Why Crystal Lagoon Should Be on Your Malta Itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Malta, the Crystal Lagoon on Comino deserves a top spot on your itinerary. While the Blue Lagoon gets most of the fame, Crystal Lagoon offers everything travelers dream of — turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and far fewer crowds. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
For swimmers and snorkelers, the lagoon’s clarity is unmatched, with visibility stretching across sandy seabeds and rocky boulders filled with marine life. For adventurers, there’s cliff diving, free diving, and even the famous P31 shipwreck dive spot just outside the lagoon. For couples and families, it’s an intimate escape — a peaceful alternative to the busier beaches.
Another reason Crystal Lagoon should be on your Malta itinerary is its exclusivity. Since it can only be reached by water, you’ll need a private boat tour, a self-drive boat rental, or a jet ski safari to get there. This limited access keeps the lagoon calmer and more authentic than other tourist-heavy spots.
Whether you want to dive into caves, snorkel with schools of fish, or simply float in bluest waters away from the crowds, Crystal Lagoon offers an experience that is uniquely Maltese and utterly unforgettable.
The P31 Shipwreck – Diving Highlight
Just outside the entrance of Crystal Lagoon lies one of Comino’s most exciting underwater attractions — the P31 shipwreck. This former East German patrol boat was scuttled in 2009 to create an artificial reef and has since become one of the most famous dive spots in Malta.
The wreck rests upright on a sandy seabed, making it safe and accessible for different levels of divers. The shallowest part sits at around 11 meters, while the deepest section reaches 18 meters. This means snorkelers can hover above to glimpse its outline, while those practicing apnea and free diving can safely descend onto the deck for closer exploration. For scuba divers, it’s an easy but rewarding wreck that provides both structure and marine life in abundance.
On a private boat charter, you can ask your skipper to anchor just above the wreck (weather permitting). From there, it’s possible to snorkel, free dive, or scuba dive directly onto the site. The clarity of the water is stunning, with the P31’s silhouette clearly visible beneath you, making it one of the most photogenic wrecks in the Maltese Islands.
Over the years, the ship has become colonized by small fish, with seabream, wrasse, and even octopus using it as shelter. Its open structure allows divers to explore carefully around the windows and deck, while photographers love capturing the contrast of the rusting hull against the deep blue.
The P31 has also gained attention from professional divers and filmmakers. For example, @tavicastra, a professional free diver, featured the wreck in a dramatic underwater scene filmed during one of our boat charters: Watch the free diving video here.
For anyone interested in snorkeling, free diving, or scuba diving around Comino, the P31 shipwreck is a must-visit dive spot — easy to reach, visually spectacular, and steeped in maritime history.
Nearby Attractions Around Crystal Lagoon
Santa Marija Bay & Santa Marija Chapel
Santa Marija Bay in Comino is one of the island’s most peaceful beaches, with soft sand, calm waters, and a tranquil setting. Just above the bay stands the Santa Marija Chapel, a 13th-century church that shows Comino’s history as both a strategic outpost and a spiritual refuge.San Niklaw Bay
San Niklaw Bay, Comino is another quiet gem, best known as the former site of the Comino Hotel built in the 1960s. Though the hotel is now closed, the bay remains a relaxing, sandy spot for swimming and is a favorite for private charters and boat rentals.Blue Lagoon
The world-famous Blue Lagoon Comino is the island’s most iconic destination. Its turquoise waters attract visitors from all over Malta and Gozo. While it can get busy, visiting with a private charter lets you anchor in quieter spots and enjoy its beauty without the crowds.Cominotto Islet
Facing Comino lies Cominotto Islet, a tiny rocky island surrounded by caves, swim-throughs, and a small sandy beach. The channel between Comino and Cominotto is one of the best snorkeling spots in the Maltese Islands.Santa Marija Caves
The Santa Marija Caves in Comino are some of the most spectacular on the island. Famous for their arches, tunnels, and dazzling blue reflections, they are popular for snorkeling, diving, and photography.Santa Maria Pirate Caves
The legendary Santa Maria Pirate Caves are rumored to have once been used by smugglers to hide treasure. They remain a dramatic highlight on Comino’s rugged coastline, best explored by private boat or jet ski.Elephant’s Head Rock & Kissing Elephant Arch
Comino’s geology creates amazing formations like Elephant’s Head Rock, resembling an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea. Nearby, the Kissing Elephant Arch in Comino is another natural wonder, where two stone formations meet like elephants touching trunks — a must for photos.Comino Santa Marija Tower
Standing tall on Comino since the 17th century, Santa Marija Tower is one of the island’s most important landmarks. Originally built as a coastal watchtower by the Knights of St. John, it now provides panoramic views over Comino, Gozo, and Malta. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and hikers alike.Comino Santa Marija Battery
Another historical attraction is the Santa Marija Battery, a coastal artillery battery built in the early 18th century. Although partly in ruins, it’s an intriguing stop for those interested in Malta’s military past and offers striking views of the surrounding seascape.Comino Island Hiking Trails
Beyond its bays and lagoons, Comino is also great for hiking. The island’s small size makes it easy to explore on foot, with trails that wind past cliffs, wild thyme fields, and viewpoints overlooking both Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon. Hiking here is especially rewarding in spring or autumn, when the weather is cooler and the island blooms with color.Tips for Visiting Crystal Lagoon
Planning your visit to Crystal Lagoon properly can make the difference between a rushed stop and an unforgettable memory. Here are the key things to know before you go.
Best Time to Visit
The lagoon is stunning year-round, but the best time to visit Crystal Lagoon is either early morning or late afternoon. Arriving before 9 a.m. often means you’ll have the lagoon almost to yourself, perfect for peaceful swimming and snorkeling. Sunset is another magical time, as the golden light paints the limestone cliffs in warm orange tones — ideal for photography. Summer months (June to September) are the busiest, while spring and autumn offer calmer seas and fewer visitors.
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel
- Sunblock and a hat
- Camera or phone for photos
- Light snacks or drinks (optional)
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
All our boat rentals and private charters include a snorkel and mask, plus an ice box with ice to keep your drinks cool.
Pro Tip: Bring a small piece of bread with you when snorkeling. Sea bream love it, and you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by curious fish — a fun experience for kids and adults alike.
Safety Tips
- Always check depth before cliff diving or free diving; Crystal Lagoon ranges from 1.2 to 15 meters deep.
- Never swan dive unless you are certain of the depth.
- Use a float or life ring if swimming into caves like Lovers Cave for visibility and safety.
- Follow your skipper’s advice when anchoring or entering caves — they know the safe routes.
- If renting a self-drive boat, anchor only in sandy patches to avoid getting stuck on rocks.
With these simple preparations, your time at Crystal Lagoon will be safe, relaxed, and full of memories.
Why Choose iMalta Boat Trips Private Boat Tours
Exploring Crystal Lagoon Malta is always incredible, but the experience becomes unforgettable when you choose the right tour. At iMalta Boat Trips, we offer more than just transport — we provide a premium, personalised way to discover Comino and its hidden gems.
- Tranquility & Peace of Mind: Swim in the bluest waters away from the crowds, with an itinerary tailored just for you.
- Freedom & Flexibility: Spend as much time as you want at Crystal Lagoon or combine it with Blue Lagoon, Cominotto, and sea caves.
- Avoid the Crowds: Visit scenic spots before peak times or stay later for a sunset experience.
- Ideal for Families & Groups: Private trips are cost-effective and intimate, perfect for small groups, couples, and families.
- Exclusive & Personalised Experience: Stop at secret coves and caves inaccessible to large boats, guided by expert skippers.
- Experienced Skippers: Local captains know the best snorkeling spots, anchor points, and hidden gems most tourists miss.
- Access to Unique Locations: Go beyond Crystal Lagoon — explore Elephant’s Head Rock, Santa Marija Caves, or even Blue Grotto on request.
- Comfortable & Well-Equipped Boats: Cushioned seating, shaded areas, sun decks, snorkel gear, and ice boxes included.
- Sunset & Custom Tours: Romantic sunset cruises and tailor-made itineraries for honeymoons or special occasions.
- Convenient Departures: From Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo) — quick access means more time in the lagoons.
With iMalta Boat Trips, you get the tranquility, exclusivity, and quality that turn a visit to Crystal Lagoon into the highlight of your Malta holiday.
How to Book Your Trip with iMalta Boat Trips
Ready to explore Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and the hidden caves of Comino? Booking your adventure is quick and easy with iMalta Boat Trips:
- Private Boat Tours with Skipper: Relax while our experienced skippers guide you through Crystal Lagoon, anchoring in the best swim spots far from the crowds.
- Self-Drive Boat Rentals: Take control of your own adventure, exploring Crystal Lagoon and Comino at your own pace. No licence required.
- Jet Ski Safaris: Thrilling, fast-paced, and fun — circle Comino at speeds up to 90 km/h, stopping to swim and snorkel in hidden caves.
All our trips include free snorkel gear, ice boxes, and local expertise to make your day unforgettable. Simply choose your preferred activity, book online, and get ready for the highlight of your Maltese holiday.
Crystal Lagoon awaits — let iMalta Boat Trips take you there.
