Malta: Sunset Cruise to the Blue Lagoon

A sunset cruise to Malta’s Blue Lagoon is interesting because it changes the whole feel of Comino. You get the turquoise water, but you also get the magic of a cooling sky over the caves and coves as you move across Malta’s northern coast. Check in is handled by Katherine behind the LOA restaurant, and the on-board vibe is easy, with places to sit back, watch, and swim at the right moment.

I love two things most. First, the Blue Lagoon swim at sunset means you’re in the water when it’s quieter and cooler than midday. Second, the boat experience itself is a lot of fun, especially the 10 meter slide and drinks served onboard, including cocktails in pineapple style. One thing to consider is that the schedule is strict, you must be early, and Blue Lagoon entry now needs a QR code time slot (starting 19 May 2025).

Key things to know before you go

• Blue Lagoon time window (18:15 to 20:30) is built in, so your swim and sunset viewing are timed.
• 10 meter slide plus deck chairs are included, so you can relax or go big without extra fees.
• Photo stops around Malta’s north coast add scenery before and after the water time.
• QR code access pass requirement (from 19 May 2025) can affect entry if you’re not ready.
• Check in early at Hornblower Cruises near Sirens Quay 24, right behind LOA restaurant.

Sunset on the Blue Lagoon: what this cruise is really like

This is not a rushed speedboat trip. It’s a proper half-evening outing that mixes scenery, time in the water, and a calmer Comino rhythm as the sun goes down. You start from St Pauls Bay area (Bugibba Jetty is where many people think of it), and the boat takes you along the northern coast for sightseeing, then pauses at Comino’s famous water for swimming and a memorable sunset show.

What makes it work is the pacing. You get that “we’re away from it all” feeling on the ride out, then you’re in the lagoon long enough to actually enjoy it, not just show up, take a photo, and sprint back. If your idea of the perfect Malta day involves water, a little adventure, and an easy return under night skies, this fits.

Price and value: why $34 feels like a deal here

The headline price is $34 per person, and at this level you’re paying for a few key things that normally cost extra on separate outings. You get the boat cruise, plus unlimited use of boat facilities such as deck chairs and the slide. That means your “on-board entertainment” is included, not something you have to buy in stages.

Food and drinks are not included in the base price, but drinks are available onboard at regular purchase prices. Based on how many people keep mentioning the pineapple-style cocktail experience and the general “reasonable” feeling, you can spend what you want without feeling trapped into a bundle. If you’re traveling with kids or a group, the value often comes from not needing to pay separately for seating, swimming access, and the big fun feature.

Also, you’re paying for timing. A sunset stop at the Blue Lagoon is exactly when the water looks best and when Comino feels less chaotic than midday. That timing is part of what you’re really buying.

Where you meet the boat, and why getting there early matters

Meeting point clarity is a big deal on this cruise. The departure location is Hornblower Cruises Malta, Sirens Quay 24, Triq San Geraldu, St Pauls Bay, right behind the LOA restaurant. You should look for Katherine to check you in at 16:40.

Two practical rules help you avoid stress:

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure, because the boat will not delay for late arrivals.
• Check-in closes 10 minutes before departure time.

Road works and traffic can be a problem around the island, so give yourself a buffer. This is one of those tours where being “almost on time” doesn’t help. You either show up early, or you risk losing your spot when the schedule moves on.

The sightseeing cruise part: St Pauls Island, Coral Lagoon, and the cave-and-cove vibe

Before you reach the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have cruising time where you’re not stuck on the dock. The boat ride includes sightseeing along Malta’s northern coast, with panoramic views of the shoreline, beach caves and coves, and rock formations that make this area so photogenic.

You’ll also have quick stops and photo moments, including:

• St Pauls Island: you get scenic views and time to take photos, plus short breathing room to soak in the perspective from the water.
• Coral Lagoon: another photo stop and a pass-by viewing chance.

These segments matter because they set expectations. Malta’s coastline from the sea is a different view than from land, and you start seeing why Comino’s protected waters look the way they do. It also helps you warm up for the main event, the water time, so the evening doesn’t feel like you’re waiting forever.

Blue Lagoon at sunset: swimming, snorkeling, and that quieter evening feel

The main stop is scheduled from 18:15 to 20:30, which is an excellent block for a sunset swim. During this time, you can either remain on board or disembark to explore the island. For most people, that means a mix: a dip, a walk on the beach, and time to watch the water change as the light shifts.

What you can do here:

• Swim in the lagoon
• Snorkel (clear water makes it worth bringing your own gear if you have it)
• Relax on the upper deck or beach area
• Take photos with the changing sunset glow

The 10 meter slide is also part of the included fun. If you want a confidence-building adrenaline moment, this is where it happens. If you prefer calm, you can still get plenty of joy just floating, swimming, and watching the sky.

One small reality check: when it gets dark, you might find it harder to fill the remaining time on the island. The boat setup helps here. You can hop back on, grab a drink, and just enjoy the return vibe.

QR code entry requirement, starting 19 May 2025

Effective 19 May 2025, Maltese authorities require a QR code showing your designated time slot to access the Blue Lagoon. To obtain your free access pass, you must visit blcomino.com for details.

This is important because it’s one of those “it can’t be fixed at the dock” issues. Make sure you have your QR code ready before you show up. If you forget, you risk being turned away at entry.

Comino photo moments and the return under stars

After the lagoon portion, you’ll keep cruising with more scenic views connected to Comino. You get additional sighting opportunities, including photo moments and pass-by viewpoints as you move toward the return.

The return portion is often the coziest part of the evening. People love the shift from bright water visuals to nighttime sailing, with stars overhead and a relaxing soundtrack playing on board. The boat atmosphere changes from sightseeing to unwind mode.

If you’re the kind of person who likes to end the day gently, this timing helps. You’re not hauling yourself through another attraction after dark. You’re already outside, already in holiday mode.

On-board comfort: bar, deck chairs, and the “included fun” factor

This is a full-service boat setup. You’ll have deck chairs onboard, and you can use the facilities freely since unlimited use is included. That matters because it turns the tour from “stand around for photos” into something more comfortable.

Drinks and food are available onboard, with a full-service bar feel. Food and drinks are not included in the base price, but dinner options are offered for purchase. If you like a snack with your sunset view, this is the type of tour where that works, and you don’t have to leave the boat to find something.

One detail that pops up again and again is the pineapple cocktail style. It’s fun, it photographs well, and it gives the evening a themed touch without costing you extra compared to regular drinks on many other trips.

What to bring (so your evening stays easy)

Bring the basics and a few extras:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Camera
• Cash
• Snorkeling gear if you have it (recommended)

Cash is useful because lockers are optional but not free, and onboard purchases require payment. Even if you don’t plan to buy much, it’s good to have it on hand.

Also, dress for cooling evening air. You might start warm on the water, then feel the chill after sunset while you’re seated on deck.

Who this cruise suits best, and who should skip it

This tour is a great fit if you want:

• Sunset views over the Blue Lagoon
• A swim and slide combo without organizing a private boat
• A relaxed evening program with time to actually enjoy the water
• A boat with comfortable seating and a full-service vibe

It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. That’s an important limitation to take seriously.

A few practical drawbacks to plan around

No tour is perfect, and here are the main considerations to keep your expectations realistic:

Strict timing at departure. Arrive early because the boat will not wait for late arrivals.

QR code requirement. Starting 19 May 2025, Blue Lagoon entry needs a QR code time slot. Get it ahead of time at blcomino.com.

Water time can feel different after dark. If you disembark late, you might find less to do once it’s darker, even though the setting is still beautiful. Using the boat space for a drink and settling in for the night sailing helps.

Sea conditions. The boat ride can feel a bit wavy depending on conditions. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring what you usually use.

Should you book the Sunset Cruise to the Blue Lagoon?

I’d book it if you want your Malta trip to include one memorable water evening that feels both easy and special. The value is strong for what’s included: the boat cruise, unlimited facilities, the 10 meter slide, and a proper scheduled stop at the Blue Lagoon during peak sunset hours.

I’d think twice only if you know you cannot handle strict departure timing, or if you might forget the QR code time slot requirement after 19 May 2025. Also skip if mobility is an issue.

If you’re flexible, you like snorkeling or swimming, and you want a real sunset payoff instead of a quick stop, this is a smart choice.

FAQ

How long is the sunset cruise?

The activity duration is 4 hours total. The exact start time depends on availability.

Where do I meet the boat?

You meet at Hornblower Cruises Malta, Sirens Quay 24, Triq San Geraldu, St Pauls Bay, right behind LOA restaurant. Look for Katherine for check-in.

What time is check-in, and when does it close?

Check-in happens at 16:40, and it closes 10 minutes before departure time. The boat will not delay for late arrivals.

When does the Blue Lagoon stop happen?

Your scheduled stop at the Blue Lagoon is from 18:15 to 20:30.

Do I need a QR code for the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Effective 19 May 2025, you need a QR code showing your designated time slot to present for Blue Lagoon entry. You can get the free access pass at blcomino.com.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included. A full-service bar and food are available onboard for purchase.

Are boat facilities like deck chairs and slides included?

Yes. Unlimited use of boat facilities such as slides and deck chairs is included.

Are lockers available?

Lockers are available for a charge of €2 with a deposit of €10 for the key.

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.