Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Caves Cruise

What makes this Malta day tour interesting is that it mixes big scenery with real swim time. You cruise past famous coastal spots, get quick cave viewing, then you finally spend 4.5 hours anchored at Comino’s Blue Lagoon, with a chance to snorkel and even use the onboard 10 m slide.

I love how the experience is built around your time in the water, not just a drive and a quick drop off. I also like the human touch, especially Captain Kevin and the crew, who keep the trip informative while you’re relaxing on deck. One drawback to plan for is that the ride can feel a bit bumpy at sea, and it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Key things to know before you go

• Family-run style and clear guidance from Captain Kevin and crew
• Blue Lagoon docking that feels less crowded, with easy jumping and swimming access
• Caves stops that are quick but photogenic, including Ahrax and Santa Maria areas
• 4.5 hours anchored at Comino, giving you time to snorkel, swim, and sunbathe
• Onboard fun beyond the water, including deck chairs, drinks, and a slide from 10 m

Why Comino and the Blue Lagoon Still Feel Worth It

Comino and the Blue Lagoon are one of those places in Malta that actually earn the hype. The water color is the main event, but what makes this cruise approach work is the rhythm: you do a scenic, stop-and-see cruise, then you stay long enough to enjoy the water, not just pose and leave.

This particular style of tour matters because you are not rushed off the boat. You moor in a secluded area, and you can spend your time the way you want, either out swimming and snorkeling or parked on deck with shade when you need it.

If your goal is photos plus real water time, this is a strong fit. If you hate motion at sea, it is worth taking sea sickness seriously before you book.

Hornblower Boat Days Start at St Pauls Bay, Right Behind LOA

Your day begins at Hornblower Cruises Malta on Sirens Quay 24 in St Pauls Bay, right behind LOA restaurant. Look for a large white and blue boat with Hornblower written in red on the side.

I like that the meeting instructions are practical, especially the suggestion to arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour early. That buffer helps you get settled, use the toilets, and be ready before the boat pulls out.

If you are using public bus, there are nearby stops called Parades, Bandieri, and Toni, so you can pick the one that is closest. If you are driving, you can use free road parking in the white boxes, plus a small parking area by the stop.

The Northern Coast Cruise: St Paul Views, Ahrax Point, and Cave Sightlines

Once you are off the dock, the trip follows Malta’s northern coastline. You pass by landmarks including St Paul’s Islands and the statue of St Paul, plus Ahrax Point.

This section of the cruise is basically your warm up. You get moving views without having to plan anything, and Captain Kevin fills in Malta context along the way. It is also when you can decide what kind of day you want, active swim and snorkel time, or mostly lounging with occasional photo stops.

Then come the quick cave moments. The route includes viewing stops for Ahrax Cave and Santa Maria Cave, so you get the look at the rock formations and the coastal features before you reach the main swim base.

A small practical note, the schedule means you will not have a long land time here. Treat this part as scenery and photos, the main relaxation happens later.

Santa Maria Caves: Short Stop, Big Photo Payoff

The Santa Maria area shows up both in the cruise route and in the quick stops for cave viewing. You will see it from the water, then get brief chances to take pictures as you pass near the formations.

These cave stops are timed to keep the day flowing, so you should expect it to be more about seeing the shapes and angles than exploring by foot. That is not a problem if you want the classic Comino and cave look for your camera roll.

If you are the type who loves detail shots, sit where you get a clear view out over the side, and be ready to lift your phone quickly. Light reflections on the water can be strong, so a quick moment matters.

Comino’s Blue Lagoon Stop: 4.5 Hours That Actually Lets You Swim

After about an hour of cruising, you reach Comino and moor at the Blue Lagoon for 4.5 hours. This is the part that makes this tour feel like a full experience instead of a quick drive-by.

The boat moors in a secluded non-crowded spot, and the water is about 3 meters deep there. That depth matters because you can jump in and swim without needing a complicated entry plan.

You can use the onboard facilities including male and female toilets and lockers when available, plus a cafeteria for hot and cold beverages. Locker access is limited, so if you are hoping to stash valuables, plan to carry what you need and use lockers only if you get the chance.

The slide, the deck chairs, and what to do with your time

The Blue Lagoon stop includes the big fun add-on, the slide from 10 m. In real life, it is one of those moments that cuts through the usual beach routine, kids love it, and adults tend to try it too after they watch the first person go.

You can also sunbathe on the upper deck. Deck chairs are included, but limited, so if lounging is part of your plan, get there early once you arrive. One practical tip from the day, some people prefer sitting on the left side of the boat as you cruise, because it lines up better with how you exit near the island side once you are ready to get in and out.

If you want to swim more comfortably, you have options. There is a buoyancy aid available for a €10 deposit, and you can also enter from the beach.

Snorkeling gear is available as a rental add-on, masks and snorkels cost €5 with specific deposit details (more on that below). Even if you just want to float and look around, the clear water makes that easy.

A note on pace and comfort

The anchor time is long enough to split your day. You can do one snorkeling pass early, then later just swim and relax, then repeat if you feel like it.

One drawback to consider is that the overall boat ride can get bumpy, and if you are sensitive to motion, you might want to take precautions before you board.

Crystal Lagoon and St Mary’s Tower: Quick Stops for Those Coastal Photo Frames

After your Comino time, the route continues without lingering too long on land. You cruise via the south channel, passing Crystal Lagoon and its cave areas, and later you see St Mary’s Tower.

Crystal Lagoon has a short photo stop with guided context, then you move on. It is brief, so do not expect snorkel time here, but it works if you want more water color variety and more postcard angles for photos.

St Mary’s Tower is another moment that gives Malta that unmistakable coastal silhouette. You get a photo stop plus some visit and free time, so you can hop off and take a few minutes if you want a different look than the open-water scenes.

The big win here is variety. You get more than one lagoon tone in one day, and you finish with a scenic coast segment rather than going straight back to port.

Passing Gozo from the Water: More Malta in the Same Day

This tour also includes a Gozo portion, not as a full on-island day, but as a cruise around Mgarr Harbour. You will see more important sites from the boat as the route continues.

I like this approach because it gives you a sense of Malta’s wider geography without adding another full stop, transport puzzle, or time sink. If your schedule is tight and you still want Gozo in your trip, this is a practical way to touch it.

You do not come off the boat like you would on a dedicated Gozo day. But the views from the water can still help you connect the dots, especially if you plan to visit Gozo another day.

What You Actually Get for Around $34: Value Breakdown

The published price in your info is $34 per person, which is one reason this tour is popular. The value comes from what is included, not just the route.

Included highlights:

• 4.5 hours in Blue Lagoon
• Deck chairs on the upper deck (limited number)
• Viewing of the caves
• The slide at the Blue Lagoon

Not included options that can add cost:

• Lunch is available to buy onboard, but it is not included
• The optional speedboat ride around small caves near Comino costs extra, paid on site in cash
• Snorkel rental requires a paid add-on with deposits
• Lockers are available but limited, and for a fee

When you think of value, the best way to judge this is by your own priorities. If you want a long anchored lagoon swim time plus a slide, you are getting real activity time in exchange for your money. If you only want land walking and you hate boats, you will likely feel less satisfied.

Food and drinks onboard are reasonably priced in practice, and there is an onboard cafeteria. Pineapple drinks are a fun touch, and the drinks help make it feel like a true day out instead of a simple transfer.

Practical Tips That Make This Cruise Smoother

Here are the small things that can make your day feel calm instead of chaotic.

Bring what you need for water time: swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. If you plan to snorkel, wear something that dries fast or plan to change after.

If you want snorkeling gear, you can rent a mask and snorkel for €5, with a €15 deposit and €10 refunded. That deposit logic matters, so bring cash or be ready with the way the operator handles deposits on the day.

Lockers are not guaranteed because they are limited. If you want to store items, show up early and be ready to use them only if you get access.

The optional speedboat ride around the small caves is not included, but it is a popular add-on. To join it, bring €15 in cash paid on site. If you are the type who wants the closest cave passes, this is the one extra that can turn the day up a notch.

And one important Malta-specific rule for the Blue Lagoon: visitors need a QR code time slot requirement for access starting 19 May 2025. Your info says to get the free access pass by visiting blcomino.com and to pay attention to the scheduled time window, which runs from 11:00 to 15:20. You need both morning and afternoon slots, so do not book your day blindly if you are already thinking about schedule swaps.

Finally, remember this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The boat and water access are part of the experience, and that limits it for some mobility needs.

Should You Book This Hornblower Comino and Caves Cruise?

Book it if you want a practical day on the water with real time in the Blue Lagoon. This is one of the best formats for people who do not want to arrange their own boat and still want caves, scenery, and a long anchored swim base.

Skip or rethink if you:

• Get motion sickness easily, since the ride can be bumpy
• Need mobility-friendly access, because the tour is not set up for that
• Are not willing to follow the Blue Lagoon QR code time slot rules starting 19 May 2025

If you do book, I’d do two things that pay off fast. Arrive early at Hornblower’s St Pauls Bay dock to get set up, and be ready with the cash you might need for the optional speedboat. Do that, and you will spend your day where it counts, in clear water with time to actually enjoy it.

FAQ

How long is the Comino, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and caves cruise?

The experience is listed as 4 to 7 hours, depending on the starting time you choose. Check availability for the specific departure options for your day.

Where do I meet the Hornblower boat?

You meet at Hornblower Cruises Malta, Sirens Quay 24, Triq San Geraldu, St Pauls Bay, right behind LOA restaurant. Look for a large white and blue boat with Hornblower written in red on the side.

What is included in the ticket price?

Your ticket includes 4.5 hours in the Blue Lagoon, deck chairs on the upper deck (limited), viewing of the caves, and access to the slide at the Blue Lagoon. Hot and cold beverages are available for purchase at the onboard cafeteria.

How long do you stay in the Blue Lagoon, and do you need anything special to enter?

You get 4.5 hours in the Blue Lagoon, during a scheduled window of 11:00 to 15:20. From 19 May 2025, you must present a QR code showing your designated time slot, and you obtain a free access pass through blcomino.com.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included, but you can buy it onboard. The cafeteria also serves hot and cold beverages.

Can I rent a mask and snorkel?

Yes. Mask and snorkel rentals cost €5, with a €15 deposit and €10 refunded.

Are lockers included?

Lockers are not included in your ticket price. Lockers are available on the boat in limited numbers for a fee payable on site.

Is the speedboat ride around the small caves included?

No. The optional speedboat ride around the small caves near Comino is not included. You pay €15 in cash on site if you want to add it.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.