An afternoon sunset cruise to the Blue Lagoon

Malta’s Blue Lagoon is famous for a reason, and this sunset cruise times it nicely. You get two swim stops plus a waterslide catamaran ride back as the light turns dramatic. One thing to consider, though, is that the Blue Lagoon can get busy in peak season, so if you want a totally quiet swim, this may feel more energetic than you’d like.

I like how the cruise keeps the focus on water time and simple fun, not long lectures or rushed sightseeing. The schedule also gives you a practical break from the heat, since late-day water tends to feel warm and inviting. The tradeoff is that you’ll be sharing the water with plenty of people doing the same sunset plan.

Key Highlights Before You Go

• Afternoon-to-sunset timing for warm water and better evening light
• 2 full hours at the Blue Lagoon for swimming, snorkeling, and splash time
• Crystal Lagoon stop for a calmer pause, plus a chance to grab something onboard
• Padded loungers and waterslides to make the boat part of the fun
• Sea caves and Maltese cliffs on the return, with a chance at the green flash
• Bring a jacket once you’re leaving Comino, since it can cool down fast on deck

Why This Sunset Plan Feels Better Than a Day Trip

This is the kind of cruise that fits real holiday pacing. You’re not spending the whole day in transit. Instead, you’re heading out in the afternoon, getting your best water time during the “just right” part of the day, then floating back while the sky puts on a show.

The big win for most people is the combination of Comino time plus a return-at-sunset vibe. Even if the water is busy, the mood is usually better later in the day. And on a catamaran with loungers and slides, you can enjoy the ride even when you’re not in the water.

Getting Off at Bugibba Jetty, Then Into Cruise Mode

Your starting point is Bugibba Jetty, Dawret Il-Gzejjer, San Pawl il-Baħar, Malta. Boarding opens 30 minutes before departure and closes 5 minutes before, so don’t drift in late and hope for the best.

This early window matters because getting set up on board is half the experience. Many people like to secure a good spot before things get crowded, especially if you want lounge seating and an easy view for photos.

Blue Lagoon Time: 2 Hours That Actually Lets You Do Stuff

This is the main event. You’ll have about 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon, and that time is long enough to switch between relaxing and water activities without feeling rushed.

The water color really is the headline here. Late in the day, the hot Mediterranean sun has warmed the area, so the water often feels close to air temperature. That makes a huge difference when you’re deciding whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just float and watch the light change.

What you can do during your Blue Lagoon window

• Swim in the shallows and splash around
• Snorkel and look around in clearer, calm areas
• Use the break to cool down from Malta’s afternoon heat

A reality check: the Blue Lagoon is popular. On some days, you’ll share space with multiple boats, and the water can feel busy. If that stresses you out, go for a calm rhythm: swim early in your window, then switch to sitting and people-watching later.

Also note that wildlife moments can happen. One experience included a jellyfish sting in the Blue Lagoon area. If you’re the cautious type, consider wearing protective swimwear and keeping an eye on what’s around you once you’re in.

Crystal Lagoon: A Short Reset Before the Final Light Show

After Comino’s main splash zone, you’ll shift to Crystal Lagoon for about 30 minutes. This part of the cruise is not about deep adventure. It’s about slowing down, stretching out, and enjoying the water in a more relaxed pocket.

There’s also an onboard kitchen, so you can usually grab a bite or drink during this calmer stretch. This is also a good moment to dry off, check your photos, and plan what you want to do when you’re back on deck.

One small caution: 30 minutes passes fast. If you want extra swimming time, you’ll feel that the Crystal Lagoon stop is shorter than the Blue Lagoon stop, and the schedule won’t let you “just stay longer.”

The Boat Part Matters: Loungers, Slides, and a Real Floating Base

This cruise runs on a catamaran, and it’s built for comfort as well as fun. Padded sun loungers help, especially if you’re prone to getting uncomfortable on boat seats. There are also waterslides, and you can use the broader catamaran facilities during the cruise.

Why that matters for value is simple. At $36.04 per person, you’re not just paying for destination access. You’re paying for a floating daybed experience, plus activities you can do without leaving the boat.

A few practical ways people use the boat

• Sit on a covered deck section if you want shade
• Head to the slide if you want the easiest “instant fun”
• Plan your bathroom timing, since getting everyone changed wet to dry can cause short lines

Some departures feel smoother than you’d expect. One strong point from recent firsthand feedback is that the boat can feel manageable even when the lagoon is packed. Still, arrive early to get the spot you want, since the best seating tends to get taken.

Sunset on the Return: Sea Caves, Cliffs, and the Green Flash Chance

The return journey is where the cruise earns its name. As you head back, you’ll pass sea caves and get views along the Maltese coastline, with cliffs catching the last sun.

This is also where you might spot the legendary green flash when the sun drops toward the water. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s a fun “look up” moment that turns a transit stretch into an event.

A practical tip: once you leave Comino, conditions can cool down quickly. Bring something light but warm. Even if the day felt hot, you might feel the temperature change on deck when the sun is down.

What’s Included, and What You’ll Pay Extra For

Here’s the practical breakdown of cost value and inclusions.

Included with your ticket

• Around 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon
• Padded sun loungers
• Waterslides
• Use of all catamaran facilities
• Admission ticket coverage for the Blue Lagoon and other included stops

Not included

• Food and drinks (you can purchase onboard)
• Personal item lockers for hire at €2.00

If you like planning with less hassle, this is a good setup because the core experience is covered. You’re not managing separate admissions for the main swim time, and the boat amenities are part of the bargain.

Price and Value: Why $36.04 Can Feel Fair

At $36.04 per person for about 4 hours, you’re paying for a focused experience with a clear payoff. The price doesn’t just cover “getting to Comino.” It covers the boat ride with comfort, and it includes substantial water time at the Blue Lagoon, which is the expensive part of many Comino plans.

The best value comes from how the tour uses time. You get the key swimming window in daylight plus sunset light on the way back. You’re also not stuck with an all-day commitment, which helps when you already plan to do Malta city sights.

If you’re traveling as a family or a group of friends, this also tends to feel good because the slides and loungers give everyone something to do. You’re not negotiating a busy day around one activity.

What to Bring: Small Stuff That Makes a Big Difference

If you show up prepared, the experience feels effortless. If you don’t, you’ll burn time dealing with basic needs.

Bring

• Swimsuit plus an extra layer for the boat ride back (a jacket is a real upgrade)
• Snorkel and goggles if you have them, since having your own gear makes water time smoother
• Flip-flops or water-friendly shoes, especially if you want grip around dock areas
• Towels (having at least two helps, one to dry off and one to use as a dry spot)
• Sunscreen, since afternoon sun is still serious even if you’re heading to sunset

You can often bring your own snacks and drinks onboard, and having your own comfort items reduces stress when lines form for purchases or bathrooms.

Who This Cruise Is Best For (And Who Might Prefer Another Option)

This works especially well if you want a classic Malta highlight without committing to a full-day Comino schedule. It’s also a great fit for families, because the boat is kid-friendly and the waterslides give the kids a simple “yes” button.

It’s also a good match for couples and groups in their 20s through 50s who want fun but not a party scene that takes over the whole day. You can enjoy the water, then relax on the return as the scenery shifts.

Who should think twice

• If you dislike crowds and want a secluded swim, you may find the Blue Lagoon area too busy in high season
• If you expect a long stay where you can explore Comino beyond the water, the stop times are designed for swimming, not wandering all afternoon
• If you are very sensitive to jellyfish or stings, you should consider protective swimwear and be attentive in the water

Should You Book This Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise?

I’d book it if you want Malta’s most famous water stop with the best mood of the day, plus a boat that’s fun even when you’re not swimming. The combo of 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon, loungers, and waterslides makes it easy to justify the price without feeling like you got a watered-down experience.

Don’t book it if your main goal is solitude or if you’re counting on Crystal Lagoon to replace the Blue Lagoon. The short 30-minute stop is more of a reset than a destination in its own right. And remember, the water at the Blue Lagoon can be shared with many boats.

FAQ

How long is the sunset cruise?

It runs for about 4 hours on average.

What is the price per person?

The price is $36.04 per person.

Where do I meet the tour?

You meet at Bugibba Jetty, Dawret Il-Gzejjer, San Pawl il-Baħar, Malta.

Where does the cruise go, and how long are the stops?

You visit the Blue Lagoon for about 2 hours and Crystal Lagoon for about 30 minutes, plus a short departure stop at Bugibba Jetty.

Is the entrance included for the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, admission tickets are included for the stops listed, including the Blue Lagoon.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included, but purchases are available onboard. You can also use the onboard facilities during the cruise.

What should I bring for comfort?

Bring a jacket for the return, since it can get chilly once the sun is down. Also consider swim shoes, your own snorkel gear if you have it, and towels. Lockers are available for hire at €2.00.