Malta: Comino+ Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon + Seacaves tour

Malta: Comino+ Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon + Seacaves Tour — A Detailed Look at One of Malta’s Most Popular Sea Expeditions

This sailboat tour offers an afternoon of sun, swimming, and sightseeing, all aboard a family-run vessel that takes you along Malta’s beautiful coastline. From the moment I read about the route, which includes stops at the famous Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay, I knew it would appeal to those craving a mix of relaxation and adventure. The reviews highlight the impressive scenery, friendly crew, and excellent value—making it a top choice for anyone visiting Malta.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it balances guided commentary with free time. You’ll enjoy the knowledge of the crew, especially Captain Owen, who’s praised for his humor and professionalism. Plus, the stops at Santa Maria Bay and the Blue Lagoon are not just tourist clichés—they’re genuinely stunning spots, perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun on deck. A potential downside? The Blue Lagoon can get very crowded, especially during peak season, so you should be prepared for some hustle and bustle. Still, the boat itself offers a peaceful alternative to the busy beaches.

This tour offers a well-structured day out that combines the best of Malta’s coastlines with good-value amenities. If you’re after scenic views, friendly guides, and a relaxed atmosphere, you’ll probably find this cruise worth every euro.

Key points and takeaways

• Authentic Family-Run Experience: The tour is operated by Seahorse Cruises Malta, a family-owned business known for friendly service and reasonable prices.
• Multiple Swim Stops: With 1.5 hours at Santa Maria Bay and 2.5 hours at Blue Lagoon, you get plenty of time to snorkel, swim, or just lounge on the boat.
• Informative Guides: Captain Owen and the crew are praised for their engaging commentary and helpful attitude, making the trip educational as well as fun.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of sea caves, rock formations, and iconic sites like Elephant Rock and Santa Maria Cave.
• Comfort and Facilities: The boat provides snorkeling masks, a diving platform, shower, toilet, and snacks, ensuring comfort during the trip.
• Cost and Value: The tour balances affordability with quality, including live commentary, snorkeling gear, and scenic cruising, making it a solid deal for a full day on the water.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Sirens Quay in St Paul’s Bay, where the only vessel, Seahorse Cruises’ Seahorse, awaits you. Boarding is at 10:00 AM sharp, with the trip departing at 10:30 AM—arriving early is wise to settle in comfortably. The experience lasts between four to six and a half hours, ending back at the same spot around 5:00 PM.

This timing works well for most travelers, especially those staying in northern Malta or nearby areas like Bugibba or Qawra. The tour is suitable for those with moderate mobility, but it’s worth noting that there are rocky and sometimes slippery surfaces at the cave stops, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

The Itinerary: A Day on the Maltese Seas

Cruising Past St. Paul’s Island and Smugglers Cove

Your journey kicks off with a scenic hour-long cruise past notable landmarks like St. Paul’s Island, where you might glimpse the remnants of ships lost nearly two thousand years ago. I love the way this part sets the tone—relaxing, scenic, with just enough history and natural beauty to get you excited about the day ahead.

First Stop: Santa Maria Bay on Comino

After the initial cruise, you’ll anchor at Santa Maria Bay for about 1.5 hours. This quiet, less crowded spot on Comino is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or just lying on deck with a good book. One review mentions how the crew takes them to a secluded part for a peaceful swim, away from the busy beaches. It’s a rare chance to enjoy nature without overwhelming crowds, especially since the bay offers clear, calm waters ideal for snorkeling.

Second Stop: The Blue Lagoon

The highlight of the trip—the Blue Lagoon—features 2.5 hours of free time. Here, you’ll see why this spot is so famous: sparkling turquoise waters surrounded by volcanic rock formations. Many reviews praise the lagoon’s natural beauty, but some note how crowded it gets during peak season. The boat anchors away from the main hustle, offering a peaceful space to float or explore.

The boat provides snorkeling masks, and a diving platform allows for easy water entry. The opportunity to snorkel in the lagoon’s calm, clear waters is a major plus, especially given how many travelers mention the stunning visual experience. Just keep in mind that if you want to avoid large crowds, arriving early or later in the day helps.

Exploring Sea Caves and Rock Formations

As you cruise back, you’ll pass by sights like Santa Maria Cave, Elephant Rock, and the Crystal Lagoon. The guide’s commentary often includes fascinating facts, making the scenery more meaningful. Many reviewers appreciate the informative nature of Captain Owen’s explanations, which add a layer of depth to what otherwise might be just pretty views.

Lunch and Onboard Amenities

While food isn’t included, the boat features a snack bar with reasonably priced drinks and small bites, favored by many for its affordability compared to island stalls. The boat’s facilities include showers, toilets, and snorkeling gear, making it convenient for a full-day outing.

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out rather than an intense adventure. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for good value, friendly guides, and picturesque stops will find it ideal. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate small-group experiences—reviews rave about the cozy feel and attentive crew.

However, if you prefer a quiet, less crowded experience, be prepared for the Blue Lagoon’s crowds or consider timing your visit to avoid peak hours. The boat’s capacity is such that it’s not overpacked, but during summer, some spots can be bustling.

Price and Practical Tips

The tour costs enough to be considered good value, especially since it includes snorkeling masks, a diving platform, and a comprehensive itinerary. Snacks and drinks are reasonably priced onboard, so you won’t need to worry about expensive stalls ashore.

To maximize your comfort, bring sturdy shoes for rocky areas and a towel. Sunscreen, swimwear, and cash are essential—note that only cash is accepted onboard. Also, the tour departs at 10:30 AM, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

One important upcoming change is Malta’s law requiring a Free QR code for Blue Lagoon visits from May 2025, but if you stay on the boat, no QR code is needed.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers mention the crew’s friendliness and Captain Owen’s humor, making the trip lively and engaging. Many describe the scenery as breathtaking, with comments on how the boat’s size and layout make for a cozy, personable experience—far from overcrowded tourist traps.

A standout quote describes the Blue Lagoon as “something else,” with crystal waters and rocky scenery that’s worth the trip, despite the inevitable crowds. Others praise the optional speedboat into caves, which adds an extra thrill and a unique perspective.

The reviews also highlight how the staff’s helpfulness made getting on and off rocks easier, and how the balance of guided commentary and free exploration created a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and discovery.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an authentic, relaxed day on Malta’s waters with scenic stops and friendly service, this cruise checks all the boxes. The combination of beautiful vistas, good-value amenities, and approachable guides makes it a solid choice for a memorable day. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy snorkeling, scenic cruising, and conversational guides who make history and sites come alive.

While the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, the boat’s location away from the busiest areas offers a peaceful retreat, and the shorter stops allow you to soak in the views without feeling rushed. Families and couples alike will appreciate the mix of adventure and downtime.

For those wanting a well-organized, genuine Malta experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this tour offers a thoroughly enjoyable day out at a fair price.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for the departure?
It’s best to arrive by 10:00 AM at Sirens Quay, as boarding closes at that time. Arriving early ensures you get settled and find your spot comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While generally suitable for most, people with mobility impairments should note that some stops involve rocky, slippery areas, and access may be limited.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for onboard purchases are recommended. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning views.

Can I buy food and drinks onboard?
Yes, snacks and drinks are available at reasonable prices from the snack bar, making it convenient to stay refreshed without overpaying ashore.

Will I get seasick?
The boat is described as smooth and comfortable, but if you’re sensitive to motion, it’s wise to take precautions like medication beforehand.

What is included in the price?
The trip includes snorkeling masks, a diving platform, live commentary in English and Italian, shower, toilet, and the cruise to all stops.

Is the Blue Lagoon always crowded?
During peak season, yes, it can be very busy, but the boat anchors away from the main crowds, providing a peaceful swimming spot if you arrive early or later in the day.