Comino, the BLUE LAGOON, Crystal Lagoon & Caves CRUISE

Malta’s Best Water Adventure: Comino, the Blue Lagoon, & Caves Cruise

If you’re after a memorable day exploring Malta from the water, this cruise promises a fantastic mix of scenic views, crystal-clear swimming spots, and some intriguing cave adventures. While it doesn’t boast the most modern boat, it makes up for it with affordability, a friendly crew, and enough time in the gorgeous Blue Lagoon to really soak it all in.

What we love about this tour is how it balances relaxed downtime with eye-catching sights — from high cliffs and natural rock formations to historical sites like the Santa Maria Tower. Plus, the onboard amenities make it a comfortable day out, even if the boat’s age might be noticeable. It’s perfect for those who want a budget-friendly, fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and simply lounge in Malta’s iconic waters.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat can get crowded, especially during peak season. If you’re after a peaceful, tranquil experience, this might feel a bit lively for you. But for most travelers, the lively atmosphere blends well with the stunning scenery and friendly crew. This tour suits travelers who enjoy social, scenic, and relaxed days on the water, especially families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun Malta adventure.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: Great value for a full day on the water with lots of swimming and sightseeing.
• Flexible Time at Key Spots: Over 4 hours at Blue Lagoon, with additional time for caves and other sites.
• Informative Crew: Guides and captain share interesting facts, making the trip both fun and educational.
• Multiple Amenities: Deck chairs, slide, bar, and toilet facilities provide comfort during the day.
• Authentic Experience: Access to caves, the Blue Lagoon, and even historic sites like the Santa Maria Tower.
• Ideal for all ages: Suitable for families, solo travelers, and groups who want a relaxed, scenic outing.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at 24 Triq San Geraldu in Malta. The boat departs promptly at 10 am and returns around 5 pm, making it a full seven-hour adventure. The journey is operated by Hornblower Cruises, known for friendly, knowledgeable guides and a relaxed vibe.

The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, easing your planning. Expect a casual check-in process, with most travelers finding the start smooth and straightforward. The boat itself is notably older, but it’s well-equipped for a day on the water with deck chairs, a slide, and basic facilities, which many reviewers find sufficient.

The Enchanting Coastal Passages

As the boat moves out, you’ll cruise past Malta’s largest beach at Mellieha Bay, a stunning stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing or relaxing. The captain steers the vessel close to Ahrax Cave, where you’ll get photo-worthy shots of dramatic rock formations—reviewers say this section offers some of the best scenic views and photo opportunities.

Just before entering the Comino South Channel, the boat passes Coral Cove, a well-known tourist spot, giving you a glimpse of why this area is so popular. The commentary from guides is lively and informative, often sharing stories like the wreck of St. Paul—a shipwreck that has left a lasting mark on local lore, with a statue commemorating the event right on the tiny St. Paul’s Island.

Cruising Around Comino

Once near Ahrax Point, the boat makes a full 360-degree turn around the island of Comino, the smallest of Malta’s three main islands at just 1.4 square miles. Expect to see jaw-dropping cliffs, rock formations resembling an ‘Elephant’s Head’, and high vantage points perfect for photos.

Reviewers consistently mention the scenic beauty here: “The high cliff edges and unusual rock formations make for a spectacular view, and the guides are good at pointing out these features,” one traveler notes.

The Blue Lagoon: The Star of the Show

Arriving at the Blue Lagoon is the highlight—and it’s easy to see why it’s called “paradise on earth.” The boat moors here for approximately 4.5 hours, giving plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just float in the breathtakingly clear turquoise water.

Despite the crowds that flock here, many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to stay on the boat if they prefer avoiding the busiest spots. The crew keeps the atmosphere friendly, with some travelers noting how the staff play good music and offer reasonably priced snacks and drinks onboard. The onboard cafeteria provides simple fare, so you can grab a quick bite or refreshing drink without leaving the boat.

Several reviews mention the Santa Maria Tower, which dates back to 1618 and is visible from the boat. It’s a reminder of the island’s strategic importance historically, and it’s fun to spot during the cruise. For history buffs, seeing the tower amid the stunning natural setting is a bonus.

Crystal Lagoon and Cave Adventures

After Blue Lagoon, the boat cruises through the South Channel toward the Crystal Lagoon, a deeper, more diver-friendly bay, accessible on foot from Blue Lagoon (a short 8-minute walk). Here, snorkelers will find a different underwater experience, with clearer, deeper waters.

Some reviewers rave about cliff jumping and exploring the caves—adventurous travelers can rent a speedboat ticket (around €15) to visit smaller caves seasonally, or just enjoy snorkeling and swimming. The caves and the deeper lagoon add an extra layer of excitement for those wanting more than just sunbathing.

Returning to Malta

The boat departs from Comino at around 5 pm, with the route retracing the scenic coastlines and cliffs. The crew remains friendly and attentive, ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe during the cruise. Many reviews highlight how the guides share interesting details about the sights, making the experience both fun and educational.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the Ticket:

• All taxes, fees, and facility charges
• Landing and facility fees at the various sites
• Deck chairs (limited availability)
• Use of the slide
• Toilet facilities onboard

Extras to Consider:

• Lunch, drinks, and snacks are available onboard but not included in the ticket price
• Mask & snorkel rental (~€5, deposit €15, refundable €10)
• Speedboat access to caves (~€15 cash, seasonal)
• Lockers (~€2)
• Towels (bring your own)

Practical Tips

• Book at least 15 days in advance, especially in peak season
• Arrive early if you want a deck chair on the sun deck
• Bring sun protection, towels, and a light jacket for cooler weather
• Payments on Comino and onboard are cash only
• The boat isn’t modern, but it’s comfortable enough for a day at sea

Review Highlights from Travelers

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.7/5 rating from over 787 travelers. Many praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and great value. Commenters love the flexibility of spending hours at Blue Lagoon while still having time for caves and other sites.

Some mention the boat being crowded, especially during peak months, but most appreciate the overall experience. The onboard food and drinks get positive mentions for their reasonable prices and decent quality. The staff’s friendliness and the guide’s insights make the trip feel personalized and engaging.

A few travelers found the boat a bit old or the crowds a little overwhelming, but these are minor considerations compared to the stunning sights and memorable moments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for budget travelers seeking a full day of scenic fun without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo adventurers who want to see Malta’s iconic waters and enjoy plenty of swimming and snorkeling. If you value authentic, lively experiences over pristine peace and quiet, this trip hits the mark.

However, if you’re after serene, less crowded spots, or a very modern boat, you might find this experience a little lively or dated. Still, for the value, it offers a comprehensive look at Malta’s best water-based sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, from 10 am to 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the stops.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at 24 Triq San Geraldu in Malta, close to public transportation and easy to find.

Is food included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but onboard snacks and drinks are available at reasonable prices.

Can I rent snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkel masks and fins are available for rent (~€5), with a deposit required.

Is the boat modern?
No, the vessel is older, but it’s equipped with necessary amenities like toilets, deck chairs, and a slide.

How much time do I get at Blue Lagoon?
You’ll have around 4.5 hours to swim, snorkel, or relax in the Lagoon.

Are there any seasonal activities?
Yes, speedboat rides to caves are seasonal, costing about €15 and available in certain months.

Can I go on the caves if I don’t buy the speedboat ticket?
Yes, you can explore the caves by swimming or snorkeling from the boat or the shore, but the speedboat offers a more close-up visit.

Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely, it’s family-friendly, though parents should supervise younger children around the water and caves.

Wrapping It Up

This Comino Blue Lagoon and Caves Cruise offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, fun activities, and cultural sites, all at an accessible price point. It’s a great way to experience Malta’s waters without the hassle of self-organizing multiple excursions or spending a fortune.

For those who crave stunning vistas, refreshing swims, and a lively atmosphere, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time in the Blue Lagoon and explore the caves, all while enjoying a relaxed, social vibe onboard.

While the vessel isn’t the newest, the friendly crew, breathtaking scenery, and ample swimming time make it a worthwhile choice. It’s an adventure that offers genuine value and unforgettable memories—just bring your sunscreen and sense of adventure.

Your Malta water day awaits—grab your tickets early and prepare for a splashy, scenic trip that you’ll talk about long after you leave the island.