Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Cruise w/ Lunch

Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Cruise with Lunch

Imagine gliding across sparkling Maltese waters aboard a traditional Turkish gulet, with the sun warming your back and the sea stretching out around you. That’s exactly what a 7.5-hour cruise from Sliema to Comino offers — a mix of relaxing sailing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a delicious onboard meal. This tour is a fantastic way to spend a day if you love scenic coastlines, quiet coves, and a touch of maritime charm.

What really sets this experience apart are the stunning stops at the Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon, both famous for their mesmerizing waters. We loved how comfortably the boat, with its spacious decks and shaded areas, makes it easy to soak in the views and feel pampered. Plus, the onboard lunch — including free-flowing local wine — adds a leisurely, satisfying touch to your day.

A possible consideration for some travelers is the length of the sailing — as one review notes, “the sailing to Comino island was a bit long,” which might be tiring for those prone to seasickness or just eager to get to the swimming spots. But overall, this trip suits those who appreciate a well-paced day on the water, beautiful scenery, and authentic Maltese hospitality.

If you’re seeking an enjoyable, value-packed day trip that combines scenic cruising with swimming and good food, this tour is a great fit. It’s particularly suited for travelers who love picturesque landscapes, comfortable boat rides, and a bit of marine adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views during the cruise from Sliema to Comino make the journey memorable.
• Two swim stops allow plenty of time to explore and relax in nature’s clear waters.
• Delicious onboard lunch with unlimited local wine and beer enhances the relaxed atmosphere.
• Comfortable, traditional Turkish gulet offers spacious decks, shaded areas, freshwater showers, and toilets.
• Flexible options for pick-up and drop-off cater to different travel plans.
• Weather-dependent stops mean flexibility in itinerary, with alternative locations like Santa Marija Bay.

A Deep Dive into the Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise Experience

Setting the Scene: Sailing from Sliema to Comino

The tour begins at Sliema Ferries, a lively hub on the northeastern coast of Malta. We set off around 9:30 AM, aboard a beautiful Turkish gulet named ‘Hera,’ which is noted for its traditional wooden design and spacious decks. The boat’s style immediately hints at a leisurely, authentic maritime experience, far removed from the typical touristy boats.

As we leave the shoreline behind, you’ll love the way the boat glides smoothly across the water, giving you a chance to take in breathtaking coastal vistas. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, with gentle waves and the promise of swimming and exploring waiting at each stop.

The First Stop: Crystal Lagoon

Depending on weather and sea conditions, our first planned visit is the Crystal Lagoon, located on the west side of Comino Island. This spot is a highlight because of its mesmerizing turquoise waters, towering cliffs, and incredible visibility — ideal for snorkelling and underwater exploration. The lagoon is well sheltered, making it perfect for divers of all experience levels.

One traveler shared, “We loved the way the crew always kept a watchful eye during our swim, helping out and making sure everyone was safe.” The calm, crystal-clear waters with stunning 360-degree views make this a top choice for a refreshing dip and underwater sightseeing.

If conditions don’t favor a visit — which can happen in open waters — the crew will take you to Santa Marija Bay instead, a peaceful, shallow spot surrounded by lush greenery. This alternative is praised for its crystal-clear, shallow waters, perfect for relaxing and snorkelling in a quieter environment.

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Lunch on Board: Savoring Maltese Flavors

Around midday, after our first swim stop, the boat anchors for a cold buffet lunch. You’ll find fresh local ingredients, and the onboard staff serve a variety of options, including unlimited local wine and beer. The fact that drinks are included during lunch adds a festive, laid-back feel to your day.

One review notes, “The crew are professional and always ready to help out,” and that their attentiveness makes the meal even more enjoyable. You can relax with a glass of wine as you take in the views, making the meal feel like a true Maltese experience rather than just a routine part of the tour.

The Iconic Blue Lagoon

At around 1:15 PM, we arrive at the Blue Lagoon, arguably Malta’s most photographed spot. The lagoon’s translucent cyan waters and its white sandy bottom make it a perfect postcard scene. It’s renowned for its marine life, calm waters, and stunning surroundings.

Here, you can spend your time swimming, snorkelling, or simply wading through the warm waters. The lagoon offers a serene atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a busy morning. Some travelers mention that they appreciated how the boat’s amenities — like swimming ladders and freshwater showers — made it easy to get in and out of the water comfortably.

During our visit, we found many people floating lazily or exploring marine life just beneath the surface, which makes the Blue Lagoon a true highlight of the trip.

Exploring Comino Island

Beyond the lagoon, you might choose to walk around the countryside of Comino, which is sparsely populated and known for its natural beauty. While the tour doesn’t allow guests to disembark ashore without an official access pass (which you can book separately), the views from the boat and the surrounding cliffs are enough to give a sense of the island’s peaceful charm.

One reviewer pointed out that “the sailing to Comino island was a bit long,” but that they enjoyed the scenic views along the way. If you’re someone who enjoys leisurely boat rides and stunning scenery, this aspect won’t detract from your experience. It’s a reminder that patience pays off when you’re rewarded with such breathtaking vistas.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

Mid-afternoon, we start heading back toward Sliema, with the boat arriving around 5:00 PM. Throughout the return trip, you can reflect on the day, sip fresh fruit or drinks, and enjoy the comfort of the boat’s amenities.

Considering the Cost and Overall Value

The price includes cruise, lunch, drinks, and swimming stops, making it a good value for a full day of relaxation and sightseeing. The unlimited wine and beer during lunch, coupled with the scenic stops, mean you’re getting a lot for your money, especially considering Malta’s beautiful waters and the chance to swim in world-famous lagoons.

Authenticity and Comfort

Travelers tend to praise the professional crew and the stylish yet comfortable boat. The spacious decks and shaded areas are appreciated, especially on warm Maltese days. Plus, the friendly staff and the casual atmosphere help everyone feel at ease, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer.

Practicalities and Tips

• Weather-dependent stops mean flexibility in the itinerary — a good reason to check the forecast before booking.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear, as you’ll spend plenty of time in the water and under the sun.
• Optional transfers are available, but if you’re staying nearby, you’ll need to make your own way to Sliema Ferries.
• Be aware of government regulations — since a pass is required to disembark at the Blue Lagoon, plan accordingly if you want to set foot on the island itself.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who crave a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and sunbathing opportunities. It suits travelers who enjoy comfortable boat rides and classic Maltese scenery without feeling rushed. It’s especially enjoyable for couples, families, or groups of friends seeking a laid-back day with excellent food and drinks. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and comfort, with highlights that include some of Malta’s most iconic waters, this tour fits the bill.

Those sensitive to seasickness might want to consider the length of the sailing, but overall, the crew’s professionalism helps make it a smooth experience. It’s also well-suited for those who love good wine and a good story — the crew’s attentive service and the stunning surroundings make the whole day feel special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Optional pick-up and drop-off transfers are available if you select that option, but the departure point at Sliema Ferries is accessible on your own if you prefer.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and some cash for any extras not included.

Can I disembark at Blue Lagoon?
To step ashore at Blue Lagoon, you’ll need to buy an official government-issued access pass via blcomino.com. Without this pass, disembarking isn’t permitted.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, with departure around 9:30 AM and return around 5:00 PM.

Are meals included?
Yes, a mid-morning snack and cold buffet lunch are included, along with unlimited local wine and beer during lunch and fresh fruit in the afternoon.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, but travelers with mobility impairments should review specific needs with the provider.

Are there any restrictions?
People prone to seasickness or with mobility impairments should consider their comfort, as the sailing can be long and the boat may not accommodate all needs.

What is the weather like?
The tour is weather-dependent; stops may be canceled or changed if conditions aren’t suitable. Check the forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Comino and Blue Lagoon cruise offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic sailing, crystal-clear swimming spots, and a tasty onboard meal — all aboard a charming Turkish gulet. The relaxed pace and friendly crew make it a delightful way to enjoy Malta’s coastal beauty without feeling hurried.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and good hospitality, and who want a day that’s more about enjoying the scenery and good company than ticking off sightseeing landmarks. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and comfortable amenities turn this into a truly enjoyable Maltese day at sea.

For those wanting an authentic, laid-back experience that captures the essence of Maltese waters, this cruise is a smart choice. Just remember to plan for the weather, and consider booking your Blue Lagoon disembarkation pass in advance if you want to explore the island itself.

In all, this tour strikes a balance between comfort, adventure, and the simple pleasure of soaking up the sun in one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful settings.

You can check availability for your dates here: