Malta: Comino+ Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon + Seacaves tour

Travelers often seek out Malta’s turquoise waters and scenic coastlines, and this Comino and Blue Lagoon boat tour offers a well-rounded experience. With a reputation for being both relaxing and adventure-filled, it’s a favorite among those wanting to see Malta’s most famous spots without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

What truly stands out are the professional guides, the chance to swim in the pristine Blue Lagoon, and the opportunity to explore stunning sea caves and rock formations. The ease of access, lively yet intimate atmosphere, and combination of sightseeing with leisure make this a popular choice.

One thing to keep in mind: the Blue Lagoon can be quite crowded during peak season, which might mean a slightly hectic scene at times. That said, the boat’s stops at Santa Maria Bay and scenic spots near Gozo provide peaceful alternatives.

This tour suits travelers looking for a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring with a friendly crew. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience with good value for money, this could be just your vibe.

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Key Points

Comfortable, family-run boat experience with friendly, knowledgeable guides
Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, including Santa Maria Bay and Blue Lagoon
Secluded and scenic spots like sea caves and rock formations away from the crowds
Good value with included snorkeling gear, facilities, and live commentary
Peak time tip: Expect busy scenes at Blue Lagoon but quieter spots at Santa Maria Bay
Ideal for: Families, couples, and solo travelers wanting a mix of relaxation and adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This full-day sailing trip from Bugibba offers a blend of scenic cruising, beach relaxation, and cave exploration. Starting early in the morning around 10:30 AM, the tour utilizes a cozy, family-run vessel called Seahorse Cruises, known for its warm atmosphere and attentive crew. Boarding begins at 10:00 AM at Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay, where you’ll be greeted by friendly staff, including the captain, Owen, whose reputation for professionalism and humor shines through in reviews.

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Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins with a scenic cruise past notable landmarks such as St. Paul’s Island and Smugglers Cove. Travelers can expect to see remnants of nearly 2,000-year-old shipwrecks, which add a layer of intrigue to the voyage. This initial hour sets the tone for a relaxed, yet informative, experience, with guides providing live commentary in English and Italian.

Next, the boat stops at Mgarr Harbour for a quick 10-minute photo session. You’ll get glimpses of the traditional fishing village, which adds to the authenticity of the Maltese coastline. Then, the first major swim stop arrives at Santa Maria Bay on Comino Island. Here, visitors are encouraged to snorkel and swim in the calm, clear waters for 1.5 hours—plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings or soak up the sun on deck. Reviewers like Michaella highlight how the tranquility of this spot, away from the crowds, made the experience particularly special.

Blue Lagoon: The Main Attraction

Following Santa Maria Bay, the tour continues to the Blue Lagoon, the highlight for many. As one reviewer states, “The waters are breathtakingly beautiful,” and it’s easy to see why. The lagoon’s vivid blue waters are set against volcanic rock formations, creating a picture-perfect scene. With 2.5 hours allocated here, you get ample time to swim, relax, or just soak in the views.

The boat anchors well away from the busiest sections, which helps avoid the often-overwhelming crowds found on the beaches. Onboard facilities, including snorkeling masks (available with a small deposit), a diving platform, showers, and toilets, enhance comfort. There’s also a snack bar with reasonably priced drinks and light bites, perfect for a quick refreshment after swimming. Many reviews, like Natalie’s, praise the helpful crew and the relaxed atmosphere that makes it feel more like a personal outing than a crowded tour.

Sea Caves and Scenic Stops

After Blue Lagoon, the cruise sails back along the coast, giving you the chance to see Santa Maria Cave, Elephant Rock, and the Crystal Lagoon. The guided commentary highlights the geological formations and their stories, making the scenery come alive. The cave visit is brief but offers excellent photo opportunities. Reviewers note how close the guide, Owen, gets the boat into the caves for a thrilling experience, with some mentioning how he expertly handled the vessel with a mix of skill and humor.

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Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a final hour-long cruise back to Sirens Quay. On the way, you’ll enjoy the sights from the deck, with optional refreshments in hand. As the trip concludes around 5:00 PM, most travelers feel they’ve experienced a well-balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The crew and guides truly elevate this experience. Reviewers repeatedly mention Owen’s professionalism, friendliness, and storytelling ability—adding a personal touch that makes the trip memorable. The boat itself is cozy, decorated with cushions for lounging on the front deck, making it easy to socialize or enjoy quiet reflection.

The stops at Santa Maria Bay and Blue Lagoon are thoughtfully chosen. Santa Maria Bay offers a quieter, more serene environment for swimming, while Blue Lagoon remains the star, with its striking waters and dramatic scenery. The tour wisely avoids the overcrowded main beaches, giving you space to enjoy the natural beauty.

Food and drinks on board are reasonably priced, making it a convenient option compared to local stalls. Many reviewers appreciate how this adds to the overall value—delivering a fun day out without breaking the bank. The availability of snorkeling gear and the diving platform ensures you can make the most of the waters, whether you’re an experienced swimmer or a beginner.

The scenic cruise past Gozo and other landmarks adds an extra layer of interest. It’s not just about the water; the journey itself is part of the charm, offering views of Malta’s rugged coastlines and traditional villages.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Book early: This popular tour can fill up, especially in peak season.
Bring essentials: Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and cash (since onboard payments are cash-only).
Arrive on time: Boarding closes at 10:00 AM, so arrive early to settle in.
Expect crowds at Blue Lagoon: If you prefer quiet, try to visit early or late in the day.
Prepare for rocky terrain: The hike to the main Blue Lagoon spot can be uneven—wear sturdy footwear.
Consider additional options: Some reviews mention the optional speedboat to caves—worth the extra if you want an adrenaline boost.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a full day of relaxing and sightseeing. Its friendly crew, manageable group size, and mix of activities make it accessible to many. If you love being on the water, exploring caves, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, you’ll find this tour a good match.

Those wanting a more tranquil experience will appreciate the quieter stops at Santa Maria Bay. But if you’re after a lively scene at Blue Lagoon, prepare for some crowds and bring patience. If you’re traveling with children or seniors, note the rocky terrain and need for mobility, which might require some extra consideration.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 4 and 6.5 hours, depending on the availability and schedule for the day. Most trips end around 5:00 PM.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the cruise itself, live commentary in English and Italian, snorkeling masks (with a small deposit), diving platform, shower, and toilet facilities. Stops at Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay are included, along with scenic cruise segments.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch isn’t included. However, food and drinks are available for purchase on board at reasonable prices, so you can grab a snack or beverage during the trip.

Can I snorkel or swim at each stop?
Yes, both Santa Maria Bay and Blue Lagoon are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The boat has snorkeling masks available, and the waters are calm and clear—ideal for observing marine life.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable swimwear is recommended, along with sunscreen and a towel. Shoes should be suitable for rocky terrain if you plan to hike to the Blue Lagoon’s main spots.

What about the crowds?
Blue Lagoon can get very busy during peak season. The boat stops at quieter spots like Santa Maria Bay, which are perfect for avoiding the crowds and enjoying peaceful waters.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families often enjoy this trip, but keep in mind the rocky terrain and the need for children to be comfortable in water and on boats.

What if the weather isn’t great?
The captain reserves the right to cancel or alter the trip based on weather conditions for safety reasons. It’s best to check close to your booking date.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially in high season, to secure your spot. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Final Thoughts

This Comino and Blue Lagoon boat tour combines scenic cruising, relaxing swimming stops, and cave exploration into one satisfying day. The friendly, professional guides and well-organized itinerary make it a dependable choice for travelers who want to experience Malta’s coastal beauty without the hassle.

While the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, the boat’s stops at quieter spots and the scenic journey itself offer plenty of peaceful moments. The value is good considering the included facilities, snorkeling gear, and authentic Maltese hospitality.

This tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with leisure activities. If you’re after a memorable, fun day on the water and don’t mind some fellow travelers, it’s an option worth considering.