Gozo and Comino in one fast day. This Sliema powerboat outing lets you hop between top-water spots like Crystal Lagoon and Comino’s Blue Lagoon, with easy, repeated chances to swim. I also love the vibe onboard: shade when you want it, a proper guide who talks history (and jokes), and a route built around being on the water, not stuck watching other people.

My favorite part is the combination of views plus water time: limestone coastlines, cave viewpoints from the boat, and a final dip near Ħalfa Rock in Gozo. One thing to plan for is that the sea can get choppy, so you’ll want to hold steady during bouncy moments, and your comfort on a smaller speedboat depends on how full it is that day.

Key Things I’d Notice First

• Small-boat feel with a real guide: Captain Tony runs the show with energy, jokes, and clear explanations.
• Multiple swim stops, not just one: Crystal Lagoon, Comino Blue Lagoon, then a swim near Ħalfa Rock.
• Shade aboard: you can cool off between jumps, not just bake on deck.
• Free snorkeling masks are provided, but you’ll still want to bring the basics you personally need (see the snorkeling section).
• Comino island rules change in 2025: an online ticket may be required if you swim from the island, not just from the boat.

Leaving Sliema Ferries for Crystal Lagoon: the fast start you’ll feel

The day starts at Sliema Ferries, and you’ll know your boat by the look: white boat with a blue tent. From there, the route wastes little time. You quickly get out over Malta’s water and start seeing the islands the way you came for them: from the sea.

Early on, you can take in the view of St Paul’s Island as you cruise. It’s a small visual “warm-up” that helps Comino and Gozo feel closer than they look on a map. Then the first real payoff arrives: a stop at Crystal Lagoon for a swim directly from the boat.

This is not a slow sightseeing cruise. It’s a powerboat plan with short, purposeful stops. That’s exactly why it works for a half-day: you’re spending your limited time where it counts, in the water and around the cliffs.

Crystal Lagoon stop: short swim, clear water, and a good warm-up

Crystal Lagoon is your first “get wet” moment, and the big win is how fast you can go from deck to sea. You jump in from the boat for a swim, and you’re aiming for that clean, bright water look that Malta is known for.

This stop is typically on the shorter side, so don’t expect it to replace a beach day. But as a warm-up, it’s great. It also helps you mentally pace the rest of the trip: you’ll likely be happier at the later stops if you treat Crystal Lagoon as your first taste.

One practical tip: if the water is a bit rough, you’ll still be able to swim, but you’ll want to follow the crew’s instructions and be ready for quick entries and exits. Speedboats move fast, and the whole plan depends on safety and timing, not lingering.

Comino Blue Lagoon: where the limestone cliffs and the water steal the show

Then comes Comino and its famous Blue Lagoon area. This is the point most people are picturing when they book a Comino trip. You’ll have time to swim and snorkel in the bay, and you can often disembark for island time depending on the day’s schedule.

What makes this stop special is the coastline itself. Comino’s limestone cliffs feel raw and close, and the water takes on that intense blue look that only happens when you’re near the right spots. From the boat, you also get cave-and-coast views that you just can’t replicate from shore.

A fair caution: the Blue Lagoon can feel busy when multiple boats are in the same area. If you like space and quiet, arrive with the right mindset—this is a popular swim zone. The silver lining is that the crew’s route choices and timing help spread things out, and you still get real swimming time at more than one location.

Comino island time and the 2025 online ticket rule

After the swim time, there’s a stop on Comino Island for a stroll. Comino isn’t a typical resort island. It’s a bird sanctuary and natural reserve, and that shows in the vegetation and the sense that you’re walking through a protected landscape. There are sand dunes and local plants to look at, plus a chance to step out of the boat rhythm for a while.

Here’s the key rule that matters for planning: as of 1 May 2025, you need to apply for an online ticket on https://blcomino.com/ if you swim from the island. If you’re only swimming from the boat, this requirement doesn’t apply.

So think of it this way: island time is more about walking and looking than beach-chair lounging. If you’re tempted to swim after you step onto Comino, handle the ticket in advance so you’re not dealing with it mid-trip.

The Ħalfa Rock swim in Gozo: a different coast and another water reset

Next up is Ħalfa Rock in Gozo, where you’ll get another chance to swim. This stop is valuable for two reasons. First, it gives you a second “main character” water moment instead of repeating the same type of bay. Second, it breaks up the day so you’re not stuck in one spot.

Gozo’s coast feels a little different in character than Comino. The rock formations and the way light hits the water can feel more dramatic, and the stop near Ħalfa Rock often becomes a favorite because you still get that jump-from-the-boat simplicity.

Also, you’ll be past the first-wave nerves by then. Early in the day, people are working out boat motion, where to store things, and how the crew times entries. By Ħalfa Rock, most of that rhythm is already handled, and you can focus on swimming and snorkeling.

Comino caves by boat: what you’re seeing and how to time your attention

After leaving Gozo, the trip shifts into cave sightseeing along the Comino coast by boat. This is one of those parts that’s easy to overlook if you’re only thinking about the swim stops. But the caves add variety. They’re not just decoration; they change how you experience the coastline—moving from open bays to tighter, cliff-hugging views.

The best way to enjoy this segment is to treat it like a “look out the window” moment. You’ll usually be close enough to feel the scale of the limestone formations. When the boat angles in, the color of the water and the shadow lines in the cliffs can be dramatic.

If you want photos, this is a great time to get them, but don’t ignore safety. Keep your footing and keep your gear controlled. Speedboats aren’t built for people standing around unprepared.

Some days you may also get little bonus viewpoints on the return route, like spots linked to underwater landmarks. That’s the kind of extra that makes the day feel personal instead of cookie-cutter.

Snorkeling masks, shade, and what to bring so you’re comfortable

Snorkeling is supported with snorkeling masks included. There’s no extra rental process you need to worry about. The masks are useful for basic snorkeling and getting a clear look underwater, and the repeated swim stops mean you get more chances to see things.

Two practical notes I’d plan around:

• Towels and food/drinks are not included, so bring your basics.
• Some people find the provided snorkeling setup feels like goggles without a snorkel. If snorkeling is your priority, bring your own snorkel so you’re not improvising.

The boat is designed for this kind of day, including shade so you can cool down between swims. That matters in Malta’s sun. You’ll likely be in and out of the water, and shade gives you a chance to reset.

What to bring is simple and worth following:

• swimwear
• sunscreen
• sunglasses and a hat
• a towel
• sunscreen (yes, again)
• water-friendly footwear only if you personally prefer it (the trip is mostly swim-and-climb from the boat)

Also, if the sea gets rough, expect bouncier moments. Hold on where you’re told and keep your balance. The crew’s been doing this for years, and the smoother your teamwork, the better your swim windows feel.

Price and value: is $47 for 5 hours actually fair?

At $47 per person for about 5 hours, you’re paying for three big things: transportation, multiple swim stops, and guided time that keeps the route moving efficiently.

A smaller boat and a guide who’s involved can change the experience from a basic ferry-style outing into something more social and memorable. In the feedback from past trips, Captain Tony stands out for making people feel included while also sharing Malta details along the way. That matters because you’re not just watching scenery—you’re getting context while you’re living it.

Value also comes from “time-on-water per hour.” A half-day plan like this works because you get repeat chances to swim and snorkel instead of one long stop. You’re basically buying a compact itinerary with a lot of sea time packed in.

The only real downside on the value side is what you might not control: sea conditions and how busy popular swim areas feel. But that’s also true for any Comino/Blue Lagoon plan.

For most visitors, this price is a strong match for a short Malta vacation when you want classic sights without committing to a whole day.

Who should book this Sliema to Comino and Gozo boat trip

I’d point this trip at people who want active sightseeing. If you like swimming, snorkeling, and quick, high-payoff stops, you’ll probably love it. It’s also great for mixed-age groups because the day has variety: swim breaks, island walking, and cave views.

You’ll likely be happier if:

• you enjoy getting in the water a couple times
• you want a guide-led day instead of self-guided logistics
• you can handle a bouncy boat ride if conditions aren’t perfect
• you’d rather do a smaller-group speedboat than a huge cruise

If you’re chasing a quiet, long, beachy day on Comino, this isn’t built for that. It’s built for movement and water time. Think of it as “Comino and Gozo highlights with swims,” not “slow beach lounging.”

Should you book this Sliema boat trip to Comino, Gozo, and caves?

I think it’s a solid yes for most people doing Malta for only a few days. The mix of Crystal Lagoon, Comino Blue Lagoon, a Ħalfa Rock swim in Gozo, plus cave views makes the 5 hours feel full without feeling rushed in the wrong way.

Book it if you want:

• multiple water stops in one day
• shade between swims
• a guide who keeps the atmosphere fun and informative
• included snorkeling masks and an easy entry into snorkeling

Skip it or pick a different style if you:

• hate choppy conditions and are very motion-sensitive
• want a long, low-effort Comino beach day
• expect full snorkel gear (since masks are included, but a snorkel isn’t guaranteed)

If you do book, do yourself a favor: bring sunscreen, a towel, and either your own snorkel or a plan for how you’ll enjoy the mask-only setup.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Sliema boat trip?

Meet at Sliema Ferries and look for a white boat with a blue tent.

How long is the trip?

The duration is 5 hours.

What stops are included during the day?

You’ll go from Sliema to Crystal Lagoon, then Comino Blue Lagoon, have time at Comino Island, swim near Ħalfa Rock in Gozo, and visit caves along the Comino coast by boat.

What snorkeling gear is included?

Snorkeling masks are included.

Do I need food or drinks for the day?

Food and drinks are not included, and you should plan on bringing your own or buying on-site if options are available.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Towels are not included, so bring one.

Is there an online ticket requirement for Comino?

As of 1 May 2025, you need an online ticket on https://blcomino.com/ if you swim from Comino Island. If you swim only from the boat, this requirement does not apply.

What cancellation options are available?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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