Sliema: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day

Travelers looking for a memorable day out in Malta often find themselves drawn to the promise of turquoise waters and scenic coastlines. The Sliema: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day tour offers just that—sweet sea breezes, dramatic sea caves, and a chance to relax on pristine beaches. While it’s not perfect for everyone, it’s an experience packed with picture-worthy moments and authentic Mediterranean charm.

There are several reasons to consider this trip. The highlights include cruising along Malta’s rugged coastline, marveling at Santa Maria Caves, and taking a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon’s warm waters. We love the combination of guided boat trips with free time on Comino, making it a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. A potential drawback? The reviews suggest that timing can be tight, with some travelers feeling rushed or disappointed if they don’t get enough time at each stop.

This tour suits those eager to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment—ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed half-day adventure. If you’re after a scenic, fun, and authentic experience of Malta’s coastline, this trip could be just right.

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Key Points

Scenic cruise along Malta’s stunning coastline
Visit to Santa Maria Caves for dramatic rock formations
Swim, relax, and sunbathe on Comino Island
Pass by St. Paul’s Islands for panoramic views
Includes all necessary activities like swimming, cave exploring, and sightseeing
Weather-dependent so be prepared for a potentially variable outdoor experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This half-day trip is designed to give you a taste of Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon and surrounding sights without exhausting your entire day. Starting from the lively Sliema area, the journey begins with a speedboat ride along the coast—perfect for those who want to feel the wind in their hair and enjoy the view of Malta’s cliffs and coves.

The boat, described as comfortable, is equipped for a scenic ride that lasts approximately 4.5 hours, though actual timing can vary. The highlight is reaching Comino Island, home to the stunning Blue Lagoon, with its crystal-clear waters that often remind visitors of Caribbean beaches. Many reviewers emphasize the good value of this brief but lively trip, especially when considering the inclusion of cave visits, scenic views, and free time to swim.

Looking for more options in Sliema? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Scenic Highlights in Detail

Cruising Along Malta’s Coastline

The trip kicks off with a lively cruise that gives you a different perspective of Malta’s natural beauty. We loved the way the boat ride offers a fresh perspective on the island’s rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The ride also sets a relaxed tone for the day, with many describing it as “wind in your hair” fun, perfect for families or groups.

Santa Maria Caves

One of the trip’s standout features is the visit to the Santa Maria Caves. These are dramatic sea caves with turquoise waters that sparkle in the sunlight. The boat gently navigates through or near these caves, giving you a chance to admire the layered rock formations up close. A reviewer called it a “really nice cave tour,” highlighting how these formations feel both grand and intimate.

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The Blue Lagoon

The main attraction is the Blue Lagoon, famous for its clear, warm waters. Here, travelers are given time to swim, relax, or just soak up the sun. It’s a picture-perfect spot—many commented that it reminded them of the Caribbean. However, it’s worth noting that access can be crowded, and some reviewers mention that limited time means you might not get to explore as much as you’d like. In fact, one reviewer said, “we only had 2 hours in Blue Lagoon, and the boat left because we were 3 minutes late,” so punctuality matters.

There's plenty more to explore in Sliema

Passing by St. Paul’s Islands

On the way back, the boat cruises past St. Paul’s Islands, offering panoramic views of these small, legendary islands. Many found this part of the journey especially picturesque, appreciating the opportunity to snap photos of Malta’s rugged coastline from the water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers the speedboat ride, cave visits, and swimming time. You’ll enjoy the views of St. Paul’s Islands on the return leg, making it a well-rounded short trip. However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or water is recommended. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at the designated departure point opposite Chequers Bar in Sliema.

Booking in advance is essential—a recent government policy now requires all visitors to reserve their access through the official website. Failure to do so means you may be redirected to Santa Maria Bay instead, so make sure your reservation is confirmed.

Is It Worth the Price?

While prices vary depending on the provider, this tour is generally seen as good value for money considering the included activities. The opportunity to see caves, cruise along the coastline, and spend free time at the Blue Lagoon makes it an attractive option for travelers wanting a taste of Malta’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment.

Based on reviews, many guests felt that the trip offered solid value, especially when compared to more expensive or less organized options. Still, some critics point out that timing can be tight or inconsistent, so manage your expectations accordingly.

Practical Tips for the Trip

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—outdoors and on the water, staying hydrated and protected is key.
Wear comfortable clothes and waterproof shoes suitable for water activities.
Bring a waterproof bag for your camera and valuables.
Be aware of the potential for seasickness, especially on a speedboat—consider medication if you’re prone.
Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the boat, as some reviews note that being late can result in missed time at the Lagoon.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

Many reviewers have shared their insights, adding depth to this overview. One praised the guide and boat driver for being “extremely nice,” enhancing the overall vibe of the trip. Another reviewer mentioned that despite the beautiful views, limited access and time could leave you feeling slightly rushed—something to keep in mind if you’re detail-oriented or love exploring thoroughly.

A particularly useful tip: some travelers found that taking a ferry from Cirkewa is cheaper than booking this tour, but the convenience and guided experience of this trip often outweigh the extra cost.

The Sum Up

The Sliema: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day tour is a solid choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with a few adventure elements thrown in. It combines beautiful natural sights, the fun of a speedboat ride, and the chance to swim in Malta’s iconic waters. The organized cave visits and panoramic views add depth to the experience, making it more than just a beach day.

This tour shines brightest for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure without dedicating a full day. Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to tick off Malta’s signature spots in a fun, easy way.

While timing and crowding can be issues, most found that the authentic, picture-perfect scenery and friendly guides made it worthwhile. Booking ahead and arriving early could help maximize your time and enjoyment.

For anyone wanting a straightforward, well-organized way to experience Malta’s coast, this trip offers great value and authentic charm—just be sure to plan for the weather and your own pace.

FAQs

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, booking through the official website is mandatory due to recent government policies. Reserving your spot ensures you get access to the Blue Lagoon and avoids being redirected.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks for the trip.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, but actual time at each stop can vary. Expect around 2-3 hours of swimming and exploring.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, water, and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s best suited for swimmers. Non-swimmers, pregnant women, and people with back problems or seasickness should consider their comfort level, as water activities are involved.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Just remember to check the specific cancellation policies at booking.

What are the meeting points?
The tour departs from opposite Chequers Bar in Sliema and ends back at the same point.

What if I arrive late?
Arriving late might mean missing part of the trip or, in some cases, being left behind if the boat departs on schedule. Punctuality is key.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, scenic way to see some of Malta’s most famous sights with a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for those who prioritize iconic views and a fun boat ride, while being aware that some timing and crowding issues might occur. With a bit of planning, it’s a lovely addition to your Maltese adventure.