Malta: Roundtrip Ferry to Comino Blue Lagoon w/Gozo Option — A Detailed Review
If you’re dreaming of a day in Malta exploring the famous Blue Lagoon and charming Comino, a ferry trip like this offers a straightforward, flexible way to soak in the scenery. While we’ve not personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture of what you can expect — and how it can fit into your Maltese adventure.
We love the ease of booking and flexible scheduling — you can hop on a ferry every 30 minutes, making it simple to plan around your day. The scenic ride along the northern coast, passing by the Comino Sea Caves, promises an impressive introduction to the area. Plus, the option to extend your day with a visit to Gozo adds a touch of island hopping that’s hard to beat.
One thing to consider is the “ferry” itself — it’s described as a “glorified speedboat,” which some travelers find thrilling, especially if they enjoy a lively ride. Others, particularly those prone to seasickness or seeking a calmer crossing, might find the choppy waters less comfortable.
This tour suits travelers who want maximum flexibility, value, and scenic views without the hassle of rigid schedules or tour guides. It’s ideal for independent spirits, families, or anyone looking for an affordable way to experience Malta’s iconic waters.
Key Points
- Flexible Schedule: Multiple departures every 30 minutes from early morning to late afternoon allow you to customize your day.
- Scenic Journey: The trip along Malta’s coast and past the Sea Caves sets the scene for a memorable day.
- Self-Guided Exploration: You’re free to spend as much time as you like at the Blue Lagoon and Comino Island, without strict time restrictions.
- Affordable Price: At just $17 per person, this offers excellent value for the experience.
- Option to Visit Gozo: For the same price, you can extend your adventure by visiting the Gozitan island, though you’ll need to organize your own return transportation.
- Weather and Seas: The ride’s lively nature might not suit everyone — check your comfort level with speedboats or choppy seas.
The Experience: A Closer Look
This ferry service is a practical, budget-friendly way to explore Malta’s renowned Blue Lagoon and Comino. It’s not a guided tour with commentary or included transfers — rather, it’s an open-pass ticket, giving you the freedom to set your own pace on this stunning island.
Itinerary and Departure Points:
The journey begins at two main spots: Marfa and Iklinwra, with a series of departures starting as early as 8:30 AM from Marfa and 8:40 AM from Iklinwra. From November to March, the first departures shift slightly later, but the overall schedule remains frequent. Traveling during the warmer months (April to October), you’ll find more trips, giving you ample options.
The Ride:
The boat ride itself is quick — about 20-25 minutes — passing by the Comino Sea Caves, which are often a highlight in photos and offer a sense of adventure on the water. The scenery of the northern coastline is a standout feature, with rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
At the Blue Lagoon:
Once you arrive, you’re totally on your own. The lagoon’s turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply staring at the views. You can explore nearby bays or just relax, knowing you can return to Malta at your convenience with the same flexible schedule.
The Return:
Departing from the Blue Lagoon at your preferred time, you can hop back onto a ferry with departures roughly every hour until late afternoon. If you decide to visit Gozo, ferries to Gozitan Marr Harbour are available midday and later, but this extension does require organizing separate transport for the return trip, as it’s not included.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Mellieha.
What We Loved About This Tour
The biggest selling point is flexibility. Unlike many day-trip options that lock you into fixed schedules, this service lets you choose when to leave, based on your mood or the weather. We also appreciated the scenic nature of the journey, with views of rocky coastlines and sea caves giving a taste of Malta’s diverse coastline.
Another highlight is the value for money. For just $17, you get a round-trip ferry — a surprisingly affordable way to access some of Malta’s top sights. When you compare this to guided tours or organized trips, it offers a lot of freedom at a fraction of the cost.
The Practical Side: What to Know Before You Go
Transportation:
You’ll need to make your way to the starting points, either Marfa or Iklinwra. The service doesn’t provide hotel pickups, so plan your transit accordingly.
Timing & Duration:
The ferry ride is short, but the overall experience depends on how long you want to stay at the Blue Lagoon or in Comino. With departures every 30 minutes, you can easily fit this into a morning or afternoon.
Booking & Cancellation:
You can reserve your spot in advance and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund. This flexibility is handy if your plans change or the weather turns.
What to Bring:
Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the island, sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel if you plan to swim. Don’t forget cash — some vendors or facilities may not accept cards.
Limitations:
This isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, given the lively nature of the boats and the lack of accessibility options. Also, since it’s a self-guided experience, there’s no included tour guide or organized activities.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This ferry service is perfect for independent travelers who want budget-friendly access to Malta’s most iconic waters. It’s ideal if you enjoy freedom of timing and are comfortable organizing your own sightseeing and transportation once ashore.
Families or groups who appreciate flexible scheduling will find this especially beneficial. Those seeking a guided, narrated experience might prefer other tours. Similarly, if you’re looking for a calmer ride, you might want to consider weather conditions or opt for a different mode of transportation.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
For just $17, this round-trip ferry to the Blue Lagoon and Comino offers an excellent value for those craving a scenic, flexible way to experience Malta’s waters. The ability to hop on and off as you like, combined with stunning views of sea caves and the turquoise lagoon, makes it a practical choice for adventurous, budget-conscious travelers.
While the ride’s lively nature isn’t for everyone, those who enjoy a bit of speed and scenery will find this option delivers plenty of fun. If you’re comfortable with organizing your own day and want to maximize your freedom, this ferry service is hard to beat.
Overall, it’s a smart, straightforward way to enjoy one of Malta’s most famous sights without the fuss of guided tours or rigid schedules. Whether you’re lounging at the lagoon, exploring Comino, or extending your trip to Gozo, this experience can be tailored to suit your tastes — and that’s what makes it a truly worthwhile addition to your Maltese adventure.
FAQ
What is included in the ticket price?
The round-trip ferry between Malta and Comino, including passage past the Sea Caves, with options to go to Gozo if booked accordingly.
Are there departures throughout the day?
Yes, departures are scheduled every 30 minutes from early morning to late in the afternoon, with specific times listed for each departure point.
Can I choose my departure time?
You do not need to reserve a specific time slot — you can use your ticket at any time during your booked day, making the experience very flexible.
Is there a schedule for returning from the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, ferries depart from Comino roughly every hour, with times available until about 6 PM, depending on the season.
Does the tour include a guide or commentary?
No, it’s a self-guided ferry service, so you’re free to explore at your own pace.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes, especially families who appreciate flexible schedules and independent exploration. Just be aware of the lively nature of the boat ride, which might not suit seasickness-prone travelers.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear if you plan to swim, a towel, and cash for any extras on the island.
Can I extend my trip to Gozon?
Yes, the option to visit Gozo is available for the same price, but you’ll need to arrange your own transportation back to Malta from Gozon.
Are there any accessibility considerations?
This service isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the boat’s lively nature may not be ideal for seasick travelers.
If you’re after a low-cost, flexible way to enjoy Malta’s waters, this ferry to Comino and the Blue Lagoon hits the mark. It’s a straightforward, scenic, and budget-minded choice for those who love the freedom of exploring at their own pace.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Mellieha
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