Comino Island and Blue Lagoon Sightseeing Cruise from Sliema

Comino’s Blue Lagoon is the postcard view, but the best reason to take this cruise is the whole day it gives you on the water and ashore. I like the coastal sailing and cave views, then the long stretch of free time to swim, walk Comino’s trails or simply sit in the sun.

I also like that the trip includes an extra Crystal Lagoon swim stop from June to October, weather permitting. The trade-off is that Comino can be very crowded in warm months, and the boat is not a guided walking tour: you’ll need to plan your own time, food and island exploring.

The highlights to know before you book

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• A full day from Sliema: The scheduled trip runs from 10:00 to 17:30, with the return time subject to weather and traffic conditions.
• A long Comino stop: You can expect several hours ashore, though the exact time and sequence can vary.
• Crystal Lagoon is seasonal: The extra swim stop is offered from June to October when conditions allow.
• Caves are part of the view: The cruise passes Comino sea caves, with some sailings also including a cave photo stop.
• Bring cash and your own beach gear: Island internet can be unreliable, and snorkelling equipment is available to buy on board.
• Not ideal for everyone: The boat is not recommended for people prone to seasickness, and it is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

👉 See our pick of the 2 Best Sailing Experiences In Sliema

A Sliema departure with a long day ahead

The boat leaves from Ferries 4 in Sliema at 10:00. Arrive at least 15 minutes early and look for the Kataleya, a white boat, or the Lady Shelley, which may be white, red or yellow. The boat name is more useful than simply scanning for a particular colour.

The crossing is a sightseeing trip as well as transport. You’ll pass the Sliema promenade and Malta’s rugged coast, with English commentary broadcast over the boat’s PA system. The commentary gives context to the shore as you go, but don’t expect a personal guide walking alongside you once you reach Comino. That independence is part of the appeal, provided you’re happy to make your own plans.

The posted schedule gives you seven and a half hours between departure and return, although the experience is often described as a seven-hour trip. In practice, allow the whole day. The return is scheduled for 17:30, and the boat may adjust its timing to suit traffic or weather. Keep an eye on the crew’s instructions and be back at the boat on time. On an island with limited transport options, missing the return is not a clever way to extend your holiday.

The coast is part of the trip

The outward cruise offers a different view of Malta from the one you get on land. From the water, the coast feels more open, and the boat passes landmarks including Mellieha Bay on the way north. If you enjoy boat rides for the scenery as much as for the destination, the crossing helps make the day feel like more than a ferry transfer.

Comino’s sea caves are another highlight. The boat passes the rugged coastline and cave openings, and some routes include a photo stop rather than entry into a cave. The distinction matters: this is a sightseeing cruise, not a cave-exploration trip, and you should not expect to go ashore at every scenic point.

The route and stops can change. One reported sailing included a Blue Grotto photo stop, a Crystal Lagoon swim stop, several hours on Comino and a cave pass on the way back. Another included time in Gozo. These details are not guaranteed parts of every departure, so think of them as possible route variations rather than fixed promises. The core plan is the cruise from Sliema, time at Comino and the Blue Lagoon, and, in season and suitable weather, an additional Crystal Lagoon stop.

Blue Lagoon: striking water, busy shoreline

The Blue Lagoon is the main draw, and its clear water is at its most inviting on a sunny day. You can swim and snorkel, or find a spot to sunbathe. The setting is naturally beautiful, but the small island and popular shore can feel crowded, especially as the season builds from late spring into summer.

One important detail: don’t assume the boat will let you off directly at the Blue Lagoon itself. On at least one sailing, the Blue Lagoon was viewed from the boat for photographs, while the main time ashore was at Comino. The precise arrangement can depend on the sailing. Listen carefully to the crew’s instructions so you know where you’ll disembark and where to return.

If you’re keen to swim, pack your swimsuit under your clothes or change before boarding, and keep your towel handy. There is a water slide on board, but the main pleasure is the simple one: getting into the sea and cooling off. Snorkelling gear is available for purchase on the boat, though bringing your own equipment may be more convenient if you already have it.

Crystal Lagoon adds a second swim setting

From June through October, the cruise includes an additional stop at Crystal Lagoon when weather permits. Its sheltered waters and caves make it a welcome change from the more exposed Blue Lagoon area, and the stop is especially valuable if you want more time in the water rather than a long stretch on the beach.

One sailing allowed around 45 minutes at Crystal Lagoon. Treat that as an example, not a promise: the schedule may shift, and the stop is seasonal and weather-dependent. Even a short pause can be worthwhile, but it does mean you’ll want to be ready to swim as soon as the boat arrives. Don’t use the entire stop getting organised.

If you’re visiting outside the June-to-October period, plan for Comino’s shore and walking routes instead of counting on a Crystal Lagoon swim. In autumn and winter, trails lead past sites such as St. Mary’s Chapel and the Watch Tower. Cooler weather can make walking more comfortable, and the island offers a quieter change of pace from beach days.

Comino gives you time to choose your own day

The most useful feature of the trip may be the long stop on Comino. Depending on the sailing, you may have around three and a half to four hours ashore. That is enough time for a swim, a meal and a walk, though you’ll need to watch the clock and make sensible choices about how far to wander.

If your priority is the water, settle in near the shore and leave time to dry off before returning to the boat. If you’d rather explore, Comino’s trails lead to historic sites including St. Mary’s Chapel and the Watch Tower. In cooler months, this can be a more appealing use of the day than a swim. There is no tour guide included, so you set your own pace and choose your own route.

Food and drinks are not included. A cash bar on the boat sells some snacks and beverages and accepts cash and credit cards. On Comino, take cash: internet connections can be inconsistent, and cash is usually needed for purchases. Food availability on the island may vary, so bringing water and a snack is sensible if you don’t want to rely on finding something at the right moment.

There are also practical beach comforts on Comino, including food, drinks and locker rentals. Don’t assume you’ll find the same level of choice or convenience as in a town. Pack what you need for the day, keep valuables secure, and agree on a return time with anyone you’re travelling with.

What the fare covers, and what it doesn’t

The stated starting price is $51.55, while a package option is listed from $44.80. Those figures can differ by date or package, so check the price for your chosen sailing before you book. A past fare was also reported at 40 euros, but that is not a reliable guide to today’s cost.

For the price, you’re paying for round-trip transport from the meeting point, the scenic cruise, English PA commentary, the Comino and Blue Lagoon stop, the seasonal Crystal Lagoon stop when conditions allow, and the boat’s water slide. You are not paying for hotel transfers, meals, drinks, snorkelling equipment or a tour guide.

I’d judge the value by whether you want a whole day at sea and on Comino. If you would otherwise book transport and spend the day swimming or walking independently, the return cruise and extended island time are convenient. If you mainly want a guided history tour, a quiet beach or a guaranteed Crystal Lagoon swim, this may not be the right fit.

The boat is primarily a means of getting between places, with commentary along the way rather than a guided programme at every stop. That keeps the day flexible, but it also means you need to take responsibility for your own schedule. The experience is best for people who enjoy an unhurried day and don’t mind a bit of self-direction.

Pack for sun, salt water and a cash-only moment

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap or hat, swimwear and a towel. A refillable water bottle and a small snack are sensible additions, since meals and beverages are not included. Cash is especially useful on Comino, where internet service may be inconsistent.

Large luggage and suitcases are not allowed on the boat, so travel light. Pets are prohibited. Infants and children must be included in the passenger headcount, although children aged 0 to 3 travel free. Children aged 12 and older pay the adult rate.

The boat is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, and the activity is not recommended for people with certain serious medical conditions or those prone to seasickness. If you’re unsure whether the boat trip suits your needs, check with the operator before booking.

Should you book this Comino cruise?

Book it if you want a straightforward way to reach Comino, enjoy the coast from the water and keep several hours free for swimming or walking. The long island stop is the real value: it gives you room to make the day your own rather than rushing ashore for a quick look.

Think twice if you need a fully guided experience, dislike boats, or want a quiet beach in peak season. The Blue Lagoon can be crowded, the exact route and swim stops can change, and meals are on your own. For an independent day with good coastal views and time to explore, though, this is a practical Sliema departure that makes the most of a day in the Maltese islands.

FAQ

How long is the cruise, and what time does it leave?

The scheduled departure is 10:00 from Ferries 4 in Sliema, with a scheduled return at 17:30. The timetable may change because of traffic or weather conditions.

Where do I meet the boat?

Meet at Ferries 4 in Malta and arrive 15 minutes before departure. Look for the Kataleya, a white boat, or the Lady Shelley, which may be white, red or yellow.

Is the Crystal Lagoon swim stop included?

An additional Crystal Lagoon swim stop is included from June to October when weather permits. It is not guaranteed in unsuitable conditions.

Are food and snorkelling equipment included?

No. Meals and beverages are not included. A cash bar sells some snacks and drinks on board, and snorkelling equipment is available for purchase.

What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap or hat, swimwear and a towel. Cash is recommended for Comino, where internet service can be inconsistent.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

No. The activity is not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Large luggage and large suitcases are also not allowed on the boat.