If you’re looking for a quick and scenic escape from Malta’s bustling coastlines, the St Julian’s Half Day Comino Blue Lagoon & Cave Tour might just fit the bill. Offered at around $51 per person and lasting about five hours, this tour promises a speedy boat trip to one of Malta’s most famous attractions—the Blue Lagoon—and a visit to some captivating caves. Designed for travelers seeking a taste of the sea and sun in a shorter window, it’s a practical way to tick off a top highlight without needing a full day.
What we like about this trip is the relatively swift journey—you get to reach the Blue Lagoon in just 45 minutes rather than spending hours on a slow ferry. Plus, the visit to the caves in Comino adds a little extra adventure, appealing to those who enjoy discovering hidden spots along the coast. However, a possible concern is the rigid schedule and speedboat nature, which might not suit everyone, especially those sensitive to motion or looking for a more relaxed experience.
This tour caters best to travelers who want a quick, energetic trip with an emphasis on photo opportunities, swimming, and sightseeing, rather than long lounging or extensive exploration. If your Malta itinerary includes a day for shorter excursions or you’re eager to maximize your time, this option will likely be a good fit.
Key Points
- Fast Access to Blue Lagoon: Arrives in just 45 minutes, saving much travel time.
- Includes Cave Visits: Adds a unique element with visits to St. Maria’s caves.
- Scenic Coastal Cruise: Offers impressive views along the east coast of Malta.
- Flexible Departure Times: Multiple options throughout the day to fit your schedule.
- Price Point: At $51, it delivers good value for a quick boat trip.
- Limited Amenities: Food, drinks, and sunbeds are not included, so plan accordingly.
An Honest Look at the Experience
We’ll start with the itinerary, which is straightforward but packed with highlights. The tour begins at 8 ix-Xatt Ta’ San, where you’ll meet your group and hop aboard a speedboat. The 45-minute cruise to the Blue Lagoon is exciting, especially if you enjoy the thrill of a faster boat ride across Malta’s shimmering coast. You’ll pass notable sights like St Paul’s Islands along the way, adding to the scenic value.
Once at the Blue Lagoon, you’re given roughly four hours of free time. This is your chance to swim in those famously clear waters, snorkel among the rocks, or simply soak up the sun. You can rent sunbeds and purchase food and drinks on-site, though these aren’t included in the tour price. For many travelers, the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters are a highlight, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for relaxation and photographs.
After your leisure time, the boat heads back towards Comino’s caves—notably St. Maria’s caves. Here, you can marvel at the natural formations and perhaps snap some photos of the rugged coastline. The return trip takes another 45 minutes, giving you a different perspective of Malta’s coast from the water.
The final part of the tour includes cruising back along the east coast, passing St Paul’s Islands again before arriving back at 8 ix-Xatt Ta’ San around 1:00 pm or later, depending on your departure time. The schedule offers flexibility with options at 9:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 1:30 pm.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St George S Bay.
What You Can Expect at Each Stop
Starting Point – The meeting point at 8 ix-Xatt Ta’ San is easy to access, with clear instructions on where to meet, including a walk through a black gate and following a painted yellow line on the jetty. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes early as late arrivals forfeit their spot.
Speedboat to Blue Lagoon – This part is fast-paced and fun. The speedboat can feel exhilarating but might be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness or with back or mobility issues. From the reviews, some passengers have expressed concern about the lack of safety features like seat belts or cushions, which could make the journey safer and more comfortable.
Blue Lagoon Free Time – Expect crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Many travelers find this the highlight, with the turquoise waters truly living up to their reputation. You can rent sunbeds and buy food and drinks, but be aware these are not included — bring your own snacks if needed.
Caves Visit – The tour includes a cruise past St. Maria’s caves, offering a chance to see natural rock formations and coastal scenery not accessible from land. It’s a brief stop but adds a bit of adventure and a great photo opportunity.
Return Cruise – The boat ride back is calmer, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the changing views. The journey along Malta’s coast provides excellent photo moments of the rugged shoreline, secluded coves, and island vistas.
The Realities of the Tour
While the value for the money is decent, based on the reviews, there are some caveats. One traveler shared a sobering experience: “On the way back I had an accident in the boat. The boat was going so fast and through the waves, I was thrown in the air and fell with such force I broke two bones in my back.” This highlights that speedboats aren’t for everyone, especially those who prefer a more gentle ride or are concerned about safety features like cushions or seat belts.
Another point to consider is the timing. The tour schedule is somewhat strict, with the boat not waiting for late arrivals, which can be frustrating if you’re not punctual. The departure times are not always adhered to, and changes aren’t always communicated clearly, according to some reviews.
Finally, food and sunbeds are not included. If relaxing on the beach with snacks and comfy chairs is your idea of a perfect day, you’ll need to plan ahead or budget extra. The Blue Lagoon can get crowded during peak season, so arriving early or bringing your own essentials might improve your experience.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a quick, scenic escape to Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon and caves without dedicating an entire day. It’s perfect if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a fast-paced, energetic experience with plenty of photo opportunities and swimming.
However, if you’re seasick-prone, prefer a more relaxed cruise, or need special safety features, this might not be your best choice. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children, those under 3, or individuals with mobility or health issues, the nature of the speedboat and the physical demands might be limiting.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This tour offers a great snapshot of Malta’s coastline and the iconic Blue Lagoon for a reasonable price. It’s a good value for those looking to combine quick travel with beautiful sights, especially if you’re comfortable on a boat and enjoy outdoor adventures. The caves add a bit of exploration and natural beauty, elevating the experience beyond just sunbathing.
What makes this trip especially appealing is the speed—getting you to the Blue Lagoon in under an hour, leaving plenty of time to swim and explore once there. It’s ideal for photo enthusiasts or those eager for a snapshot of Malta’s coastal charm.
Just keep in mind the potential safety concerns noted in reviews and plan accordingly. Bring your own snacks, arrive early, and don’t expect a luxury cruise—this is a speedy, fun, and scenic way to enjoy a Malta highlight.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not suitable for this tour, and kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. The overall experience is more geared toward those comfortable on a speedboat.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear for swimming. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended to protect against Malta’s strong sun.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food, drinks, and sunbeds are not included. You can buy food and rent sunbeds at the Blue Lagoon.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind if your plans shift.
Is the boat ride comfortable?
The boat ride is fast and exciting but has been described by some as potentially unsafe due to a lack of cushions or seat belts. If you’re prone to seasickness or have back issues, this might not be ideal.
What time does the tour start?
Departure times vary—options include 9:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 1:30 pm. Check availability when booking.
How long is the time at the Blue Lagoon?
You’ll have about four hours to swim, snorkel, relax, or explore the caves.
Do I need to reserve my spot?
Yes, since visitors now require a reservation through the official Blue Lagoon website. Make sure your pass details are correct to avoid entry issues.
To sum it up, this tour provides an efficient, scenic, and fun way to experience Malta’s most famous swimming spot and its caves. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and don’t mind the fast-paced nature of a speedboat. While some safety concerns and logistical issues have been noted, many travelers find the overall experience worth the modest price and short duration—especially if you want a memorable snapshot of Malta’s coastal beauty.
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