If you want Comino without fighting for space, this cruise is a smart bet. I like that the Spirit of Malta is built for an easy day at sea, with plenty of room to lounge between swim stops. I also like that the included open bar keeps the day moving without you doing math every time you want a drink.

The main thing to consider is the schedule shifts with weather, so the exact bays—and whether you reach the Blue Lagoon or another lagoon—can change. Also, music and top-deck height can make it tough to catch any announcements from the captain.

Key takeaways before you book

• Weather-flexible route means you get the best water available that day, not a rigid plan.
• Smooth, spacious catamaran feel compared with the tiny ride-and-zoom boats.
• Swim/snorkel time is the point: multiple stops and real time in the water.
• Included buffet lunch + open bar make it good value for a 7-hour outing.
• Party later, chill earlier so you can choose your vibe (sunbathing or dancing).
• Go early for the best sun spots—once you’re onboard, you’ll want a comfortable perch.

The Spirit of Malta catamaran: comfort is the real upgrade

Sliema to Comino can turn into a long, wet, bouncy day if you pick the wrong boat. What I like about this one is that it’s a large sailing catamaran designed for cruising, not just speed. That matters because you’ll be on board for hours, moving between bays, and you’ll want somewhere to actually relax.

On deck, you’re not stuck in one cramped corner. You get sunbathing space, room to mingle, and enough open air that the whole experience feels like a day on the water rather than a quick transfer. Several reviews point out the ride feels smoother than faster boats, which is a big deal if you’re even slightly prone to motion sickness.

Practical note: if the water is rough that day, where you sit can help. One review suggests sitting near the back by the captain if conditions are choppy—worth considering if you know you get queasy.

The 7-hour schedule that works: 10:30 departure, about 5:30 back

This cruise runs as a full day at sea. The boat leaves Sliema at 10:30am and returns at about 5:30pm, giving you enough time for multiple swim stops, lunch, and a proper later-day party mood.

The trip has no fixed program. Instead, the crew sails according to prevailing weather. That’s not just a polite way of saying plans can change—it’s how you end up spending time where the sea is safest and the water is at its best. When conditions are good, you’ll get the showstopper Comino lagoon time. When conditions aren’t great, the captain adapts so the day still stays fun and swim-friendly.

Timing-wise, lunch happens during one of the swimming stops, not as a rushed indoor meal. That’s a smart design. You’re not bouncing between swim and dry land with no rhythm—you swim, eat, drink, and then go right back to the water and views.

Getting to Sliema and finding the boat fast

No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll want to plan on getting yourself to the dock area in Sliema.

Meeting point tip: it should be easy to spot the vessel because it’s the only catamaran in that bay area. It’s located opposite The Black Sheep bar in Sliema. If you arrive a bit early, you’ll be glad you did. One review strongly recommends showing up early to claim a good spot for sun and shade, especially on busy summer days.

Also, the crew is English-speaking (plus Italian, French, and Spanish), so you won’t be stuck playing guessing games.

Swim and snorkel stops: the day is built around the water

This is not a history lecture tour. The core of the experience is time in the sea—swimming and snorkeling in different bays around Malta and Comino.

What that means for you:

• You’ll get multiple chances to jump in, not just one quick stop.
• You can alternate between floating, snorkeling, and exploring small areas by the boat’s anchor points.
• You’ll spend more of the day outdoors, not waiting for an itinerary checklist.

A few details from the day help you pack smart. Reviews mention things like pool noodles on board and a shower, which makes it easier to rinse off after being in salt water for hours. You’ll also find toilet facilities on board, so you’re not stuck timing your swim around restroom breaks.

Two caution flags from reviews:

• The ride can be rocky out to the lagoon at times. If you get seasick easily, bring medication.
• Keep an eye out for jellyfish in the water.

If you want footage, bring a waterproof phone case. One review advice here is practical: protect your phone first, then relax into the view.

Blue Lagoon (and possibly Crystal Lagoon): how you avoid the worst crowding

The star is the Blue Lagoon in Comino, and the cruise aims for it weather permitting. When it works out, you get those famous, bright-water scenes—but from the water, where you’re not squeezed onto the shore.

This is a key value point. The Blue Lagoon beach area is famously crowded, but being out on the anchored boat changes the feel. You’re not trapped in the queue for a towel spot. You can swim from where you’re sitting and explore at your own pace.

Some days may also include time around Crystal Lagoon, depending on conditions. One review even notes the captain may adjust plans if the sea is rough, so don’t assume every stop stays the same.

Optional upgrade worth knowing: at Blue Lagoon, there’s an extra add-on some people choose—one review calls it a 600 horsepower speedboat into a cave. If you like the idea of action beyond a swim, ask on site when you arrive and consider the cost against your priorities.

Buffet lunch plus open bar: what’s included and why it’s worth it

This is where the cruise often wins people over: the food and drinks are included, and they’re not just token snacks.

The buffet lunch

You’ll get a buffet that includes:

• Cold cuts: turkey, smoked gammon, salami
• Cheeses: cheddar cubes and feta
• Salads including summer potato salad, bulgur wheat salad (vegetarian), vegetarian rice salad, plus pasta salad and roma tomatoes & onion (also labeled vegan)
• Bread rolls

In plain terms: there are enough options to keep picky eaters calm. Several reviews say the lunch was better than expected or more plentiful than they anticipated, which matters on a 7-hour day where you’ll be sunburning and swimming.

The open bar

From the open bar, you can get:

• Wine
• Beer
• Soft drinks
• Minerals and water (stated as part of the open-bar setup)

One review notes there’s a bartender working steadily to keep drinks flowing. Another mentions a reusable cup, which also helps the flow onboard. You shouldn’t have to stand in a line every time you want a refill, and that keeps the vibe relaxed.

Why this adds value: compared with day trips where lunch is extra and drinks are pay-as-you-go, this structure turns the cruise into one predictable cost. For many people, that’s the difference between doing the fun thing and skipping it because the tab could get big.

Music, dancing, and choosing your vibe on deck

After lunch, the energy ramps up. Reviews describe music on board and a party rhythm that builds as the day goes on.

You can also choose how social you want to be:

• Want chill? Stay higher on deck with the breeze and focus on sun and views.
• Want party? Jump into the dancing as the music heats up later.

One review even mentions themed fun for group celebrations, and several praise the DJs and crew members for keeping the atmosphere moving. Names that came up include Hector and Axel, both described as standout crew energy.

One drawback that shows up in the feedback: if you’re on the top deck, you might not hear the captain’s announcements clearly. That’s usually not a dealbreaker during a swim-focused day, but it’s worth knowing if you prefer spoken instructions.

What to pack (and what to do first on board)

If you want the day to go smoothly, pack for sea time, not walking time.

Bring:

• Hat and sunscreen (more than you think; the sun can sneak up on you on water)
• Something for water days (swimsuit is obvious, but plan your quick changes)
• Waterproof phone case for photos and video
• Sea sickness medication if you know you react to boats

Once you board:

• Head to the area you like fastest and get settled early. Reviews repeatedly suggest arriving ahead of departure helps you find better sun and shade.
• If the ride is rough, consider sitting where you feel least shaky. One review suggests the back of the boat near the captain.

Also, a small but real comfort tip: if you sit somewhere that can spray, protect your bag. One review says they ended up getting soaked and laughing about it, which can be fun unless you’re trying to keep your things dry.

Who this cruise is perfect for (and who should skip it)

This cruise is ideal if you want:

• Swimming and snorkeling time as the main activity
• A relaxed catamaran day with food and drinks included
• A mix of sightseeing by view and real time in the water
• Either chill vibes early, party vibes later

It’s less ideal if you hate any chance of a schedule changing with weather. Since the route is flexible, the exact lagoons and stops can shift with sea conditions.

There’s also an age limit: it’s not suitable for people under 17. If you’re traveling as a family with younger kids, you’ll need a different option.

Price and value: why $105 can feel fair

At $105 per person for a roughly 7-hour sailing day, you’re not just paying for transport. You’re paying for:

• A proper catamaran setting (space to lounge, not just standing room)
• Multiple swim stops and chances to snorkel
• A buffet lunch with several protein and salad options
• An open bar covering wine, beer, soft drinks, and water

That bundle is the core value. Several reviews compare this favorably to cheaper or more rigid day tours and say it’s worth choosing this instead when you want both fun and comfort.

The best way to think about it: if you would normally spend money on a boat transfer plus a paid lunch plus drinks, the math starts to favor this kind of package.

Should you book the Comino Blue Lagoon catamaran with lunch and open bar?

I’d book it if you’re planning your Malta time around one big water day and you want that day to feel easy: room to relax, time to swim, included lunch, and drinks handled for you. The cruise also seems like a good match for groups and celebrations, where the later music and dancing become part of the fun.

Skip it only if you:

• Need a strict, fixed itinerary with guaranteed stops regardless of weather
• Get seasick easily and you’re not willing to plan for it
• Are traveling with anyone under 17

If you’re flexible, pack smart, and show up early, this is one of the more satisfying ways to do Comino’s famous water without spending the day stressed.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The duration is about 7 hours, with departure at 10:30am and return around 5:30pm.

Where does the cruise depart from?

It departs from Sliema.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. You’ll meet at the boat in Sliema (opposite The Black Sheep bar).

Is the Blue Lagoon visit guaranteed?

No. The route depends on prevailing weather conditions, and the Blue Lagoon stop is included weather permitting.

What’s included in the lunch?

Lunch is a buffet with cold cuts, cheeses, multiple salads, and bread rolls.

What drinks are included?

An open bar includes wine, beer, minerals, water, and soft drinks during the trip.

Are there toilets on board?

Yes, there are toilet facilities on board.

Is this suitable for children?

It’s not suitable for people under 17.