Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves – swim, snorkel & slide

Comino turns a simple boat day into real vacation mode fast, and the Blue Lagoon stop is the payoff. I especially like the long, practical swim time built around you choosing your pace, and I like the easy on-board setup, including the slide and places to cool off. The main drawback is you can share the water and boat with a lot of people, and the trip can feel rough in choppy conditions.

You’ll meet at Bugibba Jetty, then cruise Malta and Comino from the water, with photo stops and narration from captain Kevin along the way. One more consideration: the boat is not described as brand-new, so expect a basic, functional setup rather than a luxury liner experience.

Key things I’d bet on before you book

• Arrive early for rooftop chairs: top-deck seats are first come first serve.
• Long Blue Lagoon time: about 4.5 hours gives you room to swim, snack, and repeat.
• Slide and swim access right off the boat: you do not have to be a strong swimmer to enjoy the stops.
• Optional speedboat caves add-on: if it’s offered and you’re willing to pay cash only, it’s a common highlight.
• Comino cash only: plan on cash on the island and on board.

Comino’s Blue Lagoon in a 7-hour window

Malta’s Comino can feel like a different planet, mostly because the water looks unreal once you’re off the main routes. This day trip is built for maximum water time without turning the day into a travel marathon, with a roughly 7-hour schedule from 10:00 to 17:00.

For me, the best part is the freedom style of the itinerary. You get both sightseeing from the boat and actual time in the water, so the day works whether you’re all in on snorkeling or you just want to float, slide, and chill.

Bugibba Jetty, captain Kevin, and the rooftop chair move

You start at Bugibba Jetty, near public transportation, which matters if you don’t want to burn time figuring out local logistics. The day runs on a clear rhythm: depart at 10:00 and head straight into views, photo stops, and storytelling from captain Kevin and crew.

Here’s the practical tip that shows up again and again: get there early if you want a rooftop chair. Deck chairs are first come first serve, and the top level tends to be the best place to watch Comino approach from the water.

Malta coast to the cave zone: Mellieha Bay and Ħaġrax

Before you even reach Comino, the route gives you several Malta viewpoints from the water. You’ll cruise past the island of St. Paul, tied to the shipwreck story, where a statue is placed on the tiny island.

Then you pass Mellieha Bay, described as Malta’s largest beach, and continue toward the Ħaġrax cave area for photo opportunities. This part of the trip is not about swimming yet, it’s about getting your bearings and banking the best angles before the day gets all water-focused.

Cruising Comino: cliffs, Elephants Head, and Santa Maria Tower

When you get into Comino territory, you’ll feel how small the island really is. Comino is described as the smallest of the three islands, about 1.4 square miles, so cruising around it is a quick way to see the “wow” edges without hiking.

You’ll cruise 360 degrees around Comino, with high cliff faces and rock formations, including the site often called Elephants Head. Along the way you’ll also pass Santa Maria Tower, built in 1618 as a defensive structure, and it’s linked in popular storytelling to the Chateau d’If idea from The Count of Monte Cristo.

For photo lovers, this is a gift. You’re not stuck with one viewpoint, you’re getting multiple angles as the boat moves.

Blue Lagoon stop: swim, snorkel, and slide off the boat

This is the core of the day. You moor at the Blue Lagoon and get about 4 hours and 30 minutes to use the boat as your base.

You can jump in right from the boat, and the setup makes it easy to switch modes. If you want sun, you can use the upper deck. If you want shade, the main deck is spacious, and you can hop between them without losing your spot.

The included slide is a real crowd-pleaser because it turns the water time from quiet sightseeing into active fun. And since washrooms are available on board, you’re not constantly searching for facilities once you’re in full swim mode.

If you feel like exploring beyond the boat, you also have the option to walk on and off to Comino. Just keep expectations realistic: Blue Lagoon is famous, so even with your own base on the boat, you’re still sharing the area.

Crystal Lagoon timing: walking distance, but check the conditions

After Blue Lagoon cruising time, the route includes the south channel and a look toward Crystal Lagoon. This bay can be accessed by foot from where you moor at Blue Lagoon, and it’s described as about an 8-minute walk.

What I like about this design is that it gives you a second water zone without needing a new ticket every time. If the schedule allows and weather cooperates, you might see this spot on the way to Comino or later on the way back to Malta.

This is also the area where people who like a little more adventure tend to gravitate, since cliff-jumping is mentioned as an option. If you’re unsure about off-rock entries, stick to easier entry points and use the boat as your “safety home base.”

Speedboat caves add-on: when it’s offered, consider paying

There’s an optional add-on for a speedboat ride to small caves. It costs 15 euros and is purchased seasonally, and importantly it’s cash only.

I think this is worth your consideration if you enjoy “get closer” experiences. The caves are one of the few moments in the day where you break out of the standard boat cruising rhythm, and many people treat it as a highlight.

The trade-off is simple: you’ll need to plan around the add-on timing, and cash-only means you should have euros ready. If your priority is lounging and long swims, you can still have a great day without it.

Food and drinks: affordable onboard, plus island options

Lunch is not included, but the boat has a cafeteria and you can buy food and drinks onboard at reasonable prices. If you want something quick between swim sessions, this is the easiest plan.

You might also find snacks and meals available once you’re on Comino. The key is that you can structure the day to avoid hunger downtime, because you don’t have to go back to a dock every time you want to eat or use facilities.

On the drinks side, there are recurring mentions of good value onboard items. Just remember: payment on Comino and on the boat is cash only.

Snorkel gear, lockers, and what to pack

You can rent mask and snorkel for 5 euros, with a deposit of 15 euros and 10 euros given back. Lockers cost 2 euros, and towels are not included.

So pack like this: bring your towel and sun protection, and think about weather layers. The guidance notes that from October to May you should bring a jacket because it can get chilly when cruising.

One more practical note: cash is important. Since you may be paying for rentals and lockers, bring enough cash so you are not stuck searching while others move faster.

Boat capacity and sea conditions: comfort reality check

The tour caps at 232 travelers. That doesn’t automatically ruin the day, but it explains why the Blue Lagoon experience can feel busy, especially near the shoreline.

You should also take the sea seriously. The tour requires good weather, but even in good conditions, water can get choppy. One review specifically called out that seas were very rough for some people, including instances of nausea.

If you’re sensitive to motion, consider bringing any personal motion-sickness remedy you already trust, and be ready with a jacket even if it looks warm at the start.

Price at about $36.28: the value case

At about $36.28 per person, this is priced like a budget-friendly way to hit Comino’s top water stops without paying premium island transfer fees. A big chunk of the day’s cost covers boat time plus included amenities like landing and facility fees, slide access, and restroom facilities.

The value is strongest if you use the boat well. You’re getting a serious block of time at Blue Lagoon, photo stops around Comino, and the kind of “base on the water” setup that saves you time and hassle.

Where the costs can creep up is in extras. Mask and snorkel rentals, lockers, towels you may need to buy elsewhere, and the optional speedboat caves ride can add up. Still, even with a few add-ons, it often works out cheaper than booking separate boat transfers for each stop.

Should you book this Comino day trip?

Book it if you want the classic Comino payoff, Blue Lagoon swim time, plus extra viewing time from the boat, without spending the whole day in transit. I’d also recommend it if you like structure with flexibility, meaning you can choose whether you’re a slide-and-swim person or a chill-on-deck person.

Skip it or go in with eyes open if you need a peaceful, uncrowded outing. With a large group size and a famous location, you should expect some crowding. Also, if you are motion-sensitive, plan for choppy-water possibilities.

If you do book: arrive early for rooftop seating, bring a jacket for cooler months, and carry cash so you can handle any on-the-spot purchases smoothly.

FAQ

What time does the tour depart and return?

The tour departs at 10:00 and returns at 17:00, so plan for a full day on the water.

Where do I meet for the experience?

You meet at Bugibba Jetty, Dawret Il-Gżejjer, San Pawl il-Baħar, Malta.

Is the Blue Lagoon time long enough to swim and relax?

Yes. The Blue Lagoon stop is about 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving you time to swim and use the boat facilities, including the slide.

What’s included in the price?

Included are all taxes and fees, landing and facility fees, deck chairs (first come first serve), slide access, and restroom facilities.

What costs extra during the day?

Lunch is not included, and there are optional or add-on items such as mask and snorkel rentals (5 euros plus a deposit), lockers (2 euros), and the speedboat ride to the caves (15 euros when available).

Is snorkeling gear provided?

No. You can rent a mask and snorkel for 5 euros with a deposit (15 euros deposit, 10 euros refunded) if you want it.

Do I need cash?

Yes. The guidance notes that payments on Comino island and on the boat are accepted cash only.

What should I bring with me?

Bring towels, sun cream, and a jacket for October to May because it can get chilly when cruising. Towels are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.