Sliema: Boat Trip to Comino Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and Caves

If you’re exploring Malta and craving a day of sun, sea, and spectacular scenery, a boat trip from Sliema offers an unbeatable way to see the islands’ highlights. This 5-hour adventure takes you on a powerboat journey to some of Malta’s most iconic spots, including the shimmering Blue Lagoon, rugged caves along Comino’s coast, and the charming island of Gozo.

What makes this trip truly appealing is the combination of clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, intimate stops that avoid overcrowded tourist spots, and a lively guide who keeps the energy high. A good value for just $51, it’s especially suited for travelers eager for a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to explore and snap photos.

One thing to consider, however, is that the trip does not include food or drinks, so bringing your own snacks or planning to buy locally is recommended. This experience caters well to those who enjoy active, scenic outings with a personal touch—a great choice for curious travelers and water lovers alike.

Good To Know

• Authentic small-group experience with around 20 people on a fast and comfortable boat
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops with free masks provided
• Expert guide (Tony) who entertains and shares insights about Malta’s coast
• Beautiful scenery with limestone cliffs, caves, and turquoise lagoons
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay-later arrangements
• No included food or drinks, so come prepared with essentials

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This boat trip offers a rewarding mix of sightseeing, swimming, and learning, all wrapped into a manageable five-hour window. Starting out from Sliema Ferries, you’ll hop onto a white boat with a blue tent, easily spotted and welcoming. The journey begins with a scenic ride where you can admire St Paul’s Island and get your first glimpse of the crystal-clear waters that make Malta such a beloved seaside destination.

The First Stop: Crystal Lagoon

The trip kicks off with a brief stop at Crystal Lagoon, renowned for its bright turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have a short swim from the boat, giving you your first taste of Malta’s inviting sea. Reviewers like Tim praise the experience, noting that the “beautiful water” made their time memorable, and the small group size kept things intimate and relaxing. It’s a perfect way to stretch your legs after the boat ride and get your camera ready for some stunning photos.

Comino Blue Lagoon: The Main Event

The star of this tour is the Blue Lagoon at Comino, a true highlight for travelers seeking picture-perfect waters. You’ll be able to disembark for some free time—typically around two hours—to swim, snorkel, and explore the bay. The lagoon’s famous azure hue is just as breathtaking as advertised, and the shallow waters make it ideal for snorkeling, even for less experienced swimmers.

Interestingly, as of May 2025, a new online ticketing system will be required for those who wish to set foot on Comino Island itself, although swimming from the boat does not currently require a ticket. This means you can enjoy the lagoon’s beauty without extra hassle, but if you want to explore the island, be prepared to book in advance.

Exploring Comino by Foot

Once ashore, many travelers take a stroll to check out the island’s unique landscape. Comino is a protected bird sanctuary and natural reserve, so the untouched environment offers a quiet escape from busier tourist spots. Reviewers mention checking out the sand dunes and local vegetation, which add to the island’s charm.

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Going to Gozo: Halfa Rock & Caves

After the Comino stop, the journey continues to Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island. The trip includes a swim near Halfa Rock, where the water is cool and refreshing—an opportunity appreciated by those looking to maximize their time in the sea. The boat then ventures along the coast, exploring caves carved into the limestone cliffs, which provide dramatic scenery and photo opportunities.

Reviews, like those from Huang, describe the caves as a “beautiful addition,” and highlight how the boat’s proximity allows for excellent views without the crowds or noise of larger tours.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Comfortable and Personal Group Size: Unlike crowded cruise-style trips, this experience limits the number of participants to about 20 people, ensuring plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers like Alana and Michael rave about how the smaller group made the stops more enjoyable, and Captain Tony’s lively personality added a personal touch.

Knowledgeable, Entertaining Guides: Captain Tony is a standout, with over 55 years of experience. Multiple reviews mention his humor, storytelling, and genuine care for guests. Zara appreciated that despite choppy waters, Tony prioritized safety and knew exactly how to position the boat for the best views and swimming conditions.

Stunning Scenery & Clear Waters: The trip highlights Malta’s signature limestone cliffs, caves, and lagoons. The Blue Lagoon, in particular, is frequently described as “incredible,” with reviewers like James calling it a “must-see.” The opportunity to snorkel in such pristine waters makes it a trip worth every penny.

Value for Money: At $51, including snorkeling masks and a guided tour, many find the experience very affordable, especially given the small group size and personalized service. Daria notes that the day was “a lot of fun” and “great value,” especially since the stops are well-paced and not overly crowded.

Expert Captain & Fun Atmosphere: Tony’s humor and extensive local knowledge turn what could be a simple boat ride into a lively, informative experience. The reviews highlight his ability to keep everyone entertained, even when the sea gets a bit choppy.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Sliema Ferries

Your adventure begins here, with a quick walk to the white boat with a blue tent, which sets the tone for a laid-back but organized tour. The boat is modern and comfortable, with shaded areas to escape the sun during the ride.

St Paul’s Island & Crystal Lagoon

The first stops are brief but impactful. At St Paul’s Island, you get a lovely vantage point of the coast, then dive into Crystal Lagoon for a quick swim. Reviewers like Tim mention that the “beautiful water” made the start of the trip special, and the small group size contributed to a relaxed atmosphere.

Comino’s Blue Lagoon

The main attraction, where you’ll spend around two hours. Here, you can swim, snorkel, relax, or just soak in the scenery. This stop is perfect for photography, with reviewers like Huang recommending the pineapple drink—an unexpected refreshment on a hot day.

Island Exploration & Caves

Once back on the boat, the journey continues to Halfa Rock near Gozo for another swim, then exploration of caves along the coast. These caves aren’t just pretty—they offer a glimpse into Malta’s natural artistry, and the boat’s proximity offers fantastic photo ops.

Return to Sliema

After a full, satisfying day, the boat heads back to the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on a day well spent.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing: At $51 per person, this is a solid value considering the inclusions, scenery, and guide quality.
• Duration: The 5-hour trip is a good balance—enough time to see key sights without feeling rushed.
• What to Bring: Pack essentials like sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Towel isn’t included, so bringing your own is a must.
• Food & Drinks: Not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to purchase at stops. The trip doesn’t stop long enough for a full meal, but snacks are handy.
• Group Size & Comfort: The small boat ensures intimacy and comfort, making it ideal for travelers who dislike the crowds of larger tours.
• Weather & Conditions: Be prepared for choppy waters; safety is a priority, and the guide will adjust for conditions.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and you can reserve now with pay later options, providing flexibility for travel plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for water lovers, solo travelers, couples, and small groups who want a personal experience without the chaos of large tourist boats. If you enjoy snorkeling, scenic vistas, and a lively guide who can share stories and humor, you’ll find this tour both fun and rewarding.

It’s also an excellent choice for travelers on a budget looking for high-quality experiences. The stops at Comino and Gozo offer natural beauty and tranquility that larger, more commercial cruises often miss. Plus, the option to explore Comino’s natural reserve makes it a more authentic visit.

However, if you’re someone who prefers long, leisurely meals or isn’t comfortable in choppy seas, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including all stops and travel time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers boat transport from Malta, snorkeling masks, and a guided experience with an English-speaking guide.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks or plan to buy at the stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip, offering flexibility.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, making it easy to explore the underwater scenery.

Will I have time to explore Comino island?
You’ll have a period of free time to swim, snorkel, and walk around Comino, but there’s no formal island tour included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Towel is not provided.

Is the small group size comfortable?
Yes, with around 20 people, the boat offers a more intimate, less crowded experience.

What about safety in choppy waters?
The guide, especially Tony, prioritizes safety and knows how to navigate conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Sliema offers an engaging way to see Malta’s coast and its nearby islands. Expect stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a guide who makes the experience lively and informative. It’s a fantastic option for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic natural beauty—especially if you’re into snorkeling, scenic photography, or just soaking up the sun.

The small-group setup and dedicated guide make it stand out amidst larger, crowded options, and the reasonable price point makes it accessible for most travelers. Whether you’re visiting Malta for the first time or want a memorable day on the water, this trip delivers genuine value and plenty of moments worth capturing.

In summary, this tour is best suited for water enthusiasts, small-group lovers, and those wanting to skip the crowds for a more personal, scenic experience. It’s a great way to add a splash of adventure to your Malta itinerary and leave with wonderful memories of crystal lagoons and rugged caves.

You can check if your dates are available here: