Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks

Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks offers a leisurely way to explore Malta’s coast and its iconic islands. Departing from Sliema, this 8-hour voyage takes you to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, a quiet bay, and the scenic waters near Gozo. For around €50 per person, you’ll enjoy a beautiful Turkish Gullet vessel, a buffet lunch, and complimentary drinks while soaking in the panoramic views.

What we love about this trip is the casual yet scenic journey along Malta’s coastline, giving you a taste of local maritime charm. The second highlight is the freedom to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters at the Blue Lagoon and secluded bays — perfect for those craving a relaxed day on the water. A minor consideration is the limited commentary on the boat, which can make it harder to catch all the details unless you lean towards the front or side. This cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back experience with plenty of swimming opportunities and scenic vistas, especially if you value good food and friendly service.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal voyage with stunning views of Malta’s cliffs and shoreline
• Includes a generous buffet lunch with drinks like wine, beer, and soft drinks
• Stops at Comino’s Blue Lagoon and a quiet, secluded bay for swimming and snorkeling
• Easy access to swim off the boat with ladder equipment and optional noodles
• Flexible booking options including free cancellation and pay later
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to the nature of the boat and activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 3-Islands Cruise Experience

Starting Out from Sliema

We begin our day around 10:30 am at Sliema Ferries, where the boat named Faith awaits opposite McDonald’s. The departure time is generally set for late morning, making it convenient for most travelers. The boat’s classic Turkish Gullet style immediately sets a relaxed, traditional tone that’s easy to appreciate. It’s a spacious vessel, which many reviews note as comfortable for a full day at sea.

The Coastal Journey and Scenic Views

As the cruise departs, we love how close the boat stays to shore, offering commanding views of Malta’s cliffs and natural beauty. The breeze is gentle, the cyan waters shimmer under the sun, and the overall feeling is one of calm adventure. This part of the trip is about soaking in the stunning scenery, with many passengers mentioning how impressive the panorama is. You’ll see Malta from a different perspective, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Comino and the Blue Lagoon

The main highlight for many travelers is the stop at Comino’s Blue Lagoon. The boat will berth stern-to for easy access to this famous stretch of transparent waters. Here, the reviews praise the “amazing” swimming spots, with one traveler noting how “easy it is to swim off the ladder,” and appreciating the availability of noodles to aid flotation. The water’s clarity makes it perfect for snorkeling, and many take advantage of this to explore underwater life or simply float lazily.

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Exploring Comino and Secluded Bays

After the Blue Lagoon, the boat continues its journey toward a secluded bay—a quieter, less crowded spot for further swimming and relaxation. This area provides a more tranquil environment where you can take a break from the bustling lagoon, enjoy the sun, or snorkel along rugged coastlines. Several reviews mention the “great experience” of swimming here and the ease of access.

The Food and Drinks

The buffet lunch is considered a strong point. A “cold buffet” offers a variety of simple, satisfying options that keep you fueled for the day. During lunch, drinks are included—soft drinks, beer, wine, and water—making it easy to sip while enjoying the views. According to reviews, the food is plentiful, and the bar is well-stocked for cash purchases if you want spirits or ice cream (though not included). The fact that food and drinks are included is a notable value, especially given the all-day length of the trip.

The Return and End of the Trip

By around 6:00 pm, we head back to Sliema, tired but full of stories and photos. The return cruise offers one last view of Malta’s coastline, closing a day filled with scenic beauty and relaxing water activities.

Authentic Traveller Experiences

Many guests highlight the friendly staff and good communication, even if the commentary isn’t very detailed. Juliette mentions, “hard to hear commentary from the side/front of the boat but mostly good,” which suggests that if you’re a history buff, you might want to supplement your trip with some pre-knowledge or guidebooks.

Others praise the smooth logistics and plenty of opportunities to swim, with Mikkel calling the experience “really nice,” especially noting the quality of the swimming spots and food. Lynley adds that access to the water was simple, and she appreciated the availability of extra flotation noodles.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking or exploring on Comino if you wish.
• Pack a swimsuit and towel — most will swim at the stops.
• Apply sunscreen generously; the Malta sun can be strong.
• If you’re interested in walking on Comino, remember you’ll need to reserve and get a free ticket online starting May 2025 (do this early to secure your preferred time slot).
• The boat departs and returns to the same location, making logistics straightforward.
• The group size varies but tends to be intimate enough for easy socializing without feeling crowded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with stunning scenery without the hassle of multiple bookings. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying good food with a friendly crew, this trip hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a bit of a boat ride and prefer an informal, scenic experience over detailed commentary or guided tours.

However, those with mobility issues might find the boat’s access challenging, and if you’re looking for a more narrated experience, you may want to research additional options.

The Sum Up

This 3-Islands Cruise from Sliema offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, swimming, and good food at a reasonable price. You get to see Malta’s coast from a classic Turkish Gullet, visit the famous Blue Lagoon with its crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a buffet lunch with drinks—all in one smooth, enjoyable package. It balances natural beauty with comfort, making it perfect for travelers who want to unwind without a whirlwind schedule.

If you’re after a relaxing sea adventure with friendly service and plenty of swimming, this cruise will hit the mark. It’s a great option for families, couples, or friends wanting to soak up Malta’s maritime charm without overdoing it on the logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 8 hours, departing around 10:30 am and returning around 6:00 pm.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins and ends at the same point, opposite McDonald’s in Sliema, where the boat named Faith is docked.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, during lunchtime, you’re offered soft drinks, beer, wine, and water at no extra charge.

Is food provided?
Yes, there’s a cold buffet lunch included in the ticket price.

Can I swim at the stops?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy easy access to swim or snorkel in the Blue Lagoon and a secluded bay, with some reviews mentioning the convenience of ladders and noodles.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended. Pack light but practical for water activities.

Are there any restrictions for walking on Comino?
Starting May 2025, visitors need to reserve a free ticket online to walk on the island. The QR code provided upon reservation will be scanned at the entrance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and swimming opportunities suggest it’s family-friendly, but always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Is it accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues due to the boat’s setup and activities involved.

Whether you’re after a scenic escape, a day of swimming, or simply soaking up the Maltese sun with good food in hand, this cruise offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Malta’s waters. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize authentic, relaxed adventures over packed schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here: