Sliema: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day

Sliema: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day – A Practical Guide for Travelers

A half-day trip to Comino’s Blue Lagoon from Sliema offers a compelling mix of scenic boat rides, swimming in warm Mediterranean waters, and exploring caves and islands. Priced reasonably around €50 per person, this 4.5-hour adventure is perfect for those wanting a taste of Malta’s famous coastline without committing to a full-day tour. You’ll cruise along the rugged coastlines, marvel at Santa Maria Caves, and unwind at the pristine Blue Lagoon, with plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy panoramic views.

Two things really stand out about this tour. First, the beautiful scenery—from the exhilarating speedboat ride to the dramatic rock formations and turquoise waters, you get plenty of photo-worthy moments. Second, the guided exploration of Santa Maria Caves provides a memorable experience that adds depth beyond just lounging on the beach.

However, a possible drawback is the timing and access. Some reviews mention that the actual time spent in the Blue Lagoon can be limited, and access to the area is now regulated, requiring prior reservation and a valid pass. If you’re looking for an all-day, unstructured free time, this might not be the right choice. But if you like a well-organized, scenic excursion with the chance to explore caves and enjoy crystal waters, this tour suits travelers with a flexible schedule and a sense of adventure.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic landscapes, and swimming. It’s also a good option for those who want to avoid long travel days but still want to see Malta’s iconic sights from the water. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or anyone prone to seasickness, as it involves a speedboat ride and some motion.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Malta’s coast.
• Scenic highlights: Includes Santa Maria Caves, views of St. Paul’s Islands, and the Blue Lagoon.
• Active experience: Opportunities for swimming, exploring caves, and sunbathing.
• Regulated access: Requires reservations and valid passes for Blue Lagoon entry.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers love the scenery and guides, while others find the time in Blue Lagoon limited.
• Price and value: Generally good value for a scenic boat trip, especially considering the cave exploration and views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

Starting from Sliema, the tour sets off with a speedboat ride that glides along Malta’s coast, providing breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and hidden coves. The speed of the boat adds a thrill, but it’s worth noting this might not be suitable for everyone, especially those sensitive to motion sickness. We loved the way the boat’s sleek design allowed us to feel the wind in our hair and get a real sense of the open sea.

One of the trip’s highlights is the visit to the Santa Maria Caves. These caves are dramatic rock formations carved by nature, with turquoise waters surrounding them. The guide will typically point out interesting features and share stories about their formation, adding a layer of context that makes the experience more engaging. It’s a chance to get close-up photos of the caves’ natural beauty, which look almost surreal from the water.

After the cave tour, the boat will head toward Comino Island, specifically the Blue Lagoon. This is a spot that travelers have long heard about for its Caribbean-like waters—clear, warm, and perfect for swimming. Once there, the boat drops passengers off, giving roughly 2 to 3 hours to relax, swim, and explore.

Many reviews mention that the time in the Blue Lagoon can be a bit limited. One traveler pointed out, “they say 4.5 hrs but we got only 2 hrs in blue lagoon,” which can feel rushed if you want to really soak in the scenery. However, the views are stunning enough that even a brief stop is worthwhile. It’s also important to note that access to the lagoon now requires reservations through the official website, and visitors without a valid pass may be redirected to an alternative beach called Santa Maria Bay.

While at Comino, you can expect to bask in the sun, swim in the warm waters, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Passengers often bring towels, sunscreen, and waterproof bags to make the most of their time. The landscape around the lagoon is protected and pristine, making it a perfect spot for family or solo travelers seeking peace away from crowded beaches.

On the return journey, you’ll enjoy views of St. Paul’s Islands. These islands add to the scenic variety, offering more views of Malta’s rugged coastline and providing more photo opportunities. Some reviews highlight how the captain or guide shared interesting tidbits during the trip, making it not just a ride but an informative experience.

How the Tour Is Structured

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with highlights. It begins with a scenic departure from Sliema, traveling along the coast, giving you your first glimpses of Malta from the water. The Santa Maria Caves are usually the first stop, allowing a short exploration of these natural formations. Next, the boat heads to Comino, where the main activity involves swimming and relaxing at the Blue Lagoon. Passengers then pass by St. Paul’s Islands on the way back, enjoying the panoramic views.

The duration is around 4.5 hours, but actual time in the Blue Lagoon may be shorter depending on the conditions and scheduling. The price covers the boat ride, cave visits, and the scenic passing of islands, making it a decent value considering the scenic beauty and guided narration.

Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring some snacks and water. The tour doesn’t provide hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at the designated departure point opposite Chequers Bar in Sliema, which is convenient for many travelers staying nearby.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The reviews reflect a mixed but generally positive sentiment. Travelers who appreciated knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery tend to rate the experience highly. For example, one traveler said, “Guide/boat driver was extremely nice!” indicating that the staff’s friendliness enhances the trip.

On the other hand, some found the timing frustrating. As one reviewer pointed out, “we got only 2 hrs in blue lagoon,” and expressed dissatisfaction with the service, feeling that the experience was more about transportation than a true tour. They also mentioned that if you’re willing to pay less for a ferry from Cirkewa, you might prefer that option for pure access to the Blue Lagoon.

These contrasting reviews highlight the importance of setting the right expectations. This trip is more about the journey and scenery than a full day of leisure. It’s an efficient way to see some of Malta’s most iconic spots in a short window, but if your priority is extended leisure time, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for a somewhat rushed experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Reserve early through the official website to ensure access to the Blue Lagoon. Without a reservation, entry may be denied or redirected.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—the Maltese sun can be intense, especially midday.
• Pack a towel and swimwear if you plan to swim or relax on the boat.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, suitable for water activities and the boat ride.
• Consider bringing a waterproof bag for your valuables.
• Be aware of motion sickness; if you’re prone, take necessary precautions before the trip.
• Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks if desired.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with back problems or seasickness.
• Arrive at the meeting point in advance; the departure is from opposite Chequers Bar in Sliema.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In essence, this half-day tour offers a beautiful slice of Malta’s coast with a mix of scenic boat rides, cave exploration, and relaxing at the Blue Lagoon. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a guided, scenic experience without dedicating a full day. The guides’ knowledge, stunning views, and value for money make this a popular option, especially if you enjoy being on the water and exploring caves.

However, if you’re seeking more time in the Blue Lagoon or want to visit without strict reservation requirements, you might find the experience somewhat limited or rushed. The reviews indicate that some travelers felt the experience was more about transportation than an immersive tour, but the majority seem satisfied with the scenic beauty and friendly guides.

Ultimately, this tour suits active travelers, photo enthusiasts, and those short on time but eager to see Malta’s unique coastal scenery. It’s best for those comfortable with boat rides, prepared with sun protection, and aware of the reservation policy.

FAQ

Do I need to reserve my spot in advance?
Yes, you must reserve your access through the official website. Walk-up bookings are not mentioned and access is regulated.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the speedboat trip, visiting Santa Maria Caves, and views of St. Paul’s Islands. Food and drinks are not included.

How long do I get at the Blue Lagoon?
Expect about 2 to 3 hours of free time to swim, sunbathe, and explore once you arrive.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the trip involves a speedboat ride and water activities, so it’s best suited for children comfortable with these.

Can I bring my own snacks?
Yes, since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks and water is recommended.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes for the boat ride. Waterproof bags help protect your belongings.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, people with back problems, or seasickness-prone travelers.

What happens if I arrive late?
Some reviews mention that latecomers might miss the Blue Lagoon or have limited time, so arriving early is wise.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for the scheduled times; generally, a sunny part of the day provides the best views and swimming conditions.

To sum it up, the Sliema to Comino Blue Lagoon half-day tour offers a practical, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience some of Malta’s iconic coastal sights. It suits travelers who value guided scenic outings, stunning natural formations, and crystal-clear waters but are comfortable with a shorter stay and a bit of boat motion. Properly prepared and with realistic expectations, you’re likely to find it a worthwhile part of your Malta adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: