Comino’s water looks unreal in daylight. This Sliema cruise strings together the islands’ best-known swim spots, so you get Crystal Lagoon clarity and the Blue Lagoon scene in one long day on the water. I especially like that it includes a waterslide and sea-cave photo moments, not just a ferry ride. One watch-out: the most famous stop (Blue Lagoon) can feel crowded, so plan your timing and your expectations.

What I like most is the pacing. You get a short, focused swim at the crystal-clear bay area (seasonal Crystal Lagoon / St. Nicholas Bay, weather permitting) and then a longer, proper beach-and-snorkel window at the Blue Lagoon. Another big plus is the boat itself: you can roam, use the slide, and cool off in the water twice without spending a fortune on private transfers.

The main drawback to keep in mind is logistics-flexibility. The captain can adjust stops based on weather, and the seasonal Crystal Lagoon/St. Nicholas Bay timing runs only May to October, so your exact swim locations depend on the season and conditions.

Key things that make this cruise work

• Two water stops: a seasonal Crystal Lagoon/St. Nicholas Bay swim (about 45 minutes) plus 3.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon
• Waterslide included: a fun, fast way to cool down even if you’re not a dedicated swimmer
• Comino caves viewing: quick photo stops that make the shoreline feel like a movie set
• Gozo included, not heavy: a short Mgarr Harbour photo stop, with an optional longer Gozo window depending on your option
• Sea views throughout: the cruise passes major bays around Malta before you even reach Comino

From Sliema docks to Comino: the vibe on this 7.5-hour day

This is a straightforward, daylight-to-sunset style outing: board in Sliema, cruise north along Malta’s coastline, then spend your day hopping between Gozo/Comino and the famous lagoon areas. The duration is listed as 7.5 hours, and the exact starting time depends on the sail schedule you choose.

It’s designed for people who want big scenery without complicated planning. You don’t have to coordinate ferries or worry about finding the right anchorage spot—your boat handles the moving part. I also like that the tour is clear about what matters most: swimming time, snorkeling time (where offered), and time on Comino.

Weather is part of the deal. The trip runs rain or shine, and the captain can alter or cancel parts of the route depending on conditions. If you hate water travel in rougher seas, pack accordingly (swimwear underneath clothes can make changing easier when you’re ready to go).

Meeting the boat: where to find Luzzu Cruises in Sliema

You’ll start at Luzzu Cruises, meeting at Ferries 4 in Sliema. Look for the boat names Mv Kataleya or Mv Lady Shelley.

This matters because Comino-day timing is everything. If you show up late, you lose boarding time and you might miss the ramp-up period before the first long sightseeing stretch. Aim to arrive early enough to get oriented, use the restroom, and get settled on the deck.

English-speaking crew is listed, which helps if you have quick questions about where to go for the swim stops or how the slide and waterside areas work.

The cruise along Malta’s coast before you even reach the lagoons

Once you leave Sliema, the boat route is basically a scenic tour of the north side of Malta. You’ll sail past places like Sliema Promenade and then through St. Julian’s Bay, St. George’s Bay, and Qawra Bay.

As the trip continues, you’ll pass St. Paul’s Island and then cruise through Mellieha Bay. These are the stretches that help explain why Comino’s water looks so bright: you’re moving along clear, rocky coastline with a lot of natural light hitting the sea.

Practical tip: bring something you can quickly grab for shade (a hat, sunglasses, or light layer). Even if you’re planning to swim later, the ride between swim stops is a long sun exposure window.

Mgarr Harbour on Gozo: a quick photo stop, plus optional Gozo time

You’ll reach Mgarr Harbour in Gozo for a photo stop (about 5 minutes). It’s short, but it gives you that “yes, I’m seeing Gozo too” moment without turning the day into a full island tour.

Here’s the key detail: depending on the option you book, you may get extra free time on Gozo. For Option B, the listing says 3 hours of free time on Gozo (and there’s an optional land transport to Victoria you can purchase on the boat for €5 per person). If your option doesn’t include Gozo time, you’ll spend more of your day focused on Comino’s water.

If you want the fastest, easiest day that still checks Gozo off your list, the default short stop is fine. If you want a taste of inland Gozo (especially Victoria), Option B is the better fit.

Crystal Lagoon (and St. Nicholas Bay): your first swim window

This is the “wow, the water really is this color” stop. The cruise includes a swim at the Crystal Lagoon area / St. Nicholas Bay, and it’s listed as seasonal from May 1 to October 31, and also weather permitting.

The time you get here is about 45 minutes. That’s not long enough to treat it like a beach day, but it’s plenty for a satisfying swim and a quick snorkeling session if conditions are good. I like that the schedule doesn’t waste time here; instead, it gives you just enough water time before moving on to the main Blue Lagoon block.

What to do with your 45 minutes:

• Start with a swim first, when you’re freshest
• Then snorkel if you brought gear (or plan to swim without it)
• Keep an eye on when the boat staff calls everyone back

Consideration: since this stop is seasonal, if you’re traveling outside the May–October window, the listing notes the boat stops at Blue Lagoon only. So the “double lagoon” plan depends on timing.

Blue Lagoon on Comino: 3.5 hours to swim, snorkel, and actually relax

If Crystal Lagoon is about color, Blue Lagoon is about experience. The itinerary gives you 3.5 hours of free time here. That’s a meaningful chunk. You can sunbathe, swim, snorkel, and explore the island of Comino.

This is also where the crowds can show up. The listing doesn’t hide that it’s the famous spot, and the practical reality is that this is the place people plan their day around. If you hate being shoulder-to-shoulder, try to prioritize your water time early in the window.

The Blue Lagoon area is also where you’ll find island-style amenities (snacks and refreshments are mentioned in the experience details you provided). If you want a low-stress meal option, this is likely where you’ll end up, and it’s also a more convenient choice than trying to time food back on the boat.

One important logistical requirement: to get off the boat at Comino Blue Lagoon, you’ll need to register for a free QR code at www.blcomino.com and choose the afternoon slot 13.31–17.30.

That QR code step is easy, but it’s the kind of small thing that can ruin your day if you forget. Do it before you arrive if possible.

Comino sea caves and Santa Maria caves: short stops with big shoreline drama

Between swim blocks and the return cruise, the itinerary includes cave views. On the way back to Sliema, you’ll stop to admire the beautiful caves of Comino and take photos. That’s a great moment to keep your eyes on the waterline and the rock faces—these are the dramatic shapes that make the islands feel myth-like.

You’ll also have a photo stop at Santa Maria Caves with a short visit (about 10 minutes). Even if you only step out briefly, it’s the kind of stop that changes your mental map of the coastline. Malta isn’t just about beaches; the rock formations and sea-carved shapes are part of the scenery.

Photo tip: if you’re shooting video, film the movement of light on the water rather than just the rocks. That’s where the caves and coves look most alive.

The boat experience: waterslide, multiple deck levels, and onboard downtime

This cruise isn’t purely about destinations. The boat is part of the fun. Waterslide use is included, and multiple levels on the boat are mentioned in your supplied experience details, including a glass-bottom deck area. That means you have more ways to pass time than just sitting in the sun.

If you’re traveling with kids or people who want activities beyond swimming, the slide is a big win. It’s also a quick reset when you’ve had enough sun but still want to enjoy being on the water.

If you want snorkeling, the listing doesn’t specify equipment rentals, but the experience data you shared does note that snorkels may be available to hire onboard. If you care about gear, it’s smart to bring your own if you already have it, and if not, ask crew early so you can plan your first swim stop.

Price and value: what $40 buys you (and what it won’t)

Price is listed as $40 per person, and that’s a key part of why this cruise is popular. For that money, you’re paying for:

• a full-day boat route from Sliema
• two lagoon area stops (depending on season and weather)
• Comino caves sightseeing
• waterslide use
• onboard time plus scheduled photo stops

What’s not included is also important: food and drinks are not included (and hotel transfers are not included). That means you should budget for water, snacks, and potentially a meal at the Blue Lagoon or while onboard.

Value check I use: ask yourself if you’re the type who would pay separately for boat transport, access to Comino’s famous areas, and structured swim stops. If you’d rather avoid piecing together ferries and paying for last-minute tours, this format tends to be a good deal.

Bring cash as advised. Even if you use cards elsewhere in Malta, the on-island and boat purchases are easier with some on-hand money.

What to pack so your day feels easy

For a smooth day, stick to the essentials:

• Beachwear and towel
• Camera (or phone in a waterproof pouch)
• Comfortable shoes (you may need them for quick island walks and cave photo moments)
• Cash for food or drinks on board / at the stops

Also, plan around the swim reality. The itinerary includes getting in the water, so wear what you can easily change into and out of. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing your usual motion-sickness remedy since the trip takes place on open water and conditions can vary.

Who should book this cruise, and who might want a different approach

This cruise is best for you if:

• You want Comino’s signature lagoons in one day
• You like swimming and want two separate water windows
• You’d rather spend the day on a boat with great views than commuting around islands

It’s not a great fit if:

• You need wheelchair accessibility (the tour is listed as not suitable for wheelchair users)
• You strongly dislike crowded, famous places, especially during the Blue Lagoon window
• You’re traveling outside May–October and want Crystal Lagoon specifically (that stop is seasonal)

If you’re a serious swimmer who wants hours in one location, you might find the 45-minute Crystal Lagoon block a little brief. In that case, you’d treat this as the “big highlights” sampler and then plan a slower day on your own.

Should you book the Sliema to Comino Cruise with Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon?

Yes, if you’re the type who wants an efficient, good-value Malta day that delivers the famous water plus real cave scenery, this cruise makes sense. The combination of waterslide fun, scheduled swim time, and the chance to see both lagoon areas is hard to beat for the price.

Book it especially if:

• You’re traveling May–October and want the Crystal Lagoon / St. Nicholas Bay stop
• You don’t mind that the Blue Lagoon can be busy
• You’re happy to spend some time onboard between swims, enjoying the north-coast views

Hold off or reconsider if:

• You’re traveling in the off-season and Crystal Lagoon is the main reason you picked this
• You need a quieter, less crowded beach experience than the Blue Lagoon provides

If you do book, do one thing early: sort your Blue Lagoon QR code in advance and plan to arrive ready for sun and water. Then you can focus on the part that matters—those bright, clear swims and the dramatic Comino coastline.

FAQ

How long is the cruise from Sliema?

The duration is listed as 7.5 hours.

How much does the tour cost?

The price is listed as $40 per person.

Where does the cruise depart from in Sliema?

Departure is from Luzzu Cruises at Ferries 4 in Sliema.

Which stops are included for swimming?

The cruise includes swimming at the Crystal Lagoon area / St. Nicholas Bay (seasonal, weather permitting) and a longer break at the Blue Lagoon.

How long do you get at Crystal Lagoon or St. Nicholas Bay?

The stop time is about 45 minutes.

How long do you get at the Blue Lagoon?

You get about 3.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon.

Is the Crystal Lagoon/St. Nicholas Bay stop available year-round?

No. It’s seasonal from May 1 to October 31 and weather permitting.

Do you need a QR code to get off at Comino Blue Lagoon?

Yes. To get off the boat at Comino Blue Lagoon, you must register for a free QR code at www.blcomino.com and choose afternoon slot 13.31–17.30.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included. Alcohol and drugs are also not allowed.