The Blue Lagoon on Comino belongs to the most popular places in Malta for swimming and boat trips. Every year, thousands of visitors travel to the island to enjoy the turquoise water and relaxed atmosphere. Many tourists staying in Malta search for a simple day trip that combines sightseeing, swimming and boat travel in one experience. A blue lagoon tour gives visitors an easy way to reach Comino without arranging separate ferry tickets or transport.
Quick Facts: Blue Lagoon Tours
| Detail | At a glance |
|---|---|
| Location | Between Comino and Cominotto, between Malta and Gozo |
| Departure points | Sliema, Bugibba, St. Paul’s Bay, and Gozo |
| Boat ride | About 40 minutes to 1 hour each way |
| Best time | Mornings, and spring or autumn for fewer crowds |
| What to bring | Swimwear, sunscreen, water, snorkel gear, water shoes |
Where Is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon sits between Comino and the small island of Cominotto. Comino itself lies between Malta and Gozo. The island remains much quieter than Malta because very few people live there permanently. Most visitors arrive during the daytime and leave again in the afternoon or evening.
The lagoon became famous because of the bright blue water. The shallow seabed and sunlight create a clear turquoise colour that stands out immediately when boats approach the coast. During summer, the water often stays calm and clear for long periods. That makes the area popular for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing near the shore.
How Does a Blue Lagoon Tour Work?
Most Blue Lagoon tours leave from places like Sliema, Bugibba or St. Paul’s Bay. Some tours also start from Gozo. Depending on the departure location, the boat ride usually takes between forty minutes and one hour. To pick the most convenient harbour, see our guide on comparing Comino departure points.
The journey itself forms a large part of the experience. Many boats pass cliffs, caves and smaller bays before arriving at Comino. Some tours stop near sea caves for photos or short swimming breaks. Other tours focus mainly on giving visitors as much time as possible at the Blue Lagoon.
After arriving, visitors usually receive several hours of free time. Some people spend the entire afternoon swimming, while others walk around the island or relax on the rocks near the coast. Full day tours normally include longer swimming stops and more sightseeing along the Maltese coastline.
What Should You Bring?
A Blue Lagoon tour mostly takes place outdoors under direct sunlight. Preparing properly helps visitors enjoy the day more comfortably. Most travelers bring swimwear, towels and sunscreen because the summer temperatures in Malta can become very warm during the afternoon.
Water and light snacks also help during the trip, especially on busy summer days. Sunglasses and hats protect against the strong Mediterranean sun. Comfortable footwear can also help because some walking areas around Comino contain rocks and uneven surfaces.
Many visitors also bring snorkeling equipment because the clear water allows good visibility underwater. Waterproof phone cases remain popular as well because people often take photos directly near the water. For a complete checklist, read our Comino day trip packing guide.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The busiest period for Blue Lagoon tours runs from June until September. During these months, large numbers of tourists visit Malta and boat tours operate daily. The lagoon can become crowded around midday because many boats arrive at similar times.
Morning departures often feel calmer and quieter. Spring and autumn usually offer softer temperatures and fewer crowds. Sea conditions can still change quickly around Malta, especially during windy days. Some tour routes may adjust slightly depending on weather conditions and wave levels. For more on timing, see our guide on how to beat the crowds at the Blue Lagoon.
Is a Blue Lagoon Tour Worth It?
Many travelers book a Blue Lagoon tour because it combines several activities into one simple day trip. Visitors can experience Comino, swim in clear water and enjoy views of the Maltese coastline without needing complicated travel plans.
The Blue Lagoon remains one of the most photographed places in Malta for good reason. The combination of clear water, rocky coastline and boat access continues to attract visitors every year. For tourists spending a holiday in Malta, a day trip to Comino often becomes one of the highlights of the trip.
Local Tip: Choose a morning departure or a tour that uses the boat as your base. That way you can swim straight off the vessel and avoid the busiest midday hours on the shore.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a Blue Lagoon tour?
Most tours last a full day. The boat ride is about forty minutes to an hour each way, and you usually get several hours of free time at the Blue Lagoon to swim and relax.
Where do Blue Lagoon tours depart from?
Common departure points are Sliema, Bugibba and St. Paul’s Bay, with some tours starting from Gozo. Your travel time depends on which harbour you leave from.
What is the best time of day to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Morning departures are usually calmer and quieter. The lagoon gets busiest around midday when many boats arrive together, so an early start makes a real difference.