Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon Crystal Lagoon and Caves

Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Caves – A Deep Dive into a Memorable Sea Adventure

This boat trip around Malta’s Comino and Gozo islands offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, relaxing swims, and fascinating caves. The experience, provided by Barbarossa Excursions and Boat Charters, is a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, lounging, and exploration, perfect for those wanting to enjoy Malta’s iconic waters without spending an entire day at sea. From the moment I read about passing by Elephant Rock and Santa Maria Bay to visiting the famous Blue Lagoon, I was drawn in by the promise of turquoise waters and scenic coastlines.

What I love most about this trip is how relaxed and flexible it feels. The 1.5-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon gives plenty of time to float in its calm, crystal-clear waters, while the visit to the Crystal Lagoon offers a more intimate chance to snorkel and explore dramatic cliffs. The onboard comforts, including a full cash bar and clean toilet facilities, make the journey easier and more enjoyable. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, like Denny, earn high praise for their friendly attitude and local insights.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the limited time at each stop. One hour at the Blue Lagoon, for example, is just enough to dip in and snap a few photos, but not quite enough for a full snorkel adventure or relaxing picnic. If you’re craving more time exploring caves or lounging, you might find this tour’s schedule a bit tight. Still, it hits a sweet spot for many travelers seeking a taste of Malta’s best seaside spots without overextending.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable boat experience with a full bar and clean facilities ensures a relaxed journey.
• Multiple swim stops in stunning locations like Santa Maria Bay, Crystal Lagoon, and the Blue Lagoon provide ample opportunities to cool off and enjoy the water.
• Expert guides such as Denny are praised for their friendliness, making the trip more engaging.
• Scenic coastal views include Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Caves, and Mgarr Harbour, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
• Caves and sea cave tours add an adventurous touch, especially if you enjoy exploring unusual rock formations.
• Short but well-paced itinerary suits travelers who want to see a lot of Malta’s waters in just a few hours.
• Excellent value for the price, considering the stops, guided commentary, and onboard amenities.
• Ideal for a variety of travelers, from families to friends seeking a scenic, relaxed day on the water.

If you’re considering a half-day boat tour around Malta’s Comino and Gozo islands, this experience offers a lot for the price. Starting from Marfa, the trip begins with an easy walk to the jetty where your skipper awaits. It’s a simple, no-fuss setup that gets you on the water quickly, making the most of your limited time in these beautiful waters.

The Itinerary Breakdown and What It Means for You

The tour kicks off with a quick cruise past Santa Maria Bay and Elephant Rock, giving you a first peek at some of Malta’s iconic coastline features. The mention of passing by Santa Maria Battery and St. Marija Caves hints at the region’s rugged charm—perfect for snapping photos even from the boat. This sightseeing cruise sets an anticipatory tone, helping you get a sense of the landscape you’ll later explore more intimately.

Next, you arrive at the Blue Lagoon, arguably the star of the show. Anchoring here for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you have plenty of time to swim in the inviting turquoise waters or relax on the boat. Many reviews, like Mona’s, highlight how “it was safe” and “music and a good guide” made the experience enjoyable. The Blue Lagoon’s calm, clear water is suited for all swimming levels, and the shallow areas are perfect for kids or less confident swimmers. If you’re craving more adventure, you can also opt for a powerboat trip to nearby caves (this costs extra), which can add a dash of thrill to your trip.

The journey continues with a quick sightseeing cruise and a photo stop at Mgarr Harbour on Gozo, giving you a taste of the neighboring island’s more tranquil vibe. It’s a chance to appreciate the coastal scenery, including Fort Chambray, which adds a historic touch to the landscape.

The highlight for many is the visit to the Crystal Lagoon. Here, the dramatic cliffs and vibrant marine life promise a beautiful setting to snorkel or simply relax in the sun. The one-hour stop can be both energizing and calming, depending on what you choose to do. Reviewers like GetYourGuide’s traveler praise the “beautiful views” and mention how the guides are helpful and friendly.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a cruise back to Marfa, taking in more scenic views along the way. The convenience of returning to the starting point makes it easy to plan the rest of your day without fuss.

What to Expect from the Onboard Experience

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-equipped. The full cash bar means you can enjoy local wines or soft drinks while soaking in the scenery. The availability of freshwater showers is a thoughtful touch after swimming, and clean toilet facilities are a welcome convenience on a boat tour.

The guide’s role is crucial for engaging storytelling and safety. Denny, mentioned in reviews, is praised for his friendly, approachable manner, making the journey feel more personal. Expect some light commentary about the sights, with plenty of chances to ask questions.

The Value and Logistics

This tour spans around 4 hours, which is short enough to fit into a busy Malta itinerary but long enough to feel fulfilling. The price covers experienced skippers, swim stops, cave tours, and scenic sightseeing, making it a good value considering what’s included.

While there’s no hotel pickup or food included, you can bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after. The meeting point is straightforward, located under the Cirkewwa Kiosk, and the activity ends right where it begins, simplifying logistics.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or friends who want a scenic, relaxed day on the water. If you love stunning views, occasional swims, and a bit of cave exploration, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for travelers who don’t want to commit to a full-day trip but still want a taste of Malta’s coastal beauty.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options

If your priority is extensive cave exploration or longer snorkel sessions, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Similarly, if you’re looking for luxury amenities or food included, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But for straightforward fun, good value, and a friendly atmosphere, it hits the mark.

This boat experience in Malta offers a compact yet rich taste of the islands’ best water-based sights. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides like Denny, and well-timed stops at iconic spots makes it a worthwhile option for many travelers. The value is solid, with plenty of opportunities to relax and explore, all wrapped in a comfortable setting.

If you’re after a scenic, friendly, and flexible way to see Malta’s coast and splash around in its famous waters, this trip is likely to deliver exactly that. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fun day out, it’s hard to go wrong.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, with the most time spent at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a full guided boat trip, swim stops at Santa Marija Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Lagoon, visits to Mgarr Harbour and caves, and onboard amenities like a cash bar and freshwater showers.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, extras such as a powerboat trip to caves are at an additional cost. Food and extra drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard.

Where do I meet the boat?
The boat departs from the jetty under the Cirkewwa Kiosk, a simple and easy-to-find location.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and family-friendly itinerary make it suitable for children, though swim supervision is advised.

Can I just drop off at the Blue Lagoon?
The tour’s schedule is fixed, but you can opt to drop off on land during the swim stop if you prefer not to stay onboard for the entire duration.

What should I bring?
Beachwear, sunscreen, and a towel are recommended. Remember to bring your ID or passport if needed, and a little cash for extras.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour details don’t specify accessibility features, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special needs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

This boat tour around Malta’s islands offers an excellent combo of scenic views, refreshing swims, and easy-going guidance. Ideal for those who want a fun, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy Malta’s famed waters.