Comino, Blue Lagoon and Caves. Tour A

The best part of this half-day Comino cruise is the generous time in the water. You get about 1.5 hours at Santa Marija Bay and two hours at the Blue Lagoon, plus close views of Crystal Lagoon, Comino’s caves, Elephant’s Head Rock, and Malta’s northern coast.

I like the friendly, personal crew, especially Captain Owen, who introduces himself and explains the day. I also like the practical boat setup: sun and shade decks, toilets, showers, a side ladder, and food and drinks at reasonable prices. The main drawback is space. With up to 90 people onboard, the boat can feel crowded, and there are no proper loungers.

Key points at a glance

• Two proper swim stops: Spend about 1.5 hours at Santa Marija Bay and two hours at the Blue Lagoon.
• Captain Owen’s welcome: The captain gives a personal briefing and provides live commentary during the cruise.
• Useful boat facilities: You’ll find shaded seating, a sun deck, toilet, shower, side ladder, and swim platform.
• Good coastal sightseeing: The route passes St. Paul’s Island, Ghadira Bay, Ahrax Point, the Red Tower, Crystal Lagoon, and Comino’s caves.
• Blue Lagoon rule: You need a free QR code and a 13:30 to 17:30 time slot to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon from May 1, 2025.
• Reasonable value: At about $46.10 per person, this gives you a full 6.5-hour outing with swimming, sightseeing, commentary, and onboard facilities.

What Tour A is really like from Bugibba

This is a classic Malta boat day, but it gives you more than a quick photo stop. From the Bugibba area, you cruise north along the coast, spend time at two very different Comino locations, and return by late afternoon after viewing the island’s rock formations and caves.

I see the appeal for anyone who wants Malta’s famous water without arranging ferries, beach transfers, and separate cave trips. The crew handles the route, the boat stays with you, and you can choose your own pace at the stops. Swim from the vessel, use the ladder, step ashore where permitted, or simply stay in the shade and watch the coast.

The published information gives both 10:00 and 10:30 as the start time. The meeting details list a 10:30 start at Sirens Quay 24 on Triq San Geraldu in St. Paul’s Bay, while the day plan says departure at 10:00. I would check the final booking instructions carefully and arrive early. Some people line up well before departure, and boarding can take time when the boat is busy.

Tour A is not a tiny private charter. The maximum group size is 90, and that matters. You get a social boat outing rather than a quiet sail. The boat is described as smaller than the biggest excursion vessels, with a character some people compare to a pirate boat, but the deck can still feel crowded at peak times.

The coastal cruise past St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha

The journey begins with more than a straight run to Comino. You pass St. Paul’s Island, where the crew points out the area’s nearly 2,000-year-old shipwreck sites. The boat also goes by Ghadira Bay, Malta’s largest sandy beach, and the rocky Ahrax Point near Mellieha.

The Red Tower of Mellieha adds a strong landmark to the view. From the water, you see how Malta’s built defenses and pale rock sit together along the coast. Captain Owen and the crew provide live commentary, so this section works well for people who want some context rather than a silent transfer.

I would claim a spot with a clear view, then move around as the boat slows near the sights. The sun deck is useful for photographs and breezes, while the shaded deck is the better choice if you plan to stay onboard for most of the day. Since there are no proper loungers, bring a towel or light cover if you want extra comfort on the seating.

Crystal Lagoon brings the first big photo stop

As the boat enters Comino through the South Channel, it passes into Crystal Lagoon. The area is known for clear water, dramatic rock walls, and caves. The boat slows here for photographs and views rather than offering the main long swim stop.

This is one of the moments when the boat itself adds value. You can see the caves from the water without arranging a separate small craft, and the captain can position the vessel for a closer look. Visibility inside the caves can vary, though. If the water or light conditions are poor, the cave views may be less impressive than expected.

Keep your camera ready, but do not treat this as a guaranteed swimming stop. The itinerary gives you dedicated water time later at Santa Marija Bay and the Blue Lagoon. Crystal Lagoon is primarily a scenic pass and photo opportunity.

Santa Marija Bay gives you a quieter Comino break

The first main stop is Santa Marija Bay, where the boat remains for about 1.5 hours. This is a sandy, more secluded part of Comino and is regarded as a strong snorkeling location.

You can step ashore and use the beach, or remain with the boat and swim from its side ladder and platform. That choice is useful. If the beach feels too busy or you prefer a clear jump into the water, staying near the boat may suit you better. If you want sand under your feet and a short walk on Comino, go ashore.

The stop also gives you the best chance to make the day feel unhurried. One and a half hours is enough time for a swim, some snorkeling, and a little sitting around without turning the stop into a rushed photo call. Bring your own snorkeling equipment if you have it, since the supplied information does not say that equipment is included.

A small speedboat experience may be available during the Santa Marija stop, according to the trip details. Treat that as an optional extra rather than part of the main price, and ask the crew for current information before paying.

The Blue Lagoon requires a little planning

The Blue Lagoon is the headline stop, and Tour A allows about two hours there. The boat anchors away from the heaviest crowds, which gives you the option of enjoying the turquoise water from the vessel rather than immediately stepping into the busiest part of the shore.

You can swim or snorkel directly from the boat. This is especially helpful under the current access rules. From May 1, 2025, anyone stepping ashore at the Blue Lagoon needs a free QR code issued under Maltese regulations. You must book a 13:30 to 17:30 time slot at blcomino.com, using the instructions supplied with your ticket.

No QR code is needed if you stay on the boat. That makes the rule manageable, but do not leave it until the morning of the trip. If you want to walk onto the Blue Lagoon shore, arrange the code before boarding and keep it accessible on your phone.

The boat’s position away from the main crowds is a practical advantage. You can swim in the same famous water without spending the entire stop on the shore. On the other hand, if your main goal is to walk around the lagoon and sit on land, the QR requirement adds another step, and shore access may feel less spontaneous than it once did.

The Blue Lagoon can be very busy, so adjust your expectations. Its color is the attraction, but the setting is not a private cove. The best experience may be a mix of swimming from the boat, taking photographs, and going ashore briefly if you have the required QR code.

Returning by Comino’s caves and Elephant’s Head Rock

After the two main stops, the boat returns toward Malta while showing more of Comino’s coastal formations. Elephant’s Head Rock is one of the memorable sights, and the route includes several well-known caves.

The return section is a good reason not to treat the boat as simple transportation. You get another angle on the island, with the crew pointing out rock shapes and cave openings as the boat passes. The viewing conditions depend on the sea and light. The cave visibility can be limited on some days, so consider this part scenic rather than a guaranteed close-up exploration of every cave.

The scheduled return is around 17:00, making the outing roughly 6.5 hours. That is long enough for a full day by the water, but not so long that you lose an entire evening in Malta.

The boat, food, and comfort details

The vessel has a sun deck and a shaded deck, plus a toilet, shower near the side ladder, swim platform, and side ladder for getting into the water. These details matter more than they might sound. After saltwater swimming, a shower is welcome, and a proper ladder is easier than climbing over a high rail.

Food and drinks are available to buy onboard. The prices are described as reasonable, which helps keep the day affordable if you do not want to pack a full meal. Lunch is not included, so budget for something from the boat or bring whatever the operator permits.

The boat is clean and has music as well as commentary. Captain Owen has been singled out for introducing himself and explaining the day, while the crew is known for a warm, family-style approach. That personal welcome can make the morning feel more organized, especially when several route options are using the same vessel.

Comfort is the area where you should be realistic. There are no lie-flat loungers, and the deck may feel packed during boarding or at busy times. Arrive early if your seating position matters, and consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, towel, and a light layer for the ride back.

Is $46.10 good value?

At about $46.10 per person, Tour A offers solid value if you want several elements in one outing. You receive a long coastal cruise, live commentary, two substantial water stops, cave viewing, access to basic facilities, and the convenience of returning to the same meeting point.

The value is strongest for swimmers and snorkelers. You are not paying only for a short Blue Lagoon transfer. The 1.5-hour Santa Marija Bay stop and two-hour Blue Lagoon stop make up a large part of the day, and you can use the boat’s ladder and platform for easy water access.

The price is less compelling if you want a quiet, private cruise or a guaranteed seat with plenty of personal space. A boat carrying up to 90 people cannot offer the same calm as a small charter. You are paying for a practical shared excursion, not luxury.

The low-cost food and drinks also help. Since lunch is not included, inexpensive onboard options can keep the final cost under control. Just remember that the Blue Lagoon QR code is free, but obtaining it is your responsibility if you want to step ashore.

Who will enjoy this Comino cruise most?

I would choose this for a couple, family, or group of friends who want an easy Malta water day with swimming built in. It suits confident swimmers particularly well because you can use the boat’s swim platform at both main areas, subject to crew instructions and sea conditions.

It also works for people who prefer choices. You can sit in shade, listen to commentary, take photographs, swim from the boat, or go ashore at the stops. You do not need to follow a guided walk once the boat anchors.

I would think twice if you dislike crowded boats, need a sun lounger, or want a silent sailing experience. The same social atmosphere that makes the trip friendly can feel cramped. The confusion between Tour A and Tour B has also caused some uncertainty, so ask the captain to explain the day’s route clearly when you board.

Practical booking advice before you go

The meeting point is Sirens Quay 24, Triq San Geraldu, St. Paul’s Bay. The activity ends at the same place. It is near public transportation, and most people can participate, but the details do not promise a fully accessible vessel.

Bring swimwear, towel, sun protection, and a phone with enough battery for the QR code if you plan to enter the Blue Lagoon. You may also want cash or a payment method for food and drinks, although the available payment options are not specified.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Changes or cancellations made inside that period are not accepted for a refund. The trip depends on good weather and a minimum number of bookings, so poor conditions or low demand can lead to a new date or full refund.

Should you book Tour A?

Yes, if you want an affordable, friendly, activity-filled day centered on Comino’s water. The long stops at Santa Marija Bay and the Blue Lagoon are the main reason to book, while the captain’s commentary, cave viewing, and onboard facilities add useful extras.

Book with realistic expectations about crowding and comfort. Confirm the departure time, clarify the Tour A route with the crew, and arrange the Blue Lagoon QR code in advance if you want to step ashore. If you can accept a busy shared boat, this is a good-value way to see Comino, swim twice, and enjoy Malta from the water.

FAQ

How long is the Comino, Blue Lagoon and Caves Tour A?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. It is scheduled to return to the port at about 17:00.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Sirens Quay 24, Triq San Geraldu, in St. Paul’s Bay, Malta. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour depart?

The meeting details list a 10:30 am start, while the itinerary also mentions a 10:00 departure. Check your final booking information and arrive early to avoid confusion.

How long is the stop at Santa Marija Bay?

The boat stays at Santa Marija Bay for approximately 1.5 hours. You can access the island or stay onboard and swim from the boat.

How long is the stop at the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon stop lasts approximately two hours. You may swim or snorkel from the boat, or step ashore if you have the required QR code.

Do I need a QR code for the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, you need a free QR code to step onto the Blue Lagoon shore from May 1, 2025. Book the 13:30 to 17:30 time slot at blcomino.com. No QR code is needed if you remain on the boat.

Is lunch included?

No. Food and drinks are available to purchase onboard, but lunch is not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund. If bad weather or an insufficient number of bookings causes the operator to cancel, you will be offered another date or a full refund.