Malta: Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, Gozo & Seacaves

Exploring Malta’s Stunning Coastline: A Review of the Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, Gozo & Sea Caves Tour

If you’re eyeing a Malta adventure that offers a bit of everything—crystal-clear waters, fascinating caves, and scenic island stops—you’ve probably come across the popular boat tour around Comino and the nearby lagoons. While we haven’t personally taken this specific cruise, looking at countless reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s clear this experience is a favorite for many travelers.

One of the things we love about this tour is how efficiently it packs in the highlights—you get a taste of the best spots in just 3 to 4 hours. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable trip without dedicating a full day. Plus, the inclusion of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views makes it a well-rounded outing.

However, a consideration worth noting is that the itinerary can vary depending on weather and sea conditions. This flexibility is good for safety but might mean some stops are shorter or slightly altered. Still, for those who appreciate a well-organized, informative cruise with enough time to relax and explore, this tour fits the bill.

If you’re traveling to Malta and enjoy boat trips that combine natural beauty with a touch of history and fun, this experience is likely to suit you. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a shorter, engaging outing over a long, exhaustive tour.

Key Points

• Balanced Duration: Around 3 to 4 hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Variety of Stops: Includes Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, caves, and scenic bays.
• Inclusive Features: Swimming, snorkeling, and drinks included—plus optional walk at Blue Lagoon.
• Experienced Crew: Friendly guides and knowledgeable skipper enhance the trip.
• Flexibility: Route and stops can change based on weather, ensuring safety.
• Value for Money: Many reviews mention good value, with plenty of time at key spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins at the Cirkewwa jetty, a straightforward meeting point behind the local kiosk. From the start, the cruise feels comfortable and well-organized. The boat itself is described as clean, with a padded sun deck and two levels—ideal for sunbathers and explorers alike.

First stops include iconic sites like Elephant Rock and Santa Maria sea caves. You’ll pass by Santa Marija Bay and San Niklaw Bay, giving you excellent photo opportunities from the boat. These early moments set the tone—stunning views with the crew sharing some interesting facts along the way, making the journey not just scenic but also educational.

The Blue Lagoon is, of course, the star of the show. With about an hour here, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just relax from the boat. Many reviews mention how magical the waters are and how suitable this lagoon is for a quick dip. One reviewer said, “The blue lagoon is just as beautiful as you imagine—crystal clear, safe, and perfect for a swim.”

If you prefer, disembarking and exploring the small island is an option (you do need to pre-book a free ticket for island access in 2025). Some guests feel the time in the Blue Lagoon could be slightly shortened, as there’s not much else to do beyond swimming or taking photos.

Next up is the Crystal Lagoon—less crowded and more serene during the winter months. Here, you’ll get around 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the calm waters. The cave sights, such as Popeyes and Lovers Cave, add a nice touch of adventure to your swim. Several reviews praise the clarity of the water and the scenic backdrop.

Cruising past Gozitan Mġarr Harbour offers a quick glance at Malta’s neighbor, perfect for snapping a few photos. From here, the boat heads back along the coast, passing by the Comino Tower, featured in “The Count of Monte Cristo,” and the tuna fish farm.

The route concludes with stops at Santa Marija Bay and the San Niklaw caves, giving one last scenic look at the coast before heading back to the start point.

What You Get and What You Might Miss

Included in the price are the cruise, welcome drink, a slice of watermelon, and the chance to swim or snorkel at two lagoons. The onboard bar offers drinks for purchase, and life jackets and floating noodles are available—though not in unlimited quantities. The boat’s crew, led by an experienced skipper, is often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the trip informative and relaxed.

While snorkeling equipment isn’t included, it can be rented for a small fee if you want to explore beneath the surface. One of the most appreciated features is how short and well-paced the trip is; reviews note that the 3 to 4 hours is just right, avoiding the fatigue some longer tours induce.

However, the route may be adjusted based on weather, which can impact the stops and swimming time. For instance, during rough seas, some locations might be skipped or shortened, but safety remains the priority.

Price-wise, many feel the experience offers strong value considering the variety of stops, the inclusiveness of drinks and snacks, and the scenic beauty. It’s a good way to see Malta’s coast without the expense and time commitment of a full-day tour.

The Experience on Board

Guests consistently mention how friendly and helpful the crew are throughout the trip. Whether it’s sharing stories about the caves, pointing out film locations, or offering a refreshing drink, the staff seems dedicated to making the journey pleasant.

The boat itself has enough space for comfort with its padded sun deck and two levels. There’s toilet access onboard, which is handy during a trip of this length. The option for a sunset cruise is also available, providing a slightly shorter experience without going all the way around Comino, ideal for those who prefer a relaxed evening or are short on time.

Reviews highlight the good organization, punctual departure, and overall safety of the trip—something that matters when you’re out on the water. Many guests have appreciated the quick boarding process and the crew’s flexibility, especially when weather conditions shift unexpectedly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who want a compact, scenic experience without spending an entire day. Because it offers plenty of time for swimming, exploring caves, and sightseeing from the boat, it’s ideal for those looking to maximize their Malta trip with a mix of relaxation and adventure.

It’s also a popular choice for those who value good value for money, as reviews consistently mention the experience exceeds expectations for the price. It’s particularly appealing for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Malta’s coastline with minimal hassle.

While not specifically designed for families with very young children or those with mobility concerns, the trip’s short duration and safety features make it accessible for most travelers in decent health. Just remember, the boat is not wheelchair accessible, and the route can shift with weather, so keep those factors in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak season. You can reserve your spot online and even pay later, giving flexibility to your plans.

Is the route fixed or can it change?
The captain may modify the route based on weather conditions, ensuring everyone’s safety. Stops can be shortened or changed accordingly.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. If you want to snorkel, rental equipment is available for a small fee.

Can I go ashore at Blue Lagoon or Crystal Lagoon?
Yes, but you need to book a free ticket for Blue Lagoon in advance via the official website in 2025. This allows you to disembark and explore the island.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase onboard. There are watermelons and a welcome drink included, with other beverages payable in cash or by card.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly. The boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children should be supervised during swimming and cave visits.

In the end, this Malta boat tour offers an engaging, scenic way to experience some of the island’s most beautiful spots. Whether you’re after a quick splash in the Blue Lagoon, stunning views of caves, or just a relaxing cruise with tips from friendly crew, it’s a solid choice. The overall positive reviews, especially about the guides, the scenery, and the good value, suggest it’s a trip worth considering if you’re in Malta and want a taste of the coast without a full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here: