Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon

Discover the beauty of Malta’s Blue Lagoon on a full-day cruise that combines stunning scenery, relaxing swimming, and excellent value. For around $35 per person, you’ll spend several hours exploring the clear waters of Comino, with options to snorkel, swim, or simply soak up the Mediterranean sun. The tour departs from Sliema or Bugibba, making it conveniently accessible whether you’re staying in the northern or southern parts of Malta.

What we particularly like about this cruise is the generous amount of time spent in the Blue Lagoon—around four hours of swimming and relaxing in the water’s turquoise embrace. It’s a perfect chance to unwind away from the busy tourist spots. Another highlight is the comfort of the boat itself, equipped with air conditioning, snacks, beverages, and a friendly commentary that adds to the overall experience.

A potential consideration is the crowding at the lagoon, especially during peak summer months. The Blue Lagoon can get quite busy, so arriving early or planning for less crowded times might improve your experience. Also, if snorkeling equipment isn’t included, you’ll need to rent it onboard or bring your own, which adds a small extra cost.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value ample time for swimming and photo opportunities, appreciate good onboard amenities, and are looking for an affordable, straightforward day trip to one of Malta’s most iconic spots. If you’re after a relaxed day with flexible options for exploring, this cruise offers a solid balance of comfort and adventure.

Key Points

• Unmatched water clarity makes swimming and snorkeling a joy in the Blue Lagoon.
• Comfortable onboard facilities include air conditioning, snacks, drinks, and detailed commentary.
• Flexible schedule allows plenty of time to explore and relax at Comino.
• Crowded environment may require early arrival or strategic timing.
• Cost-effective with options to rent snorkeling gear and buy drinks onboard.
• Accessible meeting points from Sliema or Bugibba, with clear instructions for tickets starting May 2025.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise is designed for those who want to maximize their time in the water while enjoying the comfort of a well-equipped boat. Starting at either Sliema or Bugibba, the journey to Comino takes about an hour or so, depending on the departure point. The boat departs around 10:30 AM from Sliema or 11:30 AM from Bugibba, returning in the late afternoon—around 5:30 PM or 5:30 PM respectively.

This early to mid-morning departure means you’ll avoid some of the larger crowds, though during peak season, the lagoon can still feel packed. The boat ride itself is enjoyable, with a narrated commentary that points out sights and offers local insights, which adds a layer of context that’s often missing from more hurried tours.

Once you arrive at the Blue Lagoon, a basin of crystal-clear waters with a white sandy bottom, the focus is all on enjoying the marine environment. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or just float and take photos of the stunning surroundings. The reviews highlight how great the water visibility is—ideal for photos and underwater exploration. Some travelers have mentioned bringing their own snorkeling gear, but equipment can also be rented onboard for a small fee.

The time spent here, approximately four hours, is enough to explore the lagoon thoroughly. You can relax on the boat’s upper deck, where sunbathers can enjoy the Mediterranean sun while staying shaded under the parasols, or retreat to the air-conditioned interior if the heat gets too intense. The onboard bar offers snacks and drinks at reasonable prices, which is appreciated, especially after a few hours of swimming.

When it’s time to leave, the boat departs for the return journey, giving you a chance to enjoy the views of the rugged coastline and perhaps catch a sunset if you’re lucky. The entire experience balances adventure, comfort, and affordability, making it a popular choice among visitors.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the most praised features, according to reviews, is the friendly and knowledgeable crew. Travelers have noted how helpful and welcoming the staff are, which significantly enhances the overall experience. As one reviewer, Chloe, put it, “The crew were lovely and explained where we were going and pointed out sights,” helping visitors feel more connected to the surroundings.

The extended time in the Blue Lagoon—around four hours— is another major benefit. Zoey remarked, “Gave a good 4 hours at the Blue Lagoon which was perfect, would definitely do again,” emphasizing how much value this adds to the tour. For many, this is enough to swim, relax, take photos, and maybe enjoy a snack.

The onboard amenities, including air conditioning, snacks, beverages, and toilets, contribute to a comfortable experience, especially during Malta’s hot summer months. The availability of snacks and drinks at reasonable prices was appreciated by travelers like Chloe, who mentioned it as a “nice touch.”

However, some travelers noted potential drawbacks. The most common is crowding, which can impact the tranquility of your swim. During busy times, the lagoon can feel congested, and some might find it less peaceful than they hoped. Arriving early or booking outside the peak hours might help mitigate this.

From a practical perspective, the ticketing system for Comino’s entry starting May 2025 requires planning. Tourists will need to get a free ticket online at www.blcomino.com and present the QR code upon arrival, or they won’t be allowed to walk on the island. This added step is worth noting, but it shouldn’t detract too much from the experience if you plan ahead.

Breakdown of the Day

Departure and Arrival: Your day begins with a comfortable boat ride from Sliema or Bugibba, with friendly narration along the way. The journey offers scenic views that set the tone for the day ahead.

Time at the Blue Lagoon: Expect around four hours of free time to snorkel, swim, or relax. The lagoon’s water is praised for its clarity and beauty, making it a highlight for underwater photography and exploring marine life.

Snorkeling: Equipment isn’t included, but it’s available for rent onboard for a small fee. If you have your own gear, bringing it along will save extra costs and ensure you’re ready to go when you arrive.

Amenities: The boat is equipped with toilets, shaded areas, and an air-conditioned interior. Snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are available for purchase, enhancing comfort during breaks.

Return Trip: As you sail back, you’ll get a chance to unwind, enjoy the views, and perhaps discuss your favorite moments with fellow travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a straightforward, relaxed day in one of Malta’s most picturesque spots. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, you’ll find plenty of time to indulge. The onboard amenities and friendly staff make it especially suitable for those who prefer comfort and a bit of guidance along the way.

It’s also a good choice for budget-conscious visitors, given the reasonable price and included features. However, if you’re someone who seeks seclusion or less crowded environments, you might find the popular Blue Lagoon a bit busy, especially during peak season.

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The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Malta who wants to enjoy the iconic Blue Lagoon without fuss, this cruise offers a good balance of time, comfort, and value. The extended hours in the water give you ample opportunity to relax, explore, and take memorable photos. The friendly staff and well-equipped boat contribute to a smooth experience, ensuring you focus on soaking up the scenery rather than worrying about logistics.

While it’s true that the lagoon can get crowded and snorkeling gear costs extra, the overall atmosphere remains welcoming and fun. It’s an accessible, affordable way to spend a day in one of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated spots—perfect for families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a laid-back adventure.

If you’re after a reliable, enjoyable way to experience Malta’s famous waters, this cruise hits many of the right notes. Just remember to arrive early, get your tickets in advance, and pack your sunscreen and towel.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling gear isn’t included in the standard price, but you can rent it onboard for a small fee. Bringing your own gear ensures you’re ready to go when you arrive and can save some money.

What are the departure times?
From Sliema, the cruise departs at 10:30 AM; from Bugibba, at 11:30 AM. The return times are around 5:30 PM from both locations.

How long do we stay at the Blue Lagoon?
Approximately four hours, providing plenty of time to swim, snorkel, relax, and take photos.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is equipped with air conditioning, toilets, shaded areas, and a bar with snacks and drinks at reasonable prices, making the trip comfortable even during hot summer days.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and due to ticketing requirements starting May 2025, you’ll need to obtain a free ticket online to walk on Comino.

Can I enjoy the scenery during the trip?
Absolutely. The boat ride offers scenic views of Malta’s coastline and the surrounding sea, with commentary that highlights points of interest.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring that along for maximum convenience.

Is food included?
No, but snacks and drinks are available for purchase aboard the boat at reasonable prices, including alcohol, soft drinks, coffee, and tea.

How crowded does it get?
The Blue Lagoon can be busy during peak season; arriving early or booking during less busy times can help you enjoy a more peaceful experience.

This cruise offers a straightforward way to enjoy Malta’s famous waters, with enough time and comfort to make your visit memorable. For anyone wanting a reliable, scenic, and fun day in the sun, it’s hard to beat the value and experience this tour provides.

You can check availability for your dates here: