Comino, Blue Lagoon and Caves. Tour A

The clearest water is reached by sea. This half-day cruise from Bugibba takes you around Comino, with time at Santa Marija Bay and the famous Blue Lagoon, plus close views of caves and rock formations. The boat has open sun decks, shaded seating, toilets, showers, a swim ladder, and food and drinks for sale.

I especially like the generous swimming time and the friendly, personal service from Captain Owen and his crew. The boat also anchors away from the thickest Blue Lagoon crowds, which can make a real difference. The main drawback is space: with up to 90 people aboard, the boat may feel crowded, and there are no proper loungers for stretching out.

The advertised timing needs a careful check before you go. One part of the information gives a 10:00 departure, while the meeting details list 10:30 a.m. at Sirens Quay. Arrive early and follow the time printed on your ticket.

Key Things to Know Before You Book

• Two long swimming stops: You get about 1.5 hours at Santa Marija Bay and up to 2 to 2.5 hours around the Blue Lagoon.
• Captain Owen’s personal welcome: He introduces himself, explains the day, and provides live commentary along the coast.
• A smaller boat feel: The vessel is not one of Malta’s enormous party boats, though it can still become crowded.
• Caves are part of the cruise: You pass through the South Channel and see Comino’s caves, including views near Elephant’s Head Rock.
• Blue Lagoon QR code required: From May 1, 2025, you need a free time-slot QR code to step onto the Blue Lagoon shore.
• Good onboard value: Food and drinks are available, and several people found the prices unusually reasonable for a boat trip.

Setting Out From Bugibba’s Sirens Quay

The meeting point is Sirens Quay at 24 Triq San Geraldu in San Pawl il-Baħar, also known as St. Paul’s Bay. The trip returns to the same place at about 5:00 p.m., making this an easy choice if you are staying in the northern part of Malta.

The boat accepts mobile tickets, and confirmation is provided when you book. Since the published information gives both 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. as possible start times, do not rely on memory or a casual glance at your booking page. Check the exact departure time and arrive with enough time to find the quay and board.

Once on board, you can choose the sun deck or shaded deck. That choice matters in Malta, where a pleasant sea breeze can make the open deck wonderful, but direct afternoon sun can become tiring. Bring sunscreen, a hat, a swimsuit, and something dry to cover yourself between swims.

Captain Owen has received particular praise for greeting people personally and explaining the day ahead. That small introduction helps, especially because this boat also handles a separate Gozo option. A little confusion about Tour A and Tour B has occurred, so listen carefully to the morning instructions and confirm which stops belong to your booking.

St. Paul’s Island, Ghadira Bay, and Mellieha’s Red Tower

The first part of the cruise is sightseeing from the water. You pass St. Paul’s Island, with views connected to shipwrecks nearly 2,000 years old. You do not stop here, but the slow cruise gives you time to look and take photographs.

The route continues toward Ghadira Bay, Malta’s largest sandy beach. From the boat, you see the beach as part of a wider coastal picture rather than as a swimming stop. The changing shoreline gives the early part of the trip some variety before Comino becomes the main event.

You also cruise along Ahrax Point near Mellieha and pass the Red Tower of Mellieha. The crew provides live commentary, so this portion is more useful than simply staring at the coastline and guessing what you are seeing. The commentary has been praised as clear and well timed, with the captain slowing the boat near points of interest.

This is a good reason to sit where you can hear the crew during the outward trip. You can always move toward the sun deck later when the boat reaches the swimming areas.

The Crystal Lagoon and Comino’s Caves

As the boat enters Comino’s South Channel, the water and rock scenery become the focus. The Crystal Lagoon is known for its caves and clear water, and the boat pauses for photographs.

Do not expect a long shore visit here. This is mainly a scenic passage and photo stop, with the boat moving close enough to give you a better look at the rock walls and openings. Visibility inside or near the caves can be reduced by conditions, so this part depends on light, water clarity, and the boat’s exact position.

The crew later takes you past more of Comino’s well-known rock formations and caves on the return journey. Elephant’s Head Rock is one of the notable formations. If you enjoy coastal geology and unusual shapes, keep your phone ready, but remember that the best view may be brief as the boat continues along its route.

The vessel is equipped for a close coastal cruise rather than a formal sightseeing lecture. The appeal is the combination of commentary, sea air, and changing views. You get a real sense of Comino’s rocky coast without spending the whole day on foot.

A Short Pause at Gozo

The boat briefly disembarks people who have chosen the Gozo option. This takes about ten minutes, and you remain onboard.

For you, this is mostly a pause in the schedule rather than a Gozo visit. It is worth knowing so you do not expect a substantial stop on that island. The crew uses the time to manage the different tour choices, which explains why clear instructions at the start are important.

Santa Marija Bay: The More Relaxed Swim Stop

Santa Marija Bay is the first major stop and lasts about 1.5 hours. It is described as a secluded sandy beach in Comino and is especially appealing for snorkeling.

You can get off the boat and use the island during this time, or remain onboard and swim from the side ladder and swim platform. The choice gives you some freedom. If you want sand, a short walk, or a quieter setting, go ashore. If you prefer to avoid a scramble over rocks or simply want to jump straight into the water, use the boat’s ladder.

The bay is a strong part of the day because it spreads the swimming time across two different settings. Santa Marija feels more like a beach stop, while the Blue Lagoon is the famous headline attraction. That contrast helps prevent the entire trip from becoming one long session in the same crowded spot.

You might also find the water particularly inviting for snorkeling here. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them, since the tour information does not promise equipment rental. The boat provides access to the water, but not a dedicated snorkeling package.

Some people choose an optional speedboat experience during the Santa Marija stop. That possibility appears to be available separately, so ask the crew onboard if it interests you and confirm any extra cost before agreeing.

Blue Lagoon Without Staying in the Thickest Crowd

The Blue Lagoon is the main stop and lasts about two hours, with some information describing the stay as up to 2.5 hours. The boat anchors away from the heaviest crowds, giving you the option to enjoy the turquoise water from the vessel rather than immediately joining the shore traffic.

That anchoring position is one of the tour’s best practical features. The Blue Lagoon is famous, but fame brings packed beaches, busy walkways, and limited room at the shoreline. From the boat, you can swim, snorkel, sit in the shade, or use the sun deck while still enjoying the water.

You may also go ashore, but there is an important new rule. From May 1, 2025, Malta requires a free QR code and time slot for anyone stepping onto the Blue Lagoon shore. The required time slot for this tour is listed as 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Book the QR code through the link provided with your ticket at blcomino.com.

You do not need the QR code if you stay on the boat. That makes the cruise a useful option if you want the Blue Lagoon water but do not care about standing on the island. If you do want to get off, arrange the code before departure rather than trying to sort it out at the lagoon.

The boat’s side ladder and swim platform make water access straightforward, though you should expect a shared setup rather than a private swimming area. A shower near the ladder lets you rinse off salt water, and a toilet is available onboard.

What the Boat Is Really Like

The boat has a pleasant old-fashioned, almost pirate-boat character. It is clean and smaller than the biggest vessels used on the Malta routes, which helps create the friendly atmosphere people value.

That does not mean it will feel spacious. The maximum group size is 90, and the boat can look crowded at boarding time. Arriving around 30 minutes before departure has been useful for people who want a better choice of seats, although the exact boarding process may vary.

There are shaded and open areas, but no proper sun loungers. If lying flat in the sun is central to your idea of a boat day, this may disappoint you. The setup is better suited to sitting, chatting, looking at the coast, and getting into the water.

Food and drinks are sold onboard. Prices have been described as cheap, which improves the value of the trip because you do not have to leave the boat searching for lunch during the long Blue Lagoon stop. Lunch itself is not included, so plan to buy something onboard or bring food if permitted by the operator.

The crew’s manner is a major strength. Captain Owen and the staff are repeatedly described as welcoming, helpful, and accommodating. That personal tone makes a difference on a boat where people need clear directions for boarding, shore access, swimming, and the separate Gozo option.

Music is also part of the atmosphere, along with the captain’s commentary. This is not a silent nature cruise. If you want a lively day with a sociable crew, that should suit you. If you want total quiet, bring realistic expectations.

Is Six and a Half Hours Good Value at $46.10?

At $46.10 per person, the price is fair for a roughly 6.5-hour cruise with two substantial water stops, coastal sightseeing, cave views, commentary, and onboard facilities.

The value comes from time rather than luxury. You are not paying for a private boat or a polished meal. You are paying for a full route around Comino, reliable access to two swimming areas, and the convenience of having a boat, toilet, shower, shade, and food available throughout the day.

The trip is especially good value if you plan to swim. A short cruise with a quick photo stop may be enough for sightseeing, but this tour gives you about 3.5 to 4 hours combined at Santa Marija Bay and the Blue Lagoon, depending on the exact schedule.

The price is less compelling if you mainly want an uncrowded, quiet boat ride. Up to 90 people can be onboard, and the Blue Lagoon itself remains a busy destination even when your boat anchors away from the main shore crowds.

Who Should Choose Tour A?

I would choose this tour if you want a simple way to see Comino and spend real time in the water. Families, couples, and groups of friends can all make good use of the flexible shore access and the choice between sun and shade.

It also suits you if friendly service matters. Captain Owen’s habit of introducing himself and explaining the plan gives the trip a more personal feel than a purely functional ferry ride.

You should think twice if you need lots of personal space, a quiet vessel, or a guaranteed lounger. The boat may feel packed, particularly during boarding and the busiest part of the day.

It is also not the right choice if you expect a full Gozo tour. The boat only pauses briefly to let Gozo-option passengers off. Tour A is primarily about Comino, Santa Marija Bay, the Blue Lagoon, and the caves.

Practical Tips for a Smoother Day

• Arrive early at Sirens Quay, especially since the published start times differ.
• Check that your booking is for Tour A, not the Gozo option.
• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.
• Carry a waterproof phone pouch if you want photos from the water.
• Book the free Blue Lagoon QR code in advance if you plan to step ashore.
• Choose a shaded seat if you do not want several hours of direct sun.
• Keep some room in your schedule after the return, since the stated arrival is around 5:00 p.m.
• Expect food and drinks to cost extra, even though onboard prices are considered reasonable.

Free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Last-minute changes are not accepted, and poor weather or an insufficient number of bookings can cause the operator to offer another date or a full refund.

FAQ

Where does the Comino boat tour depart?

The tour departs from Sirens Quay, 24 Triq San Geraldu, San Pawl il-Baħar, Malta. It returns to the same meeting point.

How long does the tour last?

The full experience lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, returning to port at about 5:00 p.m.

How much time is spent at Santa Marija Bay?

The boat stops at Santa Marija Bay for approximately 1.5 hours. You may get off the boat or swim from the boat.

How long does the boat stay at the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon stop lasts about two hours, with the included details also describing it as up to 2.5 hours.

Do I need a QR code for the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, you need a free QR code and time slot to step onto the Blue Lagoon shore from May 1, 2025. The listed time slot for this tour is 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. No QR code is needed if you remain on the boat.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Lunch is not included, but food and drinks are available to purchase onboard.

What facilities are available on the boat?

The boat has a sun deck, shaded deck, toilet, shower near the side ladder, side ladder, and swim platform. Live commentary is also included.

Should You Book Comino, Blue Lagoon and Caves, Tour A?

Yes, if your main goal is a full day on the water at a reasonable price. You get two proper swimming stops, cave and coastline views, useful facilities, and a crew known for friendly service. The chance to enjoy the Blue Lagoon from a boat away from the main shore crowd is a real advantage.

Book with open eyes about the compromises. This is a shared boat, not a private charter. Space can be tight, there are no loungers, and the Blue Lagoon QR code requires advance action if you want to walk ashore.

For most people who want to see Comino, swim in clear water, and keep the cost near $46, Tour A is a solid choice. Arrive early, confirm your start time, sort out the QR code, and treat the boat as your base for the day rather than expecting a resort at sea.