Comino: Blue Lagoon & Caves Boat Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and dreaming of turquoise waters, caves, and a laid-back vibe, a boat cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint quite a vivid picture of what to expect. This experience is designed for those who love spending a day on the water—swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun—while enjoying some fun extras like a waterslide and signature cocktails.

Two things that really catch our attention: the personal touch of a family-run boat—with Captain Kevin making everyone feel welcome—and the long, leisurely stop at Blue Lagoon, giving plenty of time to explore and relax. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the potential for crowds, especially since the lagoon is such a popular spot. If you’re looking for a stress-free, easygoing day with a friendly crew, this tour really hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, water fun, and a relaxed day on the sea. It may not suit those with mobility issues or anyone seeking a more structured, less spontaneous experience, but for most, it offers a solid balance of adventure and chill.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a family-run boat and friendly crew.
• Generous stop at Blue Lagoon with options for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• Fun features like a waterslide and jumping points that add excitement.
• Great value for money with onboard food, drinks, and activities included.
• Informative guides sharing local sights and Malta’s stories along the way.
• Flexible timing and options for exploring Comino and nearby sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Relaxed Day on the Water: What You Can Expect

This 7-hour boat cruise kicks off from one of three convenient locations—Bugibba Jetty, Hornblower Cruises Malta, or Hornblower Malta—allowing you to choose what works best for your plans. The boat itself is easy to spot: a large white-and-blue vessel with Hornblower written in red on its side, exuding a friendly, approachable vibe.

The Route and Sights

The cruise begins with a scenic ride along Malta’s northern coast, passing by notable sights like St. Paul’s Islands, St. Paul’s statue, Ahrax Point, Coral Lagoon, and Elephant’s Head. The guides on board (led by Kevin, the owner and captain) keep everyone engaged with stories about the sights, adding a personal touch that many reviews appreciated. This part of the trip is about enjoying the scenery and learning a bit about Malta’s coastal features.

Cave Stops and Sea Views

A highlight early in the journey is entering the Ahrax Cave and Santa Maria Cave—quick stops that let you marvel at the natural formations. These caves offer fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to get closer to the island’s rugged coastline. Be aware that the captain may need to adjust or cancel routes due to weather or safety concerns, but flexibility is part of the experience.

The Main Event: Blue Lagoon

After about an hour of cruising and sightseeing, the boat anchors at the famous Blue Lagoon in Comino. Here, you’ll have an impressive 4.5 hours to swim, snorkel, relax, or simply soak up the stunning surroundings. The lagoon’s waters are crystal clear, with depths around 3 meters, making it perfect for swimming even for those who aren’t confident in the water. Rented masks and snorkels are available—just a small fee and deposit—so you can explore the abundant marine life.

One review sums it up: “The blue lagoon was stunning…we spent about half the time swimming and diving, and the other half lounging with a pineapple cocktail.” The crew makes it easy to stay comfortable and entertained, and the water slide is a big hit with families and kids alike, providing that extra splash of fun.

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Facilities and Onboard Comfort

While in the lagoon, you can access toilets, lockers (small fee), and a snack bar serving hot and cold beverages. There’s also a selection of signature pineapple cocktails, which many reviews rave about, adding a relaxed, tropical vibe. The shaded and sunlit decks give options for lounging or enjoying the sun, with enough space to stretch out without feeling crowded.

Other Scenic Stops

Post-lagoon, the cruise continues around Comino, including a quick visit to Crystal Lagoon and St. Mary’s Tower. You can take photos, explore briefly, or enjoy more scenic views. The boat then heads back toward Malta via the south channel, passing by more caves and the St. Mary’s Tower, rounding out the day with a leisurely cruise back.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Starting Points: You can select from Bugibba Jetty or Hornblower Cruises in Malta. Arriving early—ideally 45 minutes to an hour before departure—ensures you get a good seat and avoids stress. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of arriving early to snag one of the limited deck chairs on the upper deck.

• Sightseeing and Photo Stops: As the boat passes by notable features like the Elephant’s Head and Santa Maria Bay, you’ll get some fantastic views, especially if you love maritime scenery. Kevin, the guide, provides informative commentary, making the ride both relaxing and educational.

• Cave Exploration: The quick stops at Ahrax and Santa Maria Caves are highlights, especially if you enjoy natural rock formations or want unique photo ops. The caves are easily accessible from the boat, and the crew encourages exploration.

• Blue Lagoon: The main attraction, with expansive time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The shallow, clear waters attract many reviewers, who mention snorkel rentals and the vibrant marine life. The slide adds a fun twist, particularly for kids or the young at heart.

• Additional Stops: The later stops at Crystal Lagoon and St. Mary’s Tower are brief but worthwhile for photos and a quick look around. The cruise around Mgarr Harbour at the end offers more scenic views before heading back.

What You’ll Love

• The Crew and Captain Kevin: Many reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness, making the day smooth and enjoyable. “Kevin was great and went the extra mile showing us dolphins,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing the personal touch.
• The Water Slide and Jumping Points: These features turn a simple boat trip into a mini adventure, especially appreciated by families and younger travelers.
• The Food and Drinks: Reasonably priced, with refreshing pineapple cocktails and snacks, adding a tropical touch to your day.
• The Flexibility: You can stay on the boat, explore the islands, or just lounge around—the crew is accommodating and informative, making sure everyone’s needs are met.

Potential Downsides

• Crowds at Blue Lagoon: Many reviews mention that the lagoon can get busy, especially during peak season. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot.
• Limited Access for Mobility-Impaired Travelers: The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, given the nature of the boat and water-based stops.
• Weather and Route Changes: The captain may modify or cancel routes depending on sea conditions, which could mean missing some sights or adjusting plans. Flexibility is important.
• Bathroom Cleanliness: A few reviews noted that the toilets on board could be cleaner, so managing expectations in that regard is wise.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the inclusivity of a 7-hour cruise, multiple scenic stops, ample time at Blue Lagoon, and onboard amenities like food, drinks, and snorkel rentals, the experience offers solid value. Many travelers mention that the price is reasonable for what you get—an engaging day out with plenty of opportunities to relax and explore.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, fun-filled day on the water with a friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect if you enjoy snorkeling, swimming in clear waters, and don’t mind some crowds in popular spots. Families with kids will love the waterslide, but those with mobility concerns may want to explore alternative options. If you’re after a well-organized, personable tour with knowledgeable guides, this one ticks those boxes.

In short, if you want to experience Malta’s iconic Blue Lagoon and sea caves comfortably and enjoy some added fun along the way, this cruise delivers just that.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention kids having a blast with the slide and jumping points. The crew is friendly, and the facilities are family-friendly, but keep in mind that the tour involves water activities and some walking on uneven surfaces, so supervision is important.

What should I bring? Pack your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Snorkel gear is available for rent for a small fee, so you might want to bring your own if you prefer. Also, arriving early helps you secure a good spot on the upper deck.

How long is the stop at Blue Lagoon? You get about 4.5 hours to swim, snorkel, relax, and enjoy the scenery. That’s plenty of time to do multiple water activities or just unwind with a cocktail.

Are there food and drinks on board? Yes, the boat offers hot and cold beverages, snacks, and pineapple cocktails at reasonable prices. Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, so enjoy what’s available onboard.

What happens if the weather is bad? The captain can alter or cancel routes for safety reasons. Flexibility is part of the experience, so be prepared for possible changes.

Is there any special equipment rental? Snorkel gear can be rented for 5 euros with a 15 euro deposit, while lockers are available at a small fee. The slide is unlimited, but use it at your own risk.

How do I find the meeting point? The departure point is Hornblower Cruises in Bugibba Jetty or other specified locations. Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure, and look for the big white-and-blue boat with Hornblower in red.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon is a fantastic choice if you’re craving a day of sun, sea, and casual adventure. The friendly crew, scenic stops, and fun features like the slide make it a memorable outing. You’ll love the relaxed pace, the stunning waters, and the opportunity to explore caves and beaches without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

It’s especially suited for those who want a stress-free, fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. The value for money is appreciated by many, and the positive reviews about the crew and amenities speak volumes.

If you’re visiting Malta and want to see the iconic Blue Lagoon from a comfortable boat, this tour offers a genuine, enjoyable experience. Just remember to arrive early, stay flexible, and bring your sense of adventure—and you’re likely to have a truly memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: