Malta Coastline Cruise: Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon Boat Tour

Summary

Family-run Malta boat trip to Comino lagoons and caves

You’ll cruise Malta’s coastline with a local crew, stopping at Comino’s Blue Lagoon for swimming or snorkelling (gear available), then head to Crystal Lagoon and Paradise Bay Beach for more swims and sunbathing on deck. Expect friendly banter from your guides, shaded lounging areas, and plenty of time to soak up those Mediterranean colors — plus that little thrill when you jump off the boat for the first time.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a cold drink before I even sit down on the boat — that’s how the crew does things here. Captain Alex shouts something in Maltese to his cousin (I think?) as we drift away from Bugibba Jetty, and the sea just opens up in front of us. There’s this mix of sunscreen and salty air that hits you right away. I grab a spot in the shade, but end up moving around because everyone’s laughing and swapping seats for better views. The water’s so clear it almost looks fake. My friend tries out the slide straight into the sea — she comes up sputtering and grinning, hair everywhere.

We pass St. Paul’s Islands, and our guide points out where — apparently — St. Paul was shipwrecked ages ago. I can’t help but imagine what that must’ve been like with no engine or sunbeds (or cold drinks). Then there’s Elephant Head Rock, which actually does look like an elephant if you squint a bit. People start snapping photos; someone jokes about seeing animal shapes everywhere now. The real surprise is when we slow down at these caves carved into Comino’s cliffs — it smells damp and earthy inside, and you hear your own voice echo back if you call out. Kind of eerie but also cool.

The main event is definitely jumping into the Blue Lagoon — turquoise water that feels warmer than I expected (not bathwater warm, just… comfortable). There’s snorkelling gear for rent if you want it, but honestly I’m happy just floating around with the sun on my face for a while. Later we anchor at Crystal Lagoon, which is quieter and somehow feels more secret — fewer boats, more space to swim without bumping elbows. A couple of kids race down the slide again; their dad pretends he doesn’t want to try but gives in eventually.

Last stop is Paradise Bay Beach — rocky cliffs on one side, sand underfoot, Gozo off in the distance looking hazy. Someone shares their leftover chips with us (the snack kind), and we just sit there letting our towels dry out before heading back toward Bugibba. The ride home is quieter; people are tired in that good way you get after swimming all afternoon. I still think about that echo inside the cave sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Malta Coastline Cruise and Island Exploration

• Board boat at Bugibba Jetty
• Cruise past St. Paul’s Islands
• View Elephant Head Rock formation
• Explore Comino sea caves
• Swim and relax at Blue Lagoon
• Snorkel and enjoy Crystal Lagoon
• Swim at Paradise Bay Beach
• Cruise back to Bugibba Jetty

Top questions

How long is the Malta coastline cruise to Comino?

The cruise lasts about 5 to 5.5 hours depending on sunset times.

Where does the boat depart from?

The tour starts at Bugibba Jetty in Malta.

Are swimming stops included on this cruise?

Yes, there are swimming stops at Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Paradise Bay Beach.

Is snorkelling gear provided?

Snorkelling gear is available to rent onboard for a small charge.

Does this tour include lunch or snacks?

No meals are included; bring your own snacks if needed.

Can I go ashore at Comino?

The boat remains anchored; if you want to go ashore you'll need to swim from the boat.

Is there shaded seating on board?

Yes, there are both shaded areas and sun decks available on the family-run boat.

Are restrooms available during the cruise?

Yes, onboard restrooms and changing spaces are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered by your ticket, use of onboard restrooms and changing spaces throughout the trip, plenty of shaded or sunny lounging areas on a spacious family-run boat departing from Bugibba Jetty — plus optional snorkelling gear rental if you want to explore underwater during swim stops at Blue Lagoon or Crystal Lagoon before returning in the evening.