Sliema: Boat Trip to Comino Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and Caves

Discover Malta’s Coastal Wonders on the Sliema Boat Trip

This 5-hour power boat tour from Sliema offers an exciting way to see Malta’s stunning coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and natural caves. For $51 per person, you’ll experience stops at Crystal Lagoon, Comino Blue Lagoon, and Gozo, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore limestone cliffs and nature reserves. The tour is perfect for those who love water activities and want a smaller, more personal group experience, guided by knowledgeable crew members.

The tour departs from Sliema Ferries, with a clear focus on crystal waters and breathtaking scenery. The boat is equipped with shade and provides free snorkeling masks, making it easy to enjoy the marine environments. While the trip offers plenty of swimming and exploration, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks is advisable. This experience suits active travelers who appreciate informative guides and beautiful outdoor settings.

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Key Points

• Duration of 5 hours with multiple stops for swimming and sightseeing
• Affordable price of $51 per person includes snorkeling equipment
• Highlights include Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, Alfa Rock, and coastal caves
• Small group experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide
• Departure from Sliema Ferries with a powerboat designed for comfort and speed
• Good value for those seeking marine adventure and scenic views

From Sliema to the Coast: Starting Point and Boat Setup

The journey begins at Sliema Ferries, where a white boat with a blue tent signals the start of the adventure. The boat is well-equipped, offering shade and snorkeling masks at no extra cost. The group size tends to stay intimate, enhancing the overall experience and allowing for personalized interactions with the crew. The duration of the trip is five hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling outing.

Tour departures vary, so checking availability beforehand is recommended. The meet-up point is straightforward—look for the distinctive boat docked at the ferry terminal. The return is to the same point, completing the loop along Malta’s scenic coast.

Exploring Crystal Lagoon and Comino Blue Lagoon

The first stop is Crystal Lagoon, an ideal spot for a quick swim and snorkeling. This shallow bay features turquoise waters, perfect for cooling off after the boat ride. The short swim here sets the tone for the day, allowing everyone to stretch and enjoy the refreshing Mediterranean.

Next, the tour heads to Comino Blue Lagoon, widely praised for its vivid blue waters and gentle waves. Here, visitors have around two hours to swim and snorkel in the bay. The water is described as crystal clear, ideal for observing marine life. The island of Comino itself is known as a bird sanctuary and natural reserve, with sand dunes and native vegetation adding to its appeal. As of 1 May 2025, visitors swimming in the lagoon do not need to apply for an online ticket, but if disembarking on the island, a separate ticket process is in place.

The stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are widely considered the highlights, thanks to their stunning waters and peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers often mention the quality of the snorkeling gear and the calm waters, making each swim a memorable experience.

Discovering the Natural Caves Along the Comino Coast

One of the tour’s unique features is the exploration of coastal caves along Comino and the nearby coastline of Gozo. Traveling by powerboat, the crew takes guests past limestone cliffs and into hidden caves, marveling at their raw beauty and deep blue seawater.

The caves are a popular photo opportunity and a chance to see Malta’s geological formations close up. The boat’s proximity to the caves offers excellent vantage points, and the guide shares interesting facts about the area. The caves’ rugged cliffs and craggy coastline provide a dramatic backdrop for photos.

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Swimming Near Alfa Rock and in Gozo’s Bay

The next stop is near Alfa Rock in Gozo, where the crew arranges a swim in calmer waters. The area is known for its rich marine life and peaceful environment. Visitors often comment on the quality of the water and the plenty of space to relax and float.

This part of the trip offers a second opportunity for swimming and snorkeling, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the blue waters of Malta and Gozitan coast. The timing of each stop is designed to balance exploration and rest, with the crew ensuring everyone has enough time in the water.

The Experience of a Small Group Tour with Captain Tony

A standout feature of this tour is the small group size, typically around 20-30 people, which encourages a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. The crew, led by Captain Tony, is praised for being friendly, informative, and funny.

Reviews frequently highlight Tony’s humor and wealth of knowledge about Malta’s history and marine environment. Despite choppy waters, Tony’s professionalism and safety-first approach ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride. His long experience—over 55 years—makes him an expert at navigating the coast and engaging with guests.

Tips for Maximizing the Day

To make the most of the 5 hours, travelers are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, swimwear, and towels. Since food and drinks are not included, packing snacks or water is recommended, especially for longer stays at each stop.

The timing of the stops offers a good balance between swimming, exploration, and relaxation, but those seeking more time in the Blue Lagoon may wish to arrive early or plan their day accordingly. The boat’s speed and size mean a comfortable ride with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.

The Overall Value and Who Will Love This Trip

At $51 per person, this small-group boat trip delivers excellent value for anyone wanting to see Malta’s coastline and marine environments without the crowds of larger boats. The focus on snorkeling and personalized service makes it especially appealing for water lovers.

The expert guidance of Captain Tony, combined with stunning scenery and well-chosen stops, makes this tour a favorite among those who enjoy active outings and beautiful natural settings. The absence of food might be a limitation for some, but the affordable price and quality stops more than compensate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat trip from Sliema?
The tour lasts 5 hours, with multiple scenic stops along the coast for swimming and exploration.

What is included in the price?
The boat transport, snorkeling masks, and shade are included. Food and drinks are not.

Do I need to bring my own towels?
Yes, towels are not provided, so bringing your own is recommended for comfortable sunbathing and drying off.

Will I get time to explore Comino Island?
You will have time to swim and walk around the island, which is a bird sanctuary and natural reserve. However, disembarking on the island requires an online ticket, which is not needed for swimming in the lagoon.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group size, friendly guide Captain Tony, and beautiful coastal caves are consistent highlights. The balance of adventure and relaxation makes it ideal for active travelers.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the short swims and scenic nature suggest it’s suitable for families, provided children are comfortable in water and small boats.

This power boat adventure from Sliema offers an engaging way to see Malta’s coast, with stunning water and engaging guides. Perfect for water enthusiasts and those wanting an up-close view of Malta’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby