Comino: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Sea Caves Boat Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and love the idea of spending a few hours on the water exploring some of the most iconic spots around Comino, this boat tour might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve come across plenty of reviews and details about this experience, and it seems like a solid choice for travelers seeking a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in a small-group setting.

What stands out to us are the small boat size—only 24 people onboard—making it feel intimate and less crowded, and the variety of stops packed into just a few hours. Plus, the chance to snorkel, take in stunning coastlines, and visit famous landmarks like Elephant Rock makes it a well-rounded trip. The only thing to keep in mind? The tour might be a bit rushed if you’re keen on lingering longer at each spot. Still, if you’re after a quick but scenic escape with good company, this tour could be a winner.

This experience mainly suits those who appreciate beautiful waters, natural scenery, and efficient itineraries. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and see a lot without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a good pick for those who prefer smaller boats for a more personal touch. However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, all-day adventure with more extensive time at each location, you might want to consider other options.

This experience made our article of Our 12 Favorite Mellieha Boat Tours & Cruises.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with only 24 people onboard ensures more space and personal attention.
• Multiple stops allow for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities at some of the most beautiful sites.
• Iconic landmarks like Elephant Rock and the Santa Maria Caves make for memorable photos.
• Variety of activities, including paddleboarding and snorkeling, cater to active travelers.
• Efficient itinerary packs a lot into 3-4 hours, but may feel a bit rushed for those wanting extra relaxation.
• Clear safety and comfort features like life jackets, shaded seating, and onboard toilets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at Cirkewwa, behind the kiosk café, where you’ll find your boat waiting. The check-in process is straightforward, with a descent down stairs behind the café to board your vessel. The boats are designed for comfort and intimacy, with only 24 passengers on board, which is a big plus if you dislike large, crowded tours.

From the moment you set sail, you get a glimpse of the historic Comino Tower, famously featured in The Count of Monte Cristo. It’s a neat detail that adds a touch of Malta’s cinematic charm to the experience.

The cruise and sightseeing

The cruise itself is part of the fun. You’ll be able to enjoy scenic views of the coastline, Gozos, and the famous Promising Rock. The crew often offers insights and commentary in English and Maltese, making it informative as well as visually enjoyable.

Crystal Lagoon (45-minute stop)

One of the first major highlights is the Crystal Lagoon. This spot is renowned for its incredible clarity and vibrant turquoise waters. We loved the way the shallow waters shimmered under the sun, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The review from a fellow traveler mentions that the crystal waters are stunning, and the time here allows for some good snorkel exploration, marine life viewing, or just relaxing on the boat with a float.

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Blue Lagoon (1-hour stop)

Next up is the famous Blue Lagoon, arguably the star of many Malta boat trips. This lagoon’s dazzling blue hues and white sandy seabed are picture-perfect. The hour-long stop gives you plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or sunbathe on the shoreline. Many reviews praise the Blue Lagoon, though some mention it can get busy—so early booking or visiting off-peak might help.

The tour operator now requires visitors to obtain a QR code for Blue Lagoon entry starting May 2025, which is a handy bit of info to keep in mind. If you prefer not to get off the boat, you’re still welcome to stay onboard and enjoy the views.

Scenic coastline and Promising Rock

Passing by the coastline, you’ll catch sight of Promising Rock, a natural formation perfect for photos. The boat then glides past San Niklaw Bay and the Charming Comino Hotel, giving you a taste of local scenery and architecture.

Santa Maria Bay (45-minute stop)

This bay is a quieter spot for swimming and snorkeling, offering a peaceful break from the busier Blue Lagoon. You’ll find the beach inviting, and the review mentions that the water colors are especially vivid, making for some lovely photos and underwater exploration.

Santa Maria Caves & Elephant Rock

The trip wraps up with visits to Santa Maria Caves and the striking Elephant Rock. Tourists love these natural formations for their uniqueness and photo opportunities. The caves especially stand out for their “gorgeous” appearance, and many travelers remark that the small boat allows for closer entry into the caves, which is a definite plus.

Return to Cirkewwa

After a busy morning of sightseeing, swimming, and snapping photos, the boat heads back to the starting point. The entire trip lasts around 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

What’s Included and What You Might Want to Bring

The tour offers a lot of perks, especially considering the price. You get complimentary stand-up paddleboards and floatation noodles, which means you can try some light water fun without extra cost. The crew is described as friendly and knowledgeable, adding value to the trip.

You’ll want to bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some cash for snacks or drinks at the stops. Snorkel gear isn’t provided but can be rented if you want to explore underwater more thoroughly.

Potential Downsides

While the experience is generally praised, a few reviews mention that the meeting point can be a bit hectic and that the timing at each stop feels compressed—which is true if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, Blue Lagoon can get crowded, so if you’re after privacy, visiting early or later in the day might be better.

Another consideration: the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those prone to seasickness. It’s a boat trip, after all, and weather conditions can impact comfort.

Is This Tour Worth It?

We think this trip offers great value for those who want to see Malta’s iconic spots without spending a whole day or dealing with large, crowded boats. The small group size makes it more personal, the stops are diverse and beautiful, and the boat’s amenities keep comfort in mind.

The tour is especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a fast-paced but rundown of Comino’s highlights—from crystal-clear waters to dramatic natural formations. If your travel style is more leisurely or you prefer to spend hours at each location, this may feel a bit rushed. But if you’re happy with a well-organized, activity-filled half-day, it’s a solid choice.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 3 to 4 hours, with most of that time spent at stops for swimming and sightseeing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for the Blue Lagoon, as you’ll need a QR code for access starting May 2025. Booking in advance also secures your spot on this smaller boat.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash are recommended. Snorkel gear can be rented onboard if you wish to explore underwater.

Is it suitable for children or families?
The description doesn’t specify, but given the nature of the trip, it’s probably best for older children and teenagers who can enjoy swimming and the boat ride.

Can I stay onboard at the Blue Lagoon?
Absolutely. If you prefer to relax on the boat rather than swim ashore, you’re welcome to stay onboard during the Blue Lagoon stop.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you can purchase these at the beach stops or onboard.

Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, free onboard toilets are available for convenience.

What about the group size?
Only 24 people, which keeps the experience cozy and less crowded.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Like all boat trips, weather can influence the experience. If seas are rough, the captain will adjust accordingly for safety and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This Comino boat tour offers a rewarding snapshot of Malta’s stunning waters and natural sights. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who value small groups, scenic variety, and active participation—swimming, snorkeling, and photos galore. The carefully curated stops ensure you’ll see the iconic Blue Lagoon, the dramatic Santa Maria Caves, and Elephant Rock, all within a manageable timeframe.

While it’s a busy itinerary, many reviews highlight the friendly crew and beautiful water colors, which truly make the trip memorable. If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing and water fun with a personal touch, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

On the flip side, if you want to linger longer at each site or prefer a very relaxed pace, you might find this a bit quick. Still, for those wanting a well-organized, scenic, and fun-filled half-day adventure, it’s worth considering.

Whether you’re snapping photos of the coast, diving into the blue waters, or just soaking up the sun, this trip offers a solid taste of what makes Malta’s waters so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: