Malta: Comino+ Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon + Seacaves tour

This Malta boat trip offers a taste of the island’s most famous sights, with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard. While we haven’t personally taken it, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a memorable day on the water.

What we love about this experience:
First, the stunning scenery—from the crystalline waters of Blue Lagoon to the dramatic caves. Second, the friendly and knowledgeable crew, especially the captain Owen, who gets high praise for his engaging commentary and expert handling. Third, the value for money, with generous stops and inclusive amenities making it a solid choice for all budgets.

A potential consideration is crowd levels at the Blue Lagoon, which can get quite busy, especially during peak season. But if you’re after a quieter experience, the boat’s strategic stops and secluded spots help find your peace.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a balance of adventure and leisure, want insider insights, and enjoy scenic cruising with ample time to snorkel or relax. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer an intimate vibe rather than overcrowded large-group excursions.

Good To Know

• Comfortable and friendly crew led by a captain praised for their professionalism and humor
• Great value, with long stops at Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay included in the price
• Beautiful spots with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing from the boat
• Well-organized itinerary that balances adventure with downtime
• Inclusive amenities like snorkeling masks, shower, and toilet onboard
• Potential crowds at popular stops, especially Blue Lagoon during high season

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Malta Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The adventure kicks off at Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay—a practical, central location for those staying on the island. The boat is called Seahorse Cruises, and it’s the only vessel docked at that spot for this tour. Boarding typically closes at 10:00 AM, with departure around 10:30 AM, making it a leisurely morning activity.

The tour is flexible in duration, ranging from 4 to 6.5 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and weather conditions. The cruise is led by guides fluent in English and Italian, ensuring clear explanations of each site.

Scenic Cruise to Goto and Comino

The journey begins with a scenic cruise past St. Paul’s Island, where you can spot historical shipwreck remnants, giving a nod to Malta’s maritime past. As the boat glides past Smugglers Cove, a known diving hotspot, it’s clear this is a trip packed with visual treats.

Following this, you’ll stop at Mgarr Harbour for a quick photo and sightseeing break, which adds a touch of Gozitan charm with its traditional fishing vibe. It’s a brief but picturesque stop that offers some easy photo opportunities before heading further.

Santa Maria Bay: Peaceful Beach and Snorkeling

The first major stop is Santa Maria Bay on Comino—a tranquil, less crowded spot for 1.5 hours. Reviewers love this part for its serenity and the options it offers: swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on deck. The calm waters here lend themselves well to beginners or those wanting a relaxing dip, away from the bustling crowds.

The crew is praised for their attentiveness and the snorkeling gear—masks are available with a small deposit—making it convenient for newcomers to explore the underwater world. One reviewer, Michaella, highlighted the breathtaking sights and the mixture of adventure and relaxation, describing the experience as “perfect.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Blue Lagoon: The Main Attraction

Next, the boat heads to the Blue Lagoon, an icon for Malta visitors. With 2.5 hours to enjoy this spot, you’ll get plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or chill on the deck. The lagoon’s crystalline waters and striking volcanic rock formations make it a highlight, with many reviewing it as “picturesque” and “breathtaking” (often with some noting how crowded it can be).

Reviews indicate the crew takes care to anchor in more peaceful areas, away from the main tourist throngs, giving you some respite from the hustle. The snorkeling platform allows for easy access to the water, and the boat’s facilities make it comfortable, even during busy days.

It’s worth noting that starting from May 2025, a QR code will be required to access the Blue Lagoon due to new Maltese regulations, so booking a time slot (13:30-17:30) in advance is essential for on-land visits.

Exploring Sea Caves and Rock Formations

The tour includes a 10-minute stop at Santa Maria Caves, where you can take photos and enjoy the dramatic formations. The crew often offers pass-by views of Elephant Rock and other scenic features, making the visual experience more enriching.

Several reviewers, like Ann and Harriet, appreciated how close they could get to the caves, with Harriet noting that “we watched the sunset there”—highlighting how flexible and scenic this part of the trip can be.

Returning and Final Sightseeing

As the cruise winds down, you’ll pass Crystal Lagoon again and enjoy a relaxing 1-hour scenic cruise back to Sirens Quay. During this time, the crew provides live commentary, sharing interesting facts and stories, which enhances the overall experience.

Onboard amenities include a snack bar, offering reasonably priced drinks and light bites, perfect for a refreshing end to the trip. Many reviews, like Natalie’s, praise the helpful, jovial crew and the informative commentary that kept everyone engaged.

Practical Details and Amenities

The trip includes snorkeling masks, a diving platform, shower, and toilet, ensuring comfort and convenience. There’s no included lunch, but snacks and drinks are available for purchase, making it easy to stay refreshed without breaking the bank.

The group size tends to be comfortably small to medium, avoiding the overcrowding many large tours suffer from. Reviewers consistently mention how the smaller, family-run vibe makes for a more personal experience—captain Owen and the crew are often praised for their friendliness and professionalism.

Cost and Value

While prices aren’t specified here, reviewers emphasize good value for money, especially given the long stops at Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay, along with the inclusion of snorkeling gear and guided commentary. The tour balances affordability with quality, making it accessible for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim or snorkel. It’s perfect for those who appreciate friendly guides with local knowledge and a smaller, intimate boat experience. If crowds at Blue Lagoon aren’t your thing, you’ll appreciate the crew’s effort to find quieter spots.

Because of the flexible timing and inclusive amenities, it’s particularly suited to travelers seeking value, comfort, and scenic beauty without a hectic schedule. Families, couples, and solo adventurers who enjoy a laid-back cruise with beautiful views and fun stops will get the most out of this trip.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay, where Seahorse Cruises operates the only boat for this trip.

How long does the tour last?
The experience ranges from 4 to 6.5 hours, depending on the schedule and weather, with most of the time spent at stops like Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for onboard snacks and drinks.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase on the boat, but there’s no included lunch.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, with a small deposit required.

Can I visit the Blue Lagoon without a QR code?
Starting May 2025, a QR code is needed for on-land visits to Blue Lagoon, but you can still enjoy the boat trip without it.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the stops and boat access.

What happens if the weather conditions change?
The captain and operator reserve the right to cancel or alter the route or timings depending on weather or tides to ensure safety.

Final Thoughts

This Malta boat tour delivers a well-rounded experience filled with stunning scenery, friendly service, and ample time for swimming and relaxing at iconic sites. The smaller group size and family-run feel make it stand out among many larger, more commercial trips.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, scenic day on the water with knowledgeable guides and beautiful locations, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic Maltese charm.

While crowds at Blue Lagoon can be intense, the crew’s efforts to find quieter spots and the opportunity to enjoy secluded beaches make it manageable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, this trip offers a little bit of everything that makes Malta special.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak in Malta’s natural beauty—all with friendly guidance and good value.

You can check if your dates are available here: