From Sliema: Full-Day Cruise to Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Travelers looking to escape the bustling streets of Malta and soak in some of the most breathtaking waters in the Mediterranean will find this full-day cruise from Sliema to Comino’s Blue Lagoon a compelling option. This tour promises a day filled with swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing aboard a comfortable boat—ideal for those craving a laid-back yet visually stunning experience.

What really draws us in are the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, the knowledgeable crew, and the ease of access from Sliema’s central location. You’ll love the chance to spend hours immersed in turquoise waters, with amenities like snacks, air conditioning, and plenty of space to lounge. However, it’s worth considering that the trip can get quite crowded, especially during peak season, which might impact your tranquility and photo opportunities.

This experience is perfect if you’re eager to spend quality time in nature, enjoy leisurely swimming or snorkeling, and prefer not to worry about transport logistics. It’s a good pick for those who value a straightforward, all-in-one day trip, especially if you’re staying in Sliema or nearby.

Good To Know

• Comfortable full-day experience with 8 hours of time to enjoy the Blue Lagoon.
• Affordable pricing around $34 per person, offering solid value for a day of water-based fun.
• Includes amenities like snacks, beverages, bar facilities, toilets, and air conditioning on the boat.
• Flexible snorkeling options—bring your own gear or rent it onboard for a small fee.
• Guided commentary throughout the cruise enhances understanding of the sights.
• Limited time at the lagoon (about 3 hours), so plan your swim and photo sessions accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Trip

Starting at the Sliema ferry dock, the boat departs promptly at 10:30 AM. The ride itself is a chance to enjoy the open water, with friendly crew members explaining the route and pointing out landmarks—reviews notably mention guides like “super guides” who make the journey engaging. You’ll be cruising for roughly two hours to reach Comino, with stops at key points along the way, including potential visits to St. Paul’s Bay or stops in Gozо, depending on the tour’s specifics.

Once you arrive at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll be greeted with an expansive basin of visually stunning turquoise waters. The lagoon’s white sandy bottom and vibrant marine life make it a magnet for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers mention that the water is incredibly clear, supporting lively underwater exploration. You can rent snorkeling gear onboard for a small fee if you didn’t bring your own—some travelers note the availability of glasses and tubes for around €10.

Spending around three hours in the lagoon, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, relax on the boat’s sun decks, or take photos of the stunning scenery. Many reviews highlight that the lagoon is crowded, especially in high season, which can impact your experience if you’re after secluded photos or quiet swims. To improve your chances of a good spot, consider paying extra (€10) to sit on the upper deck in the sun, a small but worthwhile upgrade.

After your stay, the boat departs the lagoon at around 4:15 PM, giving you another scenic cruise back to Sliema, arriving around 6:30 PM. On the return journey, some reviews mention that the boat stops briefly in Gozо or St. Paul’s Bay, which can extend the cruising time but also adds to the overall experience.

What the Tour Includes and What You Need to Know

The tour is priced at a modest $34 per person, which covers a full day of exploring the Blue Lagoon and surrounding waters. Included are detailed commentary to help you identify points of interest during the cruise, as well as facilities like toilets and a bar to purchase snacks and drinks. The bar and toilet facilities on board ensure you’re comfortable during the journey.

Snorkelling equipment isn’t included in the price but can be rented on the boat for a small fee—something to keep in mind if underwater exploration is your main goal. The boat itself is described as large, offering plenty of space on the upper deck for lounging.

Meeting point: The boat departs from the Sliema ferry terminal, directly opposite McDonald’s, and travelers are advised to arrive by 10:00 AM to ensure smooth boarding. The return is back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

Important note: As of May 1, 2025, visitors will need a free online ticket to walk on Comino. The process is simple—just reserve a time slot from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM via the official website. The QR code received must be scanned upon arrival; failure to present it will mean you can only swim nearby rather than explore the island on foot.

The Experience: Highlights and Practical Tips

Swimming and snorkeling are the main attractions, with travelers raving about the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Bring your own snorkelling gear if you have it—reviewers mention that renting gear costs around €10, but having your own can be more convenient.

Relaxing onboard is easy, with plenty of shaded areas, sun decks, and air conditioning. Many reviewers enjoyed the top deck, paying an extra EUR 10 for a sunbed and a spot in the sun, which is ideal if you want to maximize your time in the open air.

Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard; however, the lunch options can be limited, with some noting the absence of vegetarian sandwiches. Bringing your own snacks might be a good idea, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

Crowd levels tend to be high, particularly at the lagoon, so early arrival or paying for the upper deck can improve your experience. Plus, with the lagoon being a popular destination, expect lots of fellow travelers, especially in the summer months.

The guides and crew are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Reviewers note that explanations about the sights and the route are clear and engaging, helping you get the most out of your trip.

The Value for Money

For just $34, this cruise provides a full eight hours of activity, which is quite reasonable considering the exclusive beauty of the Blue Lagoon. The amenities, guided commentary, and flexible snorkelling options add to the value. While the water-based activities are simple, they are well-organized, and the experience of being on the water with friends or family is priceless.

If you’re after a straightforward, relaxing day with plenty of swimming and scenic views, this tour offers a solid and budget-friendly way to experience the best of Malta’s coastline.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Would Love This Experience?

• Water lovers who want to spend hours swimming and snorkeling in clear, warm waters.
• Travelers seeking a hassle-free day trip from Sliema with all logistics taken care of.
• Those interested in photo opportunities in a stunning natural setting.
• Visitors on a budget who want good value without sacrificing comfort.
• Anyone who enjoys guided commentary and learning more about their surroundings while relaxing.

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives?

• People looking for secluded, less crowded spots—the Blue Lagoon can get busy.
• Travelers with mobility issues, since walking on Comino requires a ticket (free but necessary) and some logistics.
• Those wanting a more luxurious or gourmet experience—this is a casual, basic cruise without fine dining options.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially since there are amenities onboard. However, keep in mind the boat can get crowded and the trip lasts eight hours.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?
You can rent snorkelling equipment onboard for a small fee, but bringing your own might be more comfortable and hygienic.

What should I wear?
Swimwear is recommended, along with a towel and sunscreen. Wearing a hat or sunglasses can also help protect you from the sun.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, meals are not included, but snacks and drinks are available for purchase on the boat. Reviewers suggest bringing some snacks onboard.

How long do we stay at Blue Lagoon?
Approximately three hours, which many find enough time for swimming, taking photos, and relaxing.

Are there facilities on the boat?
Yes, there are toilets and a bar onboard to purchase drinks and snacks.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I get my free ticket for walking on Comino?
Visit www.blcomino.com to reserve your free ticket, choosing the 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM slot. Present the QR code on arrival.

Final Thoughts

This full-day cruise from Sliema to Comino’s Blue Lagoon presents a fantastic way to spend a relaxing day immersed in Malta’s stunning marine scenery. The trip is straightforward, offering a mix of comfort, scenic cruising, and plenty of time in the water. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to experience Malta’s most iconic water spot without fuss or high costs.

While it can get crowded and the lagoon’s popularity means you’ll share the space with many others, the experience’s overall value, friendly crew, and beautiful scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your Malta itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Malta’s signature landscape.

In summary: For the budget-conscious, water lovers, and those seeking an authentic outdoor escape, this cruise provides a dependable, enjoyable day out. Just be prepared for some crowds and plan ahead to make the most of every moment in this picture-perfect setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: