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

If you’re considering a day out on the water around Malta, this Comino, Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Sea Caves tour might be exactly what you’re after. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on a boat. From what we’ve seen, many find it a well-organized, enjoyable experience — especially if you love being on the water and discovering Malta’s most photogenic spots.

What makes this tour stand out are the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon and the relaxed atmosphere onboard. It’s a family-friendly vibe with friendly guides, excellent facilities, and a route that hits all the highlights. However, it’s worth knowing that the Blue Lagoon can get very crowded, especially during peak season, which might be a downside if you’re after total seclusion. This trip is best suited for those who want a laid-back, scenic day with easy swimming and memorable views, rather than a deep dive into local history or secluded adventures.

Key Points

• Comfortable, family-run boat experience with friendly guides and decent facilities
• Plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or relax at the Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay
• Beautiful scenery including caves, rock formations, and scenic cruising past Gozo
• Good value for money with inclusive stops, snorkeling gear, and commentary
• Crowd levels can be high at popular spots, especially Blue Lagoon during summer
• Duration varies from 4 to 6.5 hours, so check your preferred start time

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

If you’re the type of traveler who loves being on the water and soaking up the sun, this tour offers a nice balance of sights and leisure. The trip kicks off at Sirens Quay in Bugibba, with boarding closing at 10:00 AM. From there, the boat departs around 10:30 AM, heading towards the west coast of Malta, with the first scenic highlight being a cruise past St. Paul’s Island. You’ll see remnants of 2,000-year-old shipwrecks and the ever-popular Smugglers Cove, which is a favorite among divers and snorkelers.

The boat’s route then takes you past Gozo Harbor, where you can enjoy a quick 10-minute photo stop at a traditional fishing village. This gives you a chance to stretch your legs and take in some authentic Maltese scenery before heading to the main attractions.

Santa Maria Bay – Serenity on Comino

The first key stop is Santa Maria Bay on Comino, where you’ll anchor for around 1.5 hours. This is the perfect spot for those seeking a quieter place to swim, snorkel, or just loll around on the deck. Many reviews rave about the calm, unspoiled nature of this bay. You’ll have time for a refreshing dip or some sunbathing, with snorkeling masks provided (a small deposit might be required).

Travelers have appreciated the way the crew kept the environment relaxed here. “It was a quiet spot to swim and chill,” one reviewer shared, highlighting how they enjoyed the peace away from the more crowded beaches.

The Blue Lagoon – The Main Event

Next on the itinerary is the Blue Lagoon, the star of this tour. Known globally for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and striking volcanic rocks, it’s a magnet for visitors. You’ll stop here for a generous 2.5 hours, giving ample time to swim, snorkel, or simply float and soak up the scenery. The boat stays in a quiet stretch of the lagoon, away from the hustle of the main crowds, which many appreciate.

The facilities onboard include a diving platform, shower near the side ladder, and a snack bar. Many reviews mention how good the value is for snacks and drinks — sometimes at better prices than you’d find on land.

However, keep in mind that during peak season, Blue Lagoon can be very crowded, which might be a turnoff if you’re after total tranquility. Still, the boat’s strategy of anchoring away from the busiest parts often helps provide a more peaceful experience.

Sea Caves & Scenic Cruising

After Blue Lagoon, the boat resumes its cruise, passing by notable formations like Elephant Rock and Santa Maria Cave. These are perfect moments for photos and simply enjoying the rugged coastline. Many travelers enjoy the guided commentary, which adds context to what you’re seeing — “The captain was really informative and funny,” one review states, making the trip more engaging.

The return journey takes you past Mgarr Harbour and some scenic spots, with around an hour of cruising time. It’s a great way to unwind and take in the views, some noting how smooth and comfortable the boat ride is.

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The Facilities and Onboard Experience

The boat is described as cozy and well-maintained, with enough space on the front deck and sides for relaxing. Seating arrangements include cushions in the front and on the sides, which help in creating a laid-back vibe. The crew, often described as friendly and helpful, makes the experience more personable.

Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, with prices found to be reasonable — a plus for those not wanting to bring their own snacks. The onboard commentary, offered in both English and Italian, ensures everyone can follow along and learn about the sites.

Practicalities & Considerations

• Duration: The trip lasts between 4 and 6.5 hours, so check available times and plan accordingly.
• Boarding: Arrive early, as boarding closes at 10:00 AM.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash. No large bags, food, or drinks are allowed on the boat.
• Extras: Snorkeling masks are provided with a deposit, and there’s an optional speedboat upgrade to explore caves more closely for an extra fee.
• Weather & Cancellations: The captain may cancel or change the route due to weather or tides, so flexibility is a good idea.

What We Love and What to Consider

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides and crew make a big difference. Many praise the friendly, knowledgeable personnel who go out of their way to make the experience enjoyable. The scenic stops like Santa Maria Bay and the Blue Lagoon are stunning, and the chance to snorkel and swim in clear waters is a highlight.

That said, the crowding at Blue Lagoon seems to be the biggest potential drawback. If you’re after total peace or prefer secluded beaches, this might not be the trip for you. However, for those who are happy to share the experience with fellow travelers and enjoy the natural beauty, it’s hard to beat the value and atmosphere.

The food and drinks onboard are affordable, making it an easy all-in-one day to relax, explore, and enjoy Malta’s coastal scenery. Plus, many reviews mention how much they appreciated the relaxed, family-run vibe.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day that mixes sightseeing with swimming in some of Malta’s most iconic spots. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy being on the water, want good value, and prefer a smaller, friendlier boat experience over large crowds. The stops at Santa Maria Bay and Blue Lagoon offer enough time to unwind, take photos, and enjoy the beauty of Maltese waters.

If you’re keen on a fun, sociable atmosphere with helpful guides who add character to the trip, this is a solid pick. It’s not a deep cultural tour, but it’s a memorable way to enjoy Malta’s natural scenery and get some sun-soaked downtime.

However, if you’re after total exclusivity or are sensitive to crowds, especially at the Blue Lagoon, you might want to consider other options or plan to visit during less busy times.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, many reviews mention that the boat is comfortable and suitable for most ages. Keep in mind that the route involves some rocky, possibly slippery areas, so supervise children accordingly.

What’s included in the price?
You get stops at Santa Maria Bay and Blue Lagoon, snorkeling masks (with a deposit), a diving platform, shower, toilet, and live commentary in English and Italian.

Can I buy food and drinks on board?
Yes, snacks and beverages are available for purchase at reasonable prices. It’s often better value than buying from stalls on land.

How long is the trip?
The full experience lasts between 4 and 6.5 hours, depending on the selected start time and weather conditions.

What are the main highlights?
The highlight spots are the Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Bay, and the sea caves. The cruise past Gozo and scenic formations is also a favorite.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash. Luggage or large bags are not permitted onboard.

Is there a dress code?
Casual summer wear is fine. Remember, you’ll be on a boat, so dress accordingly for sun and potential splashes.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The captain reserves the right to cancel or alter the trip based on weather conditions, so flexibility is key. Refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Word

If your Malta trip calls for a relaxed day of swimming, scenic views, and good company on a boat, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s well-reviewed, offers great value, and shows off some of Malta’s most gorgeous spots. Just be prepared for some crowds at Blue Lagoon and plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a memorable, sun-soaked day out at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: