Sliema: Boat Trip to Comino Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and Caves

Sliema: Boat Trip to Comino Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and Caves — A Complete Guide

If you’re looking for a memorable way to see Malta’s coast, this boat trip from Sliema offers a well-balanced mix of stunning scenery, fun swimming spots, and a touch of adventure—all at a reasonable price. While it’s not a full-day tour, the 5-hour itinerary packs in plenty of highlights, making it perfect for those who want to experience Malta’s waters without spending hours on the sea.

What really catches our eye about this trip are the small group size and knowledgeable guide, which mean you’ll get more personalized attention and plenty of interesting stories about Malta’s islands. We also love the variety of stops—from crystal-clear lagoons to caves along rugged coastlines—that showcase Malta’s natural beauty.

A possible consideration is the limited time at each stop, especially in the Blue Lagoon, which can get crowded. If your priority is relaxing and taking your time exploring, you might find the schedule slightly brisk. Still, for those eager for a lively, scenic, and well-organized day on the water, this trip hits many sweet spots.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate good value, and want authentic Malta moments with a friendly, expert guide. It’s a hit for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the best of Malta’s coastline with comfort and a dash of fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: Visit the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and explore caves along the coast.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: Free masks and plenty of chances to cool off in the sea.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable hosts make the trip informative and lively.
• Small Group Experience: An intimate setting for better interaction.
• Natural Beauty: Limestone cliffs, sand dunes, and lush vegetation.
• Value for Money: A well-priced option for a rich, scenic day on the water.

What to Expect on the Tour

This boat trip from Sliema is designed to give you a taste of Malta’s best coastal sights in just five hours. You start at Sliema Ferries aboard a white boat with a blue tent, a clear marker of where the adventure begins. The vessel is fully equipped with shade, making it comfortable even on warm days. You’ll be given a free snorkel mask—an invitation to get beneath the surface and see the underwater world.

The trip kicks off with a view of St Paul’s Island, a small but iconic part of Malta’s maritime landscape. The first major stop is Crystal Lagoon, where you can jump off the boat to swim and snorkel in turquoise waters. Many reviews praise this spot, with travelers describing it as “beautiful water” and a highlight of the trip.

Next, the boat heads to Comino Blue Lagoon. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore the bay, relax on the boat, or swim in the clear waters. When disembarking, you’ll enjoy several hours on the island itself—an important detail, as from May 2025 onward, an online ticket must be purchased for access. However, swimming from the boat is exempt from this requirement, offering flexibility for those who prefer to stay onboard.

Exploring Comino is a treat—it’s a bird sanctuary and natural reserve, teeming with sand dunes and native vegetation. Many travelers love the chance to stroll around and see the untouched beauty of the island, as one review noted, “It’s a natural, raw beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere.”

After some time at Comino, the boat moves to Gozo for another swim near Halfa Rock. This part of the trip offers a different perspective, with the rugged Gozitan coast and its cliffs providing a dramatic backdrop. The final highlight is cruising along the coast of Comino, where caves can be viewed from the boat—a memorable sight for photography lovers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Sliema: The journey begins in the morning or afternoon, depending on availability. The small boat ensures a cozy atmosphere, with around 20-30 passengers typical, according to reviews describing it as “not too crowded,” which is a big plus for those who dislike large tour boats.

St Paul’s Island: This first stop offers a quick glance at the smaller island, with some folks choosing to snap photos or just enjoy the view.

Crystal Lagoon: Known for its vivid, turquoise waters, it’s a perfect spot for a brief swim or snorkel. Many travelers mention how this lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are a major highlight, with one reviewer describing it as “beautiful water, had a stellar time.”

Comino Blue Lagoon: The main attraction—an expansive bay with pristine, shallow waters ideal for swimming. You’ll have about 1-2 hours here, making it enough to relax, take photos, and snorkel. The reviews emphasize how the smaller boat and friendly guide made the experience more personal, compared to larger, crowded tours.

Exploring Comino: Time to stroll the island, check out the dunes, and enjoy the peaceful scenery. It’s a bird sanctuary and natural reserve, which adds a sense of untouched beauty. Travelers appreciate having time to walk around, with one review noting they wished they could spend even longer in the Lagoon area due to its stunning waters.

Swim near Halfa Rock in Gozo: The next swimming stop provides a different setting—rugged Gozitan coastlines and sea caves visible from the boat. Many reviews describe this as “beautiful places,” with some mentioning how the choppier waters made the trip more exciting.

Caves along the coast: The tour wraps up by passing by caves along the coast of Comino, offering fantastic opportunities for photos and a taste of Malta’s rugged marine scenery.

Return to Sliema: After the day’s adventures, the boat heads back, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on a day filled with natural beauty, swimming, and fun stories from the guide.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The reviews consistently praise Captain Tony for his humor, knowledge, and professionalism. His 55 years of experience on the water shine through, making the trip both entertaining and safe—even when the sea gets choppy, as one reviewer noted, “Tony put our safety first and knew where to take us.”

The small group size fosters a more personal, relaxed vibe. Travelers love the intimacy, feeling they get more attention from the guide and freedom to ask questions. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with shade-providing cover and a lively atmosphere thanks to music and friendly conversation.

Snorkeling is a major perk—masks are provided at no extra cost, and many describe the waters as “crystal-clear,” perfect for spotting fish and underwater scenery. One traveler loved the “pineapple drink,” describing it as a “must-get” refreshment during the stop.

Timing is generally well-managed, with about 20-30 minutes at each stop, enough for swimming, photos, or a quick stroll. Many reviews mention that the schedule is just right—not too rushed, not too slow.

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Analyzing the Price and Value

At $51 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the included boat transport, snorkeling masks, and the chance to see multiple beautiful locations in just five hours. Unlike larger, crowded tours, this small-group experience seems to prioritize quality over quantity, offering more comfort and interaction.

The price also reflects the convenience of departing from Sliema, a central location, saving you travel time and hassle. Reviews highlight how personalized attention, professional guides, and beautiful scenery make this a worthwhile expenditure. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the opportunity to explore the islands adds to the overall value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor water activities, want a personalized experience, and are looking to see some of Malta’s most stunning coastlines without spending a fortune. It’s particularly suited for those who value small group settings and engaging guides who share local insights with humor and warmth.

It’s also great for families, couples, and solo travelers eager to combine sightseeing with swimming and snorkeling, all in a relaxed, friendly environment. If you’re not a fan of large, crowded boats or prefer a more intimate adventure, this tour ticks those boxes.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Sliema offers a genuine and enjoyable way to enjoy Malta’s seaside treasures. The combination of scenic stops, clear waters, caves, and an experienced guide makes it a standout option for anyone wanting authentic, memorable moments on the water.

You’ll love the personalized attention, the stunning views, and the opportunity to swim in some of the clearest waters Malta has to offer. The trip’s well-paced itinerary lets you experience the highlights without feeling rushed, and the friendly guides add a personal touch that many travelers cherish.

While the schedule might be a bit tight for those seeking a slow, leisurely exploration, the overall value and quality make this a worthwhile choice for most. If your Malta trip includes a day dedicated to exploring the coast, this tour provides a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and beautiful scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with the start time depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
Boat transport from Sliema to Comino, snorkeling masks, and a friendly guide. Food, drinks, and towels are not included.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, pack sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen for comfort and protection.

Is there a stop on Comino Island?
Yes, you’ll have time to disembark and explore the island’s natural reserve and sand dunes, although from May 2025, you’ll need an online ticket for access.

Can I swim from the boat?
Absolutely, snorkeling and swimming are encouraged, especially at Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon.

What about safety?
According to reviews, the guide prioritizes safety and manages choppy waters well, making sure everyone is comfortable.

Is this suitable for families?
Most reviews suggest it’s a family-friendly experience, especially with the small group setting and safe swimming opportunities.

Are there any restrictions or special requirements?
No specific restrictions listed, but bring your own food or snacks—there’s no onboard catering.

What is the boat like?
A small, comfortable vessel with shade and enough space for a personal experience, not the crowded large boats.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot now with the option to pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

This boat trip from Sliema stands out as a well-rounded, scenic adventure that combines natural beauty, fun water activities, and expert guidance—all at a fair price. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Malta’s coast, especially if you value intimacy and personalized service over large crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: