Half day Cruise – Comino, Gozo, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, and Caves

Discover the Magic of Malta’s Coastline on a Half-Day Cruise

Imagine slipping away from the busy land-based tourist spots and instead gliding along Malta’s shimmering coastlines, with the wind in your hair and the sea stretching in every direction. This half-day cruise, offered by Xlendi Pleasure Cruises for about $40.33 per person, lasts around 3 to 4 hours and takes you to some of Malta’s most stunning spots, including the Blue Lagoon, Comino Caves, and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.

What’s particularly attractive about this excursion? First, it’s a chance to cover many highlights in a short time—great for travelers who want a taste of Malta’s natural beauty without committing a whole day. Second, the experience is designed to feel more intimate because it’s operated on a smaller boat—meaning fewer crowds and a more personalized feel, especially on sunny days when you can lounge on the padded sun deck or jump from the top for a quick splash.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions can influence your experience—swimming and cave visits depend on good weather, and safety is a priority. If you’re someone who prefers large, bustling cruise ships, this might not be the right fit, but if you love a more relaxed, boutique-style boat ride, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of swimming, scenic vistas, and a taste of local Malta and Gozo life, all wrapped up in a compact, well-organized itinerary. It’s especially suited for travelers looking to maximize their short stay or those who want a more authentic, less crowded experience than larger group tours.

Key Points

• Intimate vessel for a more personalized experience
• Two swimming stops in Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon
• Includes visits to the Comino Caves and a quick photo stop at Mgarr Harbour
• Flexible timing with around 3-4 hours total
• Affordable price offering good value for the highlights covered
• Weather-dependent activity, especially for swimming and cave visits

An In-Depth Look at the Maltese Coastal Cruise

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The cruise departs from Cirkewwa, a known starting point for many island excursions. We loved the relaxed vibe of the small boat, which often feels more like a private outing than a crowded tour. The tour’s max group size of 40 travelers keeps things manageable and friendly, letting you better soak in the scenery and chat with the crew.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the biggest advantages is the small boat size, which allows for unobstructed views from the upper deck—a feature many reviews praise. Angel_K shared, “The upper deck has an amazing unobstructed view—and you’re allowed to jump from the top during the swim stop.” It’s these touches—combined with the chance to freely swim and snorkel—that make this experience feel special.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Blue Lagoon

This is the star attraction. Located on Comino, the Blue Lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil ambiance. You’ll spend about an hour here, giving plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and snap those postcard-worthy photos. Reviewers like AshleyMarie_M called it a “more of an experience than a cruise,” highlighting how personal and relaxed the time is at this famous spot.

However, some noted that Blue Lagoon can get crowded, especially later in the day. If you prefer calm waters and fewer people, arriving early or booking the free ticket online (required from May 2025) might help you avoid the crowds.

Stop 2: Mgarr Harbour, Gozo

A brief 15-minute stop provides a glimpse into Gozo’s charming harbor, where you can take photos and admire the small, colorful boats bobbing in the water. Several reviews mention that this is a nice photo opportunity and a chance to see a different side of Malta’s surroundings.

Stop 3: Crystal Lagoon

The second swim spot, Crystal Lagoon, offers breathtaking scenery with its turquoise waters and rock formations. You’re given around an hour here to swim, snorkel, and explore the sea life—a highlight for many, with some reviewers mentioning they saw fish and enjoyed the serene environment.

Passing the Main Bay and Caves

While the tour doesn’t stop at the main sandy bay of Comino, it passes by it, giving you the chance to see the largest beach in Comino from the boat. The caves are also visible during the cruise; many find the photo opportunities incredible, especially the caves’ natural formations and lighting.

Additional Highlights

• Cliff views that resemble an elephants head—a quirky, fun photo stop.
• The boat’s onboard amenities include toilet facilities, a padded sun deck, and options to rent snorkeling equipment for just $5.
• The welcome drink and watermelon offer a refreshing way to relax between swims.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently point out the quality of the crew and the personal touch. Angel_K praised Captain George, saying, “It felt like a private cruise as all other passengers got off.” Similarly, AshleyMarie_M loved the beautiful views and relaxed atmosphere, calling the trip “well worth the money.”

Some reviews mention less positive experiences, such as rough sea conditions in winter or confusing meeting points—but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. It’s wise to confirm your meeting location and check the weather forecast beforehand.

Practical Considerations

• The price includes two swimming stops and a visit to the caves, which is a solid value considering the scenery and opportunities.
• Snorkeling gear can be rented for an additional $5, essential if you want to explore underwater.
• The tour operates in good weather—if seas are rough or conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled.
• Those wanting to disembark at Blue Lagoon need to book a free ticket online from May 2025, so plan ahead if you want to stay longer on land.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy short, scenic excursions with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities will find this ideal. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a more intimate boat experience and appreciate stunning natural vistas. If you’re looking for full-day adventures or large group cruises, this may feel a bit more limited, but for quality over quantity, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If your goal is a relaxing, well-organized half-day out on the water with amazing views, this cruise offers excellent value. The small boat atmosphere means fewer crowds, more personalized attention, and the perfect setting to capture stunning photos of Malta’s coast and caves. It suits travelers who want flexibility, as it leaves plenty of time afterward to explore on your own.

The two swimming stops—Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon—are major highlights that are worth the price alone, especially given the crystal-clear waters and peaceful environment. Plus, the onboard amenities and friendly crew make it a comfortable, enjoyable outing.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, check the weather forecast and consider your comfort level with boat rides. Also, be aware that the Blue Lagoon can be crowded later in the day, so plan accordingly.

This tour balances scenic beauty, value, and authenticity, making it an appealing choice for anyone wanting a taste of Malta’s coastal charm without the hassle of larger, busier cruises.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts around 3 to 4 hours, giving you enough time for two swimming stops, sightseeing, and a little onshore exploration without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Cirkewwa, a well-known port area. Be sure to confirm your meeting point, especially if you’re relying on public transportation or organized transfers.

Is the price inclusive of all activities?
Yes, the $40.33 ticket covers the sightseeing cruise, two swimming stops, visit to the caves, welcome drink, and watermelon. Snorkeling gear can be rented for an additional fee.

Can I stay longer at Blue Lagoon?
To disembark at Blue Lagoon separately, you must reserve a free ticket online from May 2025. Otherwise, you’ll stay on the boat for the full tour.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sun protection, and waterproof camera. If you want to snorkel, rent gear on board or bring your own.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 40, ensuring a more relaxed experience compared to larger cruise ships.

What weather conditions affect the tour?
The tour is weather dependent—if seas are rough or conditions poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons.

Is there any food onboard?
No, but you can purchase drinks and snacks from the onboard bar. The tour provides refreshing drinks and fruit as part of the experience.

Final Words

This half-day Maltese cruise strikes a good balance between beautiful scenery, relaxed pace, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to see Malta’s coast from the water, enjoy swimming in pristine waters, and capture memorable photos—all on a small, friendly boat. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this tour offers a gentle, scenic escape that’s unlikely to disappoint. Just remember to check the weather and book your Blue Lagoon ticket early to get the most out of your experience.