From Sliema: Comino Island and Blue Lagoon Cruise

From Sliema: Comino Island and Blue Lagoon Cruise — A Practical, Authentic Malta Experience

If you’re visiting Malta and craving a day out on the water, this cruise from Sliema offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most celebrated sights. For about $40 per person, you’ll spend 7.5 hours exploring Comino Island, the famed Blue Lagoon, and nearby sea caves. Expect a mix of sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying Malta’s stunning coastline, all led by a friendly crew who makes the day both informative and relaxed.

Two aspects we particularly love about this trip are the swim stops at the Crystal Lagoon—a sheltered spot perfect for snorkeling and diving—and the friendly, professional crew that keeps things running smoothly while sharing interesting commentary. The boat is well-maintained, and the itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with plenty of free time for your own adventures.

One caveat to keep in mind is the need to secure an access pass for disembarking at the Blue Lagoon, which is a government regulation starting May 2025. This means you should plan ahead and reserve your pass, especially if visiting during peak months from June to October. Also, the Blue Lagoon can get quite crowded, so arriving early to get a good spot is advisable.

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy scenic water views, easy access to snorkeling, and relaxed beach-like environments. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a well-organized day with friendly guides, as highlighted in many positive reviews. Families, solo travelers, and groups of friends will find it a straightforward, enjoyable experience with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and quiet moments alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Pass by Malta’s coastline, including St. Julian’s, St. Paul’s Bay, and Mellieha Bay.
• Iconic Blue Lagoon: Crystal-clear waters, white sandy base, perfect for swimming and photography.
• Swim stops: Includes a 45-minute stop at the Crystal Lagoon (June-October), ideal for snorkelers and divers.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most ages, although not for those with mobility issues or large luggage.
• Valuable experience: Good balance of guided commentary, free time, and scenic cruising.
• Crowd considerations: Can be busy, especially at the Blue Lagoon, so early arrival helps.

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

Departure and Scenic Ride

Your adventure begins at Sliema Ferries in the morning, where you’ll meet your crew and board a comfortable boat. The cruise offers a relaxing journey along Malta’s renowned coastline, passing notable sights such as St. Julian’s Bay, St. George’s Bay, and St. Paul’s Island. This part of the trip not only sets the scene but also provides excellent photo opportunities of Malta’s scenic harbors and rugged shores.

As we glided past these familiar spots, we appreciated how the crew’s commentary added context—highlighting local landmarks and sharing tidbits about the waters we cruised. Many reviews mentioned that the staff was friendly and informative, making us feel well cared for from the start.

The Highlight: Blue Lagoon

The main attraction is undoubtedly the Blue Lagoon, a shallow bay with turquoise waters and a white sandy bottom. The photos don’t do it justice—once you see it in person, you’ll understand why it’s a star of Malta’s tourism scene. The lagoon’s transparent water makes it perfect for snorkeling and swimming, especially if you like to explore underwater life or just float lazily in the warm water.

One useful tip is to arrive early because the lagoon gets very crowded as the day progresses. Several reviewers pointed out that boats tend to dock farther out due to the number of vessels, which can make the experience feel a bit less intimate. Still, the overall value of being able to enjoy such a beautiful spot for a few hours outweighs the inconvenience.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Crystal Lagoon Stop

From June through October, weather permitting, the cruise includes a 45-minute stop at the Crystal Lagoon. This is a quieter haven with sheltered waters, making it appealing for snorkeling and diving. Many guests highlighted this as the best part of the trip, describing it as a peaceful, picturesque setting where they could jump off the boat and explore the caves.

The crew’s willingness to facilitate jumping from the boat and the small water slide adds a playful element that appeals especially to families and younger travelers. Multiple reviews praised the crew for their helpfulness and friendliness here, making the experience feel very personal.

Exploring on Land and Sea Caves

While the main focus is the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, the return voyage features views of sea caves along the coast. These caves, visible from the boat, add a dramatic backdrop and make for excellent photo moments. The uninhabited nature of Comino means no urban environment distracts from the natural beauty—perfect for walkers and photo enthusiasts.

On land, Comino is a quiet place with trails leading to St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery. While the cruise doesn’t include a land excursion, many reviews suggest that walking around the island’s countryside is worthwhile, especially in cooler months.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $40 per person, this cruise offers great value compared to other options. The ticket covers the scenic cruise, stops at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, and includes commentary—making it a comprehensive, laid-back way to see Malta’s coast without the hassle of organizing your own boat or transport. Additional costs, such as the government-issued pass for disembarking at the Blue Lagoon, are your responsibility and should be arranged on the official website well before the trip.

Duration and Timing

The 7.5-hour day is packed but flexible. Starting times vary, so checking availability is important. The cruise typically leaves in the morning and returns late afternoon, giving plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.

What to Bring

Pack comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around Comino’s trails, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for snacks or souvenirs. Since no food or drinks are included, bringing your own or purchasing on the boat is recommended. The boat has toilet facilities and a water slide, adding to the fun.

Important Regulations

From May 2025, all disembarking at Blue Lagoon requires an access pass—a government regulation. Passes are limited and must be secured via the official website. This requirement could impact your plans, so early planning is key if you want to get ashore.

Accessibility and Suitability

This trip isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the nature of boat boarding and land trails. It’s also not recommended for those prone to seasickness. Children and families enjoy the stops, but the crowded Blue Lagoon might be less appealing to travelers seeking quiet solitude.

Weather and Cancellations

The provider reserves the right to adjust or cancel the trip due to weather conditions. If canceled, you can reschedule or get a full refund—flexibility that many reviewers appreciated.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet scenic day on the water, with plenty of time to snorkel and sunbathe. It’s especially suitable for those who value friendly guides, stunning views, and good value. If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized trip with opportunities to swim in Malta’s most famous waters, this experience checks all the boxes.

It’s also ideal for families and solo travelers who want a hassle-free day, as the crew’s helpfulness and the boat’s safety measures create a welcoming atmosphere. However, if avoiding crowds or seeking a more private experience is your priority, arriving early and planning ahead for the Blue Lagoon disembarkation is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially for securing the Blue Lagoon access pass and to guarantee your spot on the cruise. The cruise can sell out during peak season.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and cash. No large luggage or pets are allowed, and it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Is food included? No, food and drinks are not provided, so plan to bring your own or buy on the boat.

How long is the stop at the Blue Lagoon? The cruise typically spends a few hours there, but arriving early is recommended to beat the crowds.

Can I visit the island on land? The cruise itself doesn’t include a land excursion, but walking trails and landmarks like St. Mary’s Chapel are accessible if you choose to explore independently.

What happens if the weather is bad? The cruise provider may cancel or alter the itinerary. If canceled due to weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

To sum it up, this cruise from Sliema offers a balanced, authentic way to experience Malta’s stunning coastal waters, especially the Blue Lagoon. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising, swimming, and friendly guides, and who don’t mind a bit of a crowd at the main swimming spots. Well-organized, good value, and filled with natural beauty, it’s a memorable day out that captures the essence of Malta’s seaside charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: