Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon Crystal Lagoon and Caves

If you’re dreaming of exploring Malta’s iconic water spots without the hassle of planning every detail, a boat tour around Comino and Gozo might just be your perfect day out. This 4-hour experience offers a little bit of everything — from swimming in azure waters to marveling at caves, all while enjoying the comfort of a well-equipped boat and the company of knowledgeable guides.

What we love about this tour is the balance it strikes between adventure and relaxation: you get ample time in the water, scenic cruising, and some free time to explore the islands. Plus, the inclusion of a full cash bar onboard and a freshwater shower makes it feel both indulgent and practical. The only thing to keep in mind? It’s a packed itinerary, so if you’re looking for a slow, beach-hopping experience, this might feel a little brisk. But for those who want a taste of Malta’s best water spots in a single trip, this tour fits the bill—especially if you love swimming, snorkeling, and stunning scenery.

This experience suits travelers with an active spirit who want to maximize their time in the Maltese waters. It’s perfect for those seeking a mix of guided exploration, scenic cruising, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. Families, couple, and solo travelers alike will find it accessible, as long as they’re comfortable with a few hours on a boat and some light to moderate activity.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat experience with a full cash bar and clean facilities.
• Multiple swim stops at Blue Lagoon, Santa Marija, and Crystal Lagoon, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Scenic cruising past notable spots like Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Bay, and Mgarr Harbour, offering great photo opportunities.
• Informative guides enrich the experience, sharing insights about the islands and caves.
• Flexible options such as dropping off at land in Blue Lagoon or exploring caves via optional extra excursions.
• Time-efficient with a well-structured 4-hour itinerary covering the top highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Marfa Jetty

Your journey begins at the Marfa jetty, where the skipper — often Denny or another friendly guide — will be waiting. This is a straightforward meeting point, right under the Cirkewwa Kiosk, making it easy to find and access. The boat itself is equipped for comfort, with shaded areas and a freshwater shower, ideal for relaxing after swimming or just cooling off.

Santa Maria Bay: A Gentle Introduction

The tour kicks off with a visit to Santa Maria Bay, a calm spot perfect for a first swim. The review from a recent traveler highlights the safety and relaxed vibe, mentioning, “Most important it was safe!” The bay provides a quiet, scenic spot to dip into the water for about 45 minutes, giving you a gentle start to the day.

Scenic Cruise Past Iconic Landmarks

Next, the boat cruises for about 15 minutes, passing by landmarks such as Elephant Rock, ST. Marija Bay, and ST. Nicholas Bay. These views aren’t just for show; they set the scene for the day and give a sense of the islands’ rugged beauty. From your seat onboard, you’ll enjoy a panoramic perspective of Malta’s coast, which makes for excellent photo opportunities.

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Blue Lagoon: The Highlight

The main event is the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll anchor for about 1.5 hours. This spot is famous for its stunning turquoise waters and is often the highlight of any Maltese boat trip. Reviewers have raved about the experience, with one saying, “The views were beautiful,” and another noting the guide’s friendliness. You can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat and soak in the scenery.

Optional Cave Exploration

While the standard tour includes a visit to the caves, an extra cost might apply if you want to take a powerboat trip into the caves themselves. This optional activity offers an up-close look at Malta’s fascinating sea formations, perfect for those interested in geology or just eager to add a little adventure to their day.

Crystal Lagoon: A Sparkling Swim

After the Blue Lagoon, the boat heads to the Crystal Lagoon for another 45-minute swim stop. The dramatic cliffs surrounding this lagoon create a picture-perfect setting, and the vibrant marine life makes snorkeling particularly rewarding. As one guest put it, “the dramatic cliffs and vibrant marine life will mesmerize you,” which is an accurate reflection of what you’ll experience here.

Exploring Mgarr Harbour in Gozo

The tour then makes a quick 15-minute stop at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. This is a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance for a brief look at this charming Gozitan harbor. It’s a taste of what the island offers beyond the water and a good way to stretch your legs.

Final Cruise and Return

Finally, the boat cruises back towards Marfa, passing by Santa Marija Bay once more and other scenic points. The experience concludes where it started, making it a convenient and well-rounded half-day adventure.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Timing

The entire trip lasts about 4 hours, starting at a time that varies based on availability. It’s best to check the specific start time when booking, but generally, you’ll want to arrive prepared for a morning or early afternoon outing.

Onboard Comfort and Amenities

The boat offers plenty of shaded space, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the views without worrying about sunburn. A freshwater shower is available, which is perfect after swimming or snorkeling. The full cash bar stocks a variety of drinks, including soft drinks, wine, and beers, adding a touch of leisure to the trip.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While specific group sizes aren’t detailed, the reviews suggest a friendly, manageable number of guests, making for an intimate atmosphere. The guides, like Denny, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the overall vibe and providing helpful insights into the islands’ history and geology.

Price and Value

Although the exact cost isn’t specified here, travelers often find this tour offers good value considering the multiple stops, the included swim sessions, and the scenic cruising. The ability to drop off at Blue Lagoon and explore caves (for an extra fee) allows for some customization, which adds to the flexibility and value.

Authentic Insights from Guests

One reviewer summed it up as “an amazing time,” emphasizing the beautiful views and lovely guide, Denny. Another appreciated the safety and music, which made the experience even more enjoyable. These personal touches show that, beyond the scenic spots, the guides and atmosphere contribute significantly to making this trip memorable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing on the water, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a taste of Malta’s best water spots without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. The flexible stops and friendly guides make it accessible, while the scenic views and crystal-clear waters make it worth every penny.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded and enjoyable way to see some of Malta’s most famous water attractions in a short timeframe. The combination of scenic cruising, multiple swim stops, and the chance to explore caves makes it a favorite for those wanting both relaxation and a bit of adventure. The guides’ friendliness, the comfort onboard, and the stunning locations ensure you’ll finish the day with lasting memories.

For travelers craving a taste of Malta’s signature turquoise waters, beautiful caves, and scenic vistas, this trip delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good value, knowledgeable guides, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Just bring your swimsuit, some sun protection, and an appetite for fun — Malta’s waters await.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including several swim stops and scenic cruising.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Marfa jetty, under the Cirkewwa Kiosk, and finishes back at the same location.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food is not included. There is a full cash bar onboard offering a variety of drinks for purchase.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, each designated swimming stop — at Santa Marija, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Lagoon — lasts between 45 minutes to 1 hour, giving plenty of time to swim or snorkel.

Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, the tour is led by an experienced skipper who also shares insights about the islands, caves, and landmarks.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s suitable for most ages, but the tour is not recommended for those over 95 years or with mobility issues, as it involves boat time and some walking.

This experience offers a fantastic snapshot of Malta’s spectacular waters and scenery, blending guided exploration with ample time in the water. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, crystal-clear swimming spots, or just a relaxing day on the sea, this tour makes for a memorable Maltese adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: