Comino in one half day feels surprisingly efficient. This small-group catamaran lets you cruise between the island’s best waters with a friendly crew running the day, plus gear for snorkeling and paddleboarding. It’s built for people who want postcard views without turning it into a whole-day production.

The biggest thing to consider is motion. This tour is not suitable if you’re prone to seasickness.

Key Points at a Glance

• Small group (max 15 travelers) makes the boat feel roomy instead of cramped.
• Santa Maria Caves photo stop (15 minutes) lets you admire the formations from the water.
• Two real swimming chances: Crystal Lagoon (45 minutes) and Blue Lagoon (1 hour).
• Snorkeling equipment + 2 SUP boards to share are included, so you’re not stuck watching from the deck.
• Drinks are part of the experience, with beer, wine, and unlimited soft drinks (21+ for alcohol).
• Prompt departure matters: the catamaran leaves on schedule and won’t wait for late arrivals.

Why This Half-Day Comino Catamaran Works for Malta

If your Malta days are packed, this is a smart way to buy yourself water time fast. In about 4 hours, you’ll get a Comino-focused loop with a photo stop near the Santa Maria Caves and two swimming stops at Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon.

What makes it feel good (and worth the money) is the pacing. You’re not doing sprint-and-queue travel. You’re settling in on a catamaran that’s set up for hanging out, then hopping in when conditions look swim-friendly.

I also like that the crew is front-and-center. On tours like this, you want people watching the timing, making sure you have what you need, and keeping the vibe relaxed without going silent for long stretches.

Price and What You Actually Get for $59.91

At $59.91 per person, you’re paying for four things at once: transport by boat, time at top Comino locations, included swim gear, and onboard drinks. It’s not just a sightseeing cruise where you stare through glass.

Here’s the breakdown in plain terms:

• Swimming time is real: 45 minutes at Crystal Lagoon and 1 hour at Blue Lagoon.
• Gear is included: snorkeling equipment, plus 2 stand-up paddle boards to share.
• Food is not included, but drinks are: bottled still water, beer and wine, and unlimited Pepsi and Sprite.
• You get onboard comfort items: WiFi and a restroom on the boat.

Also note the alcohol limits. Beer and wine are served to guests 21 and over, with each guest served 4 beer cans (50 cl) and half a bottle of wine. Soft drinks are unlimited.

That structure matters because it keeps the experience from turning into a total party cruise. You can enjoy a drink or two, then still focus on swimming, photos, and the scenery.

Meet at ABC Diving and Plan for a Prompt Exit

You meet at ABC Diving The Boathouse, Triq il-Fekruna, St Paul’s Bay (SPB 4813), Malta. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

This matters because catamaran timing is tight. The boat departs promptly at the scheduled time, and if you arrive late, it’s not obligated to wait. I’d treat this like a flight: arrive early, get your boarding groove, and then relax.

You should also know how the timing is built. An extra 1 hour is for travel to the island of Comino, and 1 hour is for the return toward Xemxija. In other words, the stops are the stars, but travel time is part of the deal.

The good news: the duration stays short on purpose. This is a half-day experience by design.

Enter Comino’s Waters With the Santa Maria Caves Photo Stop

The first highlight is a 15-minute photo stop at Santa Marija Bay, with a look toward the Santa Maria Caves on the north side of Comino.

This isn’t a long land-and-walk stop. You’ll be admiring cave formations from the water. It’s a quick hit, but it gives you something a lot of boat tours skip: a moment focused on what the caves look like in their natural setting, with deep-blue views that photograph well.

Because the time is short, you’ll want to be ready. I’d use this as your “get the best photo angle” moment and also as a chance to orient yourself for what’s coming next.

Crystal Lagoon’s 45 Minutes: Swim, Float, Reset

Next up is Crystal Lagoon with about 45 minutes for swimming. This is where you trade the cruise view for hands-on water time.

The key appeal is clarity and calm. The water here is described as pristine and inviting, so you can float, swim at your own pace, and spend time simply looking down at the shallows.

Drawback to think about: you’re on the sea. Even if conditions are fine, the water temperature can vary a lot by season. In cooler months, you might find it takes a little willpower to jump in, and you’ll feel the cold quickly once you’re in.

The way to handle that is simple: give yourself a few minutes. Start slow, keep your head above water, and let your body decide if it wants a longer snorkel session or just a swim and back aboard.

Blue Lagoon’s 1-Hour Slot and Beach Option

The big name stop is the Blue Lagoon, with about 1 hour to swim. This lagoon is known for its turquoise look and the way the water changes as the light hits it.

What I like here is the mix of options:

• You can swim right from the boat.
• If you want a more traditional beach feel, there’s an option to disembark and spend time on the shore.

That choice is useful because not everyone wants to be in and out of the water constantly. If you’re traveling with kids, or you just prefer alternating between sunbathing and swimming, the beach option gives you flexibility.

One more practical note: this is also where the tour setup becomes most useful. You’ll have snorkeling equipment and can add it if you want to see what’s happening under the surface.

The Onboard Setup: Drinks, Snorkeling Gear, SUP, WiFi, Restroom

The boat isn’t just a ride. It’s part of the comfort level, especially since you’ll be on board while you cruise and while you wait for swimming time.

Here’s what’s included:

• Bottled still water
• Alcoholic beverages: beer and wine for 21+ guests (with the serving limits mentioned earlier)
• Unlimited soft drinks: Pepsi and Sprite
• Snorkeling equipment
• 2 stand-up paddle boards to share
• WiFi on board
• Restroom on board

A small consideration: a couple of people have flagged that the restroom setup can be unfavourable. So if that matters to you, mentally plan to use it only when you truly need to.

Also, while the drinks are included, I recommend treating the alcohol like a vacation bonus, not a requirement. The stops are short, and you’ll enjoy the swim more if you’re feeling steady and not rushing between phases.

Snorkel and SUP Time: Use the Included Gear Smart

You’re not dependent on renting or finding equipment once you arrive. Snorkeling equipment is included, and the tour also provides two SUP boards to share.

How to get the most out of it:

• Bring your focus to the swimming windows. With 45 minutes and 1 hour, you’ll do better planning a “quick snorkel, then swim” rhythm rather than trying to perfect everything in one go.
• Use SUP as a calmer activity when the water is right. It’s great for enjoying the lagoon look while staying above the waterline.
• If you’re bringing someone who isn’t a strong swimmer, ask the crew for guidance on where it feels safest to practice. The boat staff runs the day and can steer you toward sensible choices.

Also remember: this experience isn’t for everyone. If you’re prone to seasickness, the tour itself says it’s not suitable. That’s the clearest “know before you go” warning on the whole package.

Who This Tour Suits Best (And Who Should Skip It)

This half-day catamaran fits best if you want Comino’s highlights without a full-day commitment. It’s also a good fit if you like a small-group feel. With a cap of 15 travelers, you’re less likely to feel packed in, and there’s space to lounge.

It’s also family-friendly in spirit. The experience includes swim time and gear like snorkeling and SUP, so kids who like water can stay engaged. Just remember that there’s a moderate physical fitness level expected, since you’ll be moving around the boat and handling swimming routines.

Skip it if:

• You get seasick easily.
• You need lots of time on land at each stop. This is about water time.

Value Check: Where the Money Makes Sense

Let’s talk value, not just cost.

For this price, you’re getting:

• A focused route across Comino’s top water locations
• Actual swim windows (not just “look and go”)
• Included snorkeling equipment and SUP boards
• Unlimited soft drinks plus measured beer and wine
• A boat with WiFi and onboard restroom

Where value drops slightly for some people: towels aren’t included. Also, lunch isn’t included. If you’re the type who needs a proper meal, you’ll likely want to request lunch ahead of time.

There’s also a seasonal factor. In colder months, swimming might be shorter or require more courage. In warmer months, the time in the water tends to feel easier to stretch.

Practical Tips: What to Bring So You’re Comfortable

Based on what’s included and what isn’t, I’d pack for convenience and for variable sea temperatures.

Bring:

• Your own towel (since towels aren’t included)
• A swimsuit you’re comfortable re-wearing, plus a way to keep dry clothes handy
• Sun protection for the deck time, even if the water looks tempting

Plan for:

• Cooler water in some seasons. If you’re sensitive to cold water, you’ll probably prefer more beach time at Blue Lagoon or staying in the water for shorter bursts.

One more “small but important” item: arrive early. Because the catamaran won’t wait, being late can ruin your day before it even starts.

Should You Book This Half-Day Scenic Catamaran?

I’d book this if you want a short, high-reward Malta outing built around swimming and views, with a small group and included snorkel/SUP gear. It’s also a great choice if you like the idea of a cruise that still gives you time to actually do something in the water.

You might skip it if seasickness is a problem for you, or if you prefer long on-land exploring rather than lagoon time. Also consider whether you’ll want lunch; lunch is available by request for an extra cost, and towels aren’t provided.

If you’re deciding now, here’s the simple rule: book it if your ideal Malta day includes Comino’s lagoons and a relaxed boat rhythm. Pass if your ideal day is shore-based and slow.

FAQ

How long is the half-day scenic catamaran experience?

It’s about 4 hours (approx.).

What are the main stops during the trip?

You’ll get a photo stop at Santa Maria Caves (Santa Marija Bay) for about 15 minutes, then swim time at Crystal Lagoon for about 45 minutes, and Blue Lagoon for about 1 hour. You may also have the option to disembark at Blue Lagoon.

Where do we meet, and where does the tour end?

You start at ABC Diving The Boathouse, Triq il-Fekruna, St Paul’s Bay (SPB 4813), Malta, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

What drinks and other items are included?

The tour includes bottled still water, beer and wine (served to guests 21 and over, with set serving amounts), unlimited Pepsi and Sprite, snorkeling equipment, 2 stand-up paddle boards to share, WiFi on board, and a restroom on board.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, but it’s available upon request with minimum 2 days notice for €30 per person.

Are towels provided?

No, towels are not included.

What should I do if I’m late to the meeting point?

The catamaran departs promptly. If you arrive late, the vessel is not obligated to wait in order to keep the planned itinerary.