Choosing the Right Blue Lagoon & Comino Boat Tour
Planning a visit to the Blue Lagoon in Malta can feel overwhelming once you realise how many different boat tours are available. While most trips include the same headline highlights โ turquoise water, sea caves, and views of Comino and Gozo โ the actual experience can vary significantly depending on the type of tour you choose.
One of the most important differences between tours is where they depart from. Many of the most popular options leave from Bugibba and St Paulโs Bay in the north, which are closest to Comino and usually offer shorter travel times. Others depart from Sliema and St Julianโs, which are more convenient for many visitors but involve a longer cruise to reach the lagoons.
Some cruises are designed to be full-day sightseeing experiences, combining the Blue Lagoon with time in Gozo, coastal views, and multiple stops. Others focus more on relaxation and swimming, giving you longer in the water but fewer locations. There are also options that prioritise comfort and space, such as catamarans, as well as smaller, faster boats that offer a more intimate and flexible experience.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on what kind of day you want and where you are staying on the island. By understanding both the departure location and the style of tour, you can choose an option that fits your plans rather than adding unnecessary travel time.
A Complete Blue Lagoon & Gozo Day Trip (Great Value Option)
Departing from Bugibba Jetty in North Malta, this full-day boat tour is one of the most popular options available, with more than 16,000+ reviews and consistently strong feedback.
What makes this tour stand out is how much it includes for a relatively low price. Instead of focusing on a single location, it combines a visit to the Blue Lagoon, time on Gozo, and a scenic cruise past sea caves, cliffs, and coastal formations. Starting from Bugibba also means a shorter journey to Comino, giving you more time at each stop.
The trip begins with a cruise along Maltaโs northern coastline, where you will pass hidden coves and natural rock formations that are only accessible by boat. The highlight for most visitors is the stop at the Blue Lagoon, where you can swim in the shallow, clear water or relax onboard while taking in the views.
Later in the day, the tour continues to Gozo, where you will have several hours of free time to explore. Many travellers visit Victoria and the Citadel, while others choose to relax at one of the islandโs beaches.
Onboard facilities typically include sun loungers, shaded seating, swim ladders, and basic amenities, making the experience comfortable without pushing into premium pricing. Food and drinks are available to purchase, allowing you to keep costs low if you prefer.
This is a strong choice for first-time visitors, families, and budget-conscious travellers, particularly those staying in the north of Malta, as it offers a complete experience with minimal travel time.
A More Lively Cruise with Music, Drinks and Atmosphere
This full-day cruise also departs from Bugibba in North Malta, making it another convenient option if you are staying in St Paulโs Bay or nearby areas, while still offering easy access from elsewhere on the island.
With over 6,000+ reviews and excellent ratings, this option appeals to those who want a more social and energetic atmosphere while still visiting the Blue Lagoon, Comino caves, and Gozo. Departing from Bugibba ensures that more of your time is spent enjoying the experience rather than travelling.
You will have around 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, giving you plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or relax onboard. The boat itself is equipped with features such as a waterslide, deck chairs, shaded areas, and onboard facilities, making it easy to spend the entire day comfortably at sea.
The stop in Gozo allows for several hours of exploration, with optional transport to key locations such as Victoria, making it straightforward to explore without planning logistics.
What really sets this tour apart is the balance between sightseeing and atmosphere, with music and a more relaxed onboard vibe creating a lively but not overwhelming experience. It is particularly well suited to couples, groups, and travellers who want a more engaging day out.
A Spacious Catamaran Experience with More Room to Relax
Departing from St Paulโs Bay / Bugibba area in North Malta, this catamaran cruise offers a more spacious and comfortable way to experience the Blue Lagoon and surrounding bays, with over 6,700+ reviews.
The key advantage of leaving from the north is the short sailing distance to Comino, allowing the tour to focus more on swimming, relaxing, and enjoying multiple coastal stops, rather than long travel times.
The catamaran itself provides significantly more open deck space, with sun loungers and netted relaxation areas, making it ideal if you want to avoid crowded conditions. This creates a noticeably more relaxed environment compared to standard tour boats.
The itinerary includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon, along with additional locations such as the Crystal Lagoon and other scenic bays, depending on conditions. These extra stops give the day a more varied feel while maintaining a relaxed pace.
With a duration of around 5 to 6 hours, this tour is slightly shorter than full-day options, making it a good choice if you want a comfortable experience without committing a full day. It works particularly well for couples and travellers who value space and comfort over a packed itinerary.
A Slower-Paced Cruise Focused on Swimming and Comino
Departing from Bugibba in North Malta, this tour is ideal if your priority is to spend more time in the water rather than travelling between multiple locations. With over 5,700+ reviews, it is one of the most popular options for a relaxed, swim-focused experience around Comino.
Unlike many full-day tours, this trip does not prioritise Gozo, which means less time spent travelling and more time enjoying the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and surrounding bays. Leaving from Bugibba also ensures a short journey to Comino, giving you extended time at each stop.
The experience includes longer swimming stops, particularly at the Crystal Lagoon, which is often quieter and deeper than the Blue Lagoon, making it perfect for snorkelling and relaxing away from crowds. The pace of the day feels noticeably calmer, with fewer transitions and more time to enjoy each location.
Onboard, the boat is well-equipped with sunbeds, shaded seating, a waterslide, and underwater viewing windows, allowing you to stay comfortable throughout the trip. You can remain onboard between swims or head straight into the water using easy access ladders.
This tour is best suited to travellers who want a laid-back day focused on swimming, scenery, and relaxation, rather than ticking off multiple destinations. It is particularly popular with couples, families, and anyone who prefers a slower pace.
Departing from Sliema: A Convenient Full-Day Cruise with Extended Lagoon Time
Departing directly from Sliema Ferries, this full-day cruise is one of the strongest options available for visiting the Blue Lagoon, Comino and Gozo, with over 6,900+ reviews and consistently high ratings.
For many travellers, the biggest advantage is the departure location. If you are staying in Sliema, St Julianโs or Valletta, you can walk straight to the harbour without needing to travel across the island. While the journey to Comino is slightly longer than from the north, this is often offset by the convenience and ease of starting your day locally.
What sets this tour apart is the amount of time spent at the Blue Lagoon, often up to 3 to 3.5 hours, which is significantly longer than many other cruises. This gives you the freedom to swim, snorkel, relax onboard, or explore Comino at your own pace without feeling rushed.
The itinerary also includes a stop at the Crystal Lagoon or nearby bays (seasonal), along with a scenic cruise past sea caves, cliffs, and coastal landmarks. Depending on the option selected, there may also be a brief stop or optional time in Gozo, although the focus of the day remains on the water rather than inland exploration.
Onboard, you will find sunbeds, shaded seating, a waterslide, and basic facilities, making it easy to spend the entire day comfortably at sea. The atmosphere is relaxed and suits a wide range of travellers, from couples to families.
Some Sliema-based tours place more emphasis on structured visits to Gozo, including longer inland stops and organised transport across the island. While these are a good choice if you want to explore Gozo in more detail, they typically offer less time at the Blue Lagoon compared to this more water-focused experience.
This is an excellent option if you want a convenient departure combined with maximum time at the lagoon, making it one of the best all-round choices for travellers staying in central Malta.
A Smaller, Faster Powerboat Experience from Sliema
Also departing from Sliema Ferries, this powerboat tour offers a more intimate and fast-paced alternative to larger cruise boats, with a 4.8 rating from over 2,000 reviews, making it one of the highest-rated experiences in Malta.
The key difference is the size and speed of the boat. With fewer passengers and a more agile design, the powerboat can reach multiple locations quickly and get closer to sea caves, rock formations, and hidden coastal areas that larger vessels often pass at a distance. This creates a more immersive and engaging experience throughout the trip.
The itinerary includes stops at the Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon, with additional swimming opportunities near ฤฆalfa Rock in Gozo, allowing you to experience a wider variety of locations in a shorter time. Snorkelling equipment is included, making it easy to explore the clear waters straight from the boat.
At around 5 hours, this tour is shorter than most full-day cruises, but it still delivers a high-quality experience without feeling rushed. The smaller group size also means a more personal atmosphere, with greater interaction and flexibility during the trip.
While it does not offer the same level of onboard space or facilities as larger boats, it makes up for this with speed, access, and a more adventurous feel. This makes it particularly appealing for travellers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more active day on the water.
This option is best suited to couples, small groups, and travellers who prioritise a more dynamic and less crowded experience, while still enjoying the highlights of Comino and the Blue Lagoon
A Smaller, Faster Powerboat Experience from Sliema
Also departing from Sliema Ferries, this powerboat tour offers a faster and more personal alternative to larger cruise boats, with a 4.8 rating from over 2,000 reviews, making it one of the highest-rated options available.
Because of its smaller size and speed, the boat is able to reach multiple locations quickly and get closer to caves, rock formations, and hidden coastal areas that larger vessels cannot access as easily. This creates a more interactive and engaging experience, particularly for those who enjoy being closer to the water.
The tour includes stops at the Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon, as well as additional swimming opportunities near ฤฆalfa Rock in Gozo, with time to snorkel and explore. The smaller group size also makes the experience feel more personal, with a stronger connection to the guide and surroundings.
At around 5 hours, this is a shorter option compared to full-day cruises, but it still delivers a high-quality experience without feeling rushed. Snorkelling equipment is included, and the boat provides shaded areas while maintaining an open, adventurous feel.
This tour is ideal for travellers who want a more intimate, flexible and active experience, particularly couples and small groups who prefer to avoid large crowds and enjoy a faster-paced day on the water.
A Shorter Blue Lagoon Trip for Flexible Itineraries
Departing from the Marfa area in North Malta, this shorter cruise is one of the best options if you are short on time or prefer not to spend a full day on a boat. With over 2,300+ reviews, it offers a flexible alternative to longer tours while still covering key highlights.
With a duration ranging from 3 to 5.5 hours, this experience focuses on the most visually impressive locations, including the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and surrounding sea caves, without including extended inland stops in Gozo. This makes the day feel more efficient and less structured.
Starting from Marfa places you very close to Comino, meaning minimal travel time and more time spent enjoying the water. You will still have opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax onboard, with scenic cruising between stops.
The boat includes sunbeds, shaded seating, and onboard facilities, ensuring comfort even on a shorter trip. Optional extras, such as cave speedboat rides, are also available if you want to enhance the experience.
This option is best suited to travellers on tight schedules, short stays, or those who simply want a lighter, more flexible day, while still experiencing the highlights of Comino and the Blue Lagoon.
How to Decide Which Blue Lagoon Boat Tour Is Right for You
With so many Blue Lagoon Malta boat tours available, the easiest way to choose is to focus on what matters most for your trip. While all of these tours visit similar locations, the experience can feel very different depending on factors such as departure point, duration, pace, and onboard style.
If your priority is value and seeing as much as possible, a full-day trip that includes both Comino and Gozo is the most complete option. These tours typically offer the best balance between price and experience, making them ideal for first-time visitors.
If you prefer something more social and lively, choosing a cruise with music, drinks, and a more energetic atmosphere can make the day feel more like an experience rather than just a transfer between locations. These tend to appeal more to groups and travellers looking for a fun day out.
For those who value comfort and space, catamaran tours provide a noticeably better onboard experience, with more room to relax and less crowding. This can make a big difference, especially during the peak summer months when standard boats can feel busy.
If your focus is simply swimming and relaxing, choosing a tour that stays around Comino without a Gozo stop will give you more time in the water and a slower, more enjoyable pace.
Location also plays a major role. If you are staying in Sliema or St Julianโs, departing locally can save time and make your day easier, even if the journey itself is longer. If you are staying in the north, departures from Bugibba or Marfa will get you to the lagoons faster.
Finally, if you are short on time, a half-day or shorter trip can still give you the core experience without taking up your entire day. These options are particularly useful for short stays or busy itineraries.
By focusing on what matters most โ whether that is value, comfort, atmosphere, location, or time โ you can quickly narrow down the right tour without overthinking the decision.
Compare Blue Lagoon & Comino Boat Tours
| Tour | Departs From | Duration | Includes Gozo | Style | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Day Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Caves Tour | Bugibba | 6โ7 hours | Yes | Best value, covers everything | ~โฌ25 |
| Blue Lagoon, Comino Caves & Gozo Cruise | Bugibba | 7 hours | Yes | More lively, music & atmosphere | ~โฌ25โโฌ30 |
| Blue Lagoon Catamaran Cruise (Beaches & Bays) | Bugibba / St Paulโs Bay | 5โ6 hours | No | More space, comfort-focused | ~โฌ35โโฌ45 |
| Comino Blue Lagoon & Crystal Lagoon Tour | Bugibba | 6 hours | No | Relaxed, swim-focused | ~โฌ30โโฌ40 |
| Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Comino Cruise | Sliema | 7โ7.5 hours | Optional | Convenient departure, longer lagoon time | ~โฌ35โโฌ45 |
| Powerboat Blue Lagoon & Caves Tour | Sliema | 5 hours | Limited | Small group, fast, flexible | ~โฌ40โโฌ50 |
| Short Blue Lagoon & Comino Cruise | Marfa | 3โ5.5 hours | Optional | Time-saving option | ~โฌ30โโฌ40 |
| Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Open Bar | Sliema | 7 hours | No | Premium, all-inclusive | ~โฌ80โโฌ9 |
Where Blue Lagoon Boat Tours Depart From
One of the most important factors when booking a tour is understanding where your boat will depart from, as this directly affects both your travel time and overall experience.
Most tours leave from Bugibba and St Paulโs Bay in North Malta, which are the closest points to Comino. This means a shorter sailing time and more time spent swimming and exploring. These departures are ideal if you are staying in the north or are happy to travel there early in the day.
Other tours depart from Sliema and St Julianโs, which are the main tourist areas where many visitors stay. While these departures involve a longer journey to reach the Blue Lagoon, they are often more convenient, especially if you want to avoid buses, taxis, or early starts.
A smaller number of tours leave from Marfa, located even closer to Comino. These are often shorter trips, designed for travellers who want to maximise time in the water while minimising travel.
Choosing the right departure point can make a significant difference to your day. A slightly longer cruise may be worthwhile if it saves you time getting to the harbour, while a northern departure may suit you better if your priority is spending as much time as possible at the lagoon.
Understanding the Different Types of Boat Tours
Although most tours visit the same locations, the overall experience can vary depending on the type of boat and itinerary you choose.
Standard cruise boats are the most common and usually offer the best value, with large passenger capacities and a structured schedule. These are ideal if you want a reliable, affordable way to see multiple locations in one day.
Catamarans provide a more comfortable and spacious experience, with wider decks, sunbeds, and areas to relax. They are particularly popular with travellers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Powerboats offer a completely different experience, focusing on speed, flexibility, and access to smaller locations. These trips tend to feel more personal and adventurous, as they can get closer to caves and hidden coastal features.
In terms of itinerary, the main difference is whether the tour includes Gozo. Full-day tours that include Gozo provide a more complete experience, while those that stay around Comino and the lagoons offer more time to swim and relax.
By understanding these differences, you can choose a tour that matches your expectations, rather than assuming all options will feel the same.
Typical Prices and What You Get
The price of Blue Lagoon and Comino boat tours can vary significantly depending on what is included, but most options fall into three broad categories.
At the lower end, budget tours (around ยฃ20โยฃ30) offer excellent value, typically including a full-day itinerary with stops at the Blue Lagoon and Gozo, along with basic onboard facilities. These are the most popular options and provide a complete experience without a high cost.
Mid-range tours usually add elements such as better onboard facilities, more space, or a more refined experience, while still remaining relatively affordable. These can offer a better balance between price and comfort, especially during busy periods.
At the higher end, premium tours (often ยฃ70 or more) include additional features such as lunch, open bar, or upgraded vessels, creating a more all-inclusive experience. These are ideal if you want to treat the day as a highlight rather than just another activity.
In most cases, the core experience remains similar across all price levels, but what changes is the level of comfort, inclusions, and atmosphere. Understanding this helps you decide whether it is worth upgrading or whether a standard option will meet your needs.
What the Experience Is Really Like
A trip to the Blue Lagoon in Malta is often one of the highlights of visiting Malta, but itโs important to know what to expect so you can get the most out of your day. The lagoon is famous for its clear, shallow turquoise water and bright white seabed, which creates the striking colours you see in photos. In reality, it is just as impressive, but it can also be very busy during peak season, especially in the middle of the day.
Most boat tours anchor slightly away from the main shore, which can actually be an advantage. You can still swim directly into the lagoon, but you also have the option to stay onboard where there is shade, seating, and space to relax, away from the busiest areas. Many travellers find this more comfortable than staying on land.
The day itself usually follows a simple rhythm. After departure, you will cruise along the coastline, passing sea caves, cliffs, and small bays, before reaching the Blue Lagoon for your main stop. Depending on the tour, you may also visit the Crystal Lagoon, which is often quieter and deeper, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
If your tour includes Gozo, expect a break in the middle of the day where you can explore the island. This can be a nice contrast to the time spent on the water, but it does reduce the amount of time available for swimming.
Overall, the experience is a mix of scenery, swimming, and time to relax, with the exact balance depending on the tour you choose. Understanding this in advance helps you pick the right option and avoid any surprises.
Tips for Booking a Blue Lagoon Boat Tour
Booking the right Blue Lagoon Malta boat tour can make a big difference to your experience, particularly during the busy summer months when demand is high.
One of the most important things to consider is availability. The most popular tours often sell out several days in advance, especially between June and September, so it is usually worth booking early rather than waiting until the last minute.
Timing also matters. Morning departures tend to arrive at the lagoon earlier, which can mean slightly fewer crowds and calmer conditions, while afternoon trips may offer a more relaxed atmosphere or even a sunset return, depending on the option you choose.
It is also worth thinking about where you want to sit. On many boats, sunbeds and premium spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early can improve your experience significantly. If comfort is important to you, choosing a catamaran or smaller boat can also make a noticeable difference.
When preparing for the trip, make sure to bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and water, as well as some cash or a card for onboard purchases. Even on all-day trips, the sun can be strong, so planning ahead will help you stay comfortable throughout the day.
By taking a few simple steps before booking, you can avoid common issues and make sure your trip to the Blue Lagoon is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Rupertโs Handy Travel Tips
Planning a trip to the Blue Lagoon? Rupert has a few tips to help you make the most of your day on the water:
- Pick your departure point carefully: Leaving from Bugibba or Marfa means less travel time and more time swimming, while Sliema departures are easier if youโre staying in central Malta.
- Arrive early for the best spots: Sunbeds and top deck seating are usually first come, first served, so getting there early can make a big difference.
- Think about your pace: Full-day tours cover more, but shorter trips give you a more relaxed experience with less time travelling.
- Bring the essentials: Pack sunscreen, water, a towel, and swimwear โ the sun is strong, even on breezy days at sea.
- Donโt underestimate the crowds: The Blue Lagoon is stunning, but it gets busy. Staying on the boat between swims can be a great way to enjoy the views in comfort.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Further Reading & Related Guides
If you are planning a trip to Malta, our full Malta Travel Guide is the best place to start, covering where to stay, transport, attractions and how to plan your time across Malta and Gozo. It helps you connect everything together so your itinerary flows properly.
If you are arriving by plane, read our Malta Airport Transfers guide to understand the best ways to get from Malta International Airport to Valletta, Sliema, St Julianโs and the Gozo ferry.
If you are planning to visit Gozo, our Gozo Day Trip guide explains ferry options, transport around the island and the best places to visit in one day. You can also read our Gozo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus guide if you want an easy way to explore the island without hiring a car.
If you want to explore Malta and the surrounding islands by boat, see our Malta Cruises and Blue Lagoon guide, which covers Comino boat trips, harbour cruises and Gozo boat tours, helping you compare different types of experiences.
If you prefer sightseeing by bus, read our Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus guide, which explains the North and South routes, major stops and whether the bus is worth using.
For popular attractions in Malta, you can also read our Popeye Village Malta guide and Malta National Aquarium guide, which include visitor information, ticket advice and tips for planning your visit.
If you are planning to visit multiple attractions during your trip, it is worth reading our Malta Attractions Pass guide, which explains how different passes work, what they include, and whether they actually save you money. These passes can bundle together top sights, tours and experiences, making them a convenient option if you want to see more while keeping costs under control.
These guides will help you plan transport, attractions and day trips, so you can make the most of your time in Malta and Gozo.
Last Updated
April 2026
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