30/04/2017
Malta's Blue Lagoon, a jewel nestled within the Mediterranean Sea, is undeniably a visual masterpiece. Its crystal clear waters and pristine white sandy seabed make it a captivating sight. However, its immense beauty comes with a caveat: popularity. Especially during the peak summer months of July and August, this idyllic spot can transform into a bustling hub, attracting up to 10,000 visitors daily. Despite the crowds, a visit to the Blue Lagoon remains a highlight for most travellers to the Maltese islands. The key to a truly enjoyable experience lies in understanding how to get there and how to navigate its vibrant atmosphere. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the available transport options and offer invaluable tips to maximise your time at this extraordinary location.
The Blue Lagoon is situated on Comino Island, the smallest of Malta's three main islands, nestled perfectly between Malta and Gozo. Given that Comino is largely uninhabited, the only way to reach the Blue Lagoon is by boat. While land-based taxis can transport you to the various departure points on the main islands, they cannot take you directly to Comino. Therefore, your journey to this azure paradise will always begin with a maritime adventure. We've explored several methods of reaching the Lagoon, and each offers a unique perspective and experience.
Understanding the Blue Lagoon Experience
Before diving into transport options, it's important to set realistic expectations. The Blue Lagoon's reputation for being 'paradise' is visually accurate. The water is an incredible shade of blue, thanks to the white sand on the ocean floor, and it's surrounded by low, rocky cliffs. There's a small sandy beach and a larger rocky area where you can rent umbrellas and chairs. Food trucks, a rental shop, and toilets are available on the shore. However, the sheer volume of visitors, particularly during peak times, means it's far from a secluded oasis. The shore, in particular, can be extremely crowded with sunbathers. Surprisingly, the water itself tends to be less crowded, offering more space for swimming and playing.
Most visitors find a few hours or half a day at the Blue Lagoon to be sufficient, especially if seeking a full day of relaxation, as quieter beaches exist elsewhere in Malta. However, for those keen to spend more time, some boat trips do offer a full-day experience.
Your Journey to Azure: Different Ways to Reach the Blue Lagoon
As established, reaching the Blue Lagoon requires a boat. Fortunately, there's a wide array of boat trips departing from various ports on both Malta and Gozo, catering to different budgets and preferences. Always check the departure point when booking, especially if you don't have a car.
1. The Public Ferry: Economical and Direct
The most straightforward and budget-friendly option is the public ferry. Ferries depart regularly from Cirkewwa in Malta and various points in Gozo, heading directly to the Blue Lagoon dock. This is often the cheapest way to get there, with round-trip tickets being very affordable for adults and children. The ferry journey typically passes by the stunning sea caves before disembarking passengers directly at the Lagoon.
- Pros: Very economical, reliable, frequent departures (every 30-60 minutes depending on time of day).
- Cons: No opportunities for swimming or snorkelling directly from the ferry. It's purely transport. Less scenic than dedicated boat tours and doesn't offer visits to additional destinations like the Crystal Lagoon.
- Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, those who prefer direct transport and plan to spend all their time on the Blue Lagoon's shore.
2. Private Boat Trips: Luxury and Flexibility
For a more personalised and luxurious experience, a private boat trip is an excellent choice. While you cannot rent a private boat once you are *at* the Blue Lagoon, you can certainly book private charters that will take you there. These trips offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to tailor your itinerary, spend more time at specific spots, and avoid the crowds if desired. Smaller private boats can often venture inside the sea caves, offering a unique perspective that larger vessels cannot. Many private trips also include stops at the less crowded Crystal Lagoon, which is just as beautiful but lacks a beach.
- Pros: Highly flexible itinerary, ability to explore sea caves more intimately, potential for less crowded stops (e.g., Crystal Lagoon), more intimate family or group experience, opportunity for swimming and snorkelling directly from the boat. Some luxury options even include paddleboards and lunch.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than other options. Jellyfish can be a concern in open water (as experienced by some visitors).
- Best for: Families or groups who can split the cost, those seeking a premium, customised experience, or visitors prioritising privacy and direct water access from the boat.
Perhaps the most popular way to visit the Blue Lagoon is via a large boat cruise or catamaran. These full-day excursions, typically lasting 6-8 hours, are designed for a fun, social atmosphere. They usually include visits to both the Blue Lagoon and the Crystal Lagoon, with scenic passages by multiple sea caves. Many of these boats are equipped with music, drinks, and even slides for an added element of fun, making them a lively choice for many visitors.
- Pros: Social atmosphere, often includes music and drinks, visits multiple lagoons and sea caves, can offer onboard amenities like slides, good value for money compared to private charters.
- Cons: Can feel very crowded due to the large number of passengers, less intimate experience, fixed itinerary.
- Best for: Solo travellers, couples or groups looking for a vibrant, party-like atmosphere, and those who enjoy onboard entertainment.
4. Schooner Boat Trips: A Unique, Classic Voyage
For those desiring a more unique and perhaps nostalgic maritime experience, consider booking a trip on a schooner. These impressive, often two-masted vessels evoke an old-time sailor or even pirate ship vibe. Schooner trips typically offer 2 stops – one at a secluded bay in Gozo and another at the Blue Lagoon – along with morning snacks and a full lunch onboard. It's a blend of relaxation and exploration with a distinctive character.
- Pros: Unique aesthetic and atmosphere, often includes meals, visits multiple locations including a secluded Gozo bay.
- Cons: May have a fixed schedule, potentially slower travel than speedboats.
- Best for: Those seeking a memorable, distinct boat experience with a touch of classic charm, and who appreciate included amenities.
5. Kayak Excursions: Active and Intimate
For the adventurous and physically inclined, a kayak excursion offers the most unique and active way to experience the Blue Lagoon. These half-day trips allow you to paddle past cliffs, through bays, and into sea caves, providing an intimate connection with the stunning coastal landscape. Kayak trips often have a small group size (e.g., max 10 guests), ensuring a more personal experience and the chance to escape the main crowds by exploring quieter coves.
- Pros: Highly active and adventurous, intimate small-group experience, unparalleled access to smaller caves and secluded spots, great physical exercise.
- Cons: Requires physical exertion, weather dependent, may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
- Best for: Adventure seekers, active travellers, and those looking for a truly unique and intimate encounter with the Blue Lagoon's natural beauty.
Comparison of Transport Options
Transport Method Cost (Approx. €) Crowd Level Flexibility Activities from Boat Best For Public Ferry 14 (Adult RT) Low (on ferry) Fixed route/timing None Budget, direct transport Private Boat Trip High (varies) Very Low High (customisable) Swimming, Snorkelling, Cave exploration Groups, Luxury, Customisation Large Boat/Catamaran Medium High Medium (fixed itinerary, multiple stops) Swimming, Slides, Socialising Social, Value, Onboard fun Schooner Trip Medium-High Medium Medium (fixed itinerary, specific stops) Swimming, Meals, Unique experience Unique atmosphere, Included amenities Kayak Excursion Medium Very Low (on water) High (exploration) Kayaking, Swimming Active, Intimate, Adventurous Essential Tips for an Enjoyable Blue Lagoon Visit
To truly make the most of your trip to Malta's Blue Lagoon, consider these vital tips:
Timing is Everything: Beat the Crowds
The Blue Lagoon gets incredibly busy, especially during summer. If you crave any semblance of personal space, your arrival time is paramount. Aim to arrive either early in the morning (before 9 am) or much later in the day (after 5 pm). Photos or drone footage of an empty Blue Lagoon were likely taken around 8 am or during the quieter winter months. Sunset cruises are also an excellent option to enjoy the Lagoon with fewer people and cooler temperatures.
Explore Beyond the Main Beach
While the main sandy beach and rocky areas are the most crowded, you can often find more secluded spots. Consider bringing good walking sandals or shoes to explore the trails along the water or across the island. Swimming along the shore to a more secluded rocky cove or renting paddle boards to venture across the bay can provide a much more peaceful experience away from the sunbathing masses.
What to Expect on Shore
Despite Comino being largely uninhabited, the Blue Lagoon shore is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find several food vendors offering snacks and drinks, as well as rental shops where you can hire umbrellas, chairs, or even tubes to float on the water. Toilets are also available. Don't feel the need to pack everything, as essentials can be purchased or rented on site.
Respect the Environment
The Blue Lagoon is a natural wonder, and its popularity puts pressure on the environment. It's crucial to be a responsible visitor. Always dispose of your rubbish properly in designated bins, use the provided toilets, and strive to leave no trace of your visit. Help preserve this beautiful spot for future generations.
Consider Winter Visits
While the idea of swimming in winter might seem chilly, many visitors rave about the Blue Lagoon's quiet and calm atmosphere during the off-season. If warm swimming isn't your primary goal, a winter visit (December typically sees temperatures in the 60s°F/15-20°C) offers a uniquely peaceful experience with virtually no crowds. The weather can be unpredictable, but the serenity is unmatched.
Beyond the Blue Lagoon: Nearby Attractions on Comino
Your visit to Comino doesn't have to be limited to just the Blue Lagoon. The island offers a few other points of interest that are easily accessible and worth exploring.
The Crystal Lagoon
Just a short distance from the Blue Lagoon, the Crystal Lagoon is equally stunning but often less crowded. Its deep, clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and swimming directly from a boat, though it lacks a sandy beach. Many boat tours include a stop here, or you can reach it via a short trail from the Blue Lagoon.
1. Ferry from Malta or Gozo The cheapest and most straightforward way to get to visit the Blue Lagoon is to take the ferry from Cirkewwa Malta or Gozo directly to the dock at the Blue Lagoon. The cost is about 14 euro for a roundtrip ticket for adults and 7 euro roundtrip for kids aged 5-12 (under 5 is free). St. Mary's Tower
For a dose of history and panoramic views, take the 30-minute walk (with a slight incline) from the Blue Lagoon to St. Mary's Tower. Built in the 1600s, this large watchtower offers incredible vistas of both Malta and Gozo. It's also famous as a filming location for 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Remember to bring enough water for the walk.
Parasailing and Speed Boat Trips
Once you're at the Blue Lagoon, you'll find booths offering additional activities. For an adrenaline rush, consider parasailing over the azure waters, or take a short speed boat ride to explore more of the coastline. These can be booked directly on the spot, providing spontaneous opportunities for extra adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Blue Lagoon
Is Visiting the Blue Lagoon in Malta Worth It?
Absolutely, visiting the Blue Lagoon is worth it. Its natural beauty is truly breathtaking. However, it's essential to manage your expectations regarding crowds, especially during peak season. If you go prepared for the crowds or choose off-peak times, it remains one of Malta's most memorable experiences.
How Much Time Should I Spend at the Blue Lagoon?
Most visitors find that a few hours or half a day is sufficient to enjoy the Blue Lagoon. While some boat trips offer a full day, many people prefer to split their time, perhaps spending a full day at a quieter beach elsewhere. If you're visiting with children who love to play in the water, you might find yourself happily spending more time there.
Can I Stay on Comino Island?
For all practical purposes, Comino Island is uninhabited, meaning there are no hotels or accommodations for visitors to stay overnight currently. This necessitates finding a way to get to the island for a day trip. There are plans for a new hotel to open on Comino in the future, but for now, it's a day-trip destination.
Can I Get a Taxi Directly to the Blue Lagoon?
No, the Blue Lagoon is on Comino Island, which is only accessible by boat. While you can take a land taxi to the various ferry or boat tour departure points on Malta (like Cirkewwa) or Gozo, you cannot get a taxi directly to the Blue Lagoon itself. Your journey will always involve a boat ride.
In conclusion, the Blue Lagoon in Malta is a destination that lives up to its visual hype. While its popularity means it won't be a secluded paradise, with the right planning and transport choice, you can still have an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you opt for the economical ferry, a lively large boat cruise, a luxurious private charter, a charming schooner, or an adventurous kayak, understanding your options is the first step towards an unforgettable Maltese adventure. Choose wisely, embrace the vibrant atmosphere, and prepare to be mesmerised by the glorious blue of Malta's most famous lagoon.
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