Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon, + Sea Caves Day Trip

Exploring Malta’s coast by boat offers a chance to see some of the most iconic sights from a different perspective. This day trip combines sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing around Comino, the Blue Lagoon, and the Sea Caves, making it a favorite for travelers craving natural beauty and relaxed adventure. While it’s not a luxury cruise, the value for the price—around $34 per person—delivers an authentic and enjoyable experience, especially suited for those who enjoy being out on the water and soaking in scenic landscapes.

What we love about this trip is how accessible it is; you get a good mix of time in the water and sightseeing without feeling rushed. The highlight, of course, is the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. We also appreciate the chance to see the rock formations and caves along the coast, which add a touch of adventure to the day. A minor consideration is the open boat setup, meaning if the weather isn’t ideal, you might find yourself exposed to the elements. Nonetheless, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic, and budget-friendly outing that captures Malta’s natural charm.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers great value for a full-day boat experience.
• Scenic cruise past historic and natural sights including shipwrecks, caves, and volcanic formations.
• Multiple stops allow ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Informative commentary helps you appreciate the sights, in both English and Italian.
• Facilities onboard include snorkeling masks, a diving platform, toilet, and showers.
• Weather considerations can impact comfort, as the boat isn’t covered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at Sirens Quay in Bugibba, a familiar spot for many Malta visitors. Boarding is scheduled for 10:00 AM, with departure at 10:30 AM. The boat, called Seahorse Cruises, is the sole vessel at the dock, making it easy to find. Timing is crucial, so arriving promptly helps ensure you don’t miss the start and get a full day out on the water.

The group size is typically moderate, which balances the social aspect with enough space to enjoy the outdoor deck. Since the trip is about 4 to 6.5 hours, it’s a manageable day trip that doesn’t overextend your itinerary.

The Scenic Cruise: First Leg

Once underway, you’ll cruise past St. Paul’s Island, known for its shipwrecks dating back nearly 2,000 years. This part of the journey offers a taste of Malta’s maritime history and sets a relaxed tone. Expect to see Smugglers Cove, a popular diving spot, and some beautiful coastal scenery.

The boat then heads toward Gozo Harbor, where you’ll enjoy a brief 10-minute stop. This is a perfect photo opportunity of a traditional fishing village, giving you a quick glimpse of local life without adding much time to the itinerary.

Santa Maria Bay: Peaceful and Quiet

The first significant stop is Santa Maria Bay on Comino. Here, you’ll anchor for about 1.5 hours. This tranquil spot is ideal for swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear waters. The bay’s serenity is a refreshing change from the hustle of busier tourist spots. You can relax on the boat’s deck, soak up the sun, or explore the shallow waters.

Some travelers note that the boat’s open design might be a downside if the weather turns chilly or windy, as one review pointed out feeling “very cold” because the boat wasn’t covered. Still, the crew provides snorkeling masks, making it easy to explore without lugging your gear.

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The Blue Lagoon: The Main Attraction

Next, the highlight is the Blue Lagoon, where you spend about 2.5 hours. This stunning water body is famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, fringed by volcanic rock formations. It’s a magnet for swimmers and sunbathers alike.

We loved how the boat anchors in a peaceful spot away from the crowds, offering a more relaxed experience than some of the bustling shorelines. You can take a refreshing swim, float on the water, or simply lounge on the deck with a drink from the onboard snack bar.

A key detail: from May 2025, visitors will need a free QR code to access Comino’s Blue Lagoon, emphasizing how Malta manages its tourist areas. The boat’s route is flexible, and you can choose to stay on the boat during the Blue Lagoon stop if you prefer to avoid the new entry process.

Exploring the Caves and Rock Formations

After leaving the Blue Lagoon, the cruise continues past Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock, offering plenty of photo opportunities. The boat passes these natural wonders, giving you a chance to appreciate Malta’s volcanic landscape from the water.

Return Journey

As the trip winds down, you can enjoy some refreshments onboard while watching the coastline drift by. The crew provides snacks and drinks, which are convenient but not included in the ticket price. The boat heads back to Sirens Quay, arriving around 5:00 PM.

Throughout the cruise, the crew offers live commentary in both English and Italian, enriching the experience with insights on the sights and local history, making it more engaging.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket covers the main stops at Santa Maria Bay and the Blue Lagoon, along with live commentary, snorkeling masks, a diving platform, and facilities like showers and toilets. You might find these amenities helpful, especially after swimming or snorkeling.

However, lunch is not included—you can purchase food and drinks onboard—and cash is the only accepted payment method. Also, there’s no mention of snacks or drinks being provided free of charge, so bringing some cash or snacks might be a good idea.

Notably, luggage, large bags, or coolers are not allowed onboard, which is typical for day trips on smaller vessels. This ensures safety and comfort for everyone.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer mentioned, “The boat was not covered, so we were very cold,” highlighting that outdoor boats can be uncomfortable in poor weather. Meanwhile, another called the experience simply “Super”, emphasizing that many enjoyed the trip despite minor inconveniences.

Many travelers appreciate the stunning views and the relaxed pace, making this a good choice for those who want to combine scenic cruising with some time in the water. The moderate price makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers, especially those on a budget who still want to see Malta’s natural beauty.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear—the water and sun are the main attractions.
• Arrive early at Sirens Quay to avoid missing the boat.
• Cash is king onboard; bring some for snacks or souvenirs.
• Consider the weather—if it looks windy or rainy, be prepared for a potentially uncomfortable ride.
• Book in advance and check the latest availability, especially during peak season.

If you’re looking for an affordable, relaxed way to see Malta’s coast, this trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want time in the water with some sightseeing thrown in. It’s not fancy, but it offers genuine scenic beauty in a laid-back setting.

This trip may not suit travelers seeking a luxury experience or those sensitive to open boat conditions, especially if weather isn’t perfect. Still, for those wanting an authentic taste of Malta’s coastline with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos, this is a solid choice.

This Malta Comino, Blue Lagoon, and Sea Caves day trip offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy some of the island’s most iconic sights. You’ll love the stunning water and the chance to relax in a natural setting, whether by swimming or lounging on deck. The itinerary efficiently combines sailing, sightseeing, and swimming, making it a great value at around $34.

While the open boat setup might not suit everyone, the experience’s authenticity and scenic beauty can’t be beat for the price. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prioritize outdoor adventure, photo opportunities, and a relaxed pace over luxury amenities.

If you’re craving a day of sunshine, sea views, and natural wonders while exploring Malta’s coastline, this trip should definitely be on your list.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if your kids enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips. Just remember to bring their life jackets if needed.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, cash, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Can I stay on the boat during the Blue Lagoon stop?
Yes, you can choose to remain on the boat if you prefer not to swim or if you want a quieter experience.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, but they are not included in the ticket price.

What if the weather is bad?
The captain has the right to cancel or change trips due to weather conditions. If canceled, you can usually reschedule or get a refund.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is between 4 and 6.5 hours, depending on the schedule and weather.

What makes this tour a good value?
It offers a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and sightseeing for just around $34, with amenities like snorkeling gear and facilities included, making it a practical choice for budget travelers.

This tour provides a genuine, relaxed way to enjoy Malta’s coastline, with plenty of opportunities to relax or explore. Perfect for those who love the outdoors, natural beauty, and a laid-back vibe—just bring your sense of adventure and a good sunscreen.

You can check availability for your dates here: