Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, and Caves Cruise

Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, and Caves Cruise – A Detailed Review

Taking a boat trip around Malta, especially to explore Comino, is often at the top of travelers’ wish lists. This particular cruise from Xlendi Pleasure Cruises earns a solid 4.7 out of 5 based on over 1,400 reviews, which speaks volumes about its popularity and reliability. Whether you’re after a quick escape, scenic photos, or a chance to swim in some of the clearest waters Malta has to offer, this tour offers a lot of value for just $28 per person.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the diversity of stops like the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon offers plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Second, the knowledgeable crew, especially Captain George, gets high praise for their friendly professionalism and helpful tips. Third, the price point includes many extras—welcome drinks, free watermelon, and ample time at each stop—making it an accessible adventure for many.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can shift depending on weather conditions, which might impact your plans slightly. This is common with sea excursions, so flexibility is key. This cruise suits travelers looking for a fun, scenic day out that balances relaxation and exploration, without breaking the bank.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Affordable luxury with all the essentials included.
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides, especially Captain George.
• Flexible stops with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities.
• Short but comprehensive trips suitable for a half-day adventure.
• Varied scenery including caves, historic landmarks, and tranquil lagoons.
• Weather-dependent routes may change to ensure safety.

What to Expect from the Malta Comino, Gozo, and Lagoon Cruise

This cruise is designed as an efficient yet memorable way to see Malta’s best coastal sights in just 3 to 4 hours. The trip is split into two main options: a standard half-day cruise and a sunset tour, catering to different preferences for timing and mood. Both options cover key highlights, but the sunset cruise offers a more relaxed, less crowded experience.

Departure and Embarkation

Starting from Cirkewwa, the boat departs from a dock behind the only kiosk area, marked by its umbrellas and tables—a spot easy to find if you arrive a little early. The journey begins with a scenic sail around Comino, giving you your first glimpses of the island’s rocky coastlines and iconic formations like Elephant Rock.

Reviewers like Denise mention that arriving 15 minutes early helps find the pier easily and ensures a smooth start. The crew, led by Captain George, makes the boarding process straightforward, providing a friendly and professional welcome.

The Exciting Stops

Stop 1: Santa Maria Sea Caves and Elephant Rock
As the boat glides past Santa Maria’s famous caves, you’ll appreciate the vibrant colors of the rock formations, which are great for photos. The caves are accessible from the boat, thanks to the well-sized vessel that allows for close-up views. Denise appreciated the crew’s storytelling about the caves’ history, which added context to the sightseeing.

Stop 2: Blue Lagoon
This is the star of the tour—famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Guests typically spend around 1 hour here, with plenty of opportunities to swim directly from the boat, snorkel, or just float and soak in the scenery. Reviewers like Sarah loved the chance to cliff dive and swim freely in the lagoon. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just want to paddle around, the water’s clarity makes for a memorable experience.

Stop 3: Crystal Lagoon
The next highlight is the Crystal Lagoon, where the boat pauses for roughly 45 minutes. Here, you can take a swim among the fish, explore the nearby Popeyes Cave and Lovers Cave, or just relax on deck. Many reviews, including those from Olivia, mention that this spot felt peaceful and less crowded, especially in the quieter seasons.

Sea Caves and Landmarks
The cruise also passes by the Comino Tower—famous as a filming location for The Count of Monte Cristo—and the tuna fish farm, providing interesting sights along the way.

Stop 4: Mgarr Harbour and Gozitan Views
Cruising past Marr Harbour in Gozo, you’ll have a brief photo opportunity. Although some tours don’t include an actual stop on Gozo, this cruise offers a quick look at the harbor, which is perfect for capturing scenic shots and imagining future adventures on the island.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Return Journey

After the lagoon stops, the boat heads back towards Cirkewwa, passing by notable landmarks such as the Comino Tower and the fish farms. The entire trip is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a relaxed pace—many reviewers, like James, appreciate the balance of time at each scenic point.

The Vibe Onboard and Practical Details

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with a padded sun deck for relaxing while cruising or sunbathing. There’s a toilet onboard, which makes the trip more convenient, especially for families or those prone to seasickness.

The crew, led by Captain George, gets consistent praise for their friendliness and knowledge. Krasimira highlights the crew as “great,” and guests frequently mention the helpfulness of the staff, especially when it comes to safety and local tips.

Drinks are available for purchase, and onboard bar options include cash or card. Guests also enjoy complimentary treats like watermelon slices and a welcome drink, adding to the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

Snorkeling gear can be rented for just 5 euros, a reasonable price for those eager to explore underwater. Reviewers note that the boat’s size is suitable for close-up cave views, and the captain can adapt routes based on weather, ensuring safety and comfort.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just $28, this cruise offers a strong value proposition. For that price, you get multiple scenic stops, swimming opportunities, an onboard bar, and experienced guides—all in a well-organized, short trip that maximizes your time. Many reviews stress that the experience exceeds expectations given the affordability, with guests appreciating the ample swimming time and professional crew.

Guests have also praised the flexibility of the tour, especially the option to disembark at the Blue Lagoon if they book a free ticket in advance (at blcomino.com). The tour’s ability to adapt based on weather and sea conditions also adds to its reliability—an important consideration for sea trips.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a quick, scenic escape from the mainland, with plenty of swimming, photo ops, and light adventure. It suits families, solo travelers, and couples who want a relaxed but active day out without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

If you’re after a budget-friendly experience that covers Malta’s most iconic coastal sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew, making the experience feel personalized and safe.

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a blend of stunning scenery, friendly service, and good value. The stops at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon alone make it worth considering, especially if you’re eager to swim in Malta’s famously clear waters. The added bonus of exploring caves and passing by landmarks like the Comino Tower enhances the trip’s appeal.

While weather can influence the route, the crew’s flexibility and the itinerary’s well-paced stops make for a reliably enjoyable experience. Whether you’re seeking a short adventure or a scenic swimming day, this tour has a lot to offer without costing a fortune.

For those who love beautiful coastlines, crystal waters, and helpful guides, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Maltese maritime beauty, with enough flexibility for different interests and activity levels.

FAQ

Can I disembark at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, you must book a free ticket at blcomino.com to disembark at the Blue Lagoon, as tickets will be required in 2025.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, depending on weather conditions and the specific trip (half-day or sunset).

Is snorkeling equipment included?
No, snorkeling gear is available to rent for 5 euros, making it a good option if you want to explore underwater.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from the dock behind the only kiosk at Cirkewwa, Malta, and returns to the same spot at the end of the trip.

What is the group size?
The boat is designed for comfort with a padded sun deck and space for a reasonable number of guests, but exact group sizes aren’t specified.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
No, unfortunately, this trip isn’t wheelchair accessible, though some guests have managed to board with assistance.

This cruise balances scenic beauty, affordability, and friendly service—making it a superb option for those wanting a memorable Maltese coastal experience without hassle or high costs.

You can check if your dates are available here: