How to Enjoy an Amazing Day Trip to Comino, Malta
Craving turquoise waters, sun-soaked beaches, and a slice of Mediterranean paradise? A Comino day trip is the answer. Tucked between Malta and Gozo, this tiny island may only be 3.5 square kilometres, but it’s packed with natural beauty. From the famous Blue Lagoon Malta tour to secret caves and quiet coves, Comino’s got everything you need for an unforgettable day in the sun.
Whether you’re coming from a cruise ship or just exploring on your own, here’s exactly how to plan the best boat trip to Comino Malta. No stress, no FOMO.
Getting to Comino: Your Transport Options
Getting to Comino is easy. You’ve got several options depending on your style and budget.
Public Ferries
From Malta Mainland
The most popular route starts from ÄŠirkewwa or Marfa on Malta’s northern tip. Public ferries run multiple times daily for around €10 return – that’s budget-friendly travel right there. The boat trip to Comino Malta takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll get stunning views of the coastline along the way.
Public ferries get packed during peak season. We’re talking about sardine-can levels of crowds. But if you’re travelling on a budget and don’t mind the crowds, it’s your best way to get to Blue Lagoon without breaking the bank.
From Gozo
Starting from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo?This route is shorter and often less crowded. The Comino day trip takes just 15-20 minutes, making it perfect if you’re already exploring Gozo or planning to visit both islands.
Private Boat Tours and Charters
Now we’re talking about luxury. Private boat trips Malta offer the ultimate flexibility. You choose when to leave, where to stop, and how long to stay. These tours typically cost more, but you get access to secluded spots that public ferries skip. Perfect for couples or small groups who want to avoid the tourist masses. Check out GOZOblu Private Boat Tours. We are a top-rated option for travellers who want a more intimate, flexible experience. You get:
- Snorkelling gear included. No need to rent or bring your own
- A GoPro camera to capture your underwater adventures
- Complimentary drinks onboard to keep you refreshed
- Knowledgeable, friendly skipper that knows all the secret caves and quiet bays
For those seeking an exclusive experience, check out our guide on why booking a private boat tour could be your best bet. It covers everything from pricing to hidden gems only private tours can access.
Organised Group Tours and Cruises
Malta boat tours and organised cruises offer excellent value for money, often including lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided activities. If you’re arriving on a cruise ship in Malta, many operators offer Comino and Blue Lagoon cruise packages tailored to cruise guests, ensuring they fit seamlessly within your port schedule.Â
GOZOblu Private Boat Tours also welcomes cruise ship passengers and offers flexible itineraries that let you explore Comino and the Blue Lagoon without worrying about missing your ship.
When to Go: Best Times & How to Avoid the Crowds
Timing is everything when planning your Comino day trip. Get this right, and you’ll have the place almost to yourself. Get it wrong, and you’ll be fighting for swimming space.
Seasonal Sweet Spots
Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers the best weather, but also the biggest crowds. The water’s warmest during this period, making it perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
Want our insider tip? Visit in April or October. The weather’s still gorgeous, but you’ll find fewer tourists and better deals on the best Malta boat tours.
Time of Day Strategy
Here’s what most tourists don’t know: arrive before 10 AM or stay until sunset to avoid peak congestion. Early morning visits to Blue Lagoon feel like you’ve discovered a secret paradise. The water’s calm, the light is perfect for photos, and you’ll actually find space to swim.
Evening visits have their own magic. Sunset cruise Malta options offer breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. Our article on How to Plan the Perfect Romantic Sunset Boat Trip in Malta has all the details for creating an unforgettable evening experience.
Day of the Week Matters
Weekdays are your friend. Weekends and public holidays bring crowds from both Malta and Gozo. If you can swing a Tuesday or Wednesday visit, you’ll thank yourself later.
Weather Check
Malta’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during shoulder seasons. High winds can cancel Malta boat trips and make swimming dangerous. Always check the forecast before booking your Comino day trip.
What to Do on Your Comino Day Trip
Comino might be small, but it’s packed with natural wonders. Each spot offers something different, from world-famous swimming holes to secret caves that most tourists never find.
1. Blue Lagoon
This is the highlight for most people. It’s as dreamy as it looks. It’s shallow enough for confident swimming but deep enough for proper snorkelling. The sandy bottom and crystal-clear water create perfect conditions for underwater photography.Â
It gets crowded during peak hours. But even with the crowds, it’s worth experiencing. The blue lagoon Malta tour experience lives up to the hype.
2. Crystal Lagoon
Crystal Lagoon offers similar beauty with fewer crowds. Most visitors stick to Blue Lagoon, leaving this gem relatively peaceful. The water here is deeper, making it perfect for snorkelling and even scuba diving. It’s mostly accessible by boat, which keeps it more peaceful.Â
If you’re a first-timer, read Crystal Lagoon Malta: 2025 Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors.
3. Santa Maria Caves
These sea caves are pure magic. Accessible by kayak or small boat, they offer incredible photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. The caves stay cool even on hot days, making them perfect for escaping the Mediterranean sun.
For a detailed exploration guide, check out Exploring Comino Caves: A Hidden Gem of the Maltese Islands, which includes safety tips and the best times to visit.
4. Cominotto Island
This tiny islet near Blue Lagoon is technically separate from Comino. Most tourists ignore it, but it’s perfect for snorkelling and exploring. The Cominotto Malta experience offers a more intimate connection with nature.
5. Santa Marija Bay & San Niklaw Bay
These quieter Comino beaches are perfect for families with young children. The waters are calmer, and there’s more space to spread out. Santa Marija Bay, in particular, offers stunning views and excellent swimming conditions.
Our Best Comino Beaches to Visit in Summer 2025 guide provides detailed information about each beach, including facilities and accessibility.
Don’t miss our special feature on Discover the Beauty of Santa Maria Bay, Comino Malta for insider tips on this hidden gem.
6. St. Mary's Tower & Chapel
Take a short hike to St. Mary’s Tower for panoramic views of the island. The 17th-century watchtower offers incredible photo opportunities and a bit of historical context. The chapel nearby adds a peaceful spiritual element to your visit.
Choosing the Right Comino Tour or Boat Experience
There are a lot of Comino day trip options out there, so here’s how they break down:
- Public Ferry: Cheap, quick, and basic.
- Shared Cruise: Great value, includes extras like lunch and gear..
- Private Boat Trips Malta: Customisable, private, and totally worth it if you’re celebrating something or want to explore at your own pace. If you’re in a group, this is often more cost-effective than joining a shared tour, split the cost and enjoy a tailor-made experience without the crowds.
- Sunset Cruise Malta:Â Ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, scenic experience. While the focus is on ambiance and sunset views, we also include time for swimming, so depending on your preferences, you can enjoy a refreshing dip before watching the sun set over the water.
Always book in advance if you’re visiting in the high season. Look for eco-certified operators who respect the marine environment. Read recent reviews, not just the star ratings. And always confirm weather policies in case of cancellations.
What to Pack for a Comino Day Trip
Packing smart can make or break your day. Comino has limited facilities, so bringing the right gear is essential.
- Essentials: Swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, flip-flops.
- Extras: Snorkel mask, GoPro, waterproof bag, power bank.
- Food/Drinks: The kiosks near the Blue Lagoon offer limited options.. If you prefer a quieter spot away from the crowds, it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks and find a more peaceful area elsewhere on the island to relax and enjoy your food.
- Cash: No ATMs on the island.
- Safety Stuff: Band-aids, motion sickness pills if needed.
Consider packing a GoPro or waterproof camera. The underwater scenery is incredible, and you’ll want to capture those memories. If you choose to visit Comino with GOZOblu Private Boat Tours, provide GoPro camera on our selected tours. Contact us for more details.
Safety, Sustainability, and Traveller Tips
- Crowd and Safety Tips: Secure your belongings, theft is rare, but there are no lockers or secure storage. Avoid slippery rocks, especially when wet. Swim within designated safe areas and be aware of boat traffic in popular spots.
- Eco-Conscious Travel: Comino’s beauty depends on responsible tourism. Don’t litter. Pack out everything you bring. Avoid trampling vegetation or leaving trash in caves or lagoons. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Accessibility Considerations: The terrain is rugged with limited access for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no medical centres on the island, so bring necessary medications and basic first aid supplies.
Ready to Book Your Comino Day Trip Adventure?
A Comino day trip is one of the best things you can do in Malta, no matter your travel style. You’ll swim in crazy-clear water, explore wild caves, and soak up that Maltese sun like a pro.
Keep your plans flexible. While it’s good to have an itinerary, some of the best Comino experiences happen spontaneously. Maybe you’ll discover a secluded cove that’s not on any map. Or find yourself chatting with local boat operators who know secret snorkelling spots.
Consider pairing your Comino day trip to Gozo, or for the truly adventurous, extend your stay with an overnight camping trip. The island transforms at sunset and sunrise, offering completely different perspectives on its natural beauty.
If you want something extra special, go private. If you want to stretch your euros, group tours or ferries will still give you the full island experience.
Whatever you choose, you really can’t go wrong. Just get there early, pack smart, and don’t forget your camera.
Ready to experience this Mediterranean paradise? Start planning your Comino day trip today, and prepare for waters so clear and blue, you’ll think you’re swimming in a postcard.