Crystal water in just one long sea day. This is a Malta-to-Comino catamaran day trip that trades long island plans for big views and a proper swim stop at the Blue Lagoon. I like the comfort of the modern, air-conditioned boat with free Wi‑Fi onboard, and I also like that Comino time is yours to shape without a guided script. The main thing to consider is that the crossing can feel fast over waves, and motion sickness is a real risk for some people.

You can usually pick your departure from Sliema Ferries (Sliema) or Buġibba Jetty in St. Paul’s Bay, then settle in while the boat follows Malta’s northern coastline. Comino is small, car-free, and built for walking—so your day works best when you show up with swim gear and a plan for timing at the lagoon.

Key things to know before you go

• Choose your departure point up front: Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay, depending on the time slot you book.
• Blue Lagoon needs a government access pass: you must book the morning and afternoon slots when applying, and daily capacity is limited.
• It’s not a guided tour: you get leisure time on Comino, so you’ll be steering your own day.
• The boat is comfortable, but not always gentle: air-conditioning and toilets help, yet seasickness can still happen.
• Optional cave boat costs extra: the Comino Caves and Crystal Lagoon motorboat trip is about €15 per person, and it depends on weather.
• You’re moving all day: it’s a ferry cruise, so the boat won’t stay at the destination for you.

Sliema or St Paul’s Bay: how the catamaran day starts

This trip runs like a classic Comino shuttle with one big purpose: get you to the Blue Lagoon area fast and efficiently, then give you enough hours to enjoy Comino at a comfortable pace. You’ll depart in the morning from either Sliema Ferries or Buġibba Jetty in St. Paul’s Bay. Your meeting point can vary based on what option you booked, so check your confirmation carefully.

I recommend treating boarding like a fast airport moment. The boat operators ask you to arrive 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. That matters because this is a high-demand cruise, and even small delays can ripple across the whole day (especially once you factor in the Blue Lagoon access pass rules).

A small practical note: this isn’t a hotel pick-up. You’ll need to get yourself to the departure jetty area. If you’re staying in Valletta or the Three Cities, plan your transfer time so you’re not rushing at the last second.

What the coastal cruise is really for: views and timing

The cruise portion isn’t about getting photos at one perfect spot. It’s about giving you a moving vantage point—watching Malta’s northern coastline slide by while you relax on a modern state-of-the-art catamaran. The boat also follows the shoreline past the attractions that dot the coast, so you get those postcard angles without needing to drive.

This is also where timing becomes your friend. The whole day is built around reaching Comino and the Blue Lagoon at the right time slot, then returning by ferry. When the schedule is tight, your best move is to stay flexible onboard: keep your essentials in one reachable spot, and don’t wait until the last minute to use the onboard facilities.

Comfort helps here. The boat is fully air-conditioned, and it has toilet facilities and free Wi‑Fi. That doesn’t replace fresh air (you’ll want that once you arrive), but it makes the “waiting-to-beat-the-crowd” parts easier.

The quick St Paul’s Bay pickup and the brief Gozo drop

If you choose the itinerary that starts from Sliema, you’ll still see St. Paul’s Bay become part of the story. The cruise proceeds along the northern coastline and makes a brief stop at St. Paul’s Bay to pick up passengers who are embarking from that region.

Then there’s a quick handoff that surprised me in the best way: after a brief stop at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo to drop off guests, the boat proceeds directly toward Comino. This means you’re not just sailing in a straight line—you’re part of a wider passenger flow across the Maltese islands.

What does that mean for you? Keep your schedule buffer mindset. You might have a slightly “moving target” feeling during the middle of the trip. The lesson is simple: when you’re onboard, follow crew updates and stay aware of the plan so you don’t miss the moment you’re approaching Comino time.

Comino island time: car-free, walkable, and yours to manage

Once you reach Comino, you’ll step ashore and enjoy the day at leisure. This is one of the best parts of the experience because Comino is small enough to explore without feeling like you need a rigid itinerary.

There are no cars or urban areas, so the island works like a natural walking loop. I love that this shifts the focus from sightseeing “checklists” to choosing your own pace. You might want to spend your time between swim stops, or you might prefer to do some light exploration before you commit to the lagoon.

Comino also has hiking paths, including routes leading to St. Mary’s Chapel, St. Mary’s Watch Tower, and St. Mary’s Battery. Even if you’re only on the island for a few hours, knowing these names helps you orient yourself when you’re planning where to go first.

One caution: since this isn’t a guided tour, you’re responsible for your own navigation choices once you’re ashore. If you like structure, you’ll feel better if you arrive with a basic idea of where you want to swim or walk.

Blue Lagoon swim stop: the access pass and the crowd factor

The Blue Lagoon is the reason most people book this cruise, and it’s easy to see why. You’ll get a swim stop at a bay known for crystal-clear turquoise waters, a white sandy base, and marine life you can often notice while you snorkel.

But here’s the part that can make or break your day: you need a government-issued access pass in advance to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. Malta’s directive effective May 2025 requires this, and the pass allocation is limited daily. Without the official pass, you won’t be allowed to disembark there.

Even more specific: for this trip, you’re required to book both the morning and afternoon time slots when applying for your pass. That’s a big deal because it means you can’t casually treat the day as flexible once you’re close to travel time. The pass is a planning task, not just a formality.

Then there’s the crowd factor. On at least one sailing, the Blue Lagoon was described as very busy, and the practical advice is straightforward: if you’re willing to walk a bit away from the most concentrated swim area, you may find calmer water and easier space to settle.

Also remember the boat won’t stay at the destination. When your Comino time ends, you’ll return by ferry, so keep an eye on the timing while you’re in the water.

Comfort onboard: Wi‑Fi, AC, and what the boat does well

This cruise invests in comfort in ways that matter for a long sea day. You’re on a modern air-conditioned catamaran, which is a lifesaver if the sun is strong. It also includes free Wi‑Fi, so you can handle messages and map checks between the big scenery moments.

There are toilet facilities, and the crew provides assistance and runs the flow of boarding and guest support. When conditions get bumpy, this becomes more than a nice extra—comfort logistics can help you recover quickly and avoid wasting your island time.

One more reality check from people who’ve experienced this cruise: on certain days the boat can feel like it’s moving quickly over waves, which can trigger seasickness. The key is preparation. If you’re sensitive, bring what you need and don’t wait until you feel sick before acting.

Seasickness, speed, and how to plan your body for the crossing

If you’re prone to seasickness, take this seriously. The activity is listed as not suitable for people prone to seasickness, and real-world experience backs up that warning. One account described a fast, choppy outbound crossing where multiple passengers felt ill soon after departure.

The flip side is also helpful. In that same situation, the crew reportedly stayed kind and practical, offering assistance and distributing items to help people manage nausea. On the return, conditions reportedly felt calmer, and people who were ill earlier did better.

So here’s what I’d do if you’re on the fence:

• If you know you react to boats, plan to medicate or prepare beforehand.
• Sit where the motion feels least intense for you, and keep your eyes on the horizon if you can.
• Don’t go into the day empty-handed. Bring sunglasses, water, and a towel so you can regain control quickly once you’re on Comino.

If you’re comfortable on ferries generally, you’ll likely enjoy the experience more than you fear it. But don’t gamble if motion sickness is part of your travel history.

Optional motorboat to Comino Caves and the Crystal Lagoon

You can add an optional motorboat trip to the Comino Caves and the Crystal Lagoon. This isn’t included in the main price, so you’ll pay on location (around €15 per person). It’s also subject to favourable weather and sea conditions.

Think of this as a “power-up” rather than the core plan. The main value of this ferry cruise is the scenic coast ride plus real leisure time on Comino with the Blue Lagoon swim. The motorboat option is for people who want a different angle—closer to cave systems and smaller water areas.

If weather turns choppy, you may not get the option at all. So don’t build your entire dream day on that add-on. Keep your base plan solid: swim, walk, and enjoy the island.

Price and value: what $35 buys, and what costs extra

At about $35 per person for a 7–7.5 hour day, you’re paying for a fast round-trip ferry and the ability to use modern boat comfort. That includes the sightseeing cruise, an air-conditioned catamaran, free Wi‑Fi, toilet facilities, and crew assistance.

What’s not included is where many people get surprised:

• The government access pass for the Blue Lagoon (handled via blcomino.com).
• Food and drinks, which you’ll need to sort for yourself on Comino.
• Any entry fees to sites (if you choose to visit places with fees).
• The optional motorboat trip (about €15 per person), when it’s running.

If you like value, do the math before you go. The base fare is reasonable for a one-day Comino logistics machine. But your true cost depends on your Blue Lagoon pass and any add-ons. The pass is the most important extra because without it, you won’t be able to disembark at the Blue Lagoon.

Practical checklist: what to bring for a full sea-and-sun day

For a day shaped by water time, bring items that let you move fast and stay comfortable.

Recommended items:

• Comfortable shoes (for walking on Comino)
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Cash

Also note what you can’t bring. Pets aren’t allowed, smoking isn’t allowed, and there are limits on luggage—no oversize luggage, and no large bags. If you’re traveling with lots of gear, keep it minimal so boarding stays smooth.

Who should book this, and who should skip it

This cruise is a great fit if:

• You want a simple Comino plan without extra land transport.
• You enjoy scenic sea views and a leisure island stop.
• You’re comfortable using your own phone for wayfinding once you’re on Comino.
• You want a practical swim day with a famous target.

It may not be your best choice if:

• You’re likely to get motion sick on boats. This trip is explicitly flagged as not suitable for that.
• You want a tightly guided, step-by-step tour. This is not a guided experience.
• You dislike crowding around signature swim spots like the Blue Lagoon. Even with your best timing, it’s still a popular bay.

One more booking mindset tip: assume boarding and ticket flow can be hectic on high-demand days. Plan to arrive early, keep your documents ready, and don’t rely on everything being perfectly transparent inside an app.

Should you book the Coastal Ferry Cruise to the Blue Lagoon?

I’d book it if you want an efficient Comino day that blends catamaran comfort, a scenic northern coast ride, and the main Blue Lagoon swim stop with real free time on the island. The fact that it runs from two different departure points is handy, too—choose the one that matches your home base on Malta.

I’d think twice before booking if you’re sensitive to seasickness or you’re counting on quiet, uncrowded water. Also, take the Blue Lagoon access pass requirement seriously. If you can’t or won’t handle the pass setup in advance (including the morning and afternoon slot requirement), you’re taking a big risk with your main highlight.

FAQ

Where does the ferry leave from?

You can depart either from Sliema Ferries in Sliema or from Buġibba Jetty in St. Paul’s Bay. The meeting point can vary depending on the option you book.

How long is the cruise?

The duration is about 7 to 7.5 hours. Starting times vary by availability.

Is this a guided tour with a guide?

No. This is not a guided tour. Your time on Comino is leisure/free time.

Do I need an access pass to visit the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. A government-issued access pass is required to disembark at the Blue Lagoon, and it must be acquired in advance via blcomino.com. Daily allocation is limited, and you’re required to book both the morning and afternoon time slots when applying.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Are there toilets and Wi‑Fi onboard?

Yes. The boat has toilet facilities and free Wi‑Fi.

How does the Comino Cave and Crystal Lagoon motorboat trip work?

It’s an optional add-on. You pay on location (about €15 per person) and it depends on favourable weather and sea conditions.

What should I bring and when should I arrive?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, and cash. For boarding, arrive 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.