Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves – Private speed boat

REVIEW · MALTA

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves – Private speed boat

  • 5.019 reviews
  • 3 hours (approx.)
  • From $322.86
Book on Viator →

Operated by Xlendi Pleasure Cruises · Bookable on Viator

Comino from the water feels made for this. I like how this private speed boat setup gets you quick access to Blue Lagoon, plus another full hour at Crystal Lagoon without feeling rushed. You also get real swimming and snorkel time, not just a look-and-go pass, and that alone makes the trip feel worth planning around.

The one thing to watch is logistics and gear quality on the day. In one experience, pickup timing didn’t match the expectation, and snorkel masks were described as worn, so I’d plan to arrive on time at the meeting point and consider bringing your own mask if you’re picky about hygiene or fit.

Key takeaways

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - Key takeaways

  • Up to 9 people on a private boat means a calmer pace and more control than shared tours.
  • Blue Lagoon + Crystal Lagoon are each given a full hour, so you can swim, float, and take photos without constant hurry-up.
  • Santa Maria Caves and Half Rock add variety beyond beaches, with cave passages and classic sea-stop snorkeling.
  • Snorkeling masks and an ice box are included, which helps you keep costs down if you bring snacks and drinks.
  • Fuel charge is extra (€79 per booking), so factor that into your real total.
  • Weather matters because the tour needs good conditions to run smoothly.

Why a 3-hour private Comino and caves route makes sense

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - Why a 3-hour private Comino and caves route makes sense
This is a short tour by design—about 3 hours total, including cruising and stops. For Comino, that’s important. You’re not trying to “see everything.” You’re trying to hit the best water and the best photo/sea-cave moments while the day still feels flexible.

The private part is the real value driver. With up to 9 people, your skipper can keep the day on track and adjust the vibe—more sun time, more swimming, or a bit more time for the cave viewpoint—without waiting on strangers who are still wrangling towels.

Pricing is $322.86 per group. With a private boat, the math gets much more appealing if you’re traveling with friends or family who will actually use the snorkeling stops. If you’re solo, it’s still doable, but you’ll feel the cost more since you’re not splitting it among multiple parties.

One more practical note: it’s listed as English, with a mobile ticket. If you like straightforward check-in and clear communication, this fits the bill.

Other Blue Lagoon and Comino tours we've reviewed in Malta

Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon: where the swim time actually happens

You get two major water stops, each around 1 hour: Blue Lagoon first, then Crystal Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon (about 1 hour)

Blue Lagoon is the headline stop for a reason: clear turquoise water, shallow areas, limestone coastline, and the kind of scenery that makes you slow down. This hour is long enough to do more than one thing. You can swim, snorkel, or just float and watch the light shift across the water and cliffs.

What I like for you: it’s a strong “first swim” moment. When you start with Blue Lagoon, you’re not stuck conserving energy for later. You also get the best chance to enjoy it if conditions change—wind and water texture can affect comfort, and having that first hour locked in helps.

Crystal Lagoon (about 1 hour)

Then you shift to Crystal Lagoon, which is described as quieter and more tucked in along Comino’s coastline. The point of this stop is variety: similar clean water vibes, but with a more secluded feel.

What this means for your day: you’re not repeating the same beach scene twice. You’re giving your brain a visual reset. For swimming, it can also feel less crowded, so you might spend more time actually in the water instead of hovering in a queue.

Tip that matters: bring your confidence (and your goggles) for both stops. Since you’re moving by boat, you’ll want to be ready when the skipper drops you in and keep an eye on how quickly you’re getting back to the boat.

San Nikolai Bay and San Marija Bay: the quieter Comino coastline moments

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - San Nikolai Bay and San Marija Bay: the quieter Comino coastline moments
Between the headline lagoons and the caves, the route includes two bays: San Nikolai Bay and San Marija Bay.

San Nikolai Bay (photo and coastline views)

San Nikolai Bay is a calmer “coastline + water color” stop. One highlight is that you’ll see the Comino Hotel from outside, plus the clear water right at the cove.

This stop is most valuable if you like taking a few slow photos and switching from snorkel mode to relax mode. It’s also a nice mental break from the more active swimming-lagoon scenes.

San Marija Bay (swim, sun, and a softer landing)

San Marija Bay is described as peaceful with clear blue water and a soft sandy beach, plus rocky shoreline around it. That mix is practical: sand is good for getting out comfortably, and rocks give you different edges to explore from the water.

For you, this stop works well if you want a “reset moment” where everyone can do their own thing—some swim, some sunbathe, some just walk along the edge before climbing back on board.

Santa Maria Caves and Half Rock: the sea-stop that turns into a story

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - Santa Maria Caves and Half Rock: the sea-stop that turns into a story
This is where the trip earns its “speed boat” personality. You’re not only hopping between lagoons—you’re getting sea-cave and rock formations on the itinerary.

Santa Maria Caves

Santa Maria Caves are described as sea caves shaped by waves over time, with boat navigation through passages. You’ll also get sunlight filtering into openings above, which is a big deal for photography and for seeing the cave texture while you’re underway.

The key value here is the mix of views and water time. The caves are a visual highlight even if you’re not snorkeling, and once you stop in the right spot you can usually do short swims or snorkel sessions depending on conditions.

Half Rock (plus a Gozo-feeling coastline stop)

Half Rock is a focal point connected to Gozo’s coastal landscape. The plan includes swimming and snorkeling there too, with the promise of clear water and colorful marine life.

Even if you’re not a big swimmer, Half Rock is a strong “look longer than you planned” stop. Rock formations tend to pull your eyes, and with the water clarity it’s usually easier to spot what’s happening below the surface.

The skipper makes or breaks the day (Atem/Adam and James are good signs)

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - The skipper makes or breaks the day (Atem/Adam and James are good signs)
On private boat tours, the skipper’s style matters more than most people think. Here, the experiences you’ll most want to see reflected in your day are: safe driving, easy communication, and smart advice about where to swim.

I’ve seen this kind of praise tied to skippers like Atem/Adam and James. One person noted that the ride felt professional and comfortable, and that their skipper shared helpful local knowledge. Another mentioned a calm, safe driving approach—and even getting extra attention when a friend felt sick on board.

What you should take from that: you’re not just paying for transportation. You’re paying for someone who can keep the day smooth—timing the stops and giving you enough guidance to enjoy the water without overthinking it.

How to use that practically:

  • If you care about snorkeling time, ask early about the best spots for your comfort level.
  • If you get motion-sensitive, mention it right away so the skipper can keep the ride steady where possible.
  • If you have limited swimming ability, tell the skipper before you’re in the water so they can choose the right drop-in spots.

Price and what adds cost: fuel, drinks, and the smart bring-list

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - Price and what adds cost: fuel, drinks, and the smart bring-list
Let’s talk real value. The headline price is $322.86 per group (up to 9), and that can be excellent value when split. You’re getting:

  • a private boat
  • a skipper
  • snorkeling masks
  • an ice box if you bring food and drinks
  • multiple swimming stops

So where does it get tricky?

Fuel charge (€79 per booking)

Fuel is listed as not included: €79.00 per booking. That means your final total is going to be higher than the base listing price. I’d treat that as part of the real budget from the start so there are no surprises later.

If you’re traveling as a small group (say 2–4 people), fuel can feel like a bigger percentage. If you’re closer to 7–9 people, it becomes much easier to swallow.

Food and drinks

Food and drinks aren’t included. The good news is the boat provides an ice box, so you can bring your own snacks and drinks and keep them chilled. This also helps if you have dietary preferences.

Hotel transfer

Hotel transfer isn’t included. So you’ll need to plan getting to the meeting point yourself.

Practical bring-list (based on what’s actually covered vs. not)

  • Your own towel and a dry bag if you want things protected
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • A change of clothes
  • If you’re particular about snorkeling gear: consider bringing your own mask. One experience mentioned the included masks felt worn.

Timing, booking in advance, and how to handle weather

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - Timing, booking in advance, and how to handle weather
This tour is commonly booked about 66 days in advance. That’s not a hard rule, but it tells me this route is in demand. If your dates are fixed, booking early is smart.

Also: the tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. In other words, if your trip is right on the edge of a stormy pattern, build in flexibility if you can.

A seasonal note from one real experience: October water was described as cold, and the suggestion was essentially to go in summer for comfort. If you’re traveling in cooler months, plan for chillier water and shorter comfort time in the water.

Should you book this private Comino speed boat tour?

Explore Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves - Private speed boat - Should you book this private Comino speed boat tour?
Book it if you want:

  • Private boat time with a real route (lagoons, bays, caves, a rock stop)
  • Two dedicated lagoon hours so you can swim without rushing
  • A skipper-led day that feels relaxed and efficient, with plenty of chances for photos

Skip it or reconsider if:

  • You’re worried about day-of changes. Weather can affect the run.
  • You’re expecting a perfect matching pickup experience from every situation. One report included a mismatch and a delay.
  • You’re very picky about snorkeling gear condition. The included masks can work, but if you care about fit and cleanliness, bring your own.

Best fit: couples, friends, and small groups who want water time and caves without spending a whole day on the water. It’s especially strong if you’ll split the group cost close to the top end of the group size.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves private speed boat tour?

It’s approximately 3 hours, including cruising time and stops.

What stops are included on the itinerary?

You’ll visit Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, San Nikolai Bay, San Marija Bay, Santa Maria Caves, and Half Rock, plus cruising/photo/scenic stops along the way.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s a private tour, and only your group participates.

How many people can be on the boat?

The price is per group up to 9 people.

Are snorkeling masks included?

Yes, snorkeling masks are included.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, but you can bring your own, and the tour includes an ice box for them.

Is hotel transfer included?

No. Hotel transfer is not included.

Is fuel included in the price?

No. There is a fuel charge of €79.00 per booking not included.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

More tours in Malta we've reviewed

Explore Malta