Comino’s turquoise water can be seen all day. I love the long Blue Lagoon swim-and-slide time, and I also love that you can work the upper-deck for sea views without feeling trapped on shore. It’s a straightforward, money-smart way to see the highlights of Malta and Comino in one go.

The main thing to consider is the crowd factor: this cruise runs with a big headcount (up to 232 people), so if you’re chasing quiet, you’ll need to choose your spots and timing.

Key things to know before you go

• Top-deck chairs are first-come: arrive early if you want the best view seats.
• You’re afloat for most of the day: the boat works like your base, with easy off-and-on access.
• Slide + swim platforms: the fun is built in once you stop for water time.
• Cash-only shows up in Comino: have some Euros ready for the island and onboard add-ons.
• Optional speedboat caves can be worth it: it’s an extra 15 euros, but it adds variety.

The route: how you see Malta and Comino from the water

This is a classic “go where the water looks best” day. You start at Bugibba Jetty in San Pawl il-Baħar, and the cruise clocks in at about seven hours, departing around 10:00 and returning about 17:00. The pace is designed for views plus repeated water time, not long sit-down sightseeing.

Along the way, you get narrated cruising that turns the scenery into context. Captain Kevin and the crew guide you past key shoreline landmarks, including religious history tied to St Paul. You’ll also pass by Mellieha Bay and stop for photo moments at the Ahrax area. These bits matter because they help you understand where you’re looking—especially once Comino starts to fill your horizon.

One of the neat parts is that you don’t just “arrive at Comino.” You build up to it. You cruise around Comino in a full 360 around-the-island sweep, with chances to spot dramatic cliff edges and rock formations. The Elephant’s Head feature is one of those sights that’s much easier to appreciate when you’re moving slowly across the water.

St Paul, Mellieha, and the Ahrax photo stretch

The first big stretch is more than travel time—it’s your warm-up for the day’s scenery. Early on, the cruise references St Paul, including the idea that he was shipwrecked in this area and how a statue sits on the tiny island linked to that story. Even if you’re not into religious history, it gives you a clear sense of the coastline and why these waters matter.

Next comes the view of Mellieha Bay, described as the largest beach in Malta. Then you head toward Ahrax cave for photographic stops. This is a good “grab your camera before everyone gets hyper-focused on swimming” moment, because the day’s later highlights will pull you in.

Practical note: these stops are time-limited. If you like photos, keep your water shoes on hand and your phone ready, because it’s an easy spot to miss if you’re halfway into snack mode.

Cruising Comino: cliff views, Elephant’s Head, and the Santa Maria Tower

Comino is tiny—about 1.4 square miles—so once you have the island in sight, you start getting that tight, dramatic feeling the Mediterranean is famous for. During the circumnavigation, you’ll see high cliff edges and rock formations, plus you’ll get visuals that help you understand where the beachy spots sit relative to the cliffs.

You’ll also pass a standout structure: Santa Maria Tower. It’s described as being built in 1618 for defense, and it’s also mentioned for a film connection, often compared to Chateau d’If from The Count of Monte Cristo. Whether you’re watching for history or pop-culture references, it’s the kind of landmark that makes Comino feel real instead of just postcard water.

This part of the day is a big deal for value. You’re paying for a water-based day, and the cruise adds “scenery credits” while you’re already on the boat—no extra entrance fees and no separate transport needed.

Blue Lagoon: your long water playground (and where you should position yourself)

The Blue Lagoon stop is the main event, with about 4.5 hours total time in the area (around 4 hours 30 minutes). The whole point here is simple: jump in, snorkel, swim, and use the boat’s built-in fun. You can slide into the water and you can use the boat as your base while you head back and forth if you want a break from the sun.

What I like about this setup is the flexibility. You can spend time on the water directly from the boat, or you can walk on/off Comino while you’re moored nearby. That means you’re not locked into one exact shoreline at one exact moment.

Seating can make or break your mood. There are deck chairs (first come, first serve), including rooftop-style seating for the best views. If you want that classic Comino panorama over turquoise water, show up early—people often recommend arriving at least an hour before departure to get the best top-level chair situation.

Also, don’t ignore the onboard comforts. Even if the boat isn’t described as modern, it’s said to have what you need for a day at sea: a shaded main deck, restrooms, and a cafeteria/bar setup. You can grab food and drinks without needing to hunt down island prices.

A quick reality check: crowds and boat atmosphere

Comino’s popularity shows up here. The water spots are famous, and this cruise serves them at peak times. The upside is energy—music can be part of the vibe—and the crew keeps things moving. The downside is that if you’re hoping for a calm, quiet day, you may feel the boat is crowded, and the Blue Lagoon area can be busy.

My suggestion: use the time like a pro. Spend one chunk of your window swimming or snorkeling from the boat, then shift to walking around Comino if you want a change of scenery. When you come back to the mooring spot, you’ll often find you can still access water fun without feeling stranded.

Crystal Lagoon and the 8-minute walk: deeper water for snorkelers

On the return side of the day, you cruise into the Crystal Lagoon area. This bay is described as more popular with divers because the water can be deeper. If you’re not a diver, that still helps your snorkeling expectations: deeper water can mean more interesting looking underwater space, especially when the light hits right.

Here’s what makes this stop different: you can reach it by foot from the mooring area—an 8-minute walk is mentioned. That means you’re not doing another long boat hop, and you can choose when you want to go. You can spend as much time as you like snorkeling, swimming, or trying cliff-jumping if you’re feeling adventurous.

One caution: weather can steer whether you see this bay on the way to Comino or later on the way back. If conditions change, your day might shuffle slightly, but you’ll still get the core swim time.

The optional speedboat to caves: how to decide if it’s worth it

There’s an add-on that a lot of people treat as the fun upgrade: a speedboat ride to the small caves. It’s priced at 15 euros per person, and it’s described as cash only and available seasonally. It’s also tied to a cave experience that’s separate from the main boat cruising stops.

So when is it worth it? If you want variety beyond swimming in the Blue Lagoon, this adds a different kind of scenery—rock formations and cave access that you can’t replicate from the main mooring. If you’re mainly after a laid-back beach day, you might skip it and keep your time focused on swimming, sliding, and chilling.

Either way, remember that cash-only add-ons show up on Comino and for onboard purchases. Have the exact amount if you can.

Onboard food, drinks, and the slide: practical fun without planning

This is not a silent-boat experience. The cruise has a cafeteria/bar approach, and you can buy food and drinks onboard at reasonable prices. People describe options like chicken burgers and chips, and there’s also mention of ice cream. There are also pineapple cocktails noted in the onboard vibe, which is a nice detail if you enjoy themed little vacation moments.

The slide is included, along with restroom facilities and deck chairs. That sounds like a simple checkbox, but it’s actually part of the value. You don’t have to pay extra for the main “play” factor once you’re on the boat—your cost is mostly already covered by the cruise itself.

If you want to pack smart for comfort: bring a towel, sun cream, and plan a jacket if you’re traveling during cooler months. It can feel chilly while cruising in the shoulder season (March–May and October–December are specifically flagged as needing a warmer layer).

Gear you might need: snorkels, lockers, and the towel situation

The basics are straightforward, but a few details matter.

• Mask and snorkel rental is 5 euros, with a 15 euro deposit and 10 euro returned.
• Lockers cost 2 euros.
• Towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you don’t want to improvise.

If you’re the type who likes to snorkel early and often, renting gear can make the whole day smoother. If you already have your own mask, you’ll save time and money.

Also, keep in mind payments on Comino and onboard can be cash only. That’s a small snag, but it’s easy to avoid if you plan ahead.

How long is enough time at each stop?

Your schedule is built around swim time, not museum time. You’ll get about an hour around the early cruising/history portion, then move into photo sights and around-Comino cruising. The Blue Lagoon is where you’ll feel the time investment most clearly, with roughly 4.5 hours. After that, you still have meaningful water time at Crystal Lagoon when conditions allow.

The big win for most people: you’re not running from stop to stop on land. You’re mostly on the same boat, with easy access to water and a flexible feel once you’re moored.

Who should book this Comino cruise?

This cruise is a great fit if you want an efficient day on the water with real swimming time. You’ll like it most if you’re comfortable sharing a famous place with other people, and you’re ready to use the boat like a base camp.

It also suits families and mixed groups well because the included slide and long water time keep kids and adults entertained without extra ticketing. If you’re traveling solo, it can feel like a safe, structured outing since the crew runs the day and keeps the timetable clear.

If you’re very sensitive to rough seas, you might want to think twice. Some people report seas can be rough at times, and that can affect the day’s comfort. A light jacket and taking it easy with water movement can help, but this is still open water.

Should you book Hornblower’s Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves?

I’d book it if your priority is value per hour on the water, and if you’re excited by a mix of scenery, swimming, and the included slide. The price is modest for what you get—especially the long Blue Lagoon time plus the option to add the caves by speedboat.

I’d skip (or at least rethink) if your top goal is peace and quiet. Comino is popular, and a full boat means you’ll need to choose where and when you relax. Also, plan for cash needs on Comino.

If you do book, arrive early for the best deck chairs, bring a towel, and have a jacket ready for cooler months. You’ll get the day you came for: Malta’s coastline views, Comino’s cliff drama, and that famous turquoise water doing most of the talking.

FAQ

How long is the tour, and what are the main times?

The cruise is about 7 hours. It departs at 10:00 and returns at 17:00.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Bugibba Jetty, Dawret Il-Gzejjer, San Pawl il-Baħar, Malta. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What is included in the price?

Included are all taxes and fees, landing and facility fees, deck chairs (first come first serve), and use of the slide and restroom facilities. Food and drinks are not included, but they’re available onboard.

Can I rent snorkel gear?

Yes. Mask & snorkel rental is 5 euros with a 15 euro deposit and 10 euro returned.

How much does the speedboat cave ride cost?

The speedboat ride to the small caves costs 15 euros and is cash only, and it’s available seasonally.

What should I bring and how does weather affect the trip?

Bring towels and sun cream. For October to May, bring a jacket, since it can get chilly while cruising in March–May and October–December. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.