Comino is a small island nestled between Malta and Gozo that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Its fame rests on turquoise waters, dramatic caves, and the world-renowned Blue Lagoon. But getting there — and making the most of your visit — requires planning. This guide walks you through your options for a Comino boat trip from Malta, what to expect, and how a private catamaran charter gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms.
What Is Comino and Why Visit?
Comino is a tiny island covering just 3.5 square kilometers, yet it's one of Malta's most sought-after destinations. The island sits midway between Malta's main landmass and Gozo, making it a natural stop on any island-hopping itinerary. Unlike the busier harbors of Valletta or the crowded beaches elsewhere in Malta, Comino retains a sense of remoteness and natural beauty.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Comino are the main draw. The Blue Lagoon — the sheltered bay between Comino and the tiny islet of Cominotto — offers water so transparent that you can see the sandy bottom from the boat. The lagoon's calm conditions make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, even for less confident swimmers or families with children. Beyond the lagoon, Comino's coastline features hidden coves, sea caves, and dramatic limestone cliffs that reward exploration by boat.
Santa Marija Bay on the southern coast is another highlight. Protected from north winds and lined with golden sand, it's an excellent spot for a longer beach stop. The northern coast reveals caves accessible only by water, including the famous Crystal Lagoon extension — a smaller, even more intimate lagoon tucked behind limestone formations.
The island itself has minimal development. There are no shops, restaurants, or resorts. This makes Comino attractive precisely because it's undisturbed, but it also means you must plan accordingly for supplies, food, and water. Most visitors come for the water and the solitude rather than land-based attractions.
How to Get to Comino: Your Transport Options
A Comino boat trip can be reached several ways, each with distinct trade-offs. Understanding your choices helps you pick the right fit for your holiday.
Public Ferry
A ferry service runs daily between Cirkewwa in northern Malta and Comino's main jetty. The journey takes about 20 minutes. Ferries depart frequently (roughly every 30 minutes in high season) and cost around €5–€8 per person for a return ticket. This is the cheapest option and requires no advance booking in most cases.
The drawback is crowds. The same ferry that offers affordability also brings hundreds of tourists to the Blue Lagoon each day. Peak summer months see ferries packed shoulder-to-shoulder, and the lagoon becomes congested with swimmers and snorkelers. If you take the ferry, expect to share the experience with crowds, particularly between 11 AM and 3 PM. Ferries also operate on fixed schedules, limiting your flexibility.
Shared Boat Tours
Multiple operators offer shared boat tours from various points in Malta (Sliema, St. Julian's, Mellieha) that include stops at Comino, the Blue Lagoon, and sometimes Gozo. These tours typically run 4–6 hours, include a swimming break, and cost €25–€50 per person. Many tours feature guided snorkeling and lunch on board.
Shared tours work well if you want social interaction, guided information, and an all-in package. However, you sacrifice autonomy. The boat follows a set itinerary, dictating where you stop and for how long. The experience is more controlled and less personal than private exploration.
Private Catamaran Charter
A private catamaran charter offers the opposite trade-off: you pay more but gain complete control over your itinerary, timing, and experience. Check current charter pricing for exact rates. La Zingara Catamaran Charters operates two vessels — La Zingara (Lagoon 450, up to 28 guests) and Chardonnay (Lagoon 440, up to 24 guests) — both equipped for comfortable day trips to Comino and beyond.
With a private charter, you depart and return on your schedule. You can anchor in the Blue Lagoon for as long as you wish, move on if the crowds become too much, and explore quieter coves that shared tours skip. The boats carry all amenities — shaded seating, snorkeling equipment, water, refreshments — and a professional skipper handles navigation while you relax.
Private charters make sense if you value flexibility, comfort, and avoiding peak-hour congestion. They're especially worthwhile for families seeking a safer, more controlled environment, or groups wanting privacy and tailored service.
What a Private Comino Boat Trip Looks Like
Booking a private catamaran charter from La Zingara for a Comino boat trip follows a straightforward process. Most charters run either half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours) trips. Here's what you can expect:
Morning Departure
Your trip begins in Sliema, where both La Zingara and Chardonnay are docked. You'll meet your skipper and crew, do a brief safety orientation, and cast off. The sail to Comino takes approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and which route your skipper chooses. As you head out, the crew secures loose items, checks safety equipment, and prepares for the day ahead.
Blue Lagoon Anchorage
Your first stop is typically the Blue Lagoon, located between Comino and Cominotto. The crew anchors the catamaran in 8–12 meters of crystal-clear water. From this vantage point, you can wade ashore to Cominotto's small beach (a sand bar almost completely submerged in summer) or simply dive in for a swim. The water temperature ranges from 15°C in winter to 26°C in summer.
Snorkeling here is excellent. The lagoon is shallow and sheltered, making it safe and accessible. Small fish dart through the transparent water, and the sandy bottom is clearly visible. A half-hour or full-hour swim is typical, giving you time to explore before the boat relocates.
Secondary Stops
A full-day charter might include additional stops at Santa Marija Bay for a longer beach break, or a visit to Crystal Lagoon or the northern caves. Each location offers different experiences — some are better for sunbathing, others for snorkeling or cave exploration. Your skipper, familiar with tidal and weather patterns, will recommend the best route for the day.
Lunch and Refreshments
Most charters include refreshments and light snacks on board. Catering options can be arranged if you request them in advance. A simple lunch — sandwiches, salads, fruit — is typical for full-day trips. You can also bring your own food; the boat has coolers to keep provisions fresh.
Afternoon Relaxation and Return
After lunch, you might anchor at a quieter location, swim again, or simply relax on deck under the catamaran's shade canopy. By late afternoon, the boat heads back toward Valletta. You return to dock by early evening, typically between 4 PM and 6 PM depending on trip duration.
Best Time to Visit Comino Without the Crowds
A major advantage of a private catamaran charter is flexibility in timing. Public ferries and shared tours operate on strict schedules, which means you're competing for lagoon space with hundreds of others during peak hours.
Early Morning Departures
The best way to experience Comino with fewer crowds is to depart early. If you leave Valletta by 8 AM, you'll reach the Blue Lagoon by 8:45 AM, before the ferry crowds arrive. You get an hour or more of near-solitude in the lagoon, with the water often glassier (better for photography) and the beach virtually empty. By the time the ferry delivers its first batch of tourists around 10:30 AM, you can move to a quieter anchorage.
Late Season Visits
Comino's high season runs May through September, with July and August being the most congested. If you can visit in shoulder months — April, May, September, or October — you'll encounter fewer people. Water temperatures are still warm (19–24°C), weather is reliable, and the island feels less overrun.
Winter visits (November–March) are possible but bring cooler water (15–17°C) and less predictable weather. Many shared tours don't operate, and private charters become more dependent on wind and wave conditions. That said, winter offers genuine tranquility for hardy swimmers.
Weekday vs. Weekend
Weekdays see significantly lighter foot traffic than weekends. A private charter on a Tuesday or Wednesday will likely offer a more peaceful experience than the same trip on Saturday, when day-trippers from all over Malta and Gozo converge on the island.
What to Bring and What's Included on Board
Packing for a Comino boat trip is straightforward, but a few items make a big difference in comfort.
Essential Items to Bring
- Sunscreen: The sun reflects off the water intensely. Bring high-SPF sunscreen and reapply after swimming. The catamaran provides shade, but extended sun exposure is intense.
- Swimsuit and towel: Pack more than one swimsuit if you plan multiple swims; a quick-dry towel is lighter than standard beach towels.
- Water and snacks: While the crew provides refreshments, having extra water ensures you stay hydrated. Bring non-perishable snacks if you have dietary preferences.
- Waterproof bag: A dry bag protects your phone, keys, wallet, and other valuables while you swim.
- Casual cover-up: A lightweight shirt or kaftan makes sense for sun protection and comfort between swims.
- Hat or visor: Essential for protecting your scalp and face from intense Mediterranean sun.
- Medications: Bring any personal medications, including seasickness tablets if you're prone to motion sickness. Most people find catamarans stable, but choppy seas are possible.
What's Typically Included on Board
La Zingara and Chardonnay are fully equipped for day charters. Standard inclusions are:
- Professional skipper and crew
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel)
- Shaded seating areas and deck lounging space
- Fresh water for rinsing off salt
- Basic first-aid supplies
- Flotation aids and safety equipment
- Optional catering (arrange in advance)
Bring or arrange any add-ons in advance, such as underwater cameras, specialized diving gear, or dietary-specific meals.
Swimming, Snorkeling, and Exploring Around Comino
The waters around Comino are your playground on a private charter. Unlike ferried tourists confined to the lagoon, you have flexibility to explore.
Blue Lagoon Swimming and Snorkeling
The Blue Lagoon is the iconic destination, and for good reason. The water is calm, clear, and shallow (1–4 meters in most areas). Snorkeling here is superb for beginners and families — you can touch bottom, see fish clearly, and retreat to the boat easily. In summer, the lagoon temperature hovers around 26°C, making extended swimming very comfortable. In winter, a thin wetsuit is advisable if you're sensitive to cold (around 15–17°C).
Crystal Lagoon and Northern Caves
On the island's northern coast, a smaller lagoon enclosed by dramatic cliffs offers an intimate alternative to the busier Blue Lagoon. Accessing it requires a short boat journey around the north side, but the reward is a more secluded setting. Your skipper can anchor nearby, and you can swim or snorkel in equally clear water with fewer fellow tourists.
The northern caves are accessible only by boat. Some can be entered by dinghy or even by swimming. A knowledgeable skipper will show you the entrances, explain the geology, and point out where to look for fish and octopuses. These are typically short excursions — 15–30 minutes — but they add unique variety to your day.
Santa Marija Bay
The southern beach offers the island's best sandy shores. A longer anchorage here (1–2 hours) lets you truly relax, swim, and sunbathe. Unlike the rocky coves elsewhere, Santa Marija's sand is gentle underfoot and suitable for families with small children. The water remains clear and warm, though not quite as enclosed and glassy as the lagoon.
Snorkeling Highlights
Marine life around Comino includes small bream, wrasse, damselfish, and occasionally larger groupers. Posidonia seagrass beds (common in summer) provide habitat for these species. An early morning swim often yields more wildlife encounters than midday, when heat and activity drive fish deeper. Your crew can point out interesting spots and share marine biology insights during briefings.
Comino vs. Gozo: Which to Choose, or Combine Both?
Comino and Gozo are often discussed together because both are island destinations reachable from Malta. But they offer very different experiences.
Comino: Water-Focused, No Infrastructure
Comino is essentially a marine destination. There are no towns, shops, or restaurants. The appeal is entirely water — swimming, snorkeling, boating, and natural beauty. A Comino boat trip is perfect if you want to spend your day immersed in the sea. Typical visitors stay a few hours to a full day, then leave.
Gozo: Island Culture, Diverse Attractions
Gozo, by contrast, is a full island with towns, villages, historic sites, and restaurants. You can spend days here exploring. Dwejra, Gharb, and the capital Victoria offer cultural and historical attractions beyond beaches. Gozo also has its own excellent beaches and water activities, but the island is substantial enough for land-based exploration.
Combining Both in One Catamaran Charter
A full-day private charter can comfortably cover Comino and Gozo in a single trip. A typical itinerary might be:
- Morning: Sail from Valletta, stop at Blue Lagoon or a northern Comino cove
- Midday: Head to Gozo, anchor in Xlendi Bay or a similar sheltered spot
- Afternoon: Explore Gozo's coastline by boat, or anchor and allow passengers to venture ashore to a specific beach or village
- Evening: Return to Valletta by sunset
This combined approach works well if you want variety within a single day. However, if Comino's waters are your main focus, a dedicated Comino boat trip allows more time for exploration and relaxation without the rush of covering two islands.
FAQ: Comino Boat Trip Essentials
What's the best time of day for a Comino boat trip?
Early morning (7–9 AM departures) offers the calmest water, best light, and fewest crowds. Mid-day (10 AM–2 PM) is when ferries and shared tours peak, bringing congestion. Late afternoon trips are quieter and offer good light for photography, though the water may be rougher if wind picks up.
Is a private catamaran charter worth the cost?
A private charter costs more than a ferry (€5–€8) or even shared tours (€25–€50), but you gain control over your schedule, freedom from crowds, and comfort. For families, groups, or anyone prioritizing a personalized experience, the value is clear. For budget-conscious solo travelers, a ferry is cheaper, but you'll share the experience with hundreds of others.
Can you land on Comino island itself?
The Blue Lagoon beach (Cominotto's sand bar) is accessible for short beach breaks. Santa Marija Bay also has a small sandy beach. Most visitors stay brief because there's little to do on land. Infrastructure is nonexistent, so expect no facilities beyond the natural setting.
What about seasickness on a catamaran?
Catamarans are more stable than monohull boats because of their dual hulls. Most people find them smooth even in moderate seas. If you're prone to seasickness, sit amidships (the center), look at the horizon, avoid the cabin, and take preventive medication before boarding. The short journey to Comino (30–45 minutes) minimizes exposure even if conditions are choppy.
Can I snorkel with limited swimming ability?
Yes. The Blue Lagoon and Santa Marija Bay are shallow and calm. You can snorkel in water where you can touch bottom, and the boat is always nearby. A life vest or snorkel vest adds confidence. Children as young as 6 or 7 can snorkel with supervision in these conditions. Mention any concerns to your skipper when booking.
What if the weather turns bad?
Charters are typically cancelled or rescheduled if waves exceed 1.5 meters or wind exceeds 20 knots. This is rare in summer but more common in winter. Check forecasts when booking and confirm the day before. Operators like La Zingara have flexible rebooking policies for weather cancellations.
Do I need to bring food, or can I eat on board?
Light refreshments and water are typically provided. For a full meal or dietary-specific options, arrange catering when booking. Many people bring sandwiches or snacks as backup. Plan ahead — you can't buy food on Comino island itself.
How long should I book for?
A half-day trip (4–5 hours) covers the Blue Lagoon and one or two secondary stops. A full-day trip (6–8 hours) allows multiple locations, longer beach time, and potentially a visit to Gozo. For first-timers or those with limited time, a half-day suffices. For relaxed exploration or families, a full day is better.
Planning Your Comino Boat Trip
A Comino boat trip is one of Malta's quintessential experiences. Whether you take the ferry, join a shared tour, or book a private catamaran charter, you'll see why the island's waters are famous. The choice depends on your budget, group size, and priorities.
If you value flexibility, comfort, and avoiding crowds, a private charter with La Zingara offers the best value. Our two catamarans — La Zingara and Chardonnay — are equipped for day trips, and our experienced crew knows every cove and anchorage around Comino. Book your private charter today, or contact us at +356 99934881 for custom itineraries and group arrangements. We dock in Sliema, and trips typically depart between 7 AM and 9 AM, returning by early evening.
Visit our Comino and Gozo charter page for more details on combined trips, or explore our Blue Lagoon charters for day trips focused entirely on the lagoon. And be sure to read our Blue Lagoon guide for deeper insight into timing and what to see.