Comino Island in Malta – common questions: how to get to the island, how much does a public transfer and excursions cost, what to see on Comino.
Although most people visit the island purely to swim in the Blue Lagoon, the truth is that there is much more to do on Comino. For example, take a hike around the island, or see its hidden rocks and grottoes.
Here are the best options for getting to Comino Island from Malta or Gozo by boat, ferry transfer or private tour.
Transfer to Comino from Gozo and Malta
Most people, and I am no exception, visit Comino during a day trip from Gozo or Comino. There is no need to look for carriers – they will find you on the pier of the port of Mġarr (Gozo) or the port of Ċirkewwa in Northern Malta.
- From Gozo: You can take a boat transfer to Comino from the port of Mġarr for €10.00 each way or book a private day trip to explore the whole island. Travel time – 15 minutes
- From Malta: The same – 10 euros round trip by boat from the port of Ċirkewwa in Northern Malta. Travel time – 25 minutes
This is not a boat tour, but a transfer on a small ferry for about 20 people. This is the cheapest option, which costs a little less than a tour of the island. These ferries depart every 30 minutes from 8:30 to 16:00. Reservations are usually not required in advance – you just need to go to the pier and you will be offered a place in the boat.
Pros:
- You can stay on the island as long as you wish, departing at 8:00 am and returning at 18:00 to Mġarra (you can also take a ferry to Malta in Sirkewa on the way back).
- This is a good option if you are short on time and plan to visit the Blue Lagoon and want to explore the island on foot.
- The trip takes about 15 minutes one way. The price is only 10 euros each way.
- It’s great if you have your own lunch and scuba gear.
Cons:
You won’t see some of Comino’s attractions, such as sea caves, unique rock formations and secluded arches on the south side, which are inaccessible from land. They can only be seen from a boat offering a tour around Comino Island.
Excursions to the island of Comino
As Comino Island is one of Malta’s most famous tourist attractions, you will find a wide range of excursions and private tours that include a boat trip through the island’s grottoes and hidden beaches.
These include:
- Day trip: group boat excursions from Malta with transfers from Valletta, St. Julians, Buġibba, etc.
- Private boat trip (from Gozo or Comino)
During the private tour, you will visit all the epic sea caves of Santa Maria, as well as some smaller ones – it looks really cool from the inside.
There are quite a few offers of such tours. You can find it on GetYourGuide, but you should carefully read the conditions and reviews of each trip!
Tip: When booking, you can choose a departure point for Malta or Gozo.
If you have already decided to choose a sightseeing tour, I advise you to look at the locations offered by the organizers. The following places on Comino Island should be included in a day trip that lasts about 4 to 4.5 hours, in addition to the Blue Lagoon:
- Crystal lagoon
- Santa Maria Cave
- Elephant head
- Santa Maria Bay
- St. Nicholas Bay
- Ahrax Cave
Pros:
The advantages of this are that you can see more of the island in one day and get to the famous Santa Maria Caves, which are very difficult to reach on foot if you use the boat transfer option. Below is an overview, but read on for more information and suggestions.
Cons:
- A private or small group tour is more expensive than a transfer to Comino from Malta or Gozo.
- You are tied to the tour schedule and have to stick to it.
- National teams are always a lottery: you can get calm people, or maybe vice versa.
FAQ about traveling to Comino Island
How much does it cost to get from Malta (Gozo) to Comino?
- The cost of the ferry from Malta (Gozo) to Comino is 10 euros each way.
- There are also ferries that will visit a couple of bays and grottoes near the Blue Lagoon – they cost 15 euros each way.
- Group trip on a sightseeing boat around the island (often includes a transfer – from 40 to 80 euros per person.
- Private boat trip – 100 Euro +.
Can I swim in the Blue Lagoon and other beaches of Comino?
For example, swimming in the Blue Lagoon is one of the specialties of Comino Island. The crystal clear water is ideal for a refreshing dip. But there are usually a lot of people here, so look a little in other directions and choose more peaceful places, such as Santa Maria Bay and Crystal Lagoon.
What to pack for a day trip to Comino?
For a day trip to Comino Island, I recommend taking it with you:
at least sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, a bathing suit, and a towel. If you plan to swim along the rocks, take snorkeling gear and a camera. Comfortable shoes are also a good idea if you plan to explore the island on foot.
Are there cafes and restrooms at Komino?
Near the Blue Lagoon there are several stalls with fast food, fruit, and refreshments. The average cost of juice or fruit is 3 euros. But the selection is small, so it’s best to bring your own snacks and drinks for the day.
There are also bio-toilets near the Blue Lagoon. So be prepared for minimal amenities.
Is it possible to stay overnight at Comino?
There is almost no housing on Comino Island. I talked to a girl who spent the night there in a tent, having arrived on the island in the evening. I don’t know how legal it is, but it was winter, so maybe that’s why she set up her tent without any problems.
The only hotel on the island, the Comino Hotel, is the main option, but it is closed all year round. For most travelers, a day trip is the best way to get to know the island.
If this article has helped you with your travel preparations, you can buy me a coffee:
Useful links for traveling to Malta:
Car rental – I am looking for inexpensive options on Rentalcars.com
Booking hotels and apartments – traditionally on Booking.com
Travel insurance with discounts – online on the – EKTA
Excursions in Malta – book in advance on GetYourGuide
Buses in Malta and Gozo on the website of the transport company of Malta.
High-speed ferry from Malta to Gozo – tickets are available at the ticket office or online on the ferry’s website.
What else to read:
- Malta – how to plan a trip for 7 days
- Transportation in Malta – the best way to get around the islands
- Gozo Island, Malta – what to do in two full days
- Valletta in two days – what to do in and around the capital of Malta
