A day on the water in Malta can be simple. This one mixes north-coast scenery with real swim time at three bays, plus a proper lunch and drinks on board. You’re out from Sliema in the morning, then you spend the afternoon chasing turquoise water around Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

I love how the day is paced. There are planned breaks for swimming, and the boat stays calm and well run, so it doesn’t feel like you’re constantly being moved along. I also like the included food and drinks: cold buffet lunch, mid-morning snack, unlimited soft drinks, and unlimited local wine and beer during lunch.

One thing to consider is the Blue Lagoon access rules. Since a Malta government directive (effective May 2025) requires an official pass for disembarking there, you need to plan ahead, and you won’t be allowed to step ashore without it.

Key things I’d note before you go

• Turkish gullet + comfort: The day runs on a traditional-style wooden sailing vessel with fresh water showers.
• 3 swim stops with real time: Plan for time in St. Paul’s Bay/under Selmun, Daħlet Qorrot, and Comino/Blue Lagoon.
• Lunch that’s actually part of the experience: Cold buffet lunch plus unlimited local wine and beer during lunch time.
• Blue Lagoon access pass is mandatory: Limited daily allocation means get it early and select the afternoon timeslot.
• No fins snorkeling gear included: You can rent masks and pipes (no fins) for a small fee.
• Weather can change the plan: The operator may adjust stops depending on conditions.

From Sliema to the Turkish gullet: what your morning looks like

Your day starts at Sliema Ferries with an approx. 9:30 a.m. departure from Triq Ix-Xatt, in the area opposite the Basilica of Jesus of Nazareth. If you’re walking over yourself, give yourself some buffer and aim to arrive 20–30 minutes early so boarding doesn’t turn into a last-minute scramble.

The boat is a Turkish gullet named Hera. It’s a good setup for a full-day cruise because you get shade, places to sit, and onboard facilities like fresh water showers. You also have unlimited mineral water and soft drinks throughout the day, so you’re not constantly tracking what’s included.

If you book the option with transfers, it’s pick-up and drop-off included, but the timing is a common point of confusion: the time on your ticket is the cruise departure time, not the hotel pick-up time. If you go this route, contact the operator a few days ahead to confirm your pickup location and time.

The vibe here tends to feel “organized but easy.” The schedule is set, but the day isn’t frantic. That matters, because most of what you’ll remember isn’t the checklist—it’s the water time, the lunch, and the views.

The north-coast cruise: St. Julian’s, bays on the way, and quick Malta context

Once you leave Sliema, you’re cruising along Malta’s north-eastern shoreline, passing well-known coastal areas as you go. The route is designed more for shoreline sightseeing than for rushing from one port to another.

You’ll glide past spots like St. Julian’s Bay and the area around Mellieħa, and you’ll also pass St. Paul’s Islands, which gives you a preview of one of the day’s story anchor points. The scenery along this stretch is one reason people book a boat day instead of hopping between viewpoints on land.

St. Julian’s is especially worth noticing because it’s tied to Sliema by a long, scenic seafront promenade. As you pass through, you’ll see the general layout of the bays that frame that promenade experience—think Balluta Bay, Spinola Bay, and St. George’s Bay. Even if you’ve never wandered there on foot, the cruise lets you understand how the coast “breaks up” into different swimming-friendly pockets.

This portion isn’t a “must-do sightseeing tour” where you’ll take a hundred photos from a single viewpoint. Instead, it’s the calm part of the day that sets you up for the swim stops ahead. You’re moving, but you’re not being rushed.

St. Paul’s Bay or beneath Selmun: your first swim stop

Your first swim stop is planned as St. Paul’s Bay or sometimes beneath Selmun, depending on the weather. That little detail matters: Malta seas can be choppy one day and smooth the next, and the operator adjusts to keep the swim conditions reasonable.

What makes this stop special is location and feel. This area sits along Malta’s north coast and is a large seaside zone with a promenade stretching toward Qawra and Bugibba. That’s why the water here often looks inviting—there’s an entire coast built around swimming and walking.

If you like water views with a story attached, this is the moment to pay attention. The day’s route also connects to St. Paul’s Island (Selmunett), a small uninhabited island off Selmun. It’s sometimes split into two islands by a shallow strip, which is why you may hear it in plural form. The island has been uninhabited since World War II, and it’s linked in tradition to the shipwreck described in the Acts of the Apostles. A statue of Saint Paul was erected in 1844, which is one of those details that makes the coastline feel less generic.

You’ll have about 1 hour for the first swim. That’s long enough to get in the water, take a few photos, and still stay relaxed.

Small practical note: if you’re prone to seasickness, this is not the kind of tour I’d pick, because it is a full-day ride that includes open-water stretches.

The Gozo stop: Daħlet Qorrot for a second swim break

After the first swim, your day shifts toward Gozo for a second swim stop at Daħlet Qorrot Bay. This is in Gozo’s orbit, and it’s a popular choice because it gives you a different water look than the Malta-side stops.

You’ll get about 1 hour here. For me, that’s the right amount of time for a “second swim” moment. You’re not stuck so long that you feel like you’re missing the rest of the day, but you still get enough time to cool off and reset before Comino.

This stop is also nice because it breaks up the experience. You get Malta’s north coast first, then Gozo’s swim scenery, and then you end with the most famous Comino highlight.

Comino and the Blue Lagoon: the afternoon highlight and its big rule

Comino is a small island in the middle between Malta and Gozo, with no cars. It’s mostly uninhabited and known for crystal-clear water and secluded beaches. The tour gives you time on Comino (about 1 hour) before the main show.

Then comes the big one: Blue Lagoon. Expect 2 to 2½ hours here. The main point is simple: this is where the water turns into that famous turquoise look you’re chasing. You’ll be able to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or just hang out on the boat and enjoy the scenery.

But before you get too comfortable, here’s the key rule for 2025+:

• You now need an official Blue Lagoon access pass to disembark there.
• Passes are acquired in advance through blcomino.com.
• Since daily allocation is limited, you need to book the afternoon timeslot when you apply.
• If you show up without the pass, you won’t be allowed to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon.
• The operator notes there’s no refund if you can’t disembark because the pass requirement wasn’t met.

This is one of those “small admin tasks” that can make or break the day. If you hate planning and paperwork, this is worth flagging. If you’re fine handling it online before you go, then it’s a non-issue and you’ll enjoy the Blue Lagoon as intended.

Snorkeling info, too: snorkel gear isn’t included beyond what you bring. Mask and pipe (no fins) are available for hire for around €5, and it’s first-come, first-served. If you want fins, you’ll need to bring them yourself (or plan for what’s offered onsite, since the tour specifies no fins for the included rental style).

Lunch, drinks, and onboard comfort on the Hera

Food is a big part of why this cruise is good value. You’re not just buying a ticket for scenic time; you’re actually eating on board like the day matters.

You’ll get:

• a mid-morning snack
• a cold buffet lunch
• unlimited mineral water and soft drinks throughout the day
• unlimited local wine and beer during lunch time
• fresh fruit in the afternoon

That lunch setup is practical. A cold buffet on a boat day means you’re not stuck waiting for a hot kitchen to work its way through a crowd. It’s also easy to eat without getting everyone moving too slowly.

On drink inclusion, I like that the unlimited local wine and beer is tied to lunch time. You can take it or leave it, and you’re not forced into a “drinks package” vibe. Unlimited soft drinks keep things simple for everyone.

Facilities are also useful: you’ve got fresh water showers and staff/crew assistance during the day. That combination helps if you end up swimming more than once (and on this itinerary, you probably will).

On the side, there is a cash bar on board serving some snacks and other beverages. Payments are accepted by both cash and credit card. If you’re trying to keep your spending tight, you’ll likely stick to the included options. If you want extras, the bar keeps you covered.

How the stop timing really works (and why you won’t feel rushed)

This itinerary is built around a steady rhythm:

• morning cruise along the coast
• first swim stop (about 1 hour)
• sail toward Gozo and second swim stop (about 1 hour)
• Comino time (about 1 hour)
• Blue Lagoon for the longer 2–2½ hour afternoon window

That matters because you’re not spending half the day in transit without a payoff. You’re getting breaks. You’re also getting enough time at Blue Lagoon to do more than a quick dip and a photo.

Weather can still affect things—especially the first swim stop where it may be St. Paul’s Bay or beneath Selmun. The operator also reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to weather or operational constraints. So build flexibility into your day.

Also note: this is not designed for mobility challenges. And if you’re prone to seasickness, you’ll want to think hard before booking a full day on open water.

Who should book this cruise (and who should skip it)

This is a strong fit if you want:

• a full day at sea without constant hopping between buses
• three swim opportunities rather than just one
• an included lunch with local wine/beer
• a boat day that stays calm and organized, with a maximum group size of 110 travelers

It’s especially good for couples, friends, and families who like swimming and want the easiest way to see several different coastal areas around Malta and Comino in one run.

You might want to skip it if:

• you can’t comfortably handle boat travel
• you’re sensitive to motion and get seasick
• you prefer shore excursions with lots of walking and inland stops (this is very much about water time)

If you’re traveling light, plan around the rules too: pets, large luggage, and large suitcases aren’t allowed.

Price and value: is $76.89 actually a good deal?

At $76.89 per person, this cruise feels like decent value because so much is wrapped into the ticket. You’re paying for:

• a full-day sightseeing cruise on the Hera
• three swim stops
• unlimited mineral water and soft drinks
• a mid-morning snack
• cold buffet lunch
• unlimited local wine and beer during lunch
• fresh fruit later in the day
• English commentary throughout
• onboard facilities like fresh water showers

If you were to recreate this day on your own—boat rental or day charter, plus lunch, plus entry arrangements for Blue Lagoon—it would likely cost more and involve a lot more coordination. The pass requirement is the one “hidden planning” item. But if you handle the Blue Lagoon pass in advance, the rest is mostly smooth sailing.

My advice: if your main goal is swim time and you’re okay spending a full day on the water, this price lands in the good-value zone.

Should you book Three Bay Cruise with Lunch and Optional Transfers?

Yes, if you want an efficient, swim-focused Malta day with real inclusions. This is the kind of outing that makes Malta feel like a coastal country, not just a city break.

I’d book it if:

• you’re set on swimming at St. Paul’s Bay, Daħlet Qorrot, and Blue Lagoon
• you want an included lunch that’s part of the experience
• you can plan for the Blue Lagoon access pass before you arrive
• you prefer a day that’s organized but not rushed

I’d think twice if:

• you hate planning online and would likely miss the Blue Lagoon pass window
• you’re mobility-limited or you’re likely to get seasick
• you want a lot of on-land sightseeing instead of sea time

If those don’t apply, you’ll probably leave with the kind of day you can describe in one sentence: good boat, good food, and three chances to get in the water.

FAQ

What time does the cruise depart from Sliema?

The cruise departs at 9:30 a.m. from Sliema Ferries (Triq Ix-Xatt, near the area opposite the Basilica of Jesus of Nazareth).

How long is the Three Bay Cruise?

The duration is listed as about 8 hours.

Is lunch included, and is wine/beer included?

Yes. You’ll have a cold buffet lunch, plus unlimited local wine and beer during lunch time. You’ll also have a mid-morning snack, fresh fruit in the afternoon, and unlimited mineral water and soft drinks.

Where are the swim stops during the day?

You’ll have three swim stops: St. Paul’s Bay or beneath Selmun (weather dependent), Daħlet Qorrot Beach in Gozo, and the Blue Lagoon at Comino (with time on Comino as well).

Do I need a pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Since May 2025, you need a government-issued Blue Lagoon access pass to disembark there. You get it in advance at blcomino.com, and you should book an afternoon timeslot.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No fins are included. Mask and pipe (no fins) are available for hire for around €5 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is pickup from hotels available?

Pickup and drop-off transfers are optional. If you book that option, the cruise departure time on your ticket is not the hotel pickup time, so you should contact the operator a few days ahead to confirm your pickup location and time.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid isn’t refunded. If the trip is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.