Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island)

Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island): A Complete Guide

If you’re dreaming of a day spent soaking up the sun, gazing at breathtaking sea views, and swimming in waters so clear they seem unreal, a coastal ferry cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon might just be your ideal escape. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered insights from travelers and reviews to give you an honest, detailed look at what you can expect.

What really draws people to this experience? First, the scenic cruise along Malta’s coast offers spectacular views you can’t get from land. Second, the chance to spend the day on Comino, a tiny, car-free island, lets you unwind completely. And third, the crystal waters of the Blue Lagoon promise a refreshing break from the hustle, perfect for swimming or snorkelling.

One potential consideration? The pass system for disembarking at the Blue Lagoon requires planning ahead—an important detail for those wanting to step ashore. This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and time for swimming, especially if you’re eager to avoid crowded beaches or busy tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy a comfortable cruise with stunning vistas of Malta’s northern coastline.
• Relaxing Day at Comino: Car-free and peaceful, perfect for unwinding or exploring on foot.
• Blue Lagoon Highlight: Famous for its transparent waters, ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or sunbathing.
• Flexible Departure Points: Choose between Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay, making it convenient to fit into your plans.
• Optional Excursions: Motorboat trips to caves and additional lagoons available, weather permitting.
• Practical Details: Fully air-conditioned boat with free Wi-Fi, toilets, and friendly crew enhance comfort.

What to Expect from the Cruise

Starting your day either at Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay, you’ll climb aboard a modern, state-of-the-art catamaran. The vessel’s interior is fully air-conditioned, and amenities like free Wi-Fi and toilets ensure a comfortable ride. From the moment you set sail, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Malta’s coastline—think rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and charming seaside resorts.

The cruise takes you along Malta’s northern shoreline, where the scenery is particularly striking. Travelers have noted that the crew is friendly, helpful, and eager to share insights along the way. The journey includes a brief stop at Marr Harbour in Gozo, where some passengers disembark, but most are headed directly to Comino. This stop adds to the charm, offering a glimpse of Gozo’s rugged beauty and a chance for some quick photos.

The Blue Lagoon: A Water Lover’s Paradise

Arriving at Comino, the highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon. Its name is well-earned—turquoise waters, a white sandy bottom, and abundant marine life make it a top spot for swimming and snorkelling. Reviewers have described it as “truly magical,” with one passenger mentioning it’s “the perfect spot for a refreshing swim.”

The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are so inviting that even those who don’t love swimming can enjoy sunbathing on the white sands or snapping photos of the landscape. The water is shallow enough for children, and the marine life visible while snorkelling can delight both beginners and experienced snorkellers.

Optional Motorboat Trip

For those seeking a bit more adventure, an optional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and the Crystal Lagoon is available. This short detour, roughly 15 euros per person, offers a chance to explore caves and hidden lagoons, weather conditions permitting. Reviewers who tried it found it “enjoyable and worth the extra,” adding a little more excitement to their day.

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Exploring Comino on Your Own

Comino itself is devoid of cars and urban noise, making it an ideal destination for hikers and shutterbugs alike. With trails leading to sites like St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery, you can stretch your legs and explore the island’s historical and scenic spots at your own pace.

The Journey: From Departure to Return

The cruise lasts around 7 to 7.5 hours, which strikes a good balance between a full-day adventure and a manageable trip. When booking, you can select your departure point—either Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay—and it’s advisable to arrive about 15-20 minutes early for boarding.

The itinerary is straightforward: depart in the morning, cruise along Malta’s coast, stop briefly at Gozo, then arrive at Comino for free time. After several hours enjoying the Blue Lagoon and optional excursions, you’ll return along the same route, heading back to your start point.

Comfort and Amenities

Traveling in a fully air-conditioned catamaran makes the journey comfortable, even on warm days. Free Wi-Fi is a nice touch, allowing you to share your photos or check messages during the cruise. Restroom facilities onboard add to convenience, so you won’t need to worry about comfort during the trip.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Bring your own essentials: sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and a camera are must-haves.
• Swimwear: pack a swimsuit and a change of clothes if you plan to swim.
• Cash: for optional activities like the boat trip or any onshore purchases.
• Arrive early: to avoid missing the boat and to settle comfortably before departure.
• Acquire your Blue Lagoon access pass in advance (by May 2025) from blcomino.com—this is now a government requirement for disembarking at the lagoon.

Reviews That Tell the Real Story

Traveler feedback highlights a well-organized, enjoyable experience. One reviewer appreciated how “the staff was really friendly and the boat (catamaran) was modern”, noting the straightforward nature of the trip.

Another shared, “Our tour guide/driver from Barbarossa, Steve, was the best,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guides, even if they’re not part of the cruise itself. Although this refers to a different experience, it underscores the importance of friendly, informative staff in making your day special.

A visitor described the trip as “truly magical,” appreciating the punctuality and the seamless flow of activities. Such consistent positive feedback indicates that the cruise reliably delivers a smooth, scenic, and relaxing day out.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: approximately 7 to 7.5 hours, including travel and leisure time.
• Departure points: Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay.
• Price: offers good value considering the scenic cruise, amenities, and access to Comino.
• Inclusions: ferry cruise, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, toilets, crew assistance.
• Excluded: Blue Lagoon access pass, food and drinks, land transport, and optional boat trips.
• Accessibility: not suitable for those with mobility impairments or prone to seasickness.
• Booking tips: Reserve your spot early, especially if you want to secure the preferred departure time.

The Sum Up

This ferry cruise offers a fantastic way to see Malta’s coast from a comfortable vantage point while enjoying a full day on the tiny, car-free island of Comino. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the Blue Lagoon’s stunning waters, where you can relax, swim, and take photographs in a setting that feels almost unreal.

The experience’s strength lies in its balance of scenic cruising, relaxed leisure time, and optional adventures. The cruise’s modern vessel, helpful staff, and onboard amenities make it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable day out.

It’s especially well-suited for relaxing travelers, families, or anyone eager to explore Comino without the hassle of planning independent transport or activities. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi and facilities onboard adds extra comfort, making it a good value for the time and money spent.

While the need to secure an access pass for disembarking at Blue Lagoon requires some forward planning, this regulation ensures the lagoon’s environment remains protected and less crowded. For most visitors, the convenience of a well-organized cruise coupled with the chance to enjoy Malta’s stunning coastline makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Malta itinerary.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for securing your preferred departure time and to acquire the Blue Lagoon access pass if you plan to step ashore.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
You can choose between Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay. Make sure to arrive about 15-20 minutes early.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a relaxing trip with plenty of opportunities for swimming, but keep in mind it involves being on a boat for several hours.

Can I swim in the Blue Lagoon?
Absolutely, the waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, with shallow areas suitable for all ages.

Are there food or drinks onboard?
Not included, but the onboard amenities include toilets, and you can bring your own snacks or purchase extras if available.

What about the optional boat trip?
The motorboat trip to caves and the Crystal Lagoon is available at an additional cost (around 15 euros), weather permitting.

Is the trip accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the boat and disembarkation process.

This ferry cruise to the Blue Lagoon offers a well-rounded, scenic, and refreshing escape that highlights the best of Malta’s coastline and Comino’s natural beauty. Whether you’re after a peaceful day of sun and sea or a quick adventure exploring caves, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: