Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island)

A Fresh Look at the Coastal Ferry Cruise to The Blue Lagoon

If you’re planning a day trip along Malta’s stunning northern coastline, the Coastal Ferry Cruise to the Blue Lagoon (Comino Island) offers a blend of scenic sailing and free time on a tiny, captivating island. It’s one of those experiences that promises picture-perfect views, a chance to swim in crystal waters, and hassle-free logistics—especially if you prefer a relaxed, self-guided day rather than a guided tour packed with commentary.

What I really appreciate about this cruise is how smooth and straightforward the whole experience is. The modern catamaran is comfortable, with amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and clean toilets, making it easy to relax during the journey. Plus, the departure points from Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay give you flexibility—simply choose what suits your plans best. The crew’s friendly attitude and helpfulness shine through, which makes even the most anxious first-time sailor feel at ease.

Two features really stand out: first, the scenic cruise along Malta’s coast, offering ample photo opportunities of rugged cliffs, historic forts, and colorful villages. Second, the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters are truly as stunning as advertised. That said, a consideration is the government-mandated access pass required to step ashore at the lagoon—this is a new regulation from May 2025, so planning ahead by buying your pass online at blcomino.com is essential if you want to swim or explore the island freely.

This cruise balances the joy of a relaxing boat ride with enough free time to enjoy Comino’s natural beauty, making it ideal for travelers who love scenic views, swimming, and exploring at their own pace. It’s not perfect for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness, but for most, it offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Key Points & Takeaways

• Comfortable, modern catamaran with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning enhance the cruise experience.
• Flexible departure points from Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay allow for easy planning.
• Blue Lagoon’s waters are crystal-clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• Self-guided leisure on Comino gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace without a guided tour’s constraints.
• Optional motorboat trip to the caves and other lagoons provides extra adventure—payable on-site and weather-dependent.
• Government pass requirement is crucial to remember if you plan to disembark at the lagoon; download in advance.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Out: Easy and Flexible Boarding

The journey begins at either Sliema Ferries or Sirens Quay in St. Paul’s Bay. When booking, you select your preferred departure point and time, which makes planning your day quite straightforward. The 15 to 20-minute early arrival rule is a good idea, especially during peak season, to avoid missing your boat.

Once onboard, I found the catamaran’s modern setup a real plus—it’s spacious enough for comfort and equipped with toilet facilities, making it easy to relax during the roughly 1.5-hour cruise to Comino. The free Wi-Fi was surprisingly quick, allowing me to share a few photos or catch up on messages during the journey. The crew was attentive and friendly, ready to assist or answer questions.

Cruising Along Malta’s Coastline

The highlight of the cruise for me was the coastal scenery as the boat glided past Malta’s rugged cliffs, historic forts, and lively seaside towns. It’s a picture-perfect introduction to the islands’ diverse landscape. The short stop at Marr Harbour in Gozo is mainly for dropping off passengers heading to Gozitan destinations, so most of us kept our focus on the Malta-to-Comino stretch.

Approaching Comino: A Tiny Island with Big Charms

When the boat reached Comino, the real fun began. The island itself is quite small—about 3 km long—but packed with character. Without cars or urban development, it feels like a step back in time, making it ideal for hikers and photography lovers. You can walk to sites like St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery, all of which offer great viewpoints and a sense of history.

The Blue Lagoon: The Main Event

The Blue Lagoon lives up to its reputation. The water is genuinely as blue as a postcard, with a white sandy bottom visible even at some depth. When I asked fellow travelers, they loved how refreshing and inviting the water was—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging with a good book. One review noted, “It was truly a magical day,” and I’d agree, especially with the sun shining and the water sparkling.

Swimming here is easy, but it’s worth getting a government-issued pass beforehand if you want to disembark and enjoy the water freely. You’ll need to reserve both the morning and afternoon slots during the booking process to get the pass, as the daily quota is limited. Without it, you can still enjoy the boat’s view and relax on land but won’t be able to swim ashore.

Optional Motorboat Trip: Extra Adventure

For those craving a bit more adventure, the optional motorboat trip to see the Sea Caves and Crystal Lagoon is available, though it’s an extra cost—around €15 per person. Weather conditions influence whether this trip occurs, so it’s not guaranteed. Based on reviews, many enjoy this quick tour for the additional perspectives of the caves and more secluded swimming spots.

Free Time and Self-Guided Exploration

Since this isn’t a guided tour, you’re free to roam the island as long as you like during your scheduled stop. The lack of cars means you can hike to the fortifications, walk to secluded beaches, or just soak in the serene landscape. The timed nature of disembarking and re-boarding means you’ll need to keep track of your schedule, but most find the ample free time sufficient to do what they enjoy.

Returning and Logistics

The return trip is just as smooth as the outbound journey. The boats leave on time, and most reviews praise the punctuality. The cruise lasts about 7 to 7.5 hours in total, including the stops and sailing time, making it a full but relaxed day. You’ll be back at your starting point in the early evening, ready to explore more or relax after your adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for sea lovers, photo enthusiasts, and sunbathers who want a hassle-free way to see Malta’s coast and relax at the Blue Lagoon. It’s well-suited for travelers who prefer self-guided free time rather than a guided tour packed with commentary. The modern comfort of the catamaran makes it a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers.

However, it’s not ideal if you’re prone to seasickness, have mobility challenges (due to the lack of accessible facilities on land), or dislike regulations requiring advance planning for disembarkation.

Value for Money

Considering the full day of sailing, scenic views, free Wi-Fi, and the chance to swim in one of the most beautiful waters in Malta, the price seems reasonable. Extra costs like the disembarkation pass and optional boat trips are manageable and clearly explained, making this a transparent choice.

Summary of the Experience

This cruise offers a comfortable, scenic, and self-directed day out that showcases Malta’s rugged coast and the stunning Blue Lagoon. The modern catamaran ensures a smooth ride, and the flexible departure points make it easy to incorporate into your trip. The free time on Comino allows for personal exploration and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and enjoying nature. The guides and crew are friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience.

It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to see Malta from the water without the fuss of guided tours or large group excursions. The main caveat is the new regulation requiring advance purchase of disembarkation passes, so plan ahead to maximize your time in the lagoon.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love scenic boat rides, crystal-clear waters, and leisurely exploration, this cruise hits the mark. It’s great for those seeking a relaxing day with lots of photo opportunities and time in nature. It’s especially appealing for travelers who appreciate self-guided freedom rather than a guided commentary, and for anyone who wants a value-packed experience combining comfort and adventure.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for guided cultural insights or wheelchair accessibility, you might want to consider other options. But for most, this cruise strikes a fine balance of comfort, affordability, and natural beauty.

FAQ

Do I need to buy a pass to disembark at Blue Lagoon?
Yes. As of May 2025, you need to purchase an access pass online at blcomino.com before your trip. This pass is essential if you want to swim or explore the island.

Can I bring food and drinks onboard?
The tour price does not include food and drinks, but you can bring your own. The boat is equipped with toilets and some shade, and you might find snack options available on board.

What if I get seasick?
This trip involves a boat ride, so seasickness might be a concern. The boat is modern and smooth, but if you’re sensitive, consider taking medication beforehand.

Are there guided explanations during the cruise?
No, this is a self-guided experience. You’ll enjoy the scenery and have free time on Comino to explore at your own pace.

Is this trip suitable for children or families?
Yes, it can be enjoyable for families, but keep in mind the boat’s amenities and the need for supervision during free exploration. Make sure children are comfortable with boat rides.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 to 7.5 hours, including boarding, cruising, stops, and return. It’s a full day but well-paced for relaxation and fun.

In essence, this ferry cruise offers a dependable, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience Malta’s coast and the enchanting Blue Lagoon. With modern comfort, flexible options, and a focus on free exploration, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a memorable day on the water.