Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island)

Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island): A Practical Guide

If you’re searching for a way to enjoy Malta’s scenic coastlines and the clear waters of the Blue Lagoon without the hassle of navigating or guided tours, this ferry cruise might be just what you need. Designed as a laid-back, scenic day trip, it promises an opportunity to soak up some sunshine, take memorable photos, and dip into some of the Mediterranean’s most famous waters.

What we love about this experience is its straightforward approach—no complicated schedules or packed guided tours—and its emphasis on comfort, with a modern catamaran that makes the journey pleasant. Plus, the optional motorboat trip to the caves and Lagoon adds a dash of adventure for those seeking a bit more exploration. On the flip side, travelers should be aware that this isn’t a guided sightseeing tour, so if you want detailed commentary, you might need to bring your own curiosity or hire a local guide.

This cruise suits travelers who value flexibility, stunning scenery, and a relaxed day out. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers wanting to combine scenic travel with a swim in turquoise waters—without breaking the bank or overloading on activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable travel aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran with amenities like Wi-Fi and toilets.
• Flexible departure points from Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay, with options to suit your schedule.
• Leisurely stop at Comino to enjoy the Blue Lagoon’s famous waters and optional boat trips.
• Scenic coastline views along Malta’s northern shores, with brief stops and photo opportunities.
• No guided commentary, offering free time at Comino for personal exploration or relaxation.
• Includes essential features like assistance from crew, but excludes government permits, food, and land transfers.

How the Tour Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting your day, you’ll choose between two departure points: Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay. This flexibility is helpful, especially if you’re staying near one of these locations. When booking, you’ll select your preferred time slot, which typically runs between 7 to 7.5 hours later—enough time for scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring.

Once aboard the modern catamaran, the journey feels like a treat rather than just transportation. The vessel is well-equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and toilet facilities, making the ride comfortable even on warm days. As you cruise along Malta’s coast, you’ll pass notable landmarks, enjoying breathtaking views of the shoreline and the surrounding sea.

The first stop is Marr Harbour in Gozo, where some passengers disembark if they’re headed to Gozitan adventures. For most, the boat continues directly toward Comino, a tiny island with no cars and minimal urban development—ideal for people who want to escape into nature.

Exploring Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Arriving at Comino, you’ll have a full free day to explore. The highlight, of course, is the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy seabed. It’s a picture-perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the rocks and soaking in the views.

One of the tour’s most appealing features is the free time allocated to explore, which can be quite generous, depending on the day’s schedule. Travelers have unanimously appreciated this, with reviews highlighting the “magical” experience and “stunning blue water” as key memories.

For those looking for more adventure, there’s an optional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and Crystal Lagoon. This adds a splash of excitement but costs extra (around €15 per person) and depends heavily on weather conditions. Keep in mind that this is a chance to see more hidden spots, but it’s not guaranteed every day.

While at Comino, you can stroll to landmarks like St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, or St. Mary’s Battery, which are accessible via hiking trails. With no cars around, the island’s peaceful atmosphere is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This cruise offers a good balance of value and convenience. The included features are:

• A scenic ferry cruise aboard a fully air-conditioned catamaran
• Departure from either Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay
• Wi-Fi, toilet facilities, and crew assistance

However, there are some expenses not covered:

• An official government-issued access pass is needed to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon (available online in advance)
• Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks and water is recommended
• No hotel pickup or land transportation in Gozo
• The trip does not include a guided tour—so if you prefer historical or cultural commentary, bring your own guidebook or curiosity
• The motorboat trip to caves and lagoons is optional and paid separately

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What to Expect on the Day

From the reviews, travelers consistently praised the smooth organization and friendly crew. One reviewer noted, “The staff was really friendly and the boat (catamaran) was modern too,” emphasizing the comfort aspect. The experience is largely about the scenery and leisure, with plenty of time to relax, take photos, or enjoy a swim.

The timing appears well-managed, with most travelers arriving early at the departure point to avoid last-minute stress. The duration of around 7 hours means you get a satisfying day without feeling rushed, though it’s a full day of activity.

Reviewers also appreciated the value for money. Considering the boat amenities, scenic views, and leisure time, the cost seems reasonable—especially compared to guided tours with less flexibility.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Travelers

Multiple reviews mention how timing and staff friendliness made the trip enjoyable. One traveler described it as “a straightforward trip from Sliema to Blue Lagoon and back” with “really friendly staff,” which is a good reminder that sometimes simple is best.

Another praised the knowledgeable guide from Barbarossa, who added humor and insights, enhancing the experience. If you’re a fan of local tips and stories, consider asking the crew or bringing your own.

Travelers also noted that the free time at Comino is ideal for relaxing or exploring, but should be planned according to weather. On a windy day, the boat trip to caves might be less enjoyable, so check the forecast if you’re eager for that adventure.

The Sum Up: Is This Cruise Worth It?

In a nutshell, this ferry cruise offers a relaxed, scenic day at a fair price, especially suited for those who want to enjoy Malta’s coast and the Blue Lagoon without the hustle of guided tours or expensive packages. The modern catamaran and ample free time make it a comfortable and flexible choice, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing and leisure.

While it doesn’t include guided commentary or land transfers, the stunning scenery and crystal waters more than compensate. The optional boat trip to caves adds a bit of adventure for those who want it, but even without it, travelers consistently report magical, picture-perfect moments.

For anyone craving a straightforward, scenic escape with plenty of time to swim and relax, this cruise provides great value, comfort, and a chance to see Malta from a different perspective.

FAQs

Do I need to book the trip in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred departure point and time, and to ensure you get the necessary government permit if planning to disembark at the Blue Lagoon.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for optional extras. Remember, no pets or oversize luggage are allowed onboard.

Can I stay at the Blue Lagoon all day?
While the cruise provides a good amount of free time, the boat only stays at Comino for the duration of the scheduled stop. You can swim, sunbathe, or explore, but the boat will depart at the scheduled time.

Is the trip suitable for children or seniors?
It’s suitable for most ages, but those with mobility issues should be aware that Comino has hiking trails, and the boat trip might be bumpy in rough weather. The boat is modern and comfortable, but seasickness can be an issue.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you should bring your own snacks and beverages, as they are not provided. However, onboard facilities and Wi-Fi enhance the comfort during the cruise.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip’s success depends on weather conditions, especially for the optional cave trip. Check the forecast before booking and be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellations.

How do I obtain the Blue Lagoon disembarkation pass?
You must acquire an official government-issued pass online at blcomino.com, which is required to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. Make sure to book your passes for both morning and afternoon slots if needed.

This ferry cruise offers a practical, scenic, and relaxing way to enjoy Malta’s coastline and the iconic Blue Lagoon. With its modern amenities, flexible options, and focus on leisure, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with genuine downtime.

You can check availability for your dates here: