central location. However, it’s worth noting that the trip doesn’t include food, drinks, or snorkeling gear, so some planning beforehand will enhance your experience.

This experience suits families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a quick, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to swim and sunbathe without the hassle of organizing transport or boat logistics. It’s especially great for first-timers or those wanting a straightforward, authentic taste of Malta’s famed blue waters.

Key Points

• Efficient and scenic: Enjoy a 45-minute cruise from Malta to Comino’s Blue Lagoon.
• Includes cave visits: Explore the Santa Maria caves during the trip.
• Ample free time: Approximately 2 hours for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• No snorkeling gear included: Remember to bring your own fins or snorkel if desired.
• Reservation required: Due to a new government policy, visitors must book their Blue Lagoon access in advance.
• Suitable for most travelers: Not recommended for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

An Honest Look at the Experience

The half-day tour from St Julian’s begins with a short transfer from the Corinthia Beach Resort, taking you along Malta’s east coast past St Paul’s Islands before crossing over to the famous Blue Lagoon. The boat cruise itself is a highlight – a comfortable ride with panoramic views that set the tone for the day ahead. You’ll likely appreciate the smooth, engaging commentary from your guide (if available), who will point out landmarks such as the caves and islands along the way.

The Blue Lagoon, with its famously transparent waters and soft sandy bottom, is the main event. Once you arrive, you’re given around two hours of free time, which many travelers find ideal for swimming, relaxing, or catching some rays. You can rent sun beds in the lagoon area, making lounging a bit more comfortable, and food and drinks are available for purchase onsite, although snacks or packed lunches might be better if you want to save money or avoid queues.

One unique aspect of this tour – as noted by reviewers – is the visit to the Santa Maria caves. These caves are a popular photo stop, and the guide usually provides some interesting tidbits about their formation and history. The cruise then backtracks along the coast, passing by more caves before returning to the departure point at St George’s Bay around 1 pm.

Authenticity and Practicality

Travelers appreciate that the tour is straightforward, with clear instructions on meeting points and timing. The organized transfer from St Julian’s makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, especially if you’re based nearby. Plus, the booking process is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, which is perfect for flexible plans.

However, some reviews highlight the need to bring your own snorkeling gear—since fins and snorkels aren’t included—and to carry a towel and beachwear, which are essentials for making the most of the free swim time. Given the environmental policies introduced in 2025, visitors must reserve their Blue Lagoon access online in advance to avoid disappointment or being redirected to the neighboring Santa Maria Bay.

The Value of This Tour

At $51, you’re paying for a well-organized, scenic half-day with the convenience of transfers and guided cave visits. While food and gear are extra, the core experience of swimming in Malta’s most iconic waters makes this a worthwhile option—especially for those new to the island or short on time. The tour’s small group feel (or at least the possibility of a more intimate experience) enhances the overall enjoyment.

What Travelers Say

From reviews, a recurring theme is the timing—most find the two hours in Blue Lagoon just enough to swim, relax, and take photos, without feeling rushed. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat was comfortable, and the scenery was stunning. We loved the caves and the chance to swim in such clear water.” Others noted that the guides were friendly and informative, adding an extra layer of value.

Some travelers expressed concerns about crowds, especially during peak season, so early booking is recommended. Also, since snorkel gear isn’t provided, bringing your own or renting nearby is advisable to fully enjoy the underwater sights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from St Julian’s starts with a short walk or transfer to the boat dock near Corinthia Verdi (Marina). The boat sets off along Malta’s eastern coast, passing by St Paul’s Islands, which are often cited as a significant historical site linked to early Christian history. The cruise itself offers a relaxed vibe, with plenty of opportunity to take photos of the rugged coast and distant islands.

Arriving at Comino’s Blue Lagoon, you’ll be greeted by possibly the clearest waters you’ve ever seen—an almost surreal shade of turquoise. Once there, the two-hour window is your chance to swim, snorkel (if you’ve brought gear), sunbathe, or simply float and enjoy the scenery. You might want to rent a sunbed or take snacks from the food stalls nearby.

The cave visit is usually during the cruise back along the coast, where the guide points out the Santa Maria caves—small, dramatic formations that add a sense of adventure to the trip. Afterward, the boat heads back to St George’s Bay, arriving around 1 pm, just in time for a late lunch or an afternoon exploring Malta’s other sights.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance: Due to the new reservation policy for Blue Lagoon access, ensure you secure your spot online via the official website.
• Bring essentials: Towels, beachwear, sunscreen, and waterproof camera are must-haves.
• Snorkeling gear: Not included, so bring your own if you wish to explore underwater.
• Timing: Check availability beforehand for your preferred departure time; the tour lasts approximately 5 hours.
• Group size: Expect a small group, but confirm with the operator if you prefer a more intimate experience.
• Accessibility: This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, anyone with mobility issues, or those with health conditions like back problems or recent surgeries.
• Food and drinks: You’ll need to purchase these on site if desired, so consider bringing snacks.

Final Thoughts – Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Comino Blue Lagoon half-day experience offers tremendous value for travelers seeking a straightforward, scenic escape to one of Malta’s most famous spots. The combination of a short boat ride, free time for swimming, and cave viewing makes it especially suitable for those with limited time or wanting to avoid complicated logistics. It’s a great option for first-time visitors who want a taste of Malta’s famous waters without committing to a full-day tour or multiple stops.

If you’re comfortable with the basic facilities and don’t mind bringing your own snorkeling equipment, this trip provides a beautiful, relaxing environment with memorable photo opportunities. It’s less ideal for travelers with special needs or very young children, given the physical demands of swimming and the need for mobility.

The stunning scenery, organized transfers, and relaxed schedule make this tour a solid choice for anyone looking to add some sparkle to their Malta trip.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkeling fins and masks are not included, so bringing your own is recommended if you want to explore underwater. You can also rent gear locally.

How long do we spend in the Blue Lagoon?
You’ll have approximately two hours to swim, sunbathe, or relax in the lagoon.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can buy them at the lagoon or bring your own snacks.

Where is the meeting point?
You meet just before the entrance to Corinthia Verdi (Marina) hotel, passing through a black gate, then following the yellow line on the jetty to the office.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or children over 70, and not suitable for those with mobility issues or health concerns.

What if I don’t hold a reservation for Blue Lagoon access?
You must reserve your slot online in advance through the official website; without a reservation, you may be redirected to Santa Maria Bay.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about five hours, including transfers, cruising, and free time.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is conducted in English, with guides or hosts providing commentary.

In summary, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and relaxed way to experience Malta’s iconic Blue Lagoon and caves. It’s best suited for travelers who value simplicity, convenience, and the chance to enjoy Malta’s famous waters without overcomplicating logistics, making it a practical pick for most visitors.