From St. Julian’s: Comino and Blue Lagoon Trip by Powerboat

From St. Julian’s: Comino and Blue Lagoon Trip by Powerboat offers a thrilling way to explore Malta’s most iconic waters. For around $62, you’ll hop onto a swift powerboat and whisk away to Comino, famous for its crystal-clear Blue Lagoon. The journey is brief but packed with excitement, taking just about half an hour each way, making it perfect for those who want a quick, scenic escape from the busy resorts. What’s particularly appealing is the flexible schedule, with options starting at 10:30 AM or 12:30 PM, giving you a chance to choose what suits your day best.

Two things I particularly like about this trip are the speed and efficiency of the powerboat transfer and the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. The fast boat gets you to Comino quickly, saving precious daylight, and the lack of a guided tour means you’re free to soak up the surroundings, swim, or just relax without being hurried along. Also, the visit to the Comino Sea Caves on the return leg is a fantastic bonus — a great chance to see some of Malta’s lesser-known coastal features.

A possible consideration is the need to obtain an access pass if you want to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon—this is a government regulation coming into effect in May 2025. Without it, you’ll be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead, which is still lovely but may not match the iconic Blue Lagoon experience. Plus, this tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or hotel transfers, so you’ll want to plan for those separately. And if you’re prone to seasickness, a little preparation might be wise, given the speed and open nature of the boat.

Key points / Takeaways

• Fast and scenic transfer: The powerboat gets you from St. Julian’s to Comino’s Blue Lagoon in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for travelers short on time.
• Flexible schedule: Departures at 10:30 AM or 12:30 PM allow you to plan your day around other activities.
• Self-guided free time: You can explore Comino at your own pace, whether that’s sunbathing, swimming, or snapping photos.
• Visit the sea caves: The return trip includes a stop at the impressive sea caves, adding extra adventure to the journey.
• No guided tour: Independence is a plus, but if you want detailed historical or cultural insights, you may need additional guides or info.
• Government pass requirement: Starting May 2025, an access pass is needed to disembark at the Blue Lagoon—important to plan ahead.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the jetty located behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St. Julian’s. The location is straightforward — near the hotel entrance, marked by a black iron gate. From there, a short walk down the ramp and along the yellow line will lead you to the waiting boat. Expect to arrive about 15 minutes early to check in and settle comfortably aboard your powerboat, which is run by Robert Arrigo & Sons Limited.

The departure times are set at 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM, aligning well with breakfast or late-morning plans. The journey to Comino is quick, with the boat cruising along Malta’s eastern coast, passing notable sights like St. Paul’s Islands. The entire ride is an exhilarating half-hour, enough to build anticipation without feeling rushed.

What Happens Upon Arrival at Comino?

Once you arrive in the Blue Lagoon, the boat docks at the shore, and you’re free to explore. The lagoon is famous for its turquoise, crystal-clear waters and pristine white sandy seabed. It’s that classic postcard image — inviting enough for a swim or snorkel right away. Many reviews highlight how dazzling the waters are; one traveler praised the experience of swimming in “the transparent cyan waters.”

You can choose to relax on the beach, stroll around the tiny island, or snorkel in search of colorful marine life. The free time is entirely yours, but it’s wise to keep track of your boat’s schedule. The crew recommends preparing for the return with enough time, as they will pick you up from the same spot later in the afternoon.

Visiting the Sea Caves

On the journey back, the boat makes a stop at the Comino Sea Caves. These natural formations are a hidden gem — steep cliffs and dark caverns that you can admire from the boat or photograph. Several reviews mention that the caves are a “highlight of the return trip,” making the experience more than just a straightforward transfer.

The Importance of the Government Pass

One of the major recent changes to the experience is the government regulation requiring an access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon starting in May 2025. You can purchase this pass online at blcomino.com, but it’s a step many might overlook. Without it, you’ll be directed to Santa Marija Bay instead, which is still a beautiful spot but less iconic. The process involves booking morning and afternoon time slots, so plan ahead if you want the classic Blue Lagoon experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a quick, scenic journey with plenty of free time. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy independent exploration — swimming, sunbathing, or wandering on their own. The lack of guides means you’ll need to do a little research or bring your own info, but that’s part of the charm if you value flexibility. It’s also a good choice for families with older children, as the boat ride is quite stable and comfortable.

Price and Value

At $62 per person, the tour offers solid value considering the transportation, fuel, and skipper are included. The real value lies in the speedy transfer and free time at the Blue Lagoon, which is arguably the main draw. You’ll likely spend more on a less efficient, guided tour that doesn’t offer the freedom to explore on your own.

Final Thoughts

This powerboat trip is a fantastic way to experience Malta’s most photographed spot without the hassle of land transfers or guided tours. The speed of the boat means you’re spending more time enjoying the lagoon and less time in transit, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a big appetite for scenery and swimming. The sea caves on the return add a special touch, making the journey memorable even for seasoned travelers.

If you’re comfortable with a self-guided, independent approach and don’t mind the government pass requirement, this tour offers an authentic, fun, and value-packed day. It’s particularly suited for those who want to combine adventure, flexibility, and gorgeous views in one seamless experience.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially if you want to guarantee your preferred departure time. You can reserve through the booking platform, and there’s the added benefit of flexible cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and motion sickness prevention if needed. The boat is open, so dress accordingly.

Can I stay ashore at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, but starting May 2025, you need an official government-issued access pass to disembark. Without this pass, you’ll be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you’ll need to bring your own or buy them locally on the island. The tour price covers the transfer, fuel, and skipper, but not consumables.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 3 years old. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, or anyone prone to seasickness.

How long does the entire experience last?
Expect around 4.5 to 6 hours from start to finish, including the boat rides, free time on Comino, and the return trip with cave visits.

Can I bring large luggage or strollers?
No, large bags, pets, or strollers are not allowed on the boat.

What are the departure and return times?
The trips leave at 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM. Return times are approximately 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM, depending on your departure.

Is there a guided commentary or tour?
No, this is a self-guided free time experience. You’re on your own on the island, but the skipper is experienced and knowledgeable about the sights.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Bad weather could cause delays or cancellations for safety reasons.

In all, for those seeking a quick, exhilarating ride with plenty of free time in one of the world’s most beautiful waters, this powerboat trip hits the mark. Just remember the pass requirement for disembarking at the Blue Lagoon, and you’re set for a memorable Maltese day in the sun.