Sliema: Cruise to Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon

Turquoise water, big island views, and a waterslide. This Sliema cruise to Comino pairs Crystal Lagoon snorkeling (seasonal) with a long Blue Lagoon swim break, so you get more than a quick photo stop. You also cruise past Malta’s north coast bays and islands, then finish with a Comino sea caves moment.

My favorite part is how the timing is built around water time: you get a short hit at Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay, then the main event at Blue Lagoon. The one catch is Blue Lagoon can feel crowded and sunny, with limited shade, so you’ll want sunscreen and a plan for the heat.

Key things to know before you go

• Crystal Lagoon is seasonal: It runs May 1 to October 31 and only if weather allows, with a 45-minute swim window.
• Two time mixes for Comino and Gozo: Option B trades more Gozo time for less Blue Lagoon time.
• You can swim from the boat: Entry points, ladders, and the included waterslide make getting in feel easy.
• Free QR code helps you disembark at Blue Lagoon: You register on blcomino.com and pick the afternoon slot 13.31 to 17.30.
• Comino sea caves are a fast finale: You get a short Santa Maria caves stop on the way back.
• The crew runs a tight ship: Onboard staff manage movement and keep things running smoothly during swim stops.

Why this Sliema to Comino cruise is so popular

If you want Malta’s famous water without renting a boat, this is one of the simplest ways to do it. The route is designed around two swim zones, plus an extra Comino highlight on the return.

What makes it work for me is the balance. You get time to actually enjoy the water, not just stand around. You also get a scenic cruise past north-coast bays and islands, so the day feels like more than one single stop.

Boarding in Sliema: what to expect at Luzzu Cruises

You start in Sliema, Ferries 4, looking for Luzzu Cruises, typically the Mv Kataleya or Mv Lady Shelley. Plan to arrive a little early, because getting seated and oriented before you set sail makes the whole day calmer.

Once onboard, you’ll see that the boat is set up for mixed groups. There are seating areas inside and outside, plus an onboard bar, toilets, and the included waterslide. The crew keeps things organized during the key moments like boarding and swim access.

One practical tip: if you care about views, move around. People often start seated where they find space first, then shift outside or toward the front once the boat is moving.

The north-coast cruise: St. Julian’s to St. Paul’s Island

After you leave the Sliema waterfront, you cruise along Malta’s north side, passing places like St. Julian’s, St. George’s Bay, Qawra, and St. Paul’s Bay. You also get glimpses of St. Paul’s Island and the area around Mellieħa Bay.

This part matters because it sets the tone. Even before you reach Comino, you’re already seeing why Malta’s coastline gets so much attention: rocky edges, small bays, and sea that changes color as the light shifts.

If conditions are a bit choppy, the passage can feel bumpy, especially on the stretch involving Gozo. That’s not unique to this operator, it’s just the physics of the sea. Bring sea-sickness basics if you’re sensitive.

Mgarr Harbour, Gozo: a quick photo stop with two choices

Gozo shows up as a short stop at Mgarr Harbour, about five minutes, mainly for photos. Depending on which option you choose, you may also have time to explore Gozo itself.

Option A versus Option B, in plain terms

• Option A: You tend to spend more of your day focused on Comino and the Blue Lagoon, with only that brief Mgarr Harbour photo stop at Gozo.
• Option B: You get about 3 hours free time in Gozo, with an optional onboard transport to Victoria for €5 per person, then a shorter stay at Blue Lagoon (about 1.5 hours).

If your goal is swimming and snorkeling first and culture second, Option A usually fits better. If you want at least a few hours wandering around Gozo’s main town, Option B gives you that, but it does reduce your Blue Lagoon time.

Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay: make the 45 minutes count

This is the stop that changes with the season. From May 1 to October 31, you can get a swim and snorkeling stop at Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay, weather permitting. Outside that window, the cruise skips this stop and focuses on Blue Lagoon instead.

You only get around 45 minutes here, so treat it like an appetizer. Bring your energy level and be ready to get in right away once the boat is positioned.

What you’ll love

This is where you see the water at its most swim-inviting. The conditions are ideal for snorkeling from the water access points on the boat. And since the stop is shorter, you get that burst of turquoise without committing your whole afternoon to one place.

A quick drawback to plan for

Because it’s short, you’ll want to arrive ready: towel, swimsuit, and any snorkeling gear you use should be within reach. If you spend too long changing or searching for things, you lose time quickly.

Blue Lagoon: 3.5 hours of Comino water, or 1.5 hours with Gozo

Blue Lagoon is the main event on this trip, with about 3.5 hours of free time in Comino for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and walking around. If you booked Option B, that becomes about 1.5 hours, because you’re also investing time in Gozo.

How to handle the crowds

Blue Lagoon is famous for a reason, so yes, it can get busy. The key is where you spend your time. Even when the lagoon is crowded near the main areas, you can still enjoy the water by moving around, getting in the sea, and using your time efficiently.

Sun reality: prepare for exposure

This is the single biggest practical issue. There is limited shade once you’re in the Blue Lagoon area, so expect hours of sun. If you’re prone to overheating, bring a high-SPF sunscreen and consider a hat you can keep on in wind.

A Comino QR code you should not skip

To get off the boat at Comino Blue Lagoon, you need to register for a free QR code at www.blcomino.com and choose the afternoon slot 13.31 to 17.30. This is one of those small steps that can matter a lot once you’re out there.

Comino sea caves and Santa Maria caves: the quick wow on the way back

On the return journey, you get a stop at Comino’s caves area, including a brief Santa Maria caves visit. It’s short, around 10 minutes, but it’s timed well for photos and a last look at Comino’s rugged coast.

This part works even if you’re tired from the water, because it shifts from swim mode to view mode. You’ll see why Comino is more than just lagoon water. The caves and cliff edges bring back that sense of place you can’t get from a resort beach.

The boat experience: waterslide, bar, and how the day feels onboard

You’re not stuck below deck all day. The boat has seating inside and out, plus an onboard bar where you can buy hot and cold drinks. The waterslide is included, and it’s one of those add-ons that turns a swim stop into a mini experience.

You’ll also notice that swim stops are run with a lot of organization. The crew manages movement when ladders and stairs get busy, and they keep the boat clean during the day. Even if you’re traveling with kids or you just want things to feel orderly, that attention to flow makes a difference.

When onboard announcements get loud

You may hear frequent announcements while sailing and during swim transitions. Some people find the downstairs speakers loud during that portion of the day, especially if you’re trying to talk. If that matters to you, spend more time outside or up top when announcements start.

What to pack: the simple gear list that prevents day-trip stress

The tour asks you to bring the essentials for a sea day, and I agree with all of them. You’ll be in and out of the water, and you’ll want to dry off without improvising.

Bring:

• Beachwear
• Towel
• Comfortable shoes (rocks are part of the Comino reality)
• Camera
• Cash (useful for onboard purchases)

Also bring sunscreen and water-friendly protection if you have it. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the activity, so plan to keep it straightforward.

And if you’re worried about timing, have your QR code ready on your phone before you approach the Blue Lagoon stop.

Price and value (around $41): when this cruise is a smart buy

At about $41 per person, this is good value if you want three things in one day: a classic Blue Lagoon swim, a second swim opportunity at Crystal Lagoon in the right season, and a Comino caves stop.

You should also look at what’s not included. Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll either buy onboard or bring your own snacks. The onboard bar is available, and it’s typically priced reasonably, but it still adds up if you go heavy on drinks.

To judge value fairly, ask yourself this: are you paying for transportation plus swim access plus multiple Comino highlights, instead of trying to coordinate separate ferry schedules and tour options? If that’s your goal, this cruise is an efficient way to do it.

Who should book, and who should skip

This tour is a strong fit if:

• You want snorkeling and swimming as the main activity.
• You like a day plan that moves, but still leaves free time to explore.
• You enjoy seeing coastline views from the water, not just from a bus window.

You might want to skip or switch tours if:

• You need wheelchair access, because this activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• You hate sun exposure and crowds. Blue Lagoon can be packed, and you should assume limited shade.

Should you book the Sliema to Comino cruise?

Yes, if your top priority is spending real time in Comino’s water. The mix of a Crystal Lagoon swim stop (when seasonal) plus a longer Blue Lagoon break gives you multiple shots at that famous clear water look, and the included waterslide adds a little fun without changing the vibe.

Book it with a little caution if you’re sensitive to heat and you don’t like busy places. Go in with sunscreen, hydrate, and plan to spend time in the water rather than expecting a shaded, laid-back beach day.

Finally, if you care about Gozo more than Comino, choose the option that puts you on Gozo longer, or consider a dedicated Gozo day. This cruise works best when Comino is your anchor, and Gozo is your side stop.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from in Sliema?

It departs from Sliema, Ferries 4. Look for the Luzzu Cruises boat, typically Mv Kataleya or Mv Lady Shelley.

Is the Crystal Lagoon stop available year-round?

No. The Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay swim stop is seasonal and runs May 1 to October 31, and it’s also weather permitting.

How long is the Blue Lagoon break?

It depends on the option you choose. One option includes about 3.5 hours free time at the Blue Lagoon, while the other option includes about 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon.

Do I need a QR code to get off at Blue Lagoon?

Yes. To disembark at Comino Blue Lagoon, you need a free QR code from www.blcomino.com. Choose the afternoon slot 13.31 to 17.30.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring towel, beachwear, camera, comfortable shoes, and cash. You’ll also want to have your essentials ready for changing and swimming.

Is food or drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included. The bar is available onboard.

Is this cruise wheelchair accessible?

No. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.