Evening Catamaran Ferry Cruise To The Blue Lagoon

The best reason to book this trip is the timing. You reach Comino’s Blue Lagoon after the main daytime rush, when the light softens and the water is still warm enough for a swim. I like the two-hour stop and the return across the Mediterranean after dark, when Malta’s shoreline takes on a different look. The catch is that the lagoon may still be noisy and crowded with boats, and the evening pass system adds one important step before you go.

I also like the simple setup: a spacious catamaran, air-conditioning, toilets, Wi-Fi, and no forced sightseeing program. You choose your own pace. Bring a towel, swimwear, and sunscreen, but also bring patience. This is a leisure cruise, not a guided tour, and the Blue Lagoon is beautiful but not always peaceful.

Key points to know before booking

• The evening schedule is the main attraction: Depart Sliema at 4:30 PM, reach Comino around 5:45 PM, and return at about 9:15 PM.
• You get roughly two hours at the Blue Lagoon: Swim, snorkel, walk around Comino, or stay aboard and enjoy the view.
• A government access pass is required: Since May 2025, you must obtain a pass in advance if you plan to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon.
• There is no tour guide: The English-speaking host and crew handle the cruise, but your time on Comino is independent.
• The catamaran is comfortable but not a full-service restaurant: Vending machines are available, and you may bring your own food and drink.
• The best value comes from the atmosphere: You are paying for the cruise, the timing, and the two-hour stop, not for a guided island tour.

Why the evening timing changes the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s most famous swimming spots, so the time of day matters. A daytime visit can bring large numbers of boats, swimmers, beachgoers, and loud music. This cruise leaves Sliema at 4:30 PM, reaching Comino at approximately 5:45 PM, when the strongest daytime heat has eased.

That does not mean you get an empty lagoon. Several boats may still be present, and music from other vessels can carry across the water. If you want total quiet, this is not a safe bet. But the evening light gives the place a calmer feel, and the changing colors make the setting more attractive than a midday stop.

I like this schedule for people who want a swim without giving up an entire day. You can spend the morning and early afternoon elsewhere in Malta, then use the cruise as a sunset outing. The five-hour duration is long enough to feel like a proper excursion, but short enough to fit into a compact Malta itinerary.

Boarding at Sliema Ferries

The departure point is at Sliema Ferries on Triq Ix-Xatt, along the promenade between the Ferries 1 bus stop and Bouverie bus stop. Look for the red boat. Several red ticket kiosks sit along the waterfront, and staff at those booths can point you toward the correct vessel.

Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before departure. That is the minimum advised time, but arriving earlier can help if you want to choose your seat. One useful seating tip is to sit on the left side of the catamaran when heading toward Comino, then move to the right side for the return if you want better views back toward Malta.

The boat is described as spacious, and seating early may be worthwhile if you want a particular position. The catamaran has air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and toilet facilities. Those are practical comforts on a five-hour outing, especially when you are carrying wet towels, sunscreen, and swim gear.

This is not a small private sailing trip. You are sharing a larger ferry-style catamaran with other passengers. That gives you more room than a tiny boat, but it also means the mood can shift depending on the group and the other vessels gathered at the lagoon.

The coastal cruise from Sliema to Comino

The first part of the trip is a scenic crossing over the Mediterranean. The route takes you away from Sliema and toward Comino, with coastal views along the way. The cruise itself is part of the experience, not just transport to a swimming stop.

The catamaran provides a stable platform for enjoying the open water, but you should still take seasickness seriously. The trip is not suitable for people who are prone to motion sickness, and bringing your preferred prevention is sensible. Sit where you feel most comfortable and keep sunglasses and a hat handy, since the sun can remain strong even late in the afternoon.

Food and drinks are not included. The boat has vending machines rather than a full bar, and you may bring your own food and drink. That detail matters because the two-hour stop is long enough for you to want a snack, especially after swimming. Pack lightly, though. Large bags and luggage are not allowed.

Two hours at the Blue Lagoon

The catamaran is scheduled to anchor at the Blue Lagoon at about 5:45 PM. You then have approximately two hours of free time. The plan is straightforward: you decide how to use it.

Swimming is the obvious choice. The water is known for its clear appearance, and evening temperatures can still be pleasant. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. If you want to snorkel, pack your own equipment unless you have confirmed rental arrangements separately, since snorkeling gear is not listed as included.

You can also walk around part of Comino or remain on the boat. The island stop is not guided, so you will not receive a structured explanation of Comino’s sights. That suits independent visitors who want flexibility, but it is less useful if you want local history, nature commentary, or someone organizing your time.

Deck chairs may be available to hire on the island for about €5 each. This is an extra cost, not part of the cruise. You may also find a small excursion to nearby caves offered during the stop. One reported option costs €15 per person and takes around 20 minutes. It can be worthwhile if you have not seen Malta’s sea caves by boat, but it uses part of your limited two hours.

A complimentary non-alcoholic drink token may also be provided at one of the Comino kiosks. Keep track of which kiosk accepts it. Another small onboard or island extra reported on the trip is a drink token used for a cocktail served in a pineapple. These touches are not clearly listed as guaranteed inclusions, so I would treat them as possible extras rather than a reason to book.

The access pass you must arrange yourself

The most important practical issue is the government access pass. Under a Maltese directive effective from May 2025, you need an official pass in advance to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. The pass is obtained through blcomino.com, and daily numbers are limited.

When applying, choose the evening time slot that matches this cruise. Without the correct pass, you will not be allowed to step ashore at the lagoon. This is separate from booking the catamaran, so do not assume that your cruise reservation handles it for you.

This rule changes how you should plan the trip. Apply before departure day, check the date and evening slot carefully, and keep the pass accessible on your phone. If you prefer not to deal with the pass system, you can remain aboard, but that would remove one of the main reasons to take this particular excursion.

Sunset, illuminated Malta, and the return to Sliema

At about 8:00 PM, the catamaran leaves Comino for Sliema. The return is not merely a repeat of the outward crossing. By then, the light has faded, and the focus shifts from swimming to the coastline and sky.

A sunset departure can be especially attractive from the deck. The boat’s position gives you open views over the sea, and Malta’s shoreline begins to glow as evening settles in. On a clear night, the moon and stars add another layer to the trip.

One memorable view is the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Valletta, lit after dark. The return schedule allows you to see Malta from the water at a time when familiar buildings look more dramatic. The catamaran is due back at Sliema at approximately 9:15 PM.

Other boats may add music, lights, or activity to the scene. That can make the evening feel lively rather than silent. If your ideal cruise involves soft water and no sound except the engines, you may find the atmosphere too busy. If you enjoy a social setting and a little evening energy, it may work well.

What the $41 price really covers

At $41 per person, this cruise offers fair value if you want transport, a scenic sea crossing, and a long stop at the Blue Lagoon without arranging separate ferry connections. The air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, toilets, and crew assistance add comfort, though they are basic ferry amenities rather than luxury features.

The price does not cover hotel transfers, a guide, food, drinks, a government access pass, deck chairs, or optional cave trips. That makes the total cost higher if you add several extras. You should also allow for transport to Sliema Ferries, since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

I see the strongest value in the timing. A standard daytime boat trip may give you more hours at Comino, but this evening departure lets you combine a swim with sunset and a night cruise. You are buying a particular mood as much as a transfer.

The overall rating is 4.2 from 75 reviews, which fits the nature of the experience. The crew and catamaran receive strong praise, while the main complaints concern the crowded lagoon, loud music from other boats, and unhelpful directions at nearby kiosks. That balance is worth keeping in mind before you book.

Who will enjoy this cruise most

I would choose this trip if you want:

• A short evening escape from Sliema
• A chance to swim at the Blue Lagoon without committing to a full day
• A spacious catamaran rather than a very small boat
• Free time instead of a fixed guided program
• Sunset and nighttime views from the sea
• A simple outing for couples, friends, or independent visitors

Families may appreciate the roomy boat and flexible stop, though the swimming area and boat traffic require care. People with mobility impairments should note that the trip is not considered suitable for them, and non-folding or electric wheelchairs are not allowed.

I would hesitate if you dislike crowds, loud music, or open-water travel. People prone to seasickness should choose another activity or take suitable prevention. You should also skip it if your main goal is a detailed explanation of Comino, because there is no tour guide.

What to bring and what to leave behind

Pack comfortable shoes for the boat and any walking on Comino. Add swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. A light layer may also be useful after sunset, though no specific evening clothing requirement is given.

Bring only what you need. Large bags and luggage are not allowed, and pets are not permitted. Non-folding and electric wheelchairs are also excluded.

Food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own supplies can save money. The boat has vending machines, but you should not expect a full onboard café or restaurant. Keep your belongings secure and remember which kiosk, if any, is connected to a drink token.

Should you book the Evening Catamaran Ferry Cruise?

Book it if you want a well-timed Blue Lagoon outing with sunset and a starlit return, and you are happy to explore Comino on your own. The two-hour stop is generous enough for a swim and some wandering, while the catamaran provides useful comforts for the crossing.

Do not book it expecting an empty lagoon, a quiet private boat, or a guided island visit. The access pass must be arranged separately, and music from nearby vessels can spoil the peace for some people.

For the right passenger, this is a practical way to see Comino at its most attractive time of day. Arrive early, arrange the evening pass, sit on the recommended side for the best views, and pack your own water and snacks. Those small preparations make the $41 fare easier to justify.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran depart from?

It departs from Sliema Ferries on Triq Ix-Xatt, between the Ferries 1 bus stop and Bouverie bus stop. Look for the red boat or ask 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 meeting point 15 to 20 minutes before departure.

What time does the boat arrive at the Blue Lagoon?

The catamaran is scheduled to reach the Blue Lagoon at approximately 5:45 PM.

How long do you have at Comino?

You get approximately two hours of free time at the Blue Lagoon.

Is the government access pass included?

No. You must obtain the official access pass separately through blcomino.com if you plan to disembark at the Blue Lagoon.

Is this a guided tour?

No. The stop at Comino is free time, and there is no tour guide. The host or greeter language is English.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included. The boat has vending machines, and you may bring your own food and drink.

What facilities are available on the catamaran?

The catamaran has air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and toilet facilities.

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

The activity is not considered suitable for people with mobility impairments or people prone to seasickness. Pets, large bags, non-folding wheelchairs, and electric wheelchairs are not allowed.