From Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

Imagine cruising past Malta’s scenic shoreline, stopping at crystal-clear waters, and exploring sea caves with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. That’s exactly what this 7.5-hour boat tour from Sliema offers. It’s a well-loved experience that combines the excitement of island hopping with laid-back beach time.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the stunning views, the knowledgeable crew, and the flexible options for island visits. Plus, the slide on the boat adds a fun touch that keeps both kids and adults entertained. However, a heads-up: during peak season, it can get quite crowded, especially at Blue Lagoon, which might impact your comfort level.

This cruise suits families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed day with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and lounging. If you’re seeking a straightforward way to see Malta’s highlights from the water without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable and flexible boat tour with options for island stops or just cruising.
• Stunning scenery, caves, and turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Good value for money considering the duration and variety of stops.
• Expert crew and guides that enhance your understanding of the sights.
• Seasonal stops and weather-dependent changes mean the experience can vary slightly.
• Includes fun extras like waterslides, with food and drinks available onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

This cruise from Sliema offers a neat balance of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation. Starting from the Luzzu Cruises pier, the boat heads north, passing bustling areas like St. Julian’s and Qawra Bay, giving you a scenic introduction to Malta’s lively coastlines. You’ll also get glimpses of St. Paul’s Island, a notable spot known for its religious and historical significance.

Mgarr Harbour and Photo Stop

After cruising past the vibrant bays, you’ll reach Mgarr Harbour on Gozo for a quick 5-minute photo stop. Here, you can snap shots of the scenic harbor and the rugged coastline, getting a taste of what the island offers if you’re lucky enough to disembark later for a longer visit.

Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon: The Highlights

Depending on your chosen option and the weather, you’ll visit either Crystal Lagoon and St. Nicholas Bay (seasonal from May to October) or head directly to the Blue Lagoon. The Crystal Lagoon is famous for its transparent waters—perfect for swimming and snorkeling—while St. Nicholas Bay offers similar cool waters and a more secluded vibe, ideal for relaxing and soaking up sunshine with fewer crowds.

The Blue Lagoon is Malta’s most iconic swimming spot—turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and plenty of space to lounge. Reviewers frequently mention how Blue Lagoon can get packed, but also how the clear waters and beautiful surroundings make it worth the crowds. You’ll have about 3.5 hours here, giving you ample time to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, or just chill with a drink in hand.

Comino Caves and Scenic Photos

On the way back, the crew takes time to show you the Comino caves, which are impressive sea formations perfect for snapping photos. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to admire these caves from the boat, especially since exploration on foot isn’t always possible.

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Optional Land Transport in Gozo

For those who choose the longer 3-hour stay in Gozo, there’s an optional land transfer available for purchase. It costs about 5 euros per person and allows you to explore Victoria, the island’s main town, on your own terms.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Waterslides

The tour really shines when it comes to water activities. Many travelers mention that the boat is equipped with snorkel gear available for hire and a waterslide, which adds an element of fun. Reviewers like Alex noted that everything was well-organized, and having the waterslide was a highlight—adding a playful element to the day.

Swimming in the crystal waters is a major draw, with reviewers describing the experience as “gorgeous” and “the best part.” The underwater viewing deck (a glass-bottom level) is also a cool feature to observe the marine life without getting wet.

The Crew and Guides: Adding to the Experience

Multiple reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable crew, often mentioning the captain’s engaging commentary. Amelia pointed out that everything was on time, and the crew staff were very nice, which adds to the relaxed vibe. With guides providing insights about each stop, you not only get to enjoy the scenery but also learn about the islands’ history and significance.

Timing, Duration, and Logistics

This tour is 7.5 hours long, making it a full day of adventure without feeling rushed. Starting times vary, so it’s important to check availability in advance. The route covers multiple scenic spots, with enough time allocated for swimming, photos, and exploring.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, as reviews suggest the boat can fill up quickly. The tour departs from Ferries 4 in Sliema, where you look for the Luzzu Cruises boat (MV Kataleya or MV Lady Shelley). The tour ends back at the same point, so there’s no need to worry about transportation logistics after the trip.

Value for Money: What You’re Paying For

Considering the cost of approximately 7.5 hours of boat cruising, multiple stops, and extra features like the waterslide, many reviewers agree this experience is excellent value. The price includes unlimited swimming opportunities, photo stops, and access to caves, making it a comprehensive way to see Malta’s coast.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but onboard options are available at reasonable prices, and reviewers recommend bringing cash for snacks or souvenirs. The free QR code registration for Blue Lagoon ensures you can visit the island at your preferred time, avoiding long lines or overcrowding.

Seasonality and Weather Considerations

The tour operates rain or shine, but the stops at Crystal Lagoon and St. Nicholas Bay are seasonal from May to October. Outside that period, the boat visits only the Blue Lagoon. Weather can impact the experience—if it’s windy or rough, the captain may alter or cancel stops for safety reasons. Many reviews emphasize the importance of comfortable shoes, towels, and sun protection, especially as you’ll be exposed to the sun during long hours on deck.

Authentic Reviews: Real Travelers’ Insights

• Alex appreciated the organisation, mentioning that everything was “very well and on time,” and called the trip “very nice.”
• Katrina Paula rated the day as “the best” thanks to watersliding into the ocean, which she described as a highlight.
• Amelia highlighted the great views and punctuality, noting that the crew was friendly.
• Marcelly enjoyed the smooth experience and appreciated the fun slide, choosing to skip Gozo for more time at the Blue Lagoon.
• Lilla praised the value for money, mentioning that arriving early helps secure better seats and that the boat has bathrooms, a mini bar, and a slide.
• Benjamin called the stops “great” and loved exploring the crystal waters.
• Eva said, “Blue Lagoon was gorgeous,” and appreciated the additional snacks and refreshments onboard.

The Sum Up

This cruise from Sliema to Comino and the Blue Lagoon offers a rich mix of stunning scenery, fun water activities, and relaxed island exploration. The knowledgeable crew, scenic stops, and fun features like the waterslide make it a fantastic value for anyone wanting to experience Malta’s coast without the hassle of organizing separate trips.

It’s especially suitable for families with kids, groups of friends, or couples looking for a day of sun, sea, and sightseeing. Keep in mind that peak season can be crowded, so arriving early is your best bet for securing a good spot.

This tour is a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water — perfect for anyone wanting to combine iconic sights with a bit of fun and freedom.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 7.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop, swim, and relax.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but onboard options are available at reasonable prices, and you should bring cash for snacks or souvenirs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak months, booking ahead ensures you get a spot since the boat can fill up quickly.

Can I visit Gozo on this tour?
You can choose a longer option that includes 3 hours of free time in Gozo with an optional land transfer; otherwise, the focus is mainly on Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a towel, beachwear, a camera, and cash for extras. Sunscreen is highly recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews include families with kids, especially with fun features like the waterslide and safe swimming stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine, but the captain reserves the right to change or cancel stops based on weather conditions for safety.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and alcohol or drugs are not allowed onboard.

Whether you’re after a scenic boat ride, a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, or just want to relax on a boat with friends, this Sliema cruise offers a memorable way to see Malta’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: