Malta: Sunset Cruise to the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is best after the crowds thin. This 210-minute cruise combines a scenic ride along Malta’s northern coast with roughly two hours at Comino’s famous turquoise water. I like the quieter evening timing and the boat’s mix of swimming, deck chairs, music, food, and a 10-meter slide. The main catch is that the ride back can feel chilly, and the fading light is not ideal for snorkeling.

I also like the price. At about $35 per person, you get the cruise, use of the slides and deck chairs, and two hours at the Blue Lagoon. Food, drinks, lockers, and transport to the jetty cost extra, but the onboard prices are generally reasonable. Just arrive early: traffic around Malta can be rough, and the boat will not wait for late arrivals.

Key points to know before booking

• The evening timing changes the Blue Lagoon experience: You avoid the worst daytime heat and usually find fewer people around Comino.
• The boat is part of the entertainment: You can use deck chairs, jump from the upper deck, take the slide, order food and drinks, or simply listen to music.
• You get about two hours at the lagoon: That is enough time to swim, walk on Comino, take photos, and watch the sunset, but it passes quickly.
• The cruise route has real scenery: The boat passes St. Paul’s Island, Ghadira Bay, Coral Cove, Ahrax Point, cliffs, caves, and rocky coves.
• Bring a jacket for the return: The sea air feels cooler after sunset, especially when the boat is moving.
• You need a free Blue Lagoon access pass: Since May 2025, you must book the evening time slot and show the QR code required by Maltese authorities.

Why the sunset departure works so well

The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s most popular sights, and daytime visits can feel crowded and hot. This cruise leaves in the late afternoon, reaching Comino as the light softens. That timing gives you a more comfortable swim and better color on the rocks without asking you to spend the hottest hours under the sun.

The evening also changes the mood onboard. The atmosphere is lively, but not built around nonstop sightseeing. You can sit on the upper deck, stretch out on a deck chair, order a cocktail, or listen to the music while the coastline passes by. The playlist receives plenty of praise, and the crew generally keeps the mood friendly without turning the boat into a noisy party vessel.

You should still set your expectations correctly. The Blue Lagoon does not become empty at sunset, especially in the middle of summer. It is usually less crowded than during the day, but some dates remain busy. The later departure gives you a better chance of breathing room, not a private cove.

Starting at Bugibba Jetty

The meeting point is the newly built Bugibba Jetty on Dawret il-Gzejjer in St. Paul’s Bay. This detail matters because the address may not match older directions you find elsewhere. Look for Katherine at check-in, which begins at 16:40, and aim to reach the jetty at least 30 minutes before departure.

Do not cut this close. Road works and traffic can cause serious delays across Malta, and the boat leaves on schedule. Check-in closes 10 minutes before departure, and late arrivals cannot expect the boat to wait.

The jetty can be confusing to find if you rely only on a general map pin. Give yourself time to walk from the nearby area and locate the correct boarding point. One person arrived right on time after transport trouble and ended up rushing through a back route, which is exactly the kind of stress you want to avoid before a relaxed evening on the water.

Cruising past St. Paul’s Island and Malta’s northern coast

The first hour is a sightseeing cruise along the northern coast. The route takes you past St. Paul’s Island, Ghadira Bay, Coral Cove, and Ahrax Point, with rocky cliffs, sea caves, small coves, and unusual stone formations along the way.

This is not just a transfer to Comino. The captain provides information about the places you pass and may slow down or enter bays so you can see the cliffs from close range. The cave stops are especially useful for photos, since the boat gives you a better angle than you would get from land.

St. Paul’s Island adds a bit of historical interest, while the coast near Ahrax Point shows Malta at its rougher and more natural-looking. Coral Cove is another good photo area, with the sort of pale rock and clear water that makes Malta’s coastline so easy to recognize.

You will not stop for a full land visit at every point. Most are passing views or short photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready. The commentary is offered in English and Italian, and the captain balances information with time to sit back and enjoy the ride.

The boat setup: deck chairs, slide, and a full bar

The boat is spacious enough to offer several ways to spend the cruise. The upper deck has deck chairs and open views, while lower seating gives you more shelter and can be much quieter. On one September trip, the downstairs area was nearly empty because most people chose the top deck.

The upper deck is the place to be if you want the best sunset photos and a clear view during the coastal cruise. It also gets more exposed to wind, so a light top is useful even on a warm day. The lower level is a sensible choice if you prefer shade or a calmer place to sit.

The boat’s main attraction is the water access. You can use a 10-meter slide into the sea, jump from the upper deck, or use steps into the water. The slide is included, and it gives the stop a playful feel that works well for families, groups of friends, and adults who still enjoy doing something slightly ridiculous on holiday.

You do not need to use the slide to enjoy the trip. You can remain on deck, swim from the lower access point, or walk onto Comino instead. Life jackets may be available for less confident swimmers, and lockers cost €2 plus a €10 key deposit. Keep cash with you for extras.

Two hours at the Blue Lagoon

The cruise spends about two hours at the Blue Lagoon and Comino. Depending on the boat’s position, you can swim directly from the vessel, use the slide, or disembark and walk around the island.

The water is the star here. It is clear, bright, and generally inviting in the evening, with fish visible below the surface. Snorkeling can be rewarding, although the lowering sun means less light as the afternoon moves on. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you want to make the most of the water. Some equipment may be available for a deposit, but it is wise not to rely on that.

Two hours sounds generous, but it disappears quickly. A good plan is to walk onto Comino first if you want sunset photos from land, then return to swim from the boat. One useful tip is to explore the island before spending too long on the slide, since the last sunlight can make the views from shore especially attractive.

You can also stay onboard for the whole stop. This suits anyone who wants a deck chair, a drink, and a view without climbing over rocky ground or dealing with the beach area. The cruise is advertised as suitable for swimming and exploring, but it is not a good choice for people with mobility impairments.

Walking onto Comino for sunset

The boat’s stop allows you to disembark and explore Comino, provided you have the required access pass. Since May 2025, the Maltese authorities require Blue Lagoon visitors to show a QR code for a designated time slot.

The pass is free, but you must arrange it yourself through www.blcomino.com and choose the evening slot. This is an important step. Booking the cruise alone does not replace the access pass requirement.

Walking on Comino gives you a different view of the lagoon. From the island, you can photograph the water, boats, cliffs, and setting sun from above the shoreline. You may also find food and drink stalls on the island, although the boat’s bar is more convenient if you want to return to your seat quickly.

The island visit is fairly brief in practical terms. You have two hours at the stop, not two hours solely for walking, swimming, and a long meal. Plan one or two priorities rather than trying to do everything.

Food, cocktails, and the return under the stars

Food and drinks are not included, but the boat has a full-service bar and kitchen. Prices are often praised as fair, with examples around €6.50 for a burger, €2.50 for fries, and roughly €5 to €8 for cocktails. A cocktail served in a pineapple makes a cheerful photo and is one of the more memorable onboard touches.

The food selection includes snacks and meat-free choices. The bar is useful because you do not need to leave the boat hungry after swimming. You can order something simple, settle into a deck chair, and watch the light change over Comino.

Cocktail quality may depend on what you order. Some drinks are described as strong, with inexpensive spirits, while the nonalcoholic options receive better marks from some people. I would treat the bar as good-value holiday refreshment rather than a specialist cocktail experience.

The return journey is slower and quieter in feel. Music continues as the boat heads back toward Bugibba, with the Maltese coast lit by evening light and, later, stars. The return time is 20:30. Bring a light jacket or sweatshirt because several people found the ride home cold after sunset.

How much value do you get for $35?

The $35 price is strong for a three-and-a-half-hour boat outing that includes the cruise, the Blue Lagoon stop, deck chairs, and unlimited use of the slide and other boat facilities. A comparable day trip may give you more daylight, but this experience makes better use of the cooler evening hours and usually offers a calmer atmosphere.

The value improves if you plan to swim and use the boat facilities. Someone who only wants a scenic ride may find the paid food and drinks add to the total cost without adding much. Someone who enjoys swimming, music, a cocktail, and a few hours on deck gets more from the fare.

You must budget separately for transportation to Bugibba Jetty, food, drinks, lockers, and possibly equipment. The Blue Lagoon access pass itself is free, but arranging it is your responsibility.

The 4.8 rating from more than 1,000 reviews fits the strongest parts of the experience: friendly staff, an entertaining captain, a clean boat, good music, and a sunset stop that feels more relaxed than a standard daytime visit. A small number of comments point out that the actual outing felt closer to three and a half hours than four, so use the stated 210-minute duration when planning your evening.

Who will enjoy this cruise most?

I would choose this cruise if you want several experiences in one booking: coastal sightseeing, swimming, a boat slide, casual food, music, and a sunset over Comino. It works especially well for couples, families with older children, and friend groups who want activity without a formal tour structure.

It also suits you if heat and crowds bother you. The evening slot is cooler, and the Blue Lagoon is often less packed than during the day. The boat can still be busy, though, particularly in summer.

You may want a different outing if you need step-free access, quiet sightseeing, or a serious snorkeling session. The boat is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and the fading light limits underwater visibility. The slide and jumping platforms are optional, but the general mood leans toward fun and social rather than peaceful and silent.

The crew gets special credit for being friendly and involved. Captain Kevin is praised for his humor and clear information, while other captains have been described as helpful and entertaining. Staff may take photos for you and explain safety instructions before the swimming stop.

What to bring and how to prepare

Pack swimwear, a towel, a camera, and cash. Add a light jacket for the return, even if the afternoon feels hot. Water shoes are not listed as required, but you should take care around rocky shorelines and boat access points.

Bring your own snorkeling gear if you care about seeing marine life. The water can be clear enough for fish, crabs, moray eels, and octopuses, but the light fades toward sunset. The best underwater viewing may come earlier in the stop.

Arrange the free evening Blue Lagoon QR pass before you go. Arrive at Bugibba Jetty at least 30 minutes early, and do not trust a tight connection from another part of Malta. The operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead and a reserve-now, pay-later option, which helps if your schedule is still moving.

Should you book the Malta sunset cruise?

Book it if you want the Blue Lagoon with less heat, a better chance of fewer people, and a boat that gives you plenty to do between views. The combination of a scenic northern coast cruise, two hours at Comino, a slide, deck chairs, music, and reasonably priced refreshments makes $35 a good deal.

Skip it if your main goal is quiet snorkeling, a full day on Comino, or easy mobility. The return can be cold, snorkeling light is limited late in the day, and the two-hour stop goes fast.

For most visitors, the sunset timing is the smart choice. Walk on Comino early in the stop, photograph the evening light, then return to the boat for a swim and the ride home. That gives you the best balance of scenery, water time, and fun without spending the whole day in the hottest crowds.

FAQ

Where does the sunset cruise depart?

It departs from Bugibba Jetty, Dawret il-Gzejjer, St. Paul’s Bay. This is the newly built jetty and the correct meeting address.

What time should I arrive?

You should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Check-in begins at 16:40 and closes 10 minutes before departure. The boat will not wait for late arrivals.

How long does the cruise last?

The activity lasts 210 minutes, or three and a half hours. The planned return time is 20:30.

How long do you spend at the Blue Lagoon?

You get about two hours at the Blue Lagoon and Comino, including time for swimming, walking, photos, and sunset views.

Is the Blue Lagoon access pass included?

The pass is free, but you must obtain it yourself through www.blcomino.com. Since May 2025, visitors must show a QR code for their designated time slot, and you need to select the evening slot.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are available to buy onboard, but they are not included in the cruise price.

Can you use the boat slide?

Yes. Unlimited use of the boat facilities, including the slide and deck chairs, is included. The slide is about 10 meters high.

Are lockers available?

Yes. Lockers cost €2, with a €10 deposit for the key.

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No. The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.