Is the Blue Lagoon Safe to Visit in 2026?
The Blue Lagoon in Comino is one of Malta’s most famous natural attractions, known for its shallow turquoise water and crystal-clear visibility. However, many travellers ask an important question before visiting: is the Blue Lagoon safe in 2026?
The short answer is yes — when visited correctly. Like any popular natural swimming area, safety depends on timing, weather conditions, boat awareness, and choosing the right way to experience it.
This guide covers everything you need to know about safety at the Blue Lagoon in 2026, including crowds, boats, weather, children, and why private boats significantly reduce risks.
Short Answer
Yes, the Blue Lagoon is safe to visit in 2026 when weather conditions are good, swimming rules are followed, and visitors avoid peak boat traffic areas. The safest experience is early morning or late afternoon, especially when visiting by private boat.
What Makes the Blue Lagoon Generally Safe?
Several natural factors make the Blue Lagoon safer than many other swimming locations:
Shallow sandy seabed near shore
Excellent water visibility
Sheltered geography in calm conditions
Clear swimming zones marked by buoys
Lifeguard presence during the season
However, safety can change depending on crowds, wind, and time of day, which is why understanding the risks is essential.
Boat Traffic & Swimming Safety
Boat traffic is the main safety consideration at the Blue Lagoon, particularly in summer.
High Boat Traffic at Midday
Between late morning and early afternoon, ferry arrivals and tour boats increase significantly. This is when extra awareness is required, especially for swimmers and snorkellers.
The Central Channel Is the Main Risk Zone
The deepest area between Comino and Cominotto experiences:
stronger currents
regular boat movement
ferry crossings
Swimming in this channel is not recommended, especially for children or weaker swimmers.
Safe Swimming Practices at the Blue Lagoon
Always Swim Inside the Buoy-Marked Areas
Designated swimming zones separate swimmers from boat traffic. Staying inside these areas dramatically reduces risk.
Snorkelling Awareness Rule
When snorkelling, follow the golden rule:
check your surroundings every minute or so.
When your head is underwater, you cannot hear approaching boats, so frequent visual checks are essential.
Enter the Water Only With Skipper Approval
Never jump into the water before the skipper gives the signal. This ensures:
engines are fully off
the area is clear
conditions are safe
Use the Swimming Ladder Correctly
Always lower the swimming ladder before entering the water. If you jump in without lowering it first — especially on a self-drive boat — it can be difficult or unsafe to deploy the ladder once you are already in the water.
Lowering the ladder in advance ensures:
Easy and stable re-entry
Less strain on arms and shoulders
Better control in currents or boat movement
Safer swimming for children and less confident swimmers
This simple step makes getting back on board far easier and significantly reduces unnecessary risk, particularly in busy areas like the Blue Lagoon.
Controlled Entry From the Boat
iMalta Boat Trips boats feature a bow platform, allowing calm, controlled entry into the water when conditions allow. The skipper always advises the safest entry method.
Lifeguard Flags & What They Mean
Always check the lifeguard tower flags before swimming:
Green flag – Safe to swim
Yellow flag – Mild currents, caution required
Red flag – Strong currents, dangerous to swim in deeper areas
Double red flag – Swimming prohibited
Purple flag – Marine life present (such as jellyfish)
Following the flag system is critical, especially for families and less confident swimmers.
Is the Blue Lagoon Safe for Children?
Yes — the Blue Lagoon can be very safe for children when visited at the right time.
Best Times for Kids
Early morning (before 11:00)
Late afternoon (after 16:00)
These periods offer:
fewer boats
calmer water
less crowding
lower sun exposure
Why Families Prefer Private Boats
Private boats provide:
quiet swimming areas away from ferries
easy swim ladders
shade canopies
child-size life jackets
flexible routes based on conditions
This makes them significantly safer and more comfortable for families.
Weather & Sea Conditions — The Deciding Factor
Weather plays a major role in safety.
Ideal Conditions
light or no wind
north, northeast, or east breeze
calm, flat sea
When Conditions Are Less Suitable
strong west or southwest winds
choppy water
uncomfortable swell
In these cases, experienced skippers adjust routes or recommend calmer bays.
With iMalta Boat Trips, if weather conditions are not suitable, trips can be:
postponed
rescheduled
cancelled with a full refund
Safety always comes first.
Sharks & Large Fish — Common Concern, Clear Reality
Many visitors worry about sharks.
There has never been a recorded shark sighting at the Blue Lagoon.
Sharks naturally avoid shallow, busy swimming areas like Comino and Crystal Lagoon. Locals and visitors swim here daily without concern, and encounters are virtually nonexistent.
Why Private Boats Are the Safest Way to Visit the Blue Lagoon
Private boats reduce nearly all common risks:
avoid crowded ferry zones
anchor in quiet turquoise areas
move instantly if conditions change
provide ladders, shade, and safety equipment
adapt routes for kids, seniors, or non-swimmers
This is why families, couples, and cautious travellers overwhelmingly choose private boats in 2026.
Final Verdict — Is the Blue Lagoon Safe in 2026?
Yes. The Blue Lagoon is safe in 2026 when:
you follow swimming zones
respect weather conditions
avoid peak congestion hours
choose the right type of boat
Early morning or late afternoon private boat trips offer the safest, calmest, and most enjoyable experience.
Book a Safe & Stress-Free Blue Lagoon Experience
To enjoy the Blue Lagoon safely, calmly, and away from crowds, book a private boat with an experienced skipper who understands timing, conditions, and the safest swimming areas.
Book here:
https://www.imaltaboattrips.com/ Use promo code BOAT26 for €20 off your 2026 booking.
