Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Pauls Islands

If you’re looking to see some of Malta’s most beautiful coastal scenery without the hassle of complicated logistics, this boat tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy the island’s best water-based sights. With a decent rating of 4.0 out of 5 from over 50 reviews, it seems to generally deliver on the promise of a fun and scenic day, though like any experience, it has its trade-offs. We’re here to give you the honest lowdown so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning views of Malta’s coast from the water are truly impressive—nothing beats seeing the island from the sea. Second, the freedom to swim, snorkel, and relax at the Blue Lagoon and St. Paul’s Islands makes it feel less like a typical tourist crowd and more like a personal adventure. But a possible hiccup? The crowds at the Blue Lagoon can be overwhelming, especially in peak season. Still, if you’re after a hassle-free boat day with plenty of scenic photos and water fun, this tour can be a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water without too many complicated plans or long waits.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip boat transfer from Malta’s coast simplifies the experience.
• Multiple scenic stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves.
• Smaller boat size allows entry into caves without extra charges.
• Cost-effective for a full-day tour with several highlights.
• Crowded Blue Lagoon may be a downside in high season.
• Ideal for water lovers or those wanting a relaxed, scenic day out.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early in the morning, with boarding starting at 9:30 am from the charming seaside town of Bugibba. The boat departs promptly at 10:00 am, so arriving a little early is a good idea. The group size is capped at 48 travelers, which helps keep things intimate compared to bigger tour boats.

The Blue Lagoon: The Highlight

The first major stop at Comino’s Blue Lagoon is where most visitors set their expectations high—and it’s easy to see why. The water here is famously clear, inviting you to swim, snorkel, and just float in the Mediterranean’s embrace. Several reviews mention the lagoon being crowded and littered—a common complaint, especially during peak season. Still, many find the beauty of the crystal waters worth it, and the boat’s small size means you can get into the caves without paying extra, which is a nice perk.

While the lagoon is undeniably stunning, be prepared for the crowds. One reviewer said, “Blue lagoon is so clear and beautiful (though very very crowded).” To avoid disappointment, consider visiting early or later in the afternoon if possible, and bring beach shoes—rocky and slippery cliffs are common here.

Exploring the Sea Caves

One of the tour’s real draws is the chance to explore sea caves up close. The small vessel can enter these caves, which larger boats cannot access without extra cost. The experience of gliding into these formations, with sunlight filtering through, can be quite special—if weather permits. It’s a nice touch that this is included, adding a sense of adventure that’s often missing from bigger tours.

St. Paul’s Islands: A Quiet End

The last stop at St. Paul’s Islands offers a quieter, more contemplative ending to the day. It’s a chance for a final swim or a quick hike up to see the famous statue of St. Paul. The 30-minute stop is enough to catch your breath and appreciate the seclusion, unlike the busy Blue Lagoon.

One reviewer mentioned, “A nice end to the day as you can have one last dip on the sea from the boat,” which sums up the relaxed vibe here. Returning to Bugibba by 5 pm, the day wraps up on a peaceful note.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of around $29 per person, this tour offers good value considering the full day of coastal exploration. Included are restroom facilities, WiFi onboard, and the opportunity to enter the caves if weather allows. For an extra cost, you can rent snorkeling equipment, and there’s a snack bar onboard for purchasing food and drinks—making it convenient to stay fueled during the long day.

However, note that lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy onboard is wise. You’ll also need to register for an entry ticket to Comino via the Maltese Government website, which is free but an extra step to keep in mind.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and smooth operation as a plus. One review quotes, “The captain was very friendly and kind, and their confidence and calm demeanor helped us relax.” Others appreciate the smaller boat size, which allows access to caves and creates a more personal atmosphere.

That said, some travelers found the Blue Lagoon overcrowded and littered, and a review even mentioned the difficulty in understanding the exact meeting point. It’s worth being attentive to instructions and arriving early.

The overall sentiment is that this tour offers stunning scenery for a reasonable price, especially if you’re prepared for crowds and are mainly interested in water activities. It’s not a luxury cruise, but if you’re after a straightforward, scenic day with some swimming and cave exploration, it fits the bill nicely.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for water lovers and those seeking a laid-back day on the sea. It’s perfect if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves without the hassle of planning every detail. Travelers looking for a budget-friendly, full-day adventure with scenic highlights will find this a good fit.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to crowds or prefer quiet, secluded beaches, you might want to visit during less busy times or consider alternative tours. Also, keep in mind the rocky terrain and the need for reasonable mobility if you plan to walk around Comino.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour to the Blue Lagoon, Comino, caves, and St. Paul’s Islands offers a solid way to see Malta from the water. The combination of breathtaking views, accessible caves, and the chance to swim in the famous Blue Lagoon makes it a memorable outing. Its affordability and the convenience of round-trip transport add to its appeal, especially for travelers wanting to maximize their time on the coast.

While it’s not perfect—crowds can be a major factor—many visitors find that the experience’s highlights outweigh the drawbacks. The friendly crew, scenic stops, and relaxed vibe make it a good choice for water enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy Malta’s stunning maritime scenery without fuss.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children who enjoy water activities and are comfortable on boats should find it enjoyable. Keep in mind the rocky terrain at some stops.

How long do I spend at each stop?
You’ll have around 3 hours at Blue Lagoon, including swimming and cave exploring, and about 30 minutes at St. Paul’s Islands for a quick walk or last swim.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there is a snack bar onboard where you can purchase food and drinks throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, beach shoes (rocky cliffs), sun protection, and possibly snorkeling gear if you prefer to use your own. Don’t forget a towel and a waterproof camera.

Is there WiFi on the boat?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard, which can be useful for sharing photos or staying connected during the trip.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I get my entry ticket for Comino?
You need to register on the Maltese Government website, which is free. It’s a small extra step but necessary to access the island.

In the end, if you’re after a convenient, scenic day out on Malta’s waters that balances fun and relaxation—especially if you’re a fan of swimming and caves—this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your trip. Just be prepared for crowds at the Blue Lagoon and bring your patience along with your swim gear.