Comino Blue Lagoon & Crystal Lagoon – 3 Bay Cruise

The best reason to choose this cruise is simple: you get four full hours in the water, not just a quick photo stop at Comino. The boat visits Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and Ħalfa Rock, then adds sightseeing around Santa Maria Caves and other rocky corners.

I like the generous space onboard, with capacity limited to 45 people on a boat built for 70. I also like the choice at Blue Lagoon: walk ashore, or stay onboard and swim from the boat. The main drawback is that the famous lagoon can be very crowded, and the boat may bounce in rougher seas.

• Three proper swimming stops: One hour at Crystal Lagoon, two hours around Blue Lagoon, and one hour at Ħalfa Rock.
• Less cramped than many boats: Bluewaves limits numbers to 45 on a 70-person vessel.
• A smart Blue Lagoon choice: You can explore Comino on foot or stay aboard in quieter water.
• Useful onboard facilities: Toilets, a fresh-water shower, sunbeds, a bar, snacks, and drinks for purchase.
• Flexible routing: The captain may change the order or replace a crowded swimming spot when sea and safety conditions require it.
• Morning booking matters: For this cruise, select the morning slot from 8:00 to 1:30, and arrive before boarding closes 15 minutes before departure.

Why this six-hour cruise works so well

A day on Malta’s northern waters can easily become a crowded parade of boats. This trip takes a calmer approach. The vessel can hold 70 people, but Bluewaves Watersports limits the number to 45, leaving room to sit inside, stretch out on the upper deck, or find a place near the swimming platform.

That number matters. You are not paying for a seat squeezed between strangers while waiting for a ten-minute swim. The schedule gives you four hours at the bays, split into three meaningful stops. You can actually swim, snorkel, dry off, and swim again without watching the clock every few minutes.

The cruise begins at the Bluewaves Watersports office near Marfa Bay, facing Comino. From there, the boat heads toward Crystal Lagoon before reaching the more famous Blue Lagoon. The route then continues toward southern Gozo and Ħalfa Rock, also written as Gebla tal-Halfa or Ħalfa Rock.

The mood is casual rather than formal. Music plays, the crew gives information about the stops, and the upper deck provides space for sunbathing. Danny and Ali are among the crew members praised for being friendly and helpful, though the level of commentary can vary depending on the day.

Crystal Lagoon gives you the first real swim

Crystal Lagoon is the first scheduled stop, with about one hour to swim and snorkel. Starting here is useful because you get into the water before the main Blue Lagoon visit, rather than waiting through a long sightseeing cruise.

The water is the star. This is a rocky swimming spot, so bring secure footwear if you have it, though high-heeled shoes are not allowed onboard. A mask helps you make more of the stop. The water is clear enough for casual snorkeling, and you may see small fish or, with luck, something more memorable such as a moray eel.

Do not expect a major reef excursion. The marine life is not the main attraction, and the snorkeling is generally better for clear water, rock formations, and a refreshing swim than for a long list of species. You can also use this hour for floating, sunbathing, or jumping from the boat if conditions and crew instructions permit.

The first stop sets the pace for the day. You are not rushed from one cove to the next. One hour is long enough to enjoy the water without making the morning feel slow.

Blue Lagoon offers the biggest choice

Blue Lagoon is the central stop, and the boat allows about two hours here. This is the longest swimming period of the day, but it also gives you a decision that can shape your whole experience.

You can get off near the Blue Lagoon pier and explore Comino on foot. That suits you if you want to walk, take photos from land, buy something, or see the shoreline close up. From the pier, you can also spend time around the island before returning to the boat.

The catch is crowding. Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s best-known swimming areas, and the shore can become packed, particularly during the summer. Several people who chose this cruise preferred to stay onboard after seeing the busy beach. That is not a poor second choice. Once the boat anchors nearby, you can swim in the same famous water without standing shoulder to shoulder on land.

I would make the choice based on your priorities. If this is your first visit to Comino and you want to step onto the island, take the chance, but keep your expectations realistic. You will not have a quiet island walk at the busiest time of day. If you mainly want clear water and space to relax, staying onboard may be the better use of the two hours.

The boat itself becomes a floating base. You can return to your seat, use the fresh-water shower, buy a drink, or climb to the upper deck. This flexibility is one of the strongest parts of the trip. You are not forced to choose between a crowded beach and missing Blue Lagoon entirely.

Ħalfa Rock brings a quieter final swim

The final main stop is Ħalfa Rock, south of Gozo. The boat anchors for about an hour, giving you another chance to swim and snorkel away from the main Blue Lagoon crowd.

This area is known for open water, rock formations, and good places for swimming and cliff jumping when conditions are suitable. The crew can advise you about the water, which is important here. Do not treat a jump as automatic entertainment. Follow instructions and use common sense around rocks, currents, and other swimmers.

The appeal of Ħalfa Rock is contrast. Crystal Lagoon gives you a bright opening swim, Blue Lagoon supplies the famous scenery, and this final stop can feel more relaxed. On some departures, the captain may switch to another location if the planned area is too crowded or conditions are poor. That flexibility has produced some of the best moments of the trip, with a clear-water stop that feels almost private.

The final hour may feel long if you are not keen on swimming. This cruise is built around water time, so it suits people who enjoy repeated swims more than those who want a sightseeing boat ride with occasional stops.

Santa Maria Caves add scenery between swims

On the return journey, the boat passes sights such as Santa Maria Caves and other coastal formations. This part is less structured than the swimming stops, but it gives your body a break while keeping the scenery moving.

The caves are best appreciated from the water. The boat’s position lets you see the openings, cliffs, and unusual shapes along Comino’s coast without arranging a separate excursion. Depending on sea conditions, the captain may also show extra locations that are not part of the core schedule.

Do not expect a long guided cave tour on foot. This is sightseeing from the boat, with the crew pointing out places along the coast. It works well as the closing chapter of a day that has already included plenty of swimming.

The boat is designed for a relaxed day

The vessel has lower and upper areas, with seats inside and sunbathing space above. The limited passenger count is the key feature. A boat rated for 70 but carrying no more than 45 gives you room to move around and makes it easier to find a comfortable place during the long return ride.

Facilities are practical rather than luxurious. You get a toilet and fresh-water shower, both very useful after swimming. There is also a bar selling soft drinks, water, coffee, cocktails, and snacks. Some onboard prices have been described as reasonable, with soft drinks around €2, water around €1.50, and an Aperol Spritz around €5. Prices can change, so bring your own food if you want a full meal.

Food and drinks are not included in the cruise price. You can also bring snacks, which is sensible because six hours in the sun and water works up an appetite. The Blue Lagoon area offers places to buy food if you go ashore, but queues and crowds may make the onboard option easier.

Masks may be available to rent for around €3, based on the information provided during the operating period covered here. If snorkeling is important to you, bringing your own mask is the safest way to ensure a good fit.

What the $47 price really buys you

At $47 per person, this is strong value if you plan to use the swimming time. The price covers a six-hour cruise, three swimming locations, sightseeing, onboard toilets, a shower, and the chance to choose between walking on Comino or remaining on the boat.

The value is not just the number of stops. Many boat trips advertise several bays but allow only a short time at each one. Here, the schedule gives you one hour, two hours, and one hour at the principal swimming locations. That is enough time to swim properly, take a break, and return to the water.

You are also paying for a smaller passenger load. The boat may not be empty, but the 45-person limit helps avoid the packed feeling common on larger Comino outings. For couples, smaller groups, families, and anyone who dislikes being squeezed into a deck chair, that difference matters.

The price does not include meals, drinks, or possible mask rental. Add those costs if you need them. Still, the included time and facilities make this a better deal for active swimmers than a shorter sightseeing cruise with one brief stop.

The crew and the feel onboard

The crew’s strongest role is practical. They help with boarding, explain the stops, advise about water conditions, and adjust the route when needed. Danny and Ali are named among the crew members who have been especially friendly and helpful.

The atmosphere is informal. Music plays, people move between the decks, and the bar keeps the day easygoing. Families, older adults, couples, and younger swimmers can all fit into the setting, although the focus remains firmly on swimming and sun.

The crew may not provide a long history lecture at every point. If you want a detailed cultural tour, this is not the right format. You are getting a water day with useful local information, not a museum tour on a boat.

That balance works for me. You receive enough guidance to understand where you are and how to enjoy each stop, but most of the day belongs to you.

Timing, weather, and practical concerns

Book the morning slot listed for this three-bay cruise, from 8:00 to 1:30. The full activity is described as six hours, so check the exact departure time when booking. Boarding closes 15 minutes before departure, and arriving at the Bluewaves Watersports office early is wise.

The captain can alter the route or cancel the cruise because of weather, sea conditions, or other safety concerns. If the trip is canceled, you receive an alternative date or refund. You can also cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and the reserve-now, pay-later option keeps your plans flexible.

The sea can be choppy. One departure was described as bouncing quite a lot, so this is not ideal if you are prone to seasickness. Take suitable precautions if you know you are sensitive, and choose a position onboard that helps you feel steady.

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and biodegradable sunscreen. There is little reason to pack heavily, but a dry bag for valuables is useful around swimming stops. High heels, sharp objects, weapons, bicycles, scooters, explosives, and intoxication are not allowed. Unaccompanied minors and wheelchair users are not suitable for this activity, and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.

Who should choose this Comino cruise

I would choose this trip if your main goal is to swim in Malta’s clearest coastal water while still seeing Comino’s famous sights. It works especially well for:

• Couples who want more room than a packed party boat usually offers.
• Families who need toilets, a shower, seating, and a manageable six-hour schedule.
• Small groups that want to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and share a relaxed boat day.
• Confident swimmers interested in several water stops and possible cliff jumping.
• Anyone who would rather stay onboard near Blue Lagoon than fight for space on the beach.

I would look elsewhere if you want a quiet walking tour of Comino, a full meal included, an accessible boat, or a formal history-focused excursion. It is also not the best match if you dislike open-water swimming or feel unwell on moving boats.

Should you book it?

Book this cruise if you value time in the water, space onboard, and a flexible route. The three stops are well balanced, and the Blue Lagoon choice lets you avoid spending your main swimming period in a crowded beach area.

The most useful strategy is to bring your own towel, biodegradable sunscreen, snacks, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Stay open to remaining on the boat at Blue Lagoon, especially during the busy summer months. That may give you the most pleasant view of the famous water.

At $47, the trip earns its price through duration and generous swimming time rather than luxury. For a half-day on Malta’s northern coast, it is a sensible pick for active swimmers who want Comino’s best-known bays without being packed onto a full-capacity vessel.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from?

Meet at the Bluewaves Watersports office near Marfa Bay. The departure point faces Comino Island.

How long does the cruise last?

The activity lasts six hours.

Which bays does the boat visit?

The cruise includes Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and Ħalfa Rock, also called Gebla tal-Halfa.

How much swimming time is included?

You get about one hour at Crystal Lagoon, two hours at Blue Lagoon, and one hour at Ħalfa Rock, for roughly four hours of swimming and snorkeling.

Can I get off the boat at Blue Lagoon?

Yes. You can leave the boat near the Blue Lagoon pier and explore Comino on foot. You can also remain onboard and swim from the anchored vessel.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included in the cruise price. Drinks, cocktails, coffee, and snacks can be purchased onboard.

Does the boat have a toilet and shower?

Yes. The boat has toilets and a fresh-water shower.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Snorkeling equipment is not listed as included. A mask may be available to rent onboard for a fee.

What should I bring?

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

Can the captain change the route?

Yes. The captain may alter or cancel the cruise because of weather, sea conditions, crowding, or safety concerns. A canceled cruise qualifies for an alternative date or refund.