Comino’s water can stop you mid-sentence. I love the long, unhurried Comino break and the chance to time your swim for the Blue Lagoon’s famous turquoise. Just remember the Blue Lagoon shore access pass rule (starting May 2025), and know it can feel crowded once boats arrive.

You’re getting a full day of Malta’s coast from the water, with PA commentary, toilets on board, and even a water slide at one of the swims. At $41 per person, the value is strong if you’re there to swim, snorkel, and take photos—not if you want a private beach day or a guided walk.

Key highlights worth booking for

• 3.5 hours on Comino so you can swim and still have time for countryside trails
• Blue Lagoon time with crystal-clear water and a white-sand seabed
• Crystal Lagoon (May–Oct) or St Nicholas Bay as a second swim stop
• Sea caves on the return pass-by view from the boat
• Water slide and jump-offs during the swim stop (on the day’s schedule)
• PA commentary in English with a crew that keeps things running smoothly

Why This Cruise Works: Comino Walking Plus Proper Swim Time

This isn’t just a “ride-by” boat tour. The schedule gives you a meaningful chunk of time on Comino—about 3.5 hours—so you can do more than hop on and off for photos. You’ll have room to actually enjoy the island, whether that’s floating in shallow water, snorkeling, or taking a slow walk with a camera.

The second reason I like it: you get more than one water experience. Blue Lagoon is the headline, but the included swim stop at Crystal Lagoon (May to October, weather permitting) or St. Nicholas Bay can be just as fun—especially if the Blue Lagoon shoreline is packed.

The trade-off is simple: it’s a shared boat day. You’ll want to be okay with other people on the water, limited shade at the famous spots, and a logistics requirement for landing at Blue Lagoon in 2025.

From Sliema Ferries to Comino: The Coastline Route You’re Actually Paying For

Your day starts at Sliema Ferries in the morning. From there, you’ll cruise with scenic views of Malta’s northern coastline and big-name bays as the boat heads toward Comino. Along the way, the route typically passes St. Julian’s Bay, St. George’s Bay, St. Paul’s Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and views of St. Paul’s Island.

This is one of those tours where the “travel time” is part of the product. You don’t just stare at the back of someone’s seat for 7.5 hours. You’re moving along a shoreline that’s easy to enjoy from the deck, with regular PA commentary over the speaker system in English.

There’s also a quick photo stop at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. The purpose is practical: this is where some passengers disembark. Then the cruise keeps going straight toward Comino.

Comino Island in Real Life: 3.5 Hours to Swim, Walk, and Photograph

When you finally land on Comino, you’re basically stepping into a low-key, car-free island day. Comino is small—about 3.5 square kilometers—and it feels like a breather between Malta and Gozo. That matters because you’re not fighting traffic or looking for parking. You’re just… on an island.

What you can do with your 3.5 hours

You’ll have time for any combo of these:

• Swimming and snorkeling in the shallows and around the calmer areas
• Relaxing on the beach or by the water
• Walking the countryside trails for views and photos

The route through Comino’s walking areas can include spots like St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery. You don’t need to hike hard. The point is that Comino gives you “postcard Malta” without being a crowded town.

The practical reality

One thing I always tell friends: if your goal is to swim constantly, your best plan is to treat Comino like your base camp and then save your strongest snorkeling moments for the water that looks best at the time. Also, bring proper footwear. Comfortable shoes matter here if you want to walk even a little.

Blue Lagoon and the May 2025 Access Pass: What You Must Plan Before You Go

Blue Lagoon is the star, no doubt. The payoff is the turquoise, crystal-clear water and the white sandy seabed, which makes it ideal for a relaxed swim and for seeing fish while you float.

But here’s the biggest change for your planning: starting May 2025, Malta requires a government-issued access pass for anyone who wants to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. This access pass is not handled through the cruise booking. You get it from the official site listed in the tour info: blcomino.com.

Two key practical tips:

• Choose the afternoon slot when you apply for the pass, since this cruise needs that timing.
• If you don’t have the required pass and you can’t land at the Blue Lagoon, no refunds are issued. That’s harsh, but it’s the rule.

So yes, Blue Lagoon can be amazing—and you can still have a great day even if conditions make it tighter—but your checklist needs that pass.

Crowds: plan for other boats

Even when everything is “working as planned,” Blue Lagoon can be busy because so many tours converge. Some people love the energy; others just want a little breathing room. Expect boats in the area, and expect docking to sometimes be a bit farther out than you’d like.

If you’re the type who wants the water with minimal hassle, go in mentally ready for a shared experience. It’s still worth it.

Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay: Your Second Chance to Swim

Your cruise includes an extra swim stop from May to October (weather permitting). Depending on the day, you’ll stop at either:

Crystal Lagoon

Crystal Lagoon is known for turquoise water framed by dramatic cliffs and caves. It’s a great option when you want that “wow, look at this water” feeling plus the fun of jumping in from the boat.

Reviews highlight the Crystal Lagoon stop as a top moment—often with about one hour to swim and enjoy the water before heading back toward Comino. If you’re someone who wants more than one water highlight, this second stop is a big deal.

St. Nicholas Bay

If Crystal Lagoon isn’t used that day, you’ll go to St. Nicholas Bay instead. It’s described as a peaceful inlet with two small sandy beaches and calm, shallow water—a better match if you want easier swimming rather than dramatic jumps.

Either way, you’re getting that extra “in the water” time that makes a day like this feel worth it.

On Board: PA Commentary, Toilets, and the Water Slide

This is a cruise with real onboard comfort for a day on the water. You get:

• Sightseeing cruise along the coast
• Commentary over a PA system
• Toilet facilities
• Crew assistance
• A water slide during the day’s onboard activity

It’s not a guided tour with a dedicated walking guide on shore. Stops are largely free time, so you decide how you use the island hours and swim opportunities.

One detail I like: the PA commentary is part of the experience, not just background noise. You’ll pick up context about what you’re passing. That helps you feel like you’re seeing the coast with purpose, not just riding along.

And yes—the water slide is part of why this feels fun. If you’re traveling with teens or you just enjoy silly beach-day energy, it adds a lot.

Crowds, Seating, Jellyfish, and Shade: How to Avoid the Usual Friction

This tour can be very good, but you should go in with eyes open. A few practical notes keep the day smooth.

Expect crowds at peak spots

Blue Lagoon can be busy because it’s famous for a reason. One review notes that the dock point may be farther out, so the walk back and forth can feel a little inconvenient. Another points out that crowding is real, even if it’s not totally chaotic.

Get comfortable with time and positioning

Some people recommend arriving early to catch a good spot on the boat before departure. If you care about seating or you want to be near where you can easily get out for the swim moments, it helps.

Shade is limited

At Blue Lagoon, shade isn’t guaranteed. One review says there’s little shade unless you rent an umbrella and chair (mentioned as €15 for a single). So if you’re heat-sensitive, plan for sunscreen and a hat.

Watch for jellyfish

One review includes a quick warning about jellyfish. That doesn’t mean “don’t swim,” but it does mean: use common sense. If the water looks or feels off, adjust your swim area and keep an eye on conditions.

Price and Value: What $41 Really Buys You Here

At $41 per person for about 7.5 hours, the value comes from combining four things:

1. Time on Comino (about 3.5 hours) so you’re not rushed.
2. Blue Lagoon access and swimming time (with the 2025 pass requirement).
3. A second swim stop at Crystal Lagoon or St Nicholas Bay (May–Oct).
4. Onboard fun + comfort, including toilets and a water slide.

Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for snacks if you get hungry. The good news: reviews mention you can buy food and drinks on the boat or on the island. That keeps you from having to carry a full picnic.

Also, this tour is best when you’re okay with “group day” logistics. If you want a private boat or a more isolated experience, you’ll likely feel the limits here. But for a shared day that still includes real swim time, sea caves views, and island wandering, it’s a strong deal.

Who This Cruise Suits Best (and Who Might Hate It)

This cruise fits best if you want water time and photos without planning a whole day on your own. You’ll likely enjoy it if you:

• Love swimming and snorkeling
• Want an easy way to reach Comino from Sliema
• Like the idea of multiple water stops instead of only Blue Lagoon
• Don’t mind crowds at peak times

It may not suit you if:

• You have mobility impairments or use a wheelchair
• You’re prone to seasickness or motion sickness
• You want a quiet, private beach day

In other words: it’s a fun day out, but it’s not designed as a gentle, slow, accessible island stroll.

Should You Book This Comino and Blue Lagoon Cruise?

If your goal is a classic Malta water day—Comino + Blue Lagoon plus a second swim stop—you should book. The schedule gives you enough time on Comino to do more than take photos, and the Crystal Lagoon / St Nicholas Bay stop can be a highlight in its own right.

My only “don’t book blindly” advice is the Blue Lagoon access pass rule. In 2025, that’s not a small detail. Check the pass requirement before you pay travel-day money for a cruise, and pick the afternoon slot tied to this itinerary.

If you’re okay with shared boats, you bring the basics (swimwear, towel, sunscreen), and you’re excited to be in the water, this cruise is one of the best-value ways to experience Comino from Sliema.

FAQ

How long is the cruise from Sliema?

The total duration is listed as 7.5 hours, and starting times vary by availability.

How much time do I get on Comino Island?

You get approximately 3.5 hours to explore Comino.

Do I need a pass to land at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. A government-issued access pass is required for disembarking at the Blue Lagoon starting May 2025. You must get it in advance through blcomino.com and select the afternoon slot for this cruise.

What swim stop is included besides Blue Lagoon?

Depending on the month and weather, you’ll get an additional swim stop of about 45 minutes at either Crystal Lagoon (May–Oct) or St. Nicholas Bay.

Is a water slide included?

Yes. The tour includes a water slide during the onboard swim stop activity.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks aren’t included, though you may be able to buy them on the boat or on the island based on the trip experiences.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash.

Is this tour suitable for people with motion sickness or mobility needs?

No. It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and it’s also not suitable for people prone to seasickness or motion sickness.

If you want, tell me your travel month and whether you care more about snorkeling or just relaxing—I’ll help you judge if Crystal Lagoon vs. St. Nicholas Bay is the better fit for your day.

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