Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, and Caves Cruise

Imagine floating on crystal-clear waters, exploring secret caves, and snapping photos of some of Malta’s most breathtaking scenery—all in just a few hours. This tour, offered by Xlendi Pleasure Cruises, promises a well-rounded glimpse of Malta’s iconic natural beauty with stops at the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and several caves. It’s a popular choice, especially for those who want to see the highlights without spending an entire day at sea.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic beauty with value for money and practical comfort. The boat is described as comfortable and well-organized, and reviews praise the friendly crew and the generous amount of time spent at each stop. On the flip side, be aware that weather conditions can influence the route, and during busy seasons, the lagoons might be crowded—a common issue at popular Maltese spots. This tour suits travelers who enjoy short but packed outings, want to take memorable photos, or just love a good swim in some of the Mediterranean’s clearest waters.

Key Points

• Affordable price at around $28 per person for a 3-4 hour trip
• Multiple stops including Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, caves, and scenic bays
• Ideal for swimmers, snorkelers, and photo enthusiasts
• Flexible options including half-day and sunset cruises
• Well-reviewed guides and crew enhance the experience
• Weather-dependent routes may change for safety and comfort

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This cruise offers a remarkable value proposition for travelers eager to explore Malta’s natural wonders without breaking the bank. For just around $28, you gain access to stunning locations that are often featured in travel photos—places that truly look like postcards. The tour is carefully designed to maximize your time at each site, balancing sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

The Itinerary: A Balance of Sightseeing and Leisure

The tour is split into two main options: a half-day cruise or a sunset cruise, both starting from Cirkewwa. The full experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, which is perfect if you want a taste of Malta’s best without sacrificing an entire day.

First Stop: Santa Maria and San Niklaw Bays

The journey begins with a gentle cruise past Elephant Rock and the sea caves of Santa Maria, known for their dramatic rock formations. These caves are not just pretty—they’re a chance to see Malta’s coastline from a boat, with the opportunity to jump into the water or just enjoy the scenery from aboard. The reviews tell us this part is often lively with fun facts from the crew, making it feel like an insider’s glimpse into the island’s coastal geology.

The Blue Lagoon: Main Attraction

After about 15 minutes traveling, you reach the Blue Lagoon—a highlight that’s almost universally loved. Expect around 1 hour here to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. Many travelers say the water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling among the fish. If you want to go ashore, you’ll need to pre-book a free ticket at blcomino.com, which is a simple process but essential if you wish to walk on the island.

Reviewers frequently mention the “magical” waters and how enjoyable it is to swim directly from the boat. One traveler even remarked, “We loved getting the chance to cliff dive and swim in the lagoon,” highlighting how some stops offer more than just floating—they’re a true adventure.

Gozitan Harbour and Crystal Lagoon

The cruise then takes you past Marr Harbour, Gibraltar of sorts for Gozitans, where you get a quick photo stop. No stop here if you’re on the standard trip, but the view is worth noting. The final highlight is the Crystal Lagoon, where you’ll spend about 45 minutes. Known for its turquoise waters, it’s another fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling. Many travelers mention how serene and less crowded this spot can be, especially in winter.

The cruise also passes by Popeyes Cave and Lovers Cave—small but scenic natural features that add to the adventure. The captain may also point out the Comino Tower, famous from the film The Count of Monte Cristo, and a nearby tuna farm—great photo opportunities.

Return Journey and Optional Stops

On the way back, the boat cruises past notable landmarks, giving you a chance to admire the coastline. Some tours include a quick stop at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, offering a brief sightseeing opportunity.

The Other Option: The XLENDI III Cruise

For those craving slightly more scenery, the XLENDI III offers a scenic escape with similar stops but more focus on native landscapes and photography. This option is perfect if you love capturing panoramic views or want a slightly quieter experience.

What to Expect Onboard

The boats are described as comfortable, with padded sun decks and toilet facilities. You might appreciate the onboard bar, where drinks are available for purchase, and complimentary treats like watermelon or a welcome drink are included. Several reviews highlight the friendly crew, with many appreciating the informative and cheerful guides, who share fun facts and tips for the best swimming spots.

You’ll be in a group of around 20-40 people, making it more intimate than large cruise ships but still lively. The tours are wheelchair accessible, although travelers with mobility issues should verify current access details.

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Practical Details

• Tours depart from Cirkewwa, and you should arrive at least 15 minutes early to find the pier.
• If you wish to disembark at the Blue Lagoon, reserve your free ticket ahead of time.
• The tour is weather-dependent; routes and stops may change if conditions are rough.
• It’s a shorter trip, perfect for those who don’t want a full-day commitment but still want top sights.

The Value for Money

Considering the price point—about $28 per person—many reviews emphasize how much they get for their money. The inclusion of multiple swimming stops, snorkeling gear rental available for 5 euros, and the expert crew makes this a wise choice for travelers on a budget.

Authentic Experiences and Customer Praise

The majority of reviews are glowing, with guests mentioning friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and ample time for swimming and photos. Several highlight how the crew’s knowledge and kindness enhance the trip, making it feel personalized rather than just a generic boat ride. One reviewer summed it up as “a well-organized cruise with the right number of people,” and many appreciated the shorter duration—“the perfect amount of time,” as one put it.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you want a quick, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos. It suits adventurous travelers eager to cliff jump or snorkel, as well as those who simply want to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty without spending hours on the water. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find it a friendly, accessible way to experience some of the island’s most photographed spots.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more extended or in-depth cultural experience, this might not be the right fit. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, remember to take precautions, as it is a boat trip.

This boat cruise around Malta offers a fantastic balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenery at a very accessible price. You’ll love the crystal-clear waters and the chance to snorkel and swim in iconic spots like the Blue and Crystal Lagoons. The tour’s friendly guides and well-organized itinerary** make it a great choice for first-time visitors or anyone eager to see Malta from the water.

The short duration and value for money make it especially appealing for travelers with limited time or those who want a quick but memorable escape. While weather and crowds can influence the experience, most reviews highlight the authenticity and beauty of what’s on offer.

If you’re after an easy, fun, and scenic way to experience Malta’s coast, this cruise is hard to beat. Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers who want a taste of the sea without overcommitting. Just remember to book your tickets in advance, especially if you want to disembark at the Blue Lagoon.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to swim or snorkel at spots like the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. Snorkeling gear can be rented for 5 euros if you don’t bring your own.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially if you want to disembark at the Blue Lagoon, which requires a free ticket from blcomino.com. Booking ahead ensures you avoid disappointment during busy periods.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a waterproof camera. The boat has toilet facilities and a sun deck for comfort.

How long does the tour last?
Expect 3 to 4 hours, depending on the option you select. The shorter trip is ideal if you want a quick taste of Malta’s coast.

Is the trip suitable for children or wheelchair users?
Most reviews indicate it’s suitable for children and the trip is wheelchair accessible, but check with the provider for specific needs before booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Routes and stops may be altered or canceled for safety reasons. The crew will do their best to ensure a smooth experience, but keep an eye on weather conditions.

In all, this Malta boat cruise offers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to experience the island’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re snapping photos, swimming in crystal waters, or just relaxing on deck, it’s a trip many travelers find well worth the price—and often, a highlight of their Malta visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: