Planning a day trip from Sliema to Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon on Comino sounds like a dream, but not all tours deliver the relaxation and stunning vistas you’d hope for. This particular cruise, offered by iSeeMalta, promises a comfortable, eco-friendly catamaran adventure exploring Malta’s coastline, caves, and the iconic Blue Lagoon. But does it live up to expectations? We’ve sifted through the details, reviews, and what travelers can truly anticipate.
What we love about this tour: The modern, eco-conscious catamarans promise a smooth ride with plush seating and Wi-Fi so you stay connected while soaking up scenic views. The focus on comfort and relaxation is appealing, especially for those tired of rougher boat rides. Plus, the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Comino’s Blue Lagoon is a highlight anyone would cherish.
A possible drawback? The main concern is reliability. At least one reviewer reported the cruise didn’t operate without prior notice, which can be a big disappointment after planning your day. Plus, recent regulation changes mean travelers need to secure a separate Comino access ticket, adding an extra step to your planning.
Who is this tour best suited for? If you’re after a scenic, comfortable cruise with a good chance to enjoy swimming in turquoise waters, and you’re flexible about potential cancellations, this experience could be a good fit. However, if you prioritize guaranteed operation or are on a tight schedule, it’s worth considering other options or double-checking availability.
Good To Know
- Comfortable, eco-friendly catamarans offer a smooth, stable ride with plush seating and amenities.
- Scenic highlights include Malta’s cliffs, sea caves, and the Blue Lagoon’s stunning waters.
- Connectivity and relaxation are prioritized with free Wi-Fi and onboard comfort.
- Recent regulatory changes mean travelers must book separate Comino island access tickets.
- Operational reliability appears inconsistent, with reports of cancellations without notice.
- Pricing at $34 per person is fairly affordable, but value is tied to the experience’s dependability.
What to Expect from the Tour
This 7-hour cruise begins in Sliema, departing from a central meeting point opposite Marks and Spencer. The journey promises to glide you along Malta’s rugged coastline, showcasing towering cliffs, hidden caves, and picturesque sea grottos. As you settle into the modern catamaran, you’ll notice its eco-friendly design, emphasizing comfort and sustainability, with air conditioning and plush seating ensuring a relaxing experience even on a sunny Maltese day.
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The Route and Stops
The crux of this trip is the visit to Comino, a small island famed for its crystal-clear Blue Lagoon. The boat ride itself offers spectacular vistas of Malta’s rugged shoreline, which many travelers find enchanting. Once at Comino, passengers are given the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon—a highlight that makes this trip worthwhile. The water is famously clear and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip.
The tour also promises views of Malta’s coastline, including caves and grottoes, which you can admire from the comfort of your vessel. The smooth ride, thanks to the modern catamarans, minimizes motion sickness and makes for a more enjoyable viewing experience.
The Blue Lagoon Experience
The Blue Lagoon is the star attraction, with its turquoise waters and white sandy bottom. The tour’s inclusion of free Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share your photos or stay updated during your time on board. Many travelers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, with enough time allocated for swimming and sunbathing.
The Cave and Grotto Views
While the tour emphasizes scenery, keep in mind that the actual experience of exploring caves and grottos is limited to viewing from the boat. If you’re expecting to explore these formations up close, this particular cruise might not satisfy that desire. Still, the impressive cliffs and natural formations provide plenty of photo opportunities.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCritical Insights from Reviews
One review sharply criticizes the operation, saying, “Cruise did not operate, no one informed us.” This highlights the importance of verifying the current status before booking—especially since cancellations can occur without notice. The reviewer also notes that the experience provider is iSeeMalta, which might be helpful for further inquiries.
Other feedback, although scarce, hints at the reliability issues, so travelers should have a backup plan or be prepared for potential schedule changes. The flexible cancellation policy (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) offers some peace of mind, but real-world experience suggests confirming operational status closer to your planned date.
Pricing and Value
At $34 per person, this cruise is reasonably priced considering the amenities and scenic value. The modern catamarans promise comfort, Wi-Fi, and a generally smooth ride, which can justify the cost for those seeking relaxation. However, the value hinges on the cruise actually operating—cancellations or no-shows significantly diminish the experience.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic day with a focus on swimming and gorgeous views, this trip offers a decent balance of affordability and comfort. For travelers who prioritize reliability, it might be worth exploring other tour options or confirmed scheduled cruises.
In-Depth Breakdown of the Experience
Transportation and Comfort
The tour departs from a central location in Sliema, making it easy to reach without hassle. The vessel’s state-of-the-art design includes plush seating, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, which enhance the overall experience. It’s suitable for those who want a peaceful cruise rather than a noisy, crowded boat with loud music or rough rides.
Duration and Timing
Spanning approximately 7 hours, the trip offers a good chunk of time to enjoy Malta’s coastal scenery and the Blue Lagoon. The starting times vary depending on availability, so checking the schedule in advance is essential. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, which simplifies logistics.
The Blue Lagoon Swim
The highlight for many is the swim in the Blue Lagoon. The water’s clarity and calmness make it perfect for snorkeling or just relaxing in the sea. Bring your own snorkel gear if possible, as the tour does not specify equipment rentals. The opportunity to unwind in such pristine waters is a major draw.
Cave and Grotto Viewing
While the focus is on scenic cruising, you’ll see Malta’s impressive cliffs and caves from the vessel. The vantage points provide plenty of chances for photos and appreciating Malta’s rugged coastline, albeit without actual cave exploration.
Onboard Amenities
The Wi-Fi is a nice touch, especially if you want to upload photos or keep in touch. The air-conditioned interior ensures comfort throughout the journey, even in peak summer months. The modern vessel offers stability and a smooth ride, reducing seasickness risks.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for relaxing travelers who prioritize comfort and scenic views. It suits those who enjoy swimming in clear waters and want a straightforward way to see Malta’s coastline from the water. However, because of potential operational issues, it’s better suited to those with flexible schedules or who can confirm the cruise’s running closer to the date.
If you’re someone who values guaranteed operation and detailed itineraries, researching other options might be wise. Likewise, if you’re eager to explore caves or engage in more active exploration, this tour might feel somewhat limited.
The Sum Up
The From Sliema to Comino Blue Lagoon Return Trip offers a delightful blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and the chance to swim in one of Malta’s most iconic spots. With modern amenities and a focus on relaxation, it can be a satisfying day out for those who want to avoid rough boat rides and enjoy Malta’s stunning coastline in style.
However, the potential for cancellations and the need to secure separate Comino tickets are important considerations. Travelers should weigh the value of the comfort and views against the risk of operational hiccups.
This tour can be a fantastic choice for those looking for a leisurely, scenic cruise with the opportunity to cool off in turquoise waters. Be sure to check the operation status beforehand and plan for alternative options if needed.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the cruise itself, onboard amenities such as free Wi-Fi, and the opportunity for a swim at the Blue Lagoon.
How long is the tour?
It lasts for about 7 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from a meeting point opposite Marks and Spencer in Sliema, Malta.
Are meals or drinks included?
The provided information does not specify any included meals or drinks, so it’s likely you need to bring your own or purchase on board.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sun protection, and possibly snorkel gear. The onboard comfort makes for a relaxed experience.
Is the Blue Lagoon really worth the visit?
Most travelers find the Blue Lagoon stunning and enjoyable for swimming and relaxing, especially given its famous turquoise waters.
What if the cruise is canceled?
Due to reported operational issues, the cruise might sometimes not run without prior notice. It’s advisable to confirm the schedule before your planned day.
With the allure of Malta’s coast and the promise of a comfortable, scenic ride, this cruise could be a memorable part of your Malta adventure—just keep in mind the operational caveats.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Sliema
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