Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Pauls Islands

Exploring Malta’s Coastal Treasures with a Boat Tour

When you think of Malta, images of ancient temples or bustling streets might come to mind. But to truly appreciate the island’s beauty, there’s nothing quite like seeing its coastline from the water. This full-day boat trip costs around $29 per person, lasts about 7 hours, and takes you to some of the most iconic spots along Malta’s coast. You’ll visit the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino, explore sea caves, and take a quick peek at St. Paul’s Islands. The tour departs from Bugibba early in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Malta’s stunning waters.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes seeing the Blue Lagoon—no need to worry about ferry schedules or complicated logistics. The boat is a smaller, more intimate vessel, allowing you to get close to the caves and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Also, the snorkeling and swimming opportunities are fantastic, especially if you love jumping into clear waters.

A potential downside is that the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, particularly in the high season. Many reviewers note that it’s busy and littered at times, so bring your patience and a sense of adventure. If you’re after a peaceful, solitary experience, this might not be the trip for you. But if you enjoy lively scenery and socializing with fellow travelers, you’ll find this tour a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a good value outing that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of Maltese sea life.

This tour is a superb choice for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation and exploration on the water, especially if you’re keen on snorkeling or exploring caves. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group tours, which tend to be more personal and flexible than larger cruise boats.

Key Points

• Seamless logistics with round-trip boat transfer from Malta’s coast
• Visit the Blue Lagoon for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing
• Explore sea caves up close, with free entry included
• Visit St. Paul’s Islands for a quiet ending and stunning views
• Small boat size enhances access to caves and less crowded experience
• Affordable price point makes it a value-packed day out

An In-Depth Look at the Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Pauls Islands Tour

Starting the Day: Early Departure from Bugibba

Most travelers will find the tour’s meeting point at L-Menqa, San Pawl il-Baar, a convenient spot easily accessible by public transport or a short walk from your accommodation. Boarding begins at 9:30 am, and the boat departs at 10:00 am sharp, so arriving a little early helps avoid missing the boat. The crew is known for being friendly and helpful, which sets a welcoming tone for the day.

Cruising the Maltese Coastline: First Impressions

Once on board, the experience quickly shifts to appreciating Malta’s coastline from the water. The vessel’s smaller size allows for closer views, especially when navigating into the sea caves—a feature often highlighted as a memorable part of the trip, weather permitting. The ride offers spectacular vistas of Malta’s rugged shoreline, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

The Main Attraction: Blue Lagoon on Comino

The Blue Lagoon is the star of this tour. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and smooth sandy bottom, it’s a magnet for swimmers and snorkelers alike. Reviewers often mention how beautiful and inviting the lagoon looks, though many note it’s crowded and sometimes littered, especially during peak season. If you’re visiting in summer, bring beach shoes—the rocky cliffs can be slippery and uncomfortable.

You’ll have around three hours to enjoy swimming, snorkeling with rented gear, or just relaxing on the boat. The water’s clarity makes it an ideal spot for underwater photography. The onboard snack bar provides options for a quick lunch or drinks, but if you want something more substantial, bringing your own snacks might be wise.

Exploring Comino’s Land and Caves

For those who prefer land, there’s the option to explore Comino’s tiny land area, which is mostly uninhabited. The boat allows you to jump off the boat for some quick dips or to walk along the coast. The caves are a highlight: smaller boats can enter these formations, adding a sense of adventure. The crew often takes pride in being able to access caves, which larger boats can’t reach, providing a more intimate experience.

St. Paul’s Islands: A Quiet Finish

The last stop takes you to St. Paul’s Islands, about 30 minutes to explore. This site is notable for its secluded nature and the statue of St. Paul perched on the island. Many find this to be a peaceful spot for a final swim or a short walk to appreciate the surrounding scenery. It’s a calm, less crowded place to reflect on the day and enjoy some final water time.

Returning to Malta

The boat departs St. Paul’s Islands in the late afternoon and returns to Bugibba around 5 pm. The return trip offers a final chance to admire Malta’s rugged coastline as the sun begins to lower, casting warmer hues on the water.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers praise the friendly crew and the timeliness of the trip. One reviewer said, “The captain was kind and informative. The crew really helpful,” emphasizing the personal touch that smaller boats can offer. Others highlight the beauty of the Blue Lagoon, though some mention it being overcrowded and dirty at times, which is worth keeping in mind.

The value for money also gets high marks. For roughly $29, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and caves exploration, plus the convenience of round-trip transport. Several reviews note that the smaller vessel is a major plus, allowing access to caves and less crowded experiences compared to bigger group tours.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

• “Bring beach shoes because the cliffs are rocky and slippery,” warns one reviewer, a helpful tip for anyone planning to jump off the boat.
• “The caves are cool,” shared a traveler who enjoyed the narrow passages.
• “The Blue Lagoon is beautiful but crowded,” states a review, a reminder that timing and expectations matter.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation & Meeting Point: The tour starts at L-Menqa, 36 Triq San Geraldu, San Pawl il-Baar. Public transportation or a short walk from nearby accommodations makes getting there straightforward.

Booking & Cancellation: Book at least 17 days in advance for the best chance, as this tour is popular. It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind.

What to Bring: Wear swimsuits and beach shoes, bring sunscreen, and consider packing a dry bag for your valuables when swimming. If you plan to snorkel, rent gear onboard with cash deposits.

Weather & Safety: The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Expect most travelers can participate, but check specific restrictions if you have mobility issues.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This outing is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water, want to see Malta from a different angle, and love swimming and snorkeling. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small-group tours, as these tend to be more flexible and personal. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll find this is a lively yet relaxed way to spend a day.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For less than thirty dollars, this boat tour offers an accessible and scenic glimpse into Malta’s coastal beauty. You’ll experience the Blue Lagoon’s famous turquoise waters, the thrill of sea caves, and the peacefulness of St. Paul’s Islands—all from a vessel that’s small enough to keep the experience personal and flexible.

This tour suits those seeking a lively, engaging day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy stunning scenery. The friendly crew and good value make it a popular choice, although crowds at the Blue Lagoon can detract from the serenity during peak times. If you come prepared for a lively scene and appreciate the chance for water-based adventures, this trip will delight.

For travelers eager to see Malta’s coast from the water without breaking the bank or dealing with large crowds, this tour strikes a solid balance of fun, value, and authentic scenery. Just remember to bring your patience, a sense of adventure, and some beach shoes for rocky cliffs—everything else is just a splash away.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Boarding begins at 9:30 am, and the boat departs promptly at 10:00 am from Bugibba.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, ending around 5 pm when you return to Bugibba.

What are the main stops on this tour?
You’ll visit the Blue Lagoon on Comino, explore sea caves, and stop at St. Paul’s Islands for about 30 minutes.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling equipment can be rented onboard with a cash deposit, but it’s not included in the price.

Can I buy food onboard?
Yes, there’s a snack bar on the boat where you can purchase food and drinks, but bringing your own snacks is also a good idea.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, beach shoes, sunscreen, a towel, and waterproof bags for your valuables.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check specific restrictions. The small boat may be easier for some but consider the rocky terrain at some stops.

How do I book?
You can book online, usually 17 days in advance, through the tour provider’s website or Viator.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its small, friendly vessel allows access to caves and less crowded spots, and reviews consistently praise the helpful crew and stunning scenery.

In summary, this boat trip from Malta combines affordability, scenic beauty, and a bit of adventure. Whether you want to swim in tranquil waters, explore caves, or simply enjoy the sea breeze, it offers a well-rounded day out with plenty of authentic moments.