Comino Island: including Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & sea caves

Intro

Exploring Malta’s coast on a boat trip is a favorite way to soak up the island’s natural beauty, and this tour offers just that—plus a whole lot more. We’ve looked into the Comino Island boat excursion to highlight what makes it a great choice—and what might give some travelers pause.

What we love: the stunning views from the sea, the variety of stops like Blue Lagoon and the caves, and the amenities onboard that make the day comfortable and fun. A potential drawback? The seasonal nature of Crystal Lagoon and the crowded Blue Lagoon during peak times might not suit those seeking quiet solitude.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of scenic cruising, water activities, and lively atmospheres. If you’re after a day filled with sun, swimming, and photo-worthy sights, this outing has a lot to offer—just be prepared for some crowds.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery of Malta’s coast and sea caves
• Multiple lagoon stops with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling
• Family-friendly amenities including slides, loungers, and bars
• Seasonal variations in Crystal Lagoon access and weather considerations
• Good value for money with extensive time at the lagoons
• Arrive early to secure top-deck spots and avoid crowds

An Overview of the Experience

The Comino Island tour with Sea Trips is a well-rated, full-day adventure priced at around $34.57 per person, making it an accessible way to explore some of Malta’s most iconic coastal spots. Operated year-round, weather conditions can influence the itinerary, but the company generally offers a flexible experience.

Starting from Bugibba, the journey begins with a one-hour cruise aboard a modern catamaran, which is notably stable and equipped with amenities like air conditioning, toilets, and bars. The onboard commentary in multiple languages adds a layer of context to the scenery, making the trip both scenic and educational.

The vessel’s size and features mean passengers can enjoy sunbathing on deck, riding slides, or snacking on drinks and food (sold onboard at own expense). It’s a lively atmosphere, with plenty of space for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun day out.

The Itinerary in Detail

Crystal Lagoon — A Hidden Gem (Seasonal)

The first stop is at Crystal Lagoon, a secluded, jewel-like pool fringed by tall cliffs. Access is only by boat, which adds to its exclusivity. The water here is so clear that it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and, for the brave, exploring inside the caves. Reviewers mention this as a perfect spot for photos and relaxing swims, with one describing it as a “snorkeler’s paradise.”

From June to October, the tour dedicates about an hour to Crystal Lagoon, giving ample time for a dip and some exploration. Outside of this season, the stop is shorter—roughly 15 minutes—mainly for photos and cave visits, which some might find less satisfying.

Blue Lagoon — The Main Attraction

The Blue Lagoon is the highlight for most visitors—its mesmerizing, turquoise waters are world-famous. The boat docks in the prime location, ensuring spectacular views and easy access for swimming, floating, or just soaking up the scenery. Expect about four hours of time here during the day trip, which gives plenty of opportunity for multiple swims, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the boat’s sun loungers.

The amenities onboard greatly enhance the experience. You can slide into the water from the top deck (a real hit with kids and adults alike), jump off the platform, or walk ashore. There are also cushioned sun loungers, toilets, showers, and bars selling snacks and drinks. Snorkeling gear is available for hire if you’re keen to explore underwater life, and lockers are available for personal items.

Sea Caves and Photo Opportunities

On the way to Comino, the boat cruises past impressive sea caves and the iconic statue of St. Paul on nearby islet. Reviewers mention the caves as “magnificent,” with many taking countless photos from the boat or exploring caves if time permits. The caves are a key part of the sail, providing great photo moments and a sense of adventure.

Santa Maria Caves and the Elephant’s Head

On the return journey, the boat navigates the Santa Maria pirate caves and glimpses the famous Elephants Head rock formation. These sights add a dramatic backdrop to the cruise home, giving travelers a final taste of Malta’s rugged coastline.

The Facilities and Extras

The vessel is well-equipped for a day of fun. It features three water slides, including a large slide from the top deck, plus two smaller slides—making it a hit with families and thrill-seekers. The air-conditioned main deck is perfect for cooler comfort, and the underwater windows offer a glimpse beneath the surface (though reviewers say visibility can vary with weather).

For those wanting to indulge, two onboard bars serve hot and cold food and drinks, though these are paid separately. Lockers are available for €2, and snorkeling gear costs €5. These amenities mean you can spend a whole day on the water without needing to leave for supplies.

Timing and Practical Tips

The duration of the trip varies: about 7 hours in summer, 6 hours in winter, with shorter trips available for sunset or evening cruises. Meeting at Sirens Quay requires arriving at least 30 minutes beforehand to secure a good spot, especially if you want to sit on the top deck.

Arriving early is highly recommended—reviewers note that top deck spots fill up quickly, and being early secures better views and more space for lounging. Parking nearby can be challenging, so plan accordingly if driving. Some travelers have reported difficulty parking, which can be frustrating and impact the start of your day.

The trip departs from Bugibba, easily accessible via bus from Valletta, Sliema, or St Julians. If you want to disembark at Blue Lagoon, you’ll need to reserve a free ticket in advance at blcomino.com, as capacity is limited.

Weather and Seasonality

Because the tour is weather-dependent, the experience can change. Crystal Lagoon is only accessible May through October in fair weather, so off-season visits might have shorter stops or different highlights. Visibility through underwater windows and water clarity can also fluctuate with weather conditions, impacting snorkeling and cave exploring.

What Travelers Say

Based on hundreds of reviews, the general consensus is that this tour offers fantastically scenic vistas and great value for money. Many praise the friendly crew and the well-organized itinerary, with some noting that the slides and swimming stops are the real highlights.

Reviewers also appreciate the ample time at Blue Lagoon, allowing relaxation and swimming, though some mention it gets quite crowded, especially during peak season. Several travelers highlight bringing a towel, sun protection, and a light jacket for comfort, especially if the weather turns chilly.

A handful of reviews warn about parking issues, emphasizing the importance of arriving early or considering alternative transportation. Others mention that the cruise can be windy or cool outside of summer, so dressing appropriately is key.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

This tour is a strong value, especially considering the extensive time spent at the lagoons and caves and the added excitement of slides and onboard facilities. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples who want a lively, activity-packed day on the water.

The scenic cruising along Malta’s coastline and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters make it a memorable outing. If you’re after a fun, relaxed, and well-organized day with lots of photo opportunities, this trip hits the mark.

However, if tranquility or avoiding crowds is your priority, consider going early or choosing a less busy time of year. Also, be prepared for the seasonal nature of some stops and the need to book tickets in advance for Blue Lagoon.

The Sum Up

This Comino Island boat tour combines scenic views, water fun, and convenient amenities, making it a fantastic way to experience Malta’s coastline. It’s best suited for those looking for a lively, activity-filled day with plenty of swimming and photo ops. The value is hard to beat, especially when you consider the length of time at key spots and the variety of activities onboard.

For families with kids, adventure lovers, or anyone who wants to pack a lot of fun into one day, this trip offers a memorable Malta experience. Just remember to arrive early, dress for the weather, and bring your camera.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, enjoyable way to explore Malta’s best lagoons and caves with good facilities and lively atmosphere, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is there a limit to the number of travelers?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 250 people, so it can feel busy during peak times.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking 16 days ahead on average is recommended, especially if you want to secure a Blue Lagoon disembarkation ticket.

What’s included in the price?
The trip includes visits to sea caves, Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and Santa Maria caves, as well as amenities like slides, sun loungers, toilets, and showers.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard but are not included in the ticket price.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available to rent for €5, and lockers cost €2.

How long is the trip?
The full-day trip lasts approximately 6-7 hours depending on the season, with shorter options available for sunset cruises.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Absolutely—kids enjoy the slides, swimming, and caves, but parental supervision is advised, especially around the water slides.

What should I bring?
Towels, sun protection, water, and a light jacket for cooler weather are recommended. Arrive early for better deck seats.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Sirens Quay, 24 Triq San Geraldu, San Pawl il-Baar, Malta, arriving 30 minutes early.

This readable, comprehensive review aims to help you decide whether this lively, scenic boat trip is right for your Maltese holiday—hope it helps you make the most of your adventure!