Sailing into Adventure: A Detailed Look at the Comino & Blue Lagoon Tour from Sliema

Imagine cruising across the Mediterranean, with the sun warming your face and crystal-clear waters inviting you to take a dip. That’s essentially what you get with the From Sliema: Comino & Blue Lagoon Trip — a full-day tour that promises water, walk, and wonder. As someone who has reviewed many Maltese excursions, I can tell you this experience hits many of the right notes: affordability, social vibe, and natural beauty.

What we really like about this trip is its straightforward value — for just $34, you get a well-organized day that combines transportation, boat rides, light hiking, and plenty of time to relax in the Blue Lagoon. The tour’s social aspect is another bonus, drawing together a diverse crowd of expats, students, and travelers from around the world.

A single potential drawback? The hike is described as relatively easy but may feel a bit brisk for absolute beginners or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly. This trip suits active travelers who want a taste of Malta’s iconic sights without fuss, especially those eager to jump into the clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Key Points

  • Affordable price point: At $34, the tour offers significant value with included transportation and boat rides.
  • Diverse and social atmosphere: Perfect for solo travelers or groups seeking an international community experience.
  • Beautiful scenery and water: Expect stunning views on the boat ride and swimming in the Blue Lagoon.
  • Short hike on Comino: A manageable walk with scenic vistas, great for those with decent stamina.
  • Flexibility with time: Around 7 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and explore.
  • Well-organized logistics: From pickup at Sliema to return, the tour handles the details for you.
You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins in Sliema, where you meet at Burger King’s doors — a straightforward spot for most travelers staying nearby. The first part is a roughly one-hour private bus ride that whisks you across the island’s scenic landscape. While not long, this ride sets the tone with views of Malta’s coastal charm, giving you an appetizer of what’s to come.

Next, you’ll hop onto a speedboat, which takes about 30 minutes to reach Comino. The boat ride itself is an adventure — quick, lively, and a great way to get out on the water. Expect some wind and splashes, so a hat and sunglasses are recommended. The views from the boat are excellent, especially if you’re lucky with weather.

Once on Comino, your guide will lead you on a short hike that lasts about 30 minutes, weaving through the rocky landscape and offering sweeping vistas over the sea. This isn’t a strenuous trek but enough to appreciate the island’s rugged beauty. Our review hints that some might find the pace a bit brisk — Lindsay mentioned feeling a bit suffocated during the hike — so wear good shoes and take your time if needed.

The highlight? Arriving at the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to relax, swim, and take photographs. The water here is famously transparent, ideal for cooling off after the hike. Many find this the most memorable part of the trip — the chance to float in warm, crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic limestone outcrops.

Afterward, you’ll return via the same boat route, giving you another scenic perspective of the island. The last bus ride back to Sliema is about an hour, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour excels in simplicity and authenticity. For many travelers, the value isn’t just in the cost but in the seamless organization — transportation, boat rides, and guide services are all included, removing the stress of booking individual parts. The social atmosphere helps break down barriers among travelers, making the trip feel more like a shared adventure than a sterile tourist activity.

The scenic boat ride is a particular highlight. It’s fast enough to keep the energy high but long enough to soak in the coastlines and nearby islands. Plus, the quick hike offers a taste of Malta’s varied landscape—rocky, rugged, and unexpectedly green in spots. The Blue Lagoon itself is a postcard-perfect setting, drawing crowds, yes, but also delivering a splash of paradise.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the tour is well-organized: “The activity was perfectly organized, and the host was super nice,” says Lindsay. Antony echoes this, appreciating the “great group of people” and the “beautiful” scenery, though noting it can get quite busy, which might impact swimming enjoyment.

The Practical Side: What to Know Before You Go

Price and value: At $34, this tour includes transportation, boat rides, guiding, and logistics, making it a cost-effective way to see Comino. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing your own lunch — like a sandwich or picnic — is advisable. Food trucks are available at the location, but bringing your own ensures you avoid long lines or limited options.

Timing and duration: The full experience lasts around 7 hours, with the meeting point at 9:45 AM and return around 5 PM. Be sure to check availability for the preferred date, as the tour runs every two weeks on Saturdays.

What to bring: Pack water, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sturdy shoes. A light jacket might be helpful if it’s windy or colder. Since swimming is part of the fun, don’t forget your swimsuit.

Physical requirements: The hike is described as “relatively easy,” but some reviews suggest it’s a bit brisk for beginners or those with limited stamina. The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or children under 18.

Meeting details: Gather at the Burger King in Sliema — a convenient spot for most travelers. The return is at the same location.

The Genuine Experience

This trip isn’t about luxury or luxury amenities; it’s about authentic Malta — scenic views, friendly guides, and the freedom to enjoy the water. The guides are knowledgeable and keep the group moving smoothly, making sure everyone has enough time for photos, swimming, and resting.

Many travelers, like Lindsay and Antony, emphasize the fun and relaxed atmosphere. The international crowd adds a layer of camaraderie, perfect for solo travelers or those eager to meet like-minded adventurers.

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Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized day on the water with some light walking and plenty of swimming, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for active travelers who enjoy a bit of hiking, socializing, and beach time. Because it’s not overly strenuous and includes free time at the lagoon, it’s ideal for those with decent stamina but not extreme fitness levels.

However, if you’re seeking a more leisurely or customizable experience, or if mobility is a concern, you might want to consider other options. Also, the fact that it can get crowded means those seeking peaceful solitude should be prepared for busy spots at the Blue Lagoon.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to see Malta’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank, this Comino and Blue Lagoon trip offers a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and social fun. You’ll love the straightforward logistics, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from around the world. The scenic boat rides and short hike form a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Malta’s rugged beauty.

While it’s not a private, secluded escape, it’s a lively, friendly way to enjoy some of the most photogenic spots on the island. It’s best suited for active explorers who want a taste of the coast, a bit of exercise, and plenty of time to unwind in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon.

If you’re okay with a lively atmosphere and a bit of a pace, this tour might just be the highlight of your Malta trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, private transportation from Sliema to the boat and back is included in the price.

How long is the boat ride? The boat ride to Comino takes about 30 minutes each way, offering scenic views en route.

What should I bring? Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, snacks or lunch, a towel, swimwear, and comfortable shoes.

Can I swim at the Blue Lagoon? Yes, swimming is part of the experience, and the water is famously clear and inviting.

Is the hike difficult? The hike is described as relatively easy, but some travelers found it a bit brisk. Good walking shoes are recommended.

What time does the tour start and end? The meeting point is at 9:45 AM, and the tour ends around 5 PM.

Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues? The tour isn’t recommended for children under 18 or for travelers with mobility impairments due to the hike and walking involved.

In short, this trip offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore Malta’s stunning waters and landscapes without fuss or expense. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of activity and socializing, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun.

You can check availability for your dates here: