Blue water, fast boat, great jokes. This half-day run from Sliema is built around short, frequent swims in Malta’s clearest spots, plus a cave cruise that keeps the pace fun. You’ll see Crystal Lagoon right off the bat, then head to Comino for the famous Blue Lagoon.

I really like how Captain Tony (and his deckhand Raphael) mix sailing know-how with entertaining Malta stories, so the day feels personal instead of “tour on repeat.” The free snorkelling masks and onboard shade also make it easy to cool down between water breaks. The only real catch: if the wind picks up, the ride can get bouncy, and some swim moments can feel busy when other boats are around.

Key highlights

• Captain Tony’s energy: jokes, sailing confidence, and Malta context that makes the trip feel like a show with a purpose
• Multiple swimming stops: Crystal Lagoon, Comino Blue Lagoon, plus another swim near Halfa Rock in Gozo
• Comino’s raw limestone coast: you get the deep-blue look and the rocky coastline views from the water
• Caves by boat: after Gozo, the caves along Comino’s coast happen on the way back
• Shade onboard + cooling rhythm: swim, rest in the shade, then swim again
• Free snorkelling masks: included for the day, so you can get into the water without extra rental hassle

Sliema to Comino and Gozo: why this route works

This is the kind of trip you take when you want the best part of Malta’s coast without committing to a full day of logistics. From Sliema Ferries, you hop on a powerboat and build the day around water time: you’ll swim early, stop again at the big-name Blue Lagoon, then add one more swim near Gozo’s Halfa Rock before cruising caves along Comino’s coast.

What makes it work is pacing. You’re not stuck watching the same stretch of sea for hours. You’re getting repeated chances to cool off, snorkel around, and enjoy those limestone-and-turquoise views that Malta is famous for.

And yes, the vibe matters. The captain’s personality shows up in how smoothly the day runs, especially when conditions aren’t perfect. When the sea gets choppy, strong boat handling can make or break the experience—and this one is rated highly for transport comfort.

Finding the boat in Sliema (and starting the day smoothly)

Your meeting point is simple: look for a white boat with a blue tent. That helps a lot on arrival day, because you’re not playing “guess the company” in a busy harbor.

From there, you’ll get a straightforward plan: head out by powerboat, enjoy views along the way, and arrive at swim stops in a sequence that keeps you out of the sun when you’re not in the water. The boat also has shade, which sounds small until you’re trying to cool down after your second swim.

A practical tip: arrive early enough to confirm you’re boarding the correct boat. If you’re traveling with swim gear and towel, you’ll feel calmer the moment you’re settled.

The ride: fast water time plus real onboard comfort

This trip lasts 5 hours, and that length is a sweet spot. It’s long enough to feel like you left Malta behind for a bit, but short enough that you won’t spend your day commuting.

The boat is designed for speed between stops, and that means you spend more time where the views are, and less time “in transit.” Reviews also point out that the group stays relatively manageable—more like a smaller boat experience than the big cattle-car catamarans.

One thing to take seriously: it’s a powerboat, so weather matters. On windier or rougher days, the ride can feel choppy. That doesn’t mean you’ll hate it, but it does mean you should plan like a sea-day is part of the deal.

Crystal Lagoon stop: your first taste of the turquoise

Your first swim stop is Crystal Lagoon. The idea here is to give you an early hit of clear water before the bigger name locations.

When you’re on the boat, you’ll also get a look at St Paul’s Island. It’s one of those “seen it in photos” moments, except now you’re moving past it and watching the coastline shift around you.

At Crystal Lagoon, expect:

• a short swim from the boat (you don’t need to organize anything)
• a chance to use the snorkelling mask included with the trip

If you get motion-sick easily, this first stop can be a good time to steady yourself. If you feel okay early on, chances are you’ll enjoy the rest of the day more fully.

Comino Blue Lagoon: swimming, snorkeling, and the Comino island break

Comino is where the day gets serious. The boat heads to Comino Blue Lagoon as one of the main stops. From the water, you’ll see limestone cliffs and the deep-blue color that makes people plan their whole Malta trip around this place.

Here’s the structure:

• you’ll swim from the boat
• you’ll also have time to disembark for a stroll on Comino Island (there will be a stop on the island)

Comino is a bird sanctuary and natural reserve. That means the island walk is more “quiet nature time” than “shopping and sidewalks.” You can check out the sand dunes and local vegetation, then decide how much island time you want before getting back aboard.

The Comino online ticket detail (as of 1 May 2025)

As of 1 May 2025, you need an online ticket to go on the island via https://blcomino.com/. If you swim without going ashore, it states that this requirement does not apply.

So here’s how I’d handle it: if Comino Island stroll is part of what you want, sort the ticket before you go. It’s the one “paperwork” wrinkle on an otherwise simple boat day.

Halfa Rock in Gozo: the second swim that keeps it from feeling repetitive

After Comino, the trip shifts toward Gozo, with a swim near Ħalfa Rock. This is a smart move because it breaks up the day. If you only swim at Blue Lagoon, you can end up feeling like you’re repeating the same visual.

Near Halfa Rock, you’re looking for:

• another chance to jump in and cool down
• a different coastline feel from the water
• continued snorkel-friendly calm when conditions cooperate

Even if you’re not the world’s most confident swimmer, a powerboat stop like this is usually designed so you can take it at your own pace—especially since there’s gear onboard.

One practical detail from the onboard setup: swimming noodles are available, so you can add buoyancy if you want it.

Caves along the Comino coast: why the timing is worth it

After the Gozo swim, the plan includes a cave cruise along the Comino coast by boat. This is the part that turns the day from “beach day” into “coastal exploration.”

When you’re cruising past caves, you’re not just looking at scenery—you’re watching how water color changes around limestone. The “raw” look of Comino from the boat is part of the fun, and caves add that extra sense of drama without turning your afternoon into a hike.

If you’re the type who likes photos, this is also where you’ll get the best chance to frame the coastline and sea tones without needing to scramble anywhere.

Snorkeling and swim gear: what’s included, and what you may still want

You get snorkelling masks included for the day. That’s a real value add because you don’t want to spend your precious Malta time hunting for gear.

Still, I’d plan smart:

• Bring your own towel (it’s not included)
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
• Wear swimwear under your clothes so boarding is quick

One more important note: the trip includes the mask, but it doesn’t include mention of a snorkel. If you like full snorkel comfort, you might prefer bringing your own snorkel mouthpiece so you don’t have to improvise.

Also, think about footwear. The info doesn’t specify footwear rules, so you’re safest going with what you know works for boat entry and wet-rock conditions.

Shade, stops, and the reality of crowds

One reason people like these shorter boat trips is the rhythm. You swim, then you can cool down in the shade on the boat before the next stop.

At the same time, Comino’s most famous water spots draw a lot of boats. That can mean:

• some swim areas feel busy at peak times
• you may want to pick where you hang out once you’re in the water

The good news: the captain can adjust the plan if other boats are present, based on conditions on the day. That flexibility helps you spend your time in the nicest possible spot.

And if you’re sensitive to close quarters, you’ll want to know your comfort level. The boat is small enough that group size can feel noticeable. It’s not “private boat” territory, but it’s also not a huge open-hold situation.

Price and value: is $47 a good deal?

At about $47 per person for a 5-hour boat trip, you’re paying for three things: speed, access to multiple water stops, and guided coordination.

Here’s where the value comes from:

• You get transport by powerboat out to Comino/Gozo and back
• You get snorkelling masks included
• You’re not paying separately for each swim stop or playing navigation games

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks (so plan for snacks or cash for whatever is offered on the day)
• Towels (you’ll need your own)

For me, $47 makes sense when you want “a full coastal highlight reel” in one afternoon. If you’d rather spend the day on a beach with no boat hopping, then a day pass might feel simpler—but it won’t give you the same sequence of Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, Halfa Rock, and cave cruising.

Who this boat trip is best for

This tour fits best if you want:

• a short, high-reward day of swimming in clear water
• a guide-led day with personality (Captain Tony is a standout)
• a change of scenery without long bus rides

It’s also a good match for mixed groups—families, couples, friends—because the day includes both water time and rest time in the shade. If you’re traveling solo, you’ll probably appreciate the energy onboard that helps everyone feel included.

If you’re prone to seasickness, consider the weather on the day. Ask yourself honestly: do you usually do okay on boats? If yes, you’ll likely love it. If no, you can still go, but you’ll want to be ready.

Quick practical checklist before you go

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Sunscreen

Optional but smart:

• A snorkel if you prefer having one (mask is included, snorkel isn’t clearly stated)
• Motion-sickness medication if you normally need it on boats
• A dry bag for your phone and passport (not stated, but very useful for any water day)

Should you book this Sliema to Comino and Gozo boat trip?

Yes, I’d book it if you want the best of Malta’s coast in one clean, half-day chunk: Crystal Lagoon, Comino’s Blue Lagoon, a Gozo swim near Halfa Rock, and caves along the coast—plus masks included and shade onboard.

I’d pause and think twice if:

• rough water makes you miserable (powerboat rides can get choppy)
• you’re extremely crowd-sensitive at popular swim spots
• you don’t want the Comino island ticket question if you plan to step onto land as of 1 May 2025

If your idea of a great holiday includes getting in the water and letting the captain handle the timing, this trip is a strong value.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the trip?

Meet at a white boat with a blue tent.

What is included in the price?

The price includes boat transport from Malta to Comino and snorkeling masks.

Do I need a ticket to go onto Comino Island?

As of 1 May 2025, you need to apply for an online ticket to go on the island at https://blcomino.com/. The info also says that if you swim from the boat (instead of going on the island), this does not apply.

What’s not included (so I can plan ahead)?

Food and drinks are not included, and towels are not included.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

How long is the trip and who guides it?

It runs for 5 hours and has a live tour guide in English.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.