Malta: North Coast, Blue Lagoon and Comino Boat Tour

If you’re craving a relaxing afternoon on Malta’s waters with a splash of adventure, this boat tour around Comino offers a perfect blend of scenery, swimming, and exploring. For about five hours and $82 per person, you’ll get to see some of Malta’s most iconic sights — including the Blue Lagoon, the St. Maria Caves, and Elephant Rock — all from the comfort of a small, friendly boat.

What makes this tour stand out is its well-balanced itinerary: two swim stops in crystal-clear waters, a leisurely cruise past sea caves, and plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed enjoyment. The small group vibe ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, making it a more intimate experience. We also appreciate the choice of scenic spots, from the lively Blue Lagoon to the quieter Santa Marija Bay, which caters to different moods.

One possible consideration is that the exact route and timing can shift depending on the weather — a reminder that flexibility is key when planning your day. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring some snacks or purchase what’s available onboard. This tour is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, enjoy swimming, and want authentic views of Malta’s coast without fuss.

If this sounds like your kind of relaxed, scenic outing, you’ll likely find this tour offers good value and memorable moments, especially if you’re eager to see Malta from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: The tour features Malta’s rugged coastline, caves, and iconic rock formations.
• Swim in crystal-clear waters: Enjoy two swim stops, including the famed Blue Lagoon.
• Small group experience: An intimate trip that allows for more personalized attention.
• Flexible itinerary: Routes and timing may vary with weather, but safety is always the priority.
• Photography opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture stunning sea views and caves.
• No included food/drinks: Remember to bring your own or purchase onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Malta North Coast, Blue Lagoon, and Comino Boat Tour

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and Why It Matters

This five-hour boat tour, departing from St. Paul’s Bay, takes travelers on a scenic cruise along Malta’s northern coast, with stops that highlight both the natural beauty and the hidden gems of the area. For $82, you get a lot of value, especially when you consider what’s included: visits to St. Paul’s Island, exploration of the Coral Lagoon, and a boat ride past notable sea caves.

The tour’s main appeal is its combination of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxed exploration. You’ll have the chance to enjoy the Blue Lagoon’s famous turquoise waters, explore St. Maria Caves, and marvel at Elephant Rock on Gozzo’s south coast. The experience is ideal for those who love being on the water, want to see Malta from the sea, and enjoy some leisurely swimming.

What’s the Day Like? The Itinerary in Detail

Departure at 2:00 PM from St. Paul’s Bay marks the start of a scenic journey along the coast. As you set out, your boat captain will navigate past Santa Marija Tower and along the rugged shoreline, giving you a taste of Malta’s dramatic cliffs and caves.

First Swim Stop: Blue Lagoon

Around 3:00 PM, you’ll arrive at the Blue Lagoon, often described as Malta’s most famous bay. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling — masks are available to rent — and the lively atmosphere makes it a favorite for many. You’ll have roughly 60 minutes here, giving you enough time to relax, take photos, or paddle around.

One traveler noted, “We loved the way the water was so clear and inviting.” The Blue Lagoon’s popularity can mean it gets crowded, but the lively vibe is part of its charm. This stop is ideal for those who love vibrant scenery and a bit of social energy.

Scenic Cruise & Sea Caves Exploration

After the first swim, the boat cruises leisurely past Santa Marija Tower and along Comino’s rugged coast, stopping at hidden sea caves. The captain will explore these caves, which makes for fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. This part lasts about 45 minutes and offers a chance to appreciate the coastline’s wild beauty.

A review mentioned, “The sea caves were incredible — so many nooks and crannies to explore from the water.” It’s an unforgettable highlight that combines natural beauty with a sense of discovery.

Second Swim at Santa Marija Bay

By 4:45 PM, you’ll stop at Santa Marija Bay, a quieter, less crowded spot. Here, you can enjoy another swim, surrounded by nature and serenity. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for unwinding after the more energetic Blue Lagoon. This stop also lasts around an hour. Cold drinks are available for purchase onboard, letting you hydrate and relax.

This less touristy stop is appreciated by travelers looking for a peaceful swim, away from the crowds of the Blue Lagoon.

Final Exploration: St. Maria Caves and Elephant Rock

Toward the end of your journey, the boat approaches the St. Maria Caves, some of the most striking caves in the area. These caves, along with the iconic Elephant Rock on Gozzo’s south coast, provide excellent photo subjects and memorable views. The entire exploration here lasts about 75 minutes before heading back to St. Paul’s Bay for your 7:00 PM return.

Onboard Experience: Comfort and Convenience

The boat, described as small and cozy, keeps the experience intimate. Amenities include snorkelling masks for rent, drinks for purchase, and freshwater showers — perfect for rinsing off after your swims. The onboard music adds a relaxed, fun vibe, making it a perfect way to spend a Monday afternoon.

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What Travelers Love and Appreciate

The main praise for this tour comes from its stunning views and the opportunity to enjoy Malta’s coast from the water. One reviewer said, “The views of the coastline and caves were absolutely breathtaking.” Others appreciated the small-group atmosphere, which made the experience more personal and less rushed.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is generally praised, some travelers noted that timing and route might vary depending on weather and sea conditions. It’s a good idea to be flexible and prepared for possible adjustments. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing your own water, snacks, or purchasing onboard is recommended. Also, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

Price and Value

At $82, the tour offers good value given the multiple stops, scenic cruising, and the chance to swim in some of Malta’s most famous spots. Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this experience’s intimacy and focus on natural beauty make it worth considering, especially if you’re keen on photography and relaxed exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water and love swimming and snorkeling in beautiful settings. It’s ideal if you appreciate small-group experiences that offer personalized attention and authentic scenery. Those seeking a lively atmosphere, combined with natural beauty, will find plenty to enjoy here.

If you’re looking for a quiet, less crowded experience, the quieter bay stops provide refuge from the busy Blue Lagoon. However, if you’re not comfortable with boats or seasickness, you might want to consider alternative ways to explore Malta’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, as swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Snorkel masks are available for rent if you want to explore underwater.

Does the itinerary stay the same every day?
Not necessarily. The route and timings may vary depending on sea conditions and weather, but safety is always the priority.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase drinks onboard, but it’s wise to bring some snacks and water.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, from 2:00 PM to around 7:00 PM, including all stops and cruising.

Is this tour accessible for photographers?
Absolutely. The stops and cruising past caves, cliffs, and rock formations offer excellent photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This Malta boat tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. It’s a fantastic way to see Malta’s coast from a different angle, enjoy refreshing swims, and explore some of the island’s hidden natural wonders. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

If you’re someone who values a relaxed pace, authentic views, and memorable swimming spots, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Maltese holiday. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine a bit of adventure with plenty of time to unwind and capture beautiful photos.

For those looking for an easy, scenic, and authentic way to experience Malta’s coast with a friendly crew and a small group, this boat trip checks all the boxes.

Note: Always check current weather conditions and confirm the route with your provider on the day to ensure a smooth experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: