This cruise is one of those Malta days that makes sense fast. You start in Sliema, ride a scenic coast line, then spend real time on Comino Island with time to swim, snorkel, and walk.

Two things I like a lot. First, you get a proper 3.5 hours on Comino, not just a quick hop off. Second, the trip builds in a bonus swim stop at Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay, which helps break up the day so it does not feel like you are just waiting around.

One drawback to plan for: the most popular beach stop, the Blue Lagoon, now requires a government access pass for people to step ashore, and the daily slots are limited.

Key takeaways before you go

• 3.5 hours on Comino Island gives you time for both swimming and walking trails.
• Blue Lagoon is timed around your access pass, and the boat may dock a bit offshore on busy days.
• Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay is a built-in swim bonus from May to October (weather permitting).
• Sea caves are part of the return cruise, so you still get views even after the beach time.
• A water slide and clean boat setup keep the fun factor high, especially for younger crowds.
• No cars on Comino means easier photography and peaceful walking, even when the water is busy.

The Sliema start and the coastal cruise views that set the mood

You begin at the Sliema Ferries area in the morning and head out toward Comino. The value here is that you are not just buying a boat ride to a beach, you are also getting a proper Malta coastline cruise with commentary over a PA system.

As you go, you pass familiar stretch of bays and points along the northeast side of the island. Think St. Julian’s Bay and St. George’s Bay, then St. Paul’s Bay and St. Paul’s Island, with Mellieħa Bay also on the route. Even if you already know Malta from bus tours, this is a different way to see the coast, with sea angles and lots of shoreline detail.

Two practical notes that matter. One, you are outside most of the time, so bring sunscreen even if you plan to stay in the shade on deck. Two, this is not a guided walking tour, so the commentary is there to frame what you are seeing, while your time on the islands is mostly up to you.

The quick Gozo stop at Mġarr Harbour, and how it affects your day

Early in the trip, there is a brief photo stop at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. The purpose is specific, drop off guests who disembark there, then you continue on to Comino.

This is worth understanding because it shifts your focus. The cruise is still a Malta and Gozo island combo vibe, but the bulk of your “hang out” time becomes Comino and the Blue Lagoon area. If you are the kind of person who likes strict schedules, you will likely appreciate the flow here. If you want every minute planned to the minute, note that once you are at Comino, you will be on leisure time.

Comino Island time: your 3.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, and trails

After the Gozo moment, the boat heads straight to Comino. You get about 3.5 hours on the island, which is exactly the sweet spot for a day like this.

Comino is tiny, about 3.5 square kilometers, and it feels close to what Malta was like before cars and crowds filled every corner. There is no car traffic and very little urban development, so you can actually get away from the noise without leaving the water behind. That matters because the Blue Lagoon area can be busy, but Comino itself lets you spread out.

What to do with your time

• Swim and snorkel where the water suits you best. Comino is known as a haven for swimmers and snorkelers, so use this time to find your comfort zone.
• Walk the paths for views and photos. The trails link up to spots like St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery.
• Keep it flexible. The tour does not run like a timed guided hike. You choose your pace.

One small tip I really like for Comino: wear comfortable shoes even if you think you are only coming for the water. The best photos often happen on the walk segments, not while you are sitting in wet swimwear.

Blue Lagoon planning, the new access pass rule, and where crowds show up

The Blue Lagoon stop is the headline, with crystal-clear turquoise water and a white seabed that makes swimming and snorkeling feel special. But in May 2025, Malta introduced a new rule: anyone who wants to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon must obtain a government access pass in advance.

This is not a tour choice or a “maybe” situation. It is your job to arrange it ahead of time. Also, the pass allocation is limited. When you apply, you should select the afternoon slot for this cruise.

What you might notice in the real world

Even when you have the access pass, the Blue Lagoon can be packed with boats. On busy days, the cruise can dock a bit farther out than you expect. That means a short walk or swim-in approach from where the boat parks. The upside is that once you are in the water, the area still delivers those clear, shallow views.

Also, if you are the type who gets picky about shade, plan accordingly. There is limited shade at Blue Lagoon unless you rent a beach umbrella and chair setup, reported around €15 for a single option. Bring a towel and decide early whether you want to float a lot or base yourself on shore.

One more practical detail: be aware there can be jellyfish in the water. I would not panic, but I also would not assume the sea is always empty. If you are sensitive, keep your swim area cautious and consider a quick check before you fully commit.

Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay, the 45-minute swim stop that changes the whole feel

From May to October, weather permitting, the itinerary includes an extra swim stop of about 45 minutes at either Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay.

This small stop is easy to underestimate until you are there. It breaks up the day, gives you a second water location, and keeps the cruise from feeling like a single long wait between island moments.

Crystal Lagoon

Crystal Lagoon is usually the bigger “wow” stop for people who like cliffy backdrops and clear water. You can swim and snorkel, and the water tends to look very inviting.

St. Nicholas Bay

St. Nicholas Bay is described as peaceful, with two small sandy beaches and calm, shallow water. If you want a gentler swim environment, this is the safer bet.

A key timing detail

This stop is not the main Comino block, so you will want to keep your basics ready. Bring towel access, and decide quickly if you are staying in the water the whole time or alternating water and a quick look around.

Sea caves on the return and the water slide moment that steals the show

On the way back toward Sliema, you pass the Comino sea caves. This is one of those “worth it even if you are tired of boats” moments, because you still get scenery without needing to walk anywhere.

Then there is the water slide element. The cruise includes a water slide, and it is part of the fun whether you are traveling as a group or as a solo visitor. A couple of people noted the boat may pause over open water and then people can jump and use the slide, so you do not have to be a beach person to enjoy the day.

Safety and comfort

The boat setup includes toilet facilities, and the crew is present to help. People also emphasize the trip feels well organized and safe. Still, if you are sensitive to motion, keep reading, because this is not designed for everyone.

What to pack, what to wear, and how to dodge the small annoyances

If you pack like you are going to a beach day plus a short hike, you will do fine.

Bring:

• Comfortable shoes for Comino walking trails
• Swimwear
• A towel
• Sunscreen
• Cash

Wear:

• Sun protection. You will be outside for hours.
• Something quick-dry if you plan to switch between water and walking.

Money and food

Food and drinks are not included. That said, people note you can buy food and drinks on the boat or on the island. Still, I recommend treating purchases as a budget extra rather than assuming everything is included.

Arrive smarter for comfort

One practical thing I would follow: plan to get settled early. When the Blue Lagoon is busy, seats and deck space can fill up. If you are hoping for a good seat during the cruise portion, arriving on time helps.

Shade reality check

If you want a shaded base at Blue Lagoon, be ready for the limited options. Some people report renting an umbrella and chair around €15. If you do not want to pay for that, bring a cap, sunglasses, and a strategy for rotating between sun and brief rest breaks.

Restrictions to remember

• Pets are not allowed.
• Oversize luggage is not allowed.
• Large bags are not allowed.

If you are traveling with a lot of stuff, go light. You want easy movement, not baggage management.

Who this cruise is best for, and who should skip it

This works best for:

• Swimmers and snorkelers who want crystal water and multiple swim options
• People who like a mix of beach time and walking trails
• First-time Malta visitors who want a clear, structured day with freedom once you reach the islands
• Solo travelers, because the day has enough structure (timed stops) and enough leisure time (you choose your pace)
• Families traveling with kids, as long as everyone is comfortable with boat movement and basic sea time

It may not work well for:

• People with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. This is not set up for wheelchair access.
• People prone to seasickness or motion sickness. You are on open water for several hours, and there is no indication of motion-friendly accommodations.

Also, expect a youthful, social vibe during certain seasons. People describe it as a teens and twenties sort of crowd at times. If you want pure quiet, you might still find peace on Comino trails, but the Blue Lagoon water area can get lively.

Price and value: is $41 per person a good deal?

At about $41 per person, this cruise is priced like a straightforward group day out, not a premium private charter. The value comes from what you get for that money.

What is included:

• Sightseeing cruise plus commentary over PA system
• Stops at Comino and Blue Lagoon
• An additional swim stop at Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay (May to October, weather permitting)
• Water slide
• Toilet facilities
• Crew assistance

What is not included (important):

• Government-issued access pass to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon
• Food and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• A dedicated tour guide

So the real “all-in” cost depends on your access pass and what you eat. If you already plan to spend money on snacks, drinks, sunscreen extras, and maybe shade rental, the price still feels fair. The biggest cost surprise for many people is the Blue Lagoon access pass, especially if you forgot to apply in advance or if slots are gone.

Where this really shines for value is the time allocation. You get real Comino time, plus the bonus swim stop, plus sea caves on the return. For a single day, that is a lot of “different water moments” without the hassle of renting a car or planning transfers yourself.

Should you book the Sliema to Comino and Blue Lagoon cruise?

Yes, I would book it if you want an easy day built around water, with enough time to walk Comino trails and enough structure to keep the day from feeling chaotic.

I would think twice if you:

• Get seasick easily
• Need wheelchair-friendly access
• Hate the idea of planning a government pass well ahead of time
• Expect a private-feeling beach day at the Blue Lagoon

If you can handle basic sea time and you plan the Blue Lagoon access pass early, this is a smart, cost-effective way to see Comino and the Blue Lagoon during your Malta stay.

FAQ

How long is the Comino and Blue Lagoon cruise from Sliema?

The trip lasts about 7.5 hours.

Where does the cruise start?

It starts from Sliema Ferries in the morning.

What time is spent on Comino Island?

You get approximately 3.5 hours on Comino Island.

Is an access pass required for the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Since May 2025, you must obtain a government access pass in advance to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. You are responsible for arranging it.

Is the Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay swim stop included?

It is included from May to October, weather permitting, as an additional swim stop of about 45 minutes at either Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay.

What is included on board?

The cruise includes sightseeing, commentary over a PA system, a water slide, and toilet facilities, with assistance from the crew and staff.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, so plan on purchasing them separately.

Can I bring a pet or large luggage?

Pets are not allowed. Oversize luggage and large bags are not allowed either.

Is this tour guided?

No. This is not a guided tour, and stops are at your leisure time once you reach the islands. The host or greeter is in English.