Visitors to Blue Lagoon decreased by 68% this summer

The number of visitors to the Blue Lagoon in Comino has decreased significantly this summer, after the introduction of the new booking system.

In a statement, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) said that between July and August around 3,800 persons visited the Blue Lagoon, a decreased of 68% when compared to last year when 12,00 persons visited the location.  

"The average number of visitors at the Blue Lagoon at each of the three daily time slots of the new booking system introduced this summer is 1,979. Only 34 out of 189 available time slots (morning/afternoon/evening) in July and August registered more than 3,000 visitors," the authority said. 

The government had introduced a booking system for the Blue Lagoon following years of campaigning from NGOs, arguing that the burden put on the Natura 2000 site was too excessive. 

However, NGOs like Moviment Graffitti have said new book system doesn’t go far enough; sighting that that vessels that funnel mass tourism do not belong in a nature reserve. 

The MTA said that the figures however, "confirm the positive results of the new Blue Lagoon booking system introduced in May and the reorganisation of operations spearheaded by the MTA's Team Blue Lagoon and other entities."

MTA also appointed internationally acclaimed architecture and design practice Mizzi Studio to deliver long-term rehabilitation proposals to preserve the site's natural beauty, while ensuring ecological balance and sustainable public access. The proposals, which are being discussed with stakeholders, including e-NGOs, will be open for public consultation in coming weeks."

The MTA said that Team Blue Lagoon is focusing on four key objectives: Improved visitor flows through the new booking system; A safer visitor experience with a larger swimming zone; Additional cleansing and waste management resources; Strict enforcement and security throughout the site, on land and at sea.

"In May, Team Blue Lagoon extended the swimming zone by 12%. Two smaller beaches in the same area were also newly designated as safe swimming zones. The Team also doubled the cleaning resources allocated to the area, with over 12 cleaners assigned daily to empty bins, collect litter, and maintain the site's showers and toilets, which were also refurbished. Waste is now transported off the Island more frequently, reducing the environmental impact."

"Maritime operations have also been reorganised, with a new capitainerie managed by Transport Malta officers overseeing the arrival and departure of vessels to the existing landing sites."

Furthermore, the authority said that Team Blue Lagoon has also strengthened on-site safety and security, with a new patrol team, more lifeguards, as well as police officers, environmental monitors and emergency personnel, the MTA said. "Enforcement tied to commercial operations was reinforced to ensure compliance with applicable conditions."

"New signage is guiding visitors to follow the site's regulations and remain on established paths, avoiding the protected garigue. Some of the paths have been upgraded to improve safety."