Maltese paradise tightens entry: New booking rules for Blue Lagoon
Comino Island, known for the Blue Lagoon, is a place that enchants everyone who visits. However, this paradise in Europe is struggling with excessive tourism. In response, the Maltese authorities have taken action to protect its unique ecosystem. As they note, this isn't about banning or restricting access—it's a necessity.
Comino Island, often referred to as the Maltese jewel of the Mediterranean, draws tourists from around the globe with its Blue Lagoon. Unfortunately, during the summer, particularly the peak holiday season, Comino becomes what Colin Backhouse, founder of Malta Holiday Experiences, described last month as "hell on Earth," due to overwhelming crowds. This situation quickly captured media attention. However, the island's authorities did not ignore the issue.
Changes in Malta
The Maltese government has announced the introduction of a new booking system for visits aimed at protecting the Blue Lagoon's environment. These changes will take effect starting May 1 of this year.
Last summer, during peak hours, the Blue Lagoon area hosted up to 12,000 visitors simultaneously. With such numbers, relaxation, safety, and respect for nature become challenging. The new booking system aims to reduce this number significantly, allowing a maximum of 4,000 people at a time. Both Malta’s residents and environmentally conscious tourists called for these restrictions.
The new booking system
Beginning May 1, everyone arriving on Comino Island by private or commercial boat must register in advance through the website: bluelagooncomino.mt. Visitors can choose from three time slots: 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM, 1:31 PM - 5:31 PM, and 5:31 PM - 10:00 PM (Eastern Time).
After booking, the system will generate a unique QR code that tourists must present when entering from both sea and land. Upon arrival, guests will receive wristbands allowing them to stay in the area during their reserved slot. Failure to reserve may result in a fine. Initially, a transitional period is planned to help acclimate tourists to the new system, with staff providing assistance to those unfamiliar with the procedure.
Additionally, this coming summer, further measures will be implemented to protect the local environment. These include expanding and securing swimming zones and improving sanitary infrastructure. The changes are part of the "Team Blue Lagoon" project, involving organizations like the Maltese Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, Transport Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority, the Police, LESA, and the Civil Protection Service.
