Malta: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Comino and Sea Caves

If you’re looking for a way to soak up Malta’s most iconic sights in just a few hours, this boat tour covering the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the Sea Caves offers a fantastic mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenery. Guided by experienced captains, you’ll enjoy turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of opportunities to swim and explore.

What we love about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with leisure. First, there’s the stunning Blue Lagoon—a postcard-perfect spot perfect for swimming and taking photos. Then, the beautiful Crystal Lagoon caves offer a different kind of charm, with vibrant marine life and shimmering waters. Finally, the cruise includes scenic views of Gozo that make the trip feel like a true island adventure.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is largely about the boat journey and stops; if you’re after longer exploration or more extensive cave trips, you might want to consider additional options. Otherwise, it’s a great fit for travelers wanting a snapshot of Malta’s best without spending a full day on the water.

This tour suits those who love picturesque scenery, easygoing boat rides, and a taste of Malta’s famous coastal attractions. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to experience the best of Malta’s sea.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: Visit the renowned Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and sea caves for unforgettable photo ops.
• Relaxation & Adventure: Swim, snorkel, or simply lounge in the sun under shade tents.
• Authentic Insights: Led by knowledgeable captains, offering local tips and stories.
• Comfort & Convenience: Fully equipped boat with a cash bar, clean toilets, and safety gear.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and reserve now to lock in your spot.
• Authentic Experience: Combining natural beauty with friendly guidance, perfect for a taste of Malta’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins aboard the Turkish Gulet-style boat, The Barbarossa, a charming vessel that sets the tone for a relaxing day on the water. Many reviews mention the boat’s comfort and cleanliness, making the journey enjoyable from the get-go. Although some travelers, like Gavin, experienced slight delays (starting around 9:15 instead of 8:30), most agree that once underway, the experience was smooth and pleasant.

The Drive to Comino and Santa Maria Bay

On the way to the Blue Lagoon, your captain will cruise past several scenic sights such as Santa Maria Battery, Elephant Rock, and St. Marija Bay, which are lovely to view from the water. These spots offer excellent photo opportunities and set the scene for the main attractions ahead. Some reviewers appreciated the insights shared by guides, with Ivica noting that the crew was “great” and went out of their way to find good swimming spots—even when weather conditions meant some viewing points couldn’t be visited.

The Blue Lagoon: The Star of the Show

Arriving at the Blue Lagoon is like stepping into a travel magazine. The water here is a vibrant turquoise, ideal for swimming and photo sessions. Visitors typically get about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy the lagoon—ample time to relax, snorkel, or explore the shallow waters. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the experience: James called it a “great day out” and appreciated the chance to enjoy “beautiful views” and a Mediterranean-style lunch.

Some travelers, like Ivica, enjoyed the chance to swim in the “turquoise tranquillity” or take a powerboat to explore nearby caves (additional cost applies). It’s worth noting that the caves are a highlight, with some reviewers mentioning they are “great spots for swimming” and perfect for those seeking a bit more adventure.

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The Crystal Lagoon Caves

Next, the boat heads to the Crystal Lagoon, where you get around an hour to take in the shimmering waters. The cliffs surrounding this lagoon are dramatic, and the marine life visible while snorkeling adds to the attraction. Multiple guests have described this as a “beautiful” and “mesmerizing” part of the tour. It’s a relaxed environment, perfect for lounging or exploring underwater.

A Scenic Cruise to Gozo

After the lagoon visits, the boat makes its way toward Gozo, offering lovely vistas of the coastline, including Fort Chambray and Mgarr Harbour. Although the focus is on Comino and Malta, the views of Gozo’s coastline provide a bit of extra scenery to enjoy. Many reviews appreciate the “magnificent views” and the chance to see Malta from a different perspective.

Comfort and Practicalities Onboard

The boat itself is equipped to ensure your comfort, with clean toilet facilities and a full cash bar offering drinks, which many guests appreciated. Masks are available for snorkeling at a €20 deposit, so remember to bring your swim gear if you want to explore beneath the surface.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Scenic Experience

The stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are genuine highlights. The beauty of the water, combined with the cliffs and caves, provides a picture-perfect backdrop. The feedback from guests confirms this—many mention the “beautiful views” and “crystal-clear waters”.

Knowledgeable Guides and Crew

Guests mention the crew as being “great” and helpful, with some even sharing local history or tips. The captain and crew play a crucial role in making the experience smooth and enjoyable, especially when weather conditions are less than ideal, as one reviewer noted.

Delicious Food and Relaxation

While the tour doesn’t include a full meal, the Mediterranean-style lunch and snacks offered are described as “decent” and “fresh,” adding to the overall value. The availability of drinks at the cash bar allows for a leisurely, holiday vibe.

Value for Money

At around 4 hours, the tour hits a sweet spot, offering enough time to enjoy the major sights without feeling rushed. The price reflects good value considering the scenic stops, onboard amenities, and the natural beauty you get to experience.

Considerations Before Booking

While this tour is ideal for most travelers, a few points are worth noting. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the tour involves boat movement and walking on uneven surfaces. Also, if you’re particularly keen on exploring caves extensively or want a longer time at each stop, this may feel somewhat brief.

Some reviewers experienced delays at the start, so punctuality is worth confirming, especially if you have tight schedules. The cave trip is optional and costs €10 per person, so be prepared for additional expenses if you wish to explore further.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Bring a towel and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected during your time in the water and on deck.
• Arrive early to avoid missing the start, especially during busy seasons.
• Snorkeling gear can be rented for €20 deposit—bring your own if you prefer.
• If you want to maximize your experience, consider bringing goggles or a snorkel mask—reviewers found this made the swimming even more enjoyable.
• Remember, pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted.

Final Thoughts

This Malta boat tour offers a wonderful snapshot of the islands’ dramatic coastlines, turquoise waters, and unique caves. The balance of sightseeing, swimming, and onboard comfort makes it a good choice for travelers who want a relaxing yet scenic experience.

It’s especially well-suited for those who love natural beauty and are eager to see Malta’s most iconic spots without committing to a full day. The knowledgeable crew, combined with the stunning scenery and good value, makes it a solid pick for first-timers or anyone wanting a hassle-free boat adventure.

For travelers craving a straightforward, picturesque outing that hits all the highlights—without the fuss—this tour delivers in spades.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with specific start times depending on the day. Check availability to confirm your preferred slot.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll visit the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Caves, and Santa Maria Caves. The experience includes an experienced captain, masks (with a €20 deposit), and life jackets.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, there is a full cash bar offering a variety of drinks, including soft drinks, tea, and coffee (at extra cost).

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Masks are available for rent, and many guests enjoy swimming in the clear waters of the lagoons and caves.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
It’s best suited for those without mobility issues, as the tour involves boat movement and walking on uneven surfaces. Assistance dogs are permitted, but pets are generally not allowed.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and your snorkel gear if you have it. Arriving early is recommended to maximize your experience.

This comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded taste of Malta’s incredible coastlines and waters, perfect for those who love scenic views, easygoing boat rides, and genuine local charm. Whether you’re looking for a fun day in the sun or a memorable way to see Malta’s natural wonders, this trip hits the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here: