Here are the best options for getting to Comino Island from Malta or Gozo via boat tour, boat transfer, or private tour.
While most people visit the island for a chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon, the truth is that there is so much more to do on Comino!
In this quick guide, I’ll reveal all the transportation options available to reach Comino from both Malta and Gozo. Whether you prefer the convenience of a ferry, the thrill of a private boat, or the flexibility of a day tour, I’ve got you covered.
Overview
Most people including myself visit Comino on a day trip from Gozo or Comino. Therefore, I recommend most travelers to choose an organized boat tour.
The benefits of this is that you will be able to see more of the island in a single day and reach the famous Santa Maria Caves, which are very difficult to get to by foot if you take the boat transfer option. Below is an overview but read on for more details & suggestions.
- From Gozo: You can take a boat transfer to Comino from Mġarr Port for €10.00 return or book a private day trip exploring the whole island. Alternatively, you can kayak from Gozo from Ħondoq ir-Rummien.
- From Malta: There are many group boat trips to Comino with pickup from Valletta, St Julians, Bugibba, and more. Alternatively, you can take the boat transfer from Ċirkewwa port in Northern Malta for €10.00 return.
Tip: If you're short on time, there's also a popular boat trip visiting many of the Comino and Gozo highlights on a single convenient day trip from St Pauls Bay.
How to Get to Comino From Malta Island
Since Comino Island is one of Malta's most famous tourist attractions, you'll find a wide range of popular ways to get here from the main island of Malta but all will involve a boat trip.
These include:
- Day Trip: Shared Boat Tours from Malta
- Private Boat Trip (from Gozo or Comino)
- Public Transport & Ferry from Ċirkewwa (northern port in Malta)
Below are my recommended options with tips for booking and planning your timing.
Option 1: Comino Island Boat Tour or Catamaran from Malta
Firstly, the easiest way to get to Comino is to book a Comino group boat tour. You can book this day trip online and it includes 4.5 hours to spend at the Blue Lagoon as well as all of the Comino highlights including:
- Crystal Lagoon
- Santa Maria Cave
- Elephants Head
- Santa Maria Bay
- St. Nicholas Bay
- Ahrax Cave
This Comino Blue Lagoon & Caves Boat Cruise linked above currently offers the most bang for buck, but the boat is large and accommodates a bigger crowd. Alternatively, travelers preferring a small-group tour have the option of booking a catamaran cruise or private tour instead.
Option 2: Malta Private Boat Tour of Comino Island
Small groups or those who don't want to share a boat with other tourists also have the option to book a private tour on small speed boats.
In my opinion, this is the best way to experience Comino Island as you'll likely visit more secluded spots and see a bit more than what the larger group tours can accommodate. I highly recommend the trip I went on with Outdoor Explorers, a local business run by two brothers.
On this trip, we visited all of the epic sea caves, and our skipper Joseph even drove inside some of the smaller ones, which was awesome!
Option 3: Boat Trip Transfer to Comino
If you're not in a rush, the cheapest way to get to Comino is by taking the boat transfer from Ċirkewwa.
This isn't a boat tour but simply a small boat ferry transfer that is slightly cheaper than the full island tour. It departs every 30 minutes from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. Booking in advance isn't usually necessary.
This is a good option if you're only planning to visit the Blue Lagoon and would like to explore the island on foot. However, several attractions on Comino like the sea caves, unique rock formations, and the secluded arches on the southern side aren't accessible from the land.
How to Get to Comino From Gozo
Here are the best ways to get to Comino from Gozo.
- Boat transfer: You can get a boat transfer to the Blue Lagoon on Comino (transfer only) from Mġarr Port for €10.00 taking 15 minutes.
- Book a private boat tour with Outdoor Explorers
- Kayak from Gozo
Tip: While there are not many group boat trips departing from Gozo to Comino Island, there are a few from Malta that also visit Gozo.
Option 1: Boat Transfer From Mġarr Port
The cheapest way to get to Comino from Gozo is the local shuttle boat ferry departing from Mgarr Gozo. Simply head to the port and you'll see the Blue Lagoon ferry shuttle signs. These run every hour (on the hour) daily.
The benefits of this option is that you can stay on the island as long as you want, departing as early as 8:00 am and returning latest by 6:00 pm to Mgarr (also possible to take the ferry to Malta at Cirkewa instead on the way back).
The trip is run by Ebsons Comino Ferries and the trip takes approximately 15 minutes each way. The price is only 10 euros for the return trip, which is great if you have your own lunch and snorkeling equipment.
Option 2: Private Comino Boat Tour from Gozo
The first time I visited the Blue Lagoon I went on an organized boat trip with Outdoor Explorers, which is a local business run by two brothers.
On this trip, we visited all of the epic sea Santa Maria caves, and our skipper Joseph drove inside some of the smaller ones, which was really cool. There are a few other options you can find on GetYourGuide and Viator but based on my experience with these guys I'm super happy to recommend their trips!
Tip: When booking, you can select your departure point for Malta or Gozo.
Option 3: Kayak from South Gozo
The most unique and adventurous way to get to the Comino is by paddling the channel across from Gozo by kayak.
Due to local safety rules, you're actually not allowed to do this unless you're with a private tour. Luckily, you can book a kayaking tour with Kayak Gozo.
This departs from Ħondoq ir-Rummien Beach on the south side of Gozo Island. While the distance looks vast, we managed to kayak over in around 15 minutes!
In my opinion, exploring this epic island by kayak is the best way to visit Comino. Not only does this offer more freedom but you'll also be able to escape the crowds since you'll get to go inside some caves and parts of the coast inaccessible by boat or on foot.
FAQs
How long is the ferry from Malta to Comino?
The ferry from Malta to Comino takes approximately 25 minutes from Ċirkewwa port. The ferry from Gozo only takes about 15 minutes (from Mġarr Port).
How much does it cost to go from Malta to Comino?
The cost for a ferry from Malta to Comino is around €10.00 for a return trip or expect to pay between €40.00-€80.00 for a group boat trip, or €100.00+ for a private boat trip.
Is it worth visiting Comino?
Absolutely! Comino is famous for the Blue Lagoon, but there's much more to explore, including the Crystal Lagoon, Santa Maria Caves, and stunning coastal views and laid back vibes. I highly recommend it for a full day of adventure.
Can you visit Comino and Gozo in one day?
Yes, it's possible to visit both Comino and Gozo in one day, especially if you take a combined boat tour. This way, you can maximize your time and see the highlights of both islands. I wouldn't recommend visiting both islands on your own DIY itinerary via the ferries as you likely will spend too much time in public transport.
Can you swim at Comino and the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, swimming at the Blue Lagoon is one of the main attractions. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip. Other great spots for swimming on Comino include Santa Maria Bay and the Crystal Lagoon.
Can you stay on Comino?
There is limited accommodation on Comino. The Comino Hotel is the main option, but it's not open year-round. For most travelers, a day trip is the best way to experience the island.
Is there food available on Comino?
There are a few food stalls and kiosks near the Blue Lagoon, but options are limited. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks for the day.
Are there restrooms on Comino?
Yes, there are restrooms available near the Blue Lagoon area, but facilities are basic. Plan accordingly and be prepared for minimal amenities.
What should I bring for a day trip to Comino?
For a day trip to Comino, I recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, swimwear, a towel, snorkeling gear, and a camera. Comfortable footwear is also a good idea if you plan to explore the island on foot.
I hope this quick transport guide has helped you plan your trip to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. For more travel guides, take a pick through the list below.
- Amazing Things to do in Malta - my ultimate Maltese Travel Guide covers all the must-see attractions and hidden gems in the archipelago.
- 40 Amazing Things to do on Gozo - I explored every corner of Malta's sister island of Gozo to form this comprehensive travel guide
- Best Things to do on Comino - my detailed guide to the island of Comino
- The Malta Blue Lagoon Guide - the most up-to-date resource on visiting Malta's most popular natural attraction, the Blue Lagoon!
- Accommodation resources: Looking for places to stay? Read my guide to finding where to stay in Malta. Or, for a unique stay, check out this list of great Boutique Hotels in Gozo and more Boutique Hotels in Valletta.