Sliema: Powerboat to Comino Caves & Blue Lagoon with a Swim

Speed at sea beats the slow ferry. This is a high-energy way to reach Comino, with a Supreme Powerboats ride that feels like a mini adventure right from Sliema. I also love that you get long, flexible Blue Lagoon time to swim and snorkel instead of rushing in and out.

If you get a captain like Baso or Johnny, the trip gets extra fun, with jokes, upbeat energy, and helpful guidance. One real consideration, the ride can be bouncy, and the Blue Lagoon area can feel crowded with limited shade, so plan to work around the beach setup.

Key points before you go

• Powerboat thrill on the open sea with fast crossings and music during the ride
• Santa Maria Caves as a quick 20-minute photo stop on the way over
• 4 hours at Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling (bring beachwear)
• Crystal Lagoon caves plus a cave tour so you see more than just the beach
• Captain vibes matter and seat choice can make the ride less bumpy, many say the back is steadier

Why a Supreme Powerboats trip feels worth the hype from Sliema

Sliema to Comino is usually thought of as a ferry ride. This one skips the slow rhythm and swaps it for speed across open water, with music playing and the sea flying by outside your window. It is a straightforward upgrade if what you want is movement, not waiting.

I like that the tour mixes action and downtime. You get the fast ride for thrills, then you land at the Blue Lagoon with a chunky block of free time to swim, snorkel, and explore at your own pace. That balance is why it tends to satisfy both adventure lovers and families.

Meeting point in Sliema, and the seat trick that makes the ride easier

You meet at Sliema Ferries opposite Mc Donalds. The tour is scheduled for a departure around 11:00, and the whole experience runs about 6 hours from start to finish.

Once onboard, you have at least some control over comfort. People often point out that the back of the boat tends to be less bumpy, while the front can feel more jolt-y. If you get motion-sensitive, this is your simple self-protection move.

Also, a quick reality check. Even when the crew is careful and safety equipment is in place, powerboats can still be bouncy. Some riders expect to get wet, and a few say they end up more splashed than they planned. If you prefer dry feet, dress accordingly.

The Santa Maria Caves photo stop, 20 minutes with big payoff

Early on, the trip includes a Santa Maria Caves stop that is mostly about views. It is listed as a 20-minute pause with photo opportunities and scenic passing-by.

This is not the kind of stop where you hike or spend an hour exploring. Instead, it works like a scenic preview that tells you what kind of coast Comino has, all rugged cliffs and pocket coves along the way. For most people, 20 minutes is just enough to snap photos and keep energy for the real swim time.

Blue Lagoon free time: 4 hours to swim, snorkel, and make your own plan

The heart of the day is Blue Lagoon, with about 4 hours of time to swim and snorkel. This is where you can actually enjoy that postcard color you came for, the clear water that makes Comino famous.

Now for the practical side. The Blue Lagoon can get busy. Multiple riders describe limited shade and the challenge of finding a comfortable spot. A few say the chairs and umbrellas are scarce, and the setup is mostly rocks and sun.

So here is the smart game plan:

• Come ready for sun. Sunscreen and water are not optional.
• If you want comfort, consider sea boots, because rocks can be sharp.
• If you cannot find a good perch on land, staying in the water and using swims to move around is a common workaround.

You will also find basic amenities. Riders note there are food and drink vans and toilets, plus lifeguards on duty. That matters because four hours can feel long if you are baked in the sun with nowhere to sit.

Snorkel gear note, what you should know

The activity includes snorkeling time, but gear specifics are mixed. One rider flagged that snorkel gear was not provided as expected, though it could be rented once you arrive at Comino. If snorkeling matters to you, you might want to plan for the possibility that you will need to rent gear on site.

Crystal Lagoon caves and the cave tour on the route

Beyond the beach, the tour also includes Crystal Lagoon caves and a cave tour. You do not just sail past the coastline, you get a guided look at the cave area as part of the overall route.

One thing to set expectations: cave viewing is time-limited. Some people say the cave portion felt short, like a couple of brief rounds. If you are comparing it to other famous cave experiences around Malta, you should treat this as a chance to see caves up close from the boat and get photo moments, not a full-day spelunking adventure.

Still, for many people, this is the perfect add-on. It breaks up the day so you do not spend all your time at one crowded beach. Plus, when the coastline is rugged and the water is clear, even short cave segments can look fantastic from the water.

What the powerboat ride is like in real life, speed, music, and safety

The ride is the signature feature. Expect speed across open sea, and expect some bouncing. Riders describe it as thrilling and fast, with wind in your face and music turned up.

Captain energy seems to be a big reason people rate the tour so highly. Several mentions focus on Captain Baso as funny, charming, and attentive. Others cite Johnny as an engaging skipper who also explains things clearly. If you get one of those captains, it turns into a personality-driven day, not just transportation.

Even with the hype, safety is part of the package. The tour lists full safety equipment and liability insurance. That is important, especially with waves and the quick tempo of the ride.

Will you see dolphins?

Do not count on it as a guarantee. One rider reported no dolphins on the way. Another said they saw dolphins on the return. The most honest approach is simple: enjoy the sea, enjoy the caves and the lagoon, and treat any wildlife sightings as a bonus, not a plan requirement.

Price and value: is $70 per person a good deal

At about $70 per person for roughly 6 hours, the value mostly comes from what you get bundled together.

You are paying for:

• the powerboat transport to Comino (much faster and more fun than ferry time)
• guided cave viewing segments
• 4 hours at Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling
• fuel, local taxes, and safety equipment, plus a local expert captain

If your alternative is a slower boat plus time spent figuring out your own cave route and timing, this package can feel like a “done-for-you” day. Where it might not feel like value is if you only care about lying on a quiet beach and hate speed and noise. In that case, a more relaxed option might fit better.

But if you want a day that starts with an adrenaline-style ride and ends with a real swim in famous water, the price lands in the right zone.

What to bring, and how to stay comfy for four hours at Comino

This tour is simple on gear needs. The main requirement is basic: beachwear. After that, it is all about sun and water reality.

I suggest you plan for:

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Water, because Comino sun can be intense
• Snorkel readiness, even if you may need to rent gear on site
• Sea boots or water shoes for rockier areas

Also, be ready for the fact you might get splashed. Some riders mention they ended up wet, and the bumpy ride can do that even when conditions are not extreme. Light quick-dry clothes and a small towel can make the day feel easier.

Who this tour suits, and who should skip it

This is a fast, powerboat-heavy day. It is not ideal for everyone.

The activity is listed as not suitable for:

• children under 3
• pregnant women
• people with back problems or heart problems
• wheelchair users
• people with recent surgeries
• people over 95

If you fit in those categories, you should seriously consider a calmer option.

On the other hand, this suits:

• people who like speed and do not mind a bit of bounciness
• families with kids who can handle an active ride
• couples and friends who want a fun day with a clear highlight in the middle

How to make the Blue Lagoon time feel less stressful

The big challenge at Blue Lagoon is not the water. It is the logistics of comfort in a popular spot.

Here is what helps:

• Go in with a flexible plan. You might not have the perfect towel spot.
• Move around. If one area is packed, swim a bit and reposition.
• Treat four hours as a range, not an obligation. If you find a good setup fast, great. If not, being in the water makes the time feel shorter.
• Bring patience. Expect sun, crowds, and limited shade.

If you want a more laid-back feel, going on a time slot when you arrive early can help, and people do note morning timing may make finding a spot easier. Even then, Comino is popular, so plan around people.

Should you book this Comino powerboat tour?

Book it if your top goals are speed, caves, and a real swim day at Blue Lagoon. I think it is especially strong when you want the trip to feel like part of the fun, not just the ride to your destination.

Skip it if you:

• hate bumpy rides or loud music
• need lots of shade and chair comfort on land
• are looking for long, quiet exploration rather than a fast-paced itinerary

If you are on the fence, this is my quick checklist. You should feel excited by a thrilling powerboat crossing, and you should be okay working with a crowded lagoon setup. If that matches your travel style, this tour is one of the better ways to do Comino from Sliema.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Sliema to Comino powerboat tour?

You meet at Sliema Ferries opposite Mc Donalds.

How long is the tour, and what time does it depart?

The tour duration is 6 hours, and it departs at 11:00.

What is included in the price?

The tour includes a local expert captain, full safety equipment, liability insurance and local taxes, fuel cost, a 4-hour stop at Blue Lagoon for swimming, and Crystal Lagoon caves with a cave tour.

What should I bring?

Bring beachwear. If you plan to snorkel, consider that gear may not be provided in the way you expect, and you might need to rent once on Comino.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is this tour not suitable for?

It is listed as not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, people with back problems or heart problems, wheelchair users, people with recent surgeries, and people over 95 years.