Evening Catamaran Ferry Cruise To The Blue Lagoon

Sunset gives Comino a second act. This five-hour catamaran cruise leaves Sliema at 4:30 PM and reaches the Blue Lagoon as the daytime rush begins to fade. I like the two hours of free time for swimming and exploring, and I like the return across the sea beneath Malta’s night sky. The main drawback is that the Blue Lagoon can still be noisy and crowded, even in the evening.

This is a scenic ferry cruise, not a guided sightseeing tour. You get a comfortable boat, coastal views, Wi-Fi, toilets, and help from an English-speaking crew, but you are on your own once you reach Comino. You must also arrange the government access pass before departure if you plan to step ashore.

Key points to know before booking

• The boat leaves Sliema at 4:30 PM: Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early, and look for the red boat near the Ferries 1 and Bouverie bus stops.
• Blue Lagoon time runs from about 5:45 to 8:00 PM: You have roughly two hours for swimming, snorkeling, sitting by the water, or exploring Comino.
• A pass is required to go ashore: Since May 2025, you must reserve a free government pass at blcomino.com and select the evening time slot.
• The cruise is not guided: Crew assistance is available, but there is no walking tour or organized commentary on Comino.
• The return is the showpiece: Expect sunset colors, coastal views, and a peaceful cruise back to Sliema, scheduled for about 9:15 PM.

Leaving Sliema on a red catamaran

The meeting point is along Triq Ix-Xatt at Sliema Ferries, between the Ferries 1 and Bouverie bus stops. The area has several red ticket kiosks, so use those if you need help finding the correct boat. The operator’s boat is also red.

Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the 4:30 PM departure. A September booking arrived around 30 minutes early and got a good seat, which is useful advice if you want to choose where to sit rather than simply find any open place.

The catamaran is described as spacious and air-conditioned. That matters in Malta, where the promenade and boat deck can remain hot well into the afternoon. There are toilets and free Wi-Fi on board, but do not expect a full-service bar. One account described vending machines instead, and you may bring your own food and drink.

The trip heads from Sliema toward Comino across open Mediterranean water. This first section is mainly about the view and the gradual change from city shoreline to open sea. If you like coastal scenery, sit outside when practical, but bring a hat and sunscreen. For the best shore views, one useful seating tip is to choose the left side going out and the right side returning.

The boat is not a small private yacht. It is a ferry-style catamaran carrying enough people to create a lively atmosphere. That makes the $41 price easier to understand: you are paying for a practical transfer, a scenic cruise, and substantial time at Comino rather than a private sailing trip.

Arriving at the Blue Lagoon around 5:45 PM

The Blue Lagoon is Comino’s headline attraction, known for clear water and a bright, shallow-looking color that photographs well. The evening departure is designed to catch the lagoon after the busiest part of the day has passed.

That timing is the strongest reason to choose this cruise instead of a daytime crossing. The light becomes softer, temperatures are easier to handle, and the water can feel more pleasant for a late swim. You also get sunset views from the boat as the evening develops.

Still, keep your expectations sensible. The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s most popular stops, and several boats may remain in the area. One account described loud music from different boats and an unpleasantly crowded atmosphere in late August. Another described the lagoon as beautiful but too busy to feel peaceful. The evening helps, but it does not turn the place into a private cove.

The exact mood can depend on the date, weather, and number of boats still operating. If quiet water and silence are your main goal, this may not be the right setting. If you mainly want clear water, a convenient boat ride, and a sunset-colored visit to Comino, the timing is much more appealing.

Two hours for swimming, snorkeling, and Comino

The boat remains anchored at the Blue Lagoon from approximately 5:45 PM until 8:00 PM. You can use that time in several ways, but you need to manage it yourself because no guide leads you around the island.

Swimming is the obvious choice. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. The water is described as warm and clear in September, making it well suited to a refreshing evening swim. Snorkeling is also possible, although the cruise does not list equipment rental or a guided snorkeling session, so bring your own equipment if you need it.

You can also spend part of the stop exploring Comino or simply staying on board. That last option may appeal if you want shade, a seat, or a quieter view away from the shore. The boat provides a fixed base, which is handy for storing only the essentials you carry with you, though large bags and luggage are not allowed.

Some practical extras may be available near the lagoon. A small boat trip to nearby caves was offered to one booking for €15 per person and took around 20 minutes. That option can be useful if you have not already seen Malta’s caves by boat, but it reduces your two-hour stop. It is not part of the stated cruise inclusion, so treat it as an optional add-on rather than a guaranteed feature.

Deckchairs on Comino were reported at €5 each. A complimentary non-alcoholic drink token was also reported, with the drink collected from one of the kiosks on the island. These extras may vary, so do not base your booking decision on them. If you receive a token, remember which kiosk issued it.

The access pass is the most important practical change. Since May 2025, you cannot step ashore at the Blue Lagoon without a government-issued pass. Apply through blcomino.com before your cruise, choose the evening time slot, and do it early because the daily allocation is limited. The pass is a government rule, not a fee introduced by the boat operator. Without it, you may not be allowed to leave the catamaran.

Sunset, lights, and the ride back to Sliema

The scheduled return begins at 8:00 PM, with arrival in Sliema around 9:15 PM. This is not just transportation after the main stop. It is a pleasant second half of the trip, especially if you enjoy seeing Malta from the water at changing light.

The sunset may appear as you leave or shortly afterward, depending on the season. One September outing included views of other boats, a lively atmosphere, and the glow of sunset over the water. On the return, the shoreline lights become more important than the beach scenery.

A particularly memorable view can come near Sliema and Valletta. One account singled out the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, lit against the dark sky, with a nearly full moon above. You may not get the same moon or exact conditions, but the return timing gives you a good chance to see Malta’s coastal buildings illuminated after dark.

The return can also be noisy. Music from nearby boats and the general activity around the lagoon may continue into the evening. If you want the quietest possible ride, look for a less crowded seating area and bring realistic expectations. This is a public cruise, not a silent stargazing outing.

What the $41 price really buys you

At $41 per person, this is a fair value if you need transport from Sliema and want a long stop at the Blue Lagoon. The price includes the coastal cruise, approximately two hours at Comino, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, toilets, and crew assistance.

The value is strongest for visitors staying around Sliema who want one evening outing without arranging separate ferries or transfers. You get five hours away from the city, with swimming time included and no need to return during the hottest part of the afternoon.

The price does not include food or drinks, hotel pickup, a guide, the government access pass, or optional activities such as the cave boat. You should also budget for any deckchair or refreshment you choose to buy.

This is not the best value if you want a small-group sailing trip, a personal guide, or a carefully planned cultural tour. The cruise gives you transport and free time, not interpretation. It works best when you are happy to make your own evening.

Who will enjoy this cruise most

I would recommend it to people who want:

• A simple way to reach Comino from Sliema
• A later visit to the Blue Lagoon rather than a midday outing
• Time for a swim without spending a full day on a boat
• Sunset and nighttime coastal views
• A relaxed, self-directed stop without a fixed walking program

It can suit couples, friends, and independent visitors who like choosing their own pace. You can swim, sit, take photos, buy a drink, or remain on the catamaran. That freedom is useful, but it also means you need to organize your own belongings, timing, and activities.

I would be more cautious about booking if you dislike busy beach areas, loud music, or open-water boat travel. The cruise is also not suitable for people with mobility impairments, people prone to seasickness, or anyone needing a non-folding or electric wheelchair. Pets, large bags, and luggage are not allowed.

Bring motion sickness prevention if you normally need it. Comfortable shoes are useful if you plan to walk on Comino, while a towel and swimwear are essential if you hope to use the water. A light layer may also help on the return, since the boat ride continues after sunset.

Booking details that can affect your evening

The host and greeter speak English, and crew assistance is available, but there is no tour guide. That means you should not expect a commentary about Comino or a planned route around the island.

The advertised departure is 4:30 PM, arrival at the lagoon is about 5:45 PM, departure from Comino is 8:00 PM, and arrival back in Sliema is about 9:15 PM. Check the available date and starting time when booking, since operating details can change.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those policies make the outing easier to fit into a changing Malta schedule, especially if you want to wait for a favorable weather forecast.

Should you book the evening Blue Lagoon cruise?

Book it if you want a convenient, reasonably priced evening at Comino with a good amount of swimming time and a scenic return. The sunset light, clear water, and view of Malta’s illuminated coast give the trip more character than a basic ferry transfer.

Skip it if you are looking for true peace and quiet, a guide, or a private boat. The Blue Lagoon may still be crowded, and other boats can bring loud music. Also secure your government access pass before you go, since it is now essential for stepping ashore.

For most independent visitors based in Sliema, this is a solid way to see Malta’s most famous swimming spot without giving up an entire day. Just think of it as a comfortable evening ferry cruise with free time at Comino, not a secluded island escape.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran leave from?

It departs from Sliema Ferries on Triq Ix-Xatt, between the Ferries 1 and Bouverie bus stops. Look for the red boat or ask for help at one of the red ticket kiosks along the promenade.

What time does the cruise leave Sliema?

The scheduled departure is 4:30 PM. You should arrive at the departure point 15 to 20 minutes early for boarding.

How long do I stay at the Blue Lagoon?

The boat is scheduled to arrive at approximately 5:45 PM and leave at 8:00 PM, giving you about two hours at Comino.

Do I need a pass to go ashore at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Since May 2025, you need a government-issued access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. Apply through blcomino.com and choose the evening time slot. Daily passes are limited.

Is this a guided tour?

No. This is not a guided tour. You receive crew assistance on the boat, but your time at Comino is free time without a guide.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included in the stated price. The catamaran has vending machines, and you may bring your own food and drink. A complimentary drink token may sometimes be provided, but it is not listed as a standard inclusion.

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility impairments or seasickness?

No. The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or people prone to seasickness. Non-folding and electric wheelchairs are not allowed.