From Sliema: Malta Cruise to Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Caves

Comino looks like it belongs on a postcard, but getting there is the fun part too, you get boat views of Malta’s harbors and bays and then real swim time in the famous spots. I like the Blue Lagoon free-time setup, because you’re not glued to a schedule. You also get a proper boat ride with comfy onboard features, not a quick in-and-out.

My second big reason I’d book this is the mix of swim access and toys. The boat is equipped with a waterslide, plus you’ll be in the water enough that you can actually cool off and enjoy the day. And in summer, you usually get a second water stop at the Crystal Lagoon area.

The main drawback to plan around is crowding, especially at Blue Lagoon in peak season. You also need to handle the Blue Lagoon QR code in advance if you want to get off the boat on Comino shore, otherwise you’ll still have the swim option from the boat.

Quick Reasons This Sliema to Comino Boat Trip Works

• Two Comino swim chances in summer: Crystal Lagoon (St. Nicholas Bay) plus Blue Lagoon
• Waterslide included: built for passenger use during stops
• Scenic cruising around Malta: Sliema promenade, St Julian’s/Balluta Bay, Paceville, Bugibba, St Paul’s island, Mellieha Bay
• Real free time: about 45 minutes at Crystal Lagoon, about 3.5 hours at Blue Lagoon
• Blue Lagoon shore needs a QR code: free in 2025, mandatory to get on shore for the afternoon slot

Why This Comino Day Trip Feels Different From a Basic Ferry

This is a full-day Malta water day, running about 7 hours 30 minutes with a 10:00 am start from Sliema. Instead of spending the day on a strict tour timeline, you get time blocks where you decide how long you swim, wander, or just relax. That matters, because Comino is one of those places where the best plan changes depending on wind, crowd level, and how your day feels.

You also get views of Malta you can’t easily recreate from shore. As the boat cruises past the coast, you go by areas like St Julian’s and Balluta Bay, then St George’s Bay and Paceville, and further up toward Bugibba and Mellieha Bay. It’s a good reminder that Comino is just one piece of the picture, Malta’s shoreline looks great from the water.

And yes, the boat has passenger fun built in. In addition to general boat facilities, there’s a waterslide you can use during stops, which gives the day a lighter, playful vibe even if the weather starts a little choppy.

Price and Value: What You’re Really Paying For

This runs at $42.24 per person, and the value comes from what’s bundled into that price. You’re getting round-trip boat travel between Sliema and Comino, plus two Comino stops in summer (May to Oct). That’s a lot of time on the water for one ticket, and you’re not paying extra just to access the main swim areas.

Also, the stops are not tiny photo-op visits. You get 45 minutes at Crystal Lagoon (when operating) and about 3.5 hours at Blue Lagoon. That alone makes the price feel more reasonable, because you’re not constantly rushing and resurfacing for a new “look.”

Finally, the waterslide is included. It’s a small detail, but on a hot day it changes the feel of the trip from transport to activity.

Getting to Luzzu Cruises in Sliema: The Stuff That Saves Your Morning

The meeting point is Luzzu Cruises, Ferries 4, Triq Ix – Xatt, Sliema SLM 1023, Malta. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early, because boarding and setup can take time and the boat can get busy.

You’ll use a mobile ticket, and the tour is offered in English. It’s also near public transportation, so you’re not stuck arranging a long taxi ride just to start the day.

What to bring:

• Swimwear and a towel, because you’ll be in the water at both main stops
• Sunscreen and a hat, especially if you plan to be on the shore at Blue Lagoon
• Basic cash or card for the onboard bar since food and drinks are not included
• If you want snorkel gear, you can rent masks and snorkels for €5 per person onboard

One practical note: the sea can be rough at times. If you’re prone to motion sickness, pack what works for you. A choppy ride is a real possibility, not a dramatic fantasy.

The Maltese Coast Cruise: Your “Scenery Tax” Before Comino

A big part of this tour’s appeal is the route. You don’t just leave Sliema, point at Comino, and disappear into open water. You cruise past:

• Sliema promenade
• St Julian’s and Balluta Bay
• St George’s Bay and Paceville
• Bugibba
• St Paul’s island, tied to the shipwreck story (noted as happening in AD 60)
• Mellieha Bay

Why this matters: if you’ve only got a day in Malta, this gives you a moving view of where the action is. It also helps you understand Malta’s geography, the way coves and bays shape the coastline.

This section of the day is also good for spotting the coastline, grabbing a few photos, and getting your bearings before the water stops begin. If you’re sensitive to motion, this is when you’ll want to choose a comfortable spot on the boat and give yourself a minute to settle in.

The Gozo Stop That’s Mostly for Timing and Photos

There’s a brief stop connected to Gozo: a photo stop at Mgarr Harbour for about 5 minutes. It’s specifically for passengers who booked to visit Gozo, since they disembark there.

What that means for you: if you’re on this ticket without a separate Gozo plan, don’t expect a deep Gozo experience. This is more of a “brief pause” than a meaningful visit. The day’s real focus stays on Comino’s waters.

The upside is that the schedule still leaves plenty of time for the swim stops. The downside is obvious: if Gozo is your top priority, this trip is not designed to fully deliver that.

Crystal Lagoon (St. Nicholas Bay) in Summer: How to Use the 45 Minutes

In season, the boat stops at Crystal Lagoon / St. Nicholas Bay for about 45 minutes. This stop runs from 1 May to 30 October, and it depends on weather.

This portion of the day is ideal if you like:

• short, focused swim time
• access from the boat (so you’re not hunting for entry points)
• using the boat’s features, including the waterslide

Since your time is limited, treat this like the “warm-up swim.” Get in, cool off, then decide quickly if you want more swimming or prefer to conserve energy for Blue Lagoon, where you’ll have much more time.

Also keep expectations realistic. Even when conditions are good, summer crowds can make the overall experience busier than you’d hope. Crystal Lagoon gives you variety, but it’s not guaranteed to feel quiet.

Blue Lagoon and the QR Code Rule for Getting Ashore (Comino)

This is the main event. The boat stops at Blue Lagoon for about 3.5 hours. You can explore on Comino shore, go to the beach, or use the boat as your base.

Here’s the key detail people miss: if you want to get off the boat at Comino (Blue Lagoon shore), you must register in advance to obtain a free QR code from blcomino.com and choose the afternoon slot 13:31 to 17:30. The QR code is mandatory to get on shore in 2025.

If you don’t do that, you still have options, like staying on the boat and swimming from it. But if you want shore time, plan your QR code early. This is the difference between enjoying Comino on your terms and feeling stuck with only boat access.

A second thing to know: the captain can choose the better spot on the day depending on conditions like wind, currents, or jellyfish. So don’t assume every landing spot is identical each trip. Your goal is to show up ready to adapt.

Comino Sea Caves: The Scenic Bonus You Get on the Way Back

After your main Blue Lagoon time, the cruise includes a visit to the Comino sea caves. You also get scenic viewing of the caves on the return cruise.

This part is a nice break from swimming because it shifts you back into “watching mode.” Even if you’re tired, the caves and coastal scenery are a good payoff for spending the day on the water.

It’s not a separate shore activity with long walking time. Think of it as a moving viewpoint moment that adds character to the trip.

Onboard Comfort on a Max 200 Person Boat

This activity can have a maximum of 200 travelers, so the boat can feel busy, especially in summer. Still, you’re not stuck in pure chaos all day. The boat experience helps, because you have a base that lets you cool off between swim bursts.

From what you can expect practically:

• There’s a waterslide to use during the water stops
• You’ll be able to use boat facilities during your down time
• There’s a bar onboard where you can buy food and drinks

Crowding is the wild card. Some days you’ll find comfortable spots, other days the deck can be packed and visibility can feel limited if you end up lower than you hoped. The best strategy is simple: arrive early for boarding and choose your spot wisely once you’re onboard.

If you’re traveling with kids, the boat can work well because it’s a predictable base. But long cruising stretches in sun or wind can be tough for very small babies, so plan for comfort and bring what you need.

Food, Drinks, and Snorkel Rentals: Plan to Spend a Bit

Food and drinks are not included, but there’s an onboard bar where you can purchase drinks and snacks. For snorkel gear, you can rent masks and snorkels for €5 per person onboard.

That means you should plan like this:

• Bring your own snacks if you’re picky about food timing or want to avoid queueing during stop transitions
• Use the onboard bar if you want convenience
• Don’t assume snorkel kit is automatically waiting for you, it’s a rental option

Also remember that swim days create “dry and salty” hunger fast. If you want to keep your energy up for the entire Blue Lagoon block, plan food accordingly.

What to Expect at Each Stop, in Plain Terms

Here’s the rhythm you’ll live through:

• Morning cruising: you watch Malta’s coastline glide by while you head toward Comino
• Brief Gozo moment (if applicable): a quick stop at Mgarr Harbour for about 5 minutes for Gozo disembarkation
• Crystal Lagoon swim (seasonal): around 45 minutes at St. Nicholas Bay in May to October, with time for swimming and the waterslide
• Blue Lagoon main block: about 3.5 hours, with swimming access and optional shore access if you have the QR code for the 13:31 to 17:30 afternoon slot
• Return cruising with caves: sea caves scenery on the way back to Sliema

This structure is a big part of the value. You get both variety and enough time to actually enjoy the water, not just point and move on.

Who This Tour Suits Best, and Who Should Think Twice

This is a great match if you want:

• Comino water time without dealing with boat rentals yourself
• a day focused on swimming and views, with the boat as your base
• included fun through the waterslide
• summer visits that include both Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon

It might be less satisfying if you:

• hate crowds and want a quiet swim spot
• need lots of shore access without doing the QR code step
• are very sensitive to rough water, because the ride can get choppy depending on conditions

For families, it can work well because there’s a comfortable onboard base and enough time to spread out. Just keep an eye on shade and comfort when you’re away from the boat.

Should You Book This Sliema to Blue Lagoon Cruise?

If you’re doing Malta in the May to October window and you want a classic Comino day that’s built for swimming, I’d book it. The combination of Crystal Lagoon plus Blue Lagoon, the waterslide, and the long 3.5-hour Blue Lagoon block makes it feel like a real day out, not just a ride.

Book with a little common sense and you’ll be happier:

• Register for the Blue Lagoon QR code early if shore time matters to you (QR code requirement is for 2025, afternoon slot 13:31 to 17:30)
• Arrive early to get the best onboard spot you can
• Plan snacks and water purchases, since food and drinks are on the bar
• If you get seasick, bring your solution

Do that, and you’ll spend your day where most visitors are trying to get to in the first place, Comino’s water, with a boat that turns the day into something more than transportation.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour in Sliema?

The tour meets at Luzzu Cruises, Ferries 4, Triq Ix – Xatt, Sliema SLM 1023, Malta.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 10:00 am.

How long is the Malta cruise to Blue Lagoon and Comino?

It runs about 7 hours 30 minutes (approx.).

Is Crystal Lagoon included on every date?

Crystal Lagoon is included in summer season, and the stop is available only from 01 May to 30 October, weather permitting.

How much time do you get at Crystal Lagoon?

The boat stops at Crystal Lagoon / St. Nicholas Bay for about 45 minutes.

How much time do you get at Blue Lagoon?

The boat stops at Blue Lagoon for approximately 3.5 hours.

Do I need a QR code to get off the boat at Comino Blue Lagoon?

Yes. If you want to get off the boat at Comino Blue Lagoon, you need a free QR code and you must choose the afternoon slot 13:31 to 17:30 in 2025.

What’s included with the boat ride?

You get convenient cruise transportation from Sliema to Comino and back, scenic viewing of the Comino caves on the return cruise, two Comino stops in summer, and use of the water slide and boat facilities.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are available to purchase onboard from the bar.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment on board?

Yes. Masks and snorkels can be rented onboard for €5.00 per person.

Is the tour only in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English.

How big is the group?

This activity can have a maximum of 200 travelers.