From Sliema: Comino & Blue Lagoon Trip – Including Boat Ride

Crystal water, fast boats, and a small island hike. This Comino and Blue Lagoon day trip from Sliema pairs a private speedboat ride with a short walk to viewpoints, then gives you Blue Lagoon time to relax.

I like the simple pacing, you get private transportation and a guided plan so you are not figuring things out. I also like the mix of people, it is the kind of outing where you chat easily with an international crowd during the day.

One heads-up: the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, so water time may feel busier than you expect, and the Comino hike can feel quick if you are not used to walking uphill.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Private speedboat, not just a ferry, so the day feels smoother and more direct
• A short hike on Comino for viewpoints and photo stops before you hit the water
• About 2.5 hours at Blue Lagoon, enough time to swim and still have a breather
• International group energy, with an English live guide keeping things moving
• Easy-to-miss gear details, good shoes, towel, and water make a real difference

The Comino and Blue Lagoon goal: what this day trip really delivers

If your idea of Malta is dramatic water and that classic, photo-ready lagoon look, this trip is built for it. You start on the Sliema side of the island, then head out with a private coach pickup and a speedboat ride that cuts the day into clear, manageable chunks.

The best part is that you get both elements of the day. You are not just sitting at a beach, you also do a short hike across Comino, which is how you earn those elevated views before the crowd energy takes over at the Blue Lagoon.

Why the private transportation matters

This is one of those tours where logistics are part of the product. Meeting at Burger King Sliema at 9:45 AM means the day runs on schedule, and you do not have to coordinate extra rides or tickets after you arrive.

That also helps if you are traveling solo. You spend less time worrying about connections, and more time talking to the group while you move between stops.

Price and value: what you are paying for

The tour is listed around $34 per person in the overview. The provider also mentions 20€ for online early-bird tickets, so depending on when you book, you may see different pricing.

Here is how I think about value. You are paying for three things that add up fast if you try to DIY:

• Private boat rides instead of finding your own public transport to the islands
• Round-trip private transportation from the meeting point
• A guide who coordinates timing so you do not lose half your day to confusion

Food is not included. That keeps the price lower, but it also means you must plan your lunch. If you show up without a sandwich or some snacks, you might end up paying more than you expected.

The day’s flow: meeting in Sliema, then bus, then speedboat

This trip runs about 7 hours, with return to the same meeting spot in Sliema. On Saturdays, the meeting time is 9:45 AM, and the tour officially starts at 10:00 AM. The expected return is around 5:00 PM.

The schedule is straightforward:

• Start at Burger King Sliema
• Coach time to the boat area (about 1 hour)
• Speedboat ride to Comino (about 30 minutes)

That rhythm is a big deal. The coach portion acts like a buffer, and the speedboat portion feels like the reward for reaching the water. If you get motion sick easily, it is still a speedboat, so you will want to use common sense and be prepared.

What it feels like once you are on the water

Speedboats are quick, and the route gives you that Malta-at-sea feeling without turning the day into an all-day transit slog. You are not stuck waiting around long stretches, and you are not doing multiple ferry transfers.

Even better, because the rides are private for the tour group, you are less likely to get separated or lose track of what time you need to be back.

Comino on foot: the short hike and photo stop plan

Comino is tiny compared to Malta, but it still feels like its own world. When you arrive, you get a photo stop and walk/hike phase that lasts about 30 minutes.

This is the part that makes the day feel balanced. Blue Lagoon is famous, but Comino gives you variety. You get scenic views on the way, and the short walk helps you appreciate why people keep returning to this island even after the novelty wears off.

How hard is the Comino hike?

The hike is described as relatively easy, as long as you have a decent level of stamina. That said, the walking is not just a stroll on a flat path. One caution from experience is that it can feel fast for beginners, especially if you are not used to uphill movement.

My practical advice: treat it like a warm-up, not a race. Go at your own pace, take breaks when you need them, and keep your energy for the lagoon swim time later.

Shoes and small choices that save your day

Wear good walking shoes. Flip-flops are a bad idea here. You want grip and comfort because you are walking on an island surface that is not built for lounging footwear.

Bring water too, even if you think you will be fine. A short hike can still make you feel thirsty fast in Maltese sun.

Blue Lagoon time: 2.5 hours of swimming and reality checks

You get about 2.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon. This is your main free-time block, so you can swim, relax, and enjoy the look people travel for.

The water is described as crystal-clear with transparent views. That is exactly the kind of setting where a swim feels more like a moment than a task.

The one drawback: crowds can change the water feel

The Blue Lagoon is popular. If you are going for the calm, swim-in-peace version, you may be disappointed. Even with good tour organization, the lagoon itself can get crowded enough that swimming is not as relaxing as you hope.

What you can do:

• Prioritize quick swims and photos early in your free time
• Expect less space in the water than you would on a quiet beach
• Keep your expectations realistic, then enjoy what you can

How to make your lagoon time better

This is where your planning pays off. Bring a towel, and give yourself a few minutes to get comfortable once you arrive. If you want to swim more than once, do your first swim soon, then return later when you see where space opens up.

Since food and drinks are not included, you will likely want to snack during this block. The info says food trucks are generally available, but I still recommend bringing your own lunch so you are not stuck waiting.

Your group experience: English Cafe Malta and meeting new people

This outing is run by English Cafe Malta, and the tour includes an English live guide plus a team handling coordination and logistics. That matters because it keeps the day from turning into a group herding exercise.

One of the most praised parts of the experience is the group itself. You are likely to meet an international mix, including expats, English students, Erasmus participants, interns, volunteers, digital nomads, Maltese locals, and tourists. Ages are not restricted beyond the tour rule that it is not suitable for children under 18.

If you are solo, this style of day trip can feel easy. You spend enough time in motion, then you hit the lagoon where talking happens naturally. It is a more social format than a typical private charter, but it is not so large that you lose the personal feel.

The guide style you should expect

The host is described as super nice, and you may even get a French-speaking host support at times. The main takeaway is that coordination is solid, and the day stays organized even when the lagoon is busy.

That is a real comfort factor. When you only have a few hours on an island, you do not want to waste it on unclear meeting points or delays.

What to bring and wear so the day feels smooth

I love when a tour tells you exactly what to pack, because it saves you from guessing. For this day trip, plan around sun, walking, and water.

Bring:

• Hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Food, like a sandwich or panini
• Sunscreen
• Water
• Sports shoes

Also consider a light jacket if it is windy or cooler. You might not need it the whole day, but it can help when you are on the boat.

What not to do

Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and littering is not allowed. It is basic, but it is good to know the rules are taken seriously.

Who this Comino and Blue Lagoon trip is best for

This tour fits best if you want a classic Malta day without turning it into a DIY project. You like structured timing, you enjoy a bit of walking for the views, and you want a real chance to swim at the lagoon.

It is also a good fit if you are social and want an international crowd. The group mix is a highlight, especially if you are new to Malta and want easy conversation without forcing it.

Who should think twice

Skip it if:

• You have mobility impairments, because it is not suitable
• You are traveling with kids under 18, since it is not suitable for children under 18
• You want a quiet, uncrowded beach day. The lagoon can be busy, and that is not something a tour guide can fully control

Also think carefully if you hate walking. The hike is relatively easy, but it is still a hike, and the pace may feel too quick for beginners.

Quick itinerary walkthrough by stop

Here is how the timing typically breaks down, so you know where your time goes.

Stop 1: Burger King Sliema (9:45 AM meeting)

You meet at the doors of Burger King in Sliema. This matters because you should arrive early enough to be sure you are with the right group.

Stop 2: Coach ride (about 1 hour)

This is travel time to get you in position for the boat. It is also a good window to meet people and ask questions if anything feels unclear.

Stop 3: Private speedboat to Comino (about 30 minutes)

You get the fast-water feel early. The boat ride is part of the fun, but it is also why the day stays efficient.

Stop 4: Comino (about 30 minutes)

You get a photo stop, then a short walk/hike across the island to take in scenic viewpoints. This is short on purpose, so you do not burn your energy before the lagoon.

Stop 5: Blue Lagoon free time (about 2.5 hours)

This is your swimming and relaxing block. Bring your swim gear and plan for crowds.

Stop 6: Speedboat back (about 30 minutes)

Time moves quickly now. This is why packing your towel and essentials before you leave the beach area is smart.

Stop 7: Coach back to Sliema (about 1 hour)

You finish back at Burger King Sliema.

Should you book this Comino and Blue Lagoon day trip?

Book it if you want a well-run, time-efficient day that combines Comino viewpoints plus Blue Lagoon swim time without you managing transport details. I think it is especially worth it if you value the private boat and pickup, because that is what turns the day from a scramble into a plan.

I would not book it if you are chasing a calm, empty lagoon experience, or if you have limited mobility, or if you are expecting food to be included. Bring your own lunch, wear walking shoes, and keep your expectations aligned with the fact that Blue Lagoon is popular.

If you do those things, you are set up for a memorable Malta day: quick water rides, a short island hike, and that classic lagoon look that still feels magical even when the crowd is there.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the Comino and Blue Lagoon trip from Sliema?

You meet at the doors of Burger King in Sliema. The tour returns to the same meeting point.

What time does the tour start and when do we get back?

The meeting time is 9:45 AM, with the event starting at 10:00 AM. The expected return time is around 5:00 PM, and the trip lasts about 7 hours.

How do we get to Comino and back?

The itinerary includes private coach transportation to the boat area and private speedboat rides to and from Comino.

Is swimming in the Blue Lagoon included?

You get free time at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and relaxing. You should bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to get in the water.

How strenuous is the Comino hike?

The trail is described as relatively easy if you have a decent level of stamina. It is still a hike, so you should wear good walking shoes and take your pace seriously.

Is food and drinks included in the price?

Food and drinks are not included. Food trucks are generally available, but it is recommended that you bring your own lunch, like a sandwich or panini.

Is this tour suitable for children?

No. It is not suitable for children under 18 years.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.