Comino looks different at sunset. This Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise turns a simple boat ride into a moving viewpoint—sunset, then night skies—while you cruise across the Mediterranean toward Comino. I like the relaxed pace: you’re not rushing through stops, you’re just watching the water change colors. I also really like the included swim stop at the Blue Lagoon, which makes the trip feel worth the money.

One thing to plan for: this outing can get crowded, especially if lots of people are aiming for the same photo spots and swim time. If you’re the type who hates tight spaces on boats, show up early and keep realistic expectations about room onboard.

Key highlights at a glance

• Sunset timing from Bugibba: Board at 5:15pm, depart 5:30pm sharp for maximum golden-hour views
• Blue Lagoon swim stop: Get crystal-clear water time at Comino’s famous stretch
• Comino after dark: You’ll have time on the island after the sun drops
• Night-sky panorama onboard: The cruise heads back past Mellieha under the stars
• Toilet facilities onboard: A small detail that makes the evening smoother

From Bugibba Jetty to a Maltese golden hour

I love it when a trip has a clear “why now” moment, and this one does. You start in Bugibba and you’re out on the water right as the sky is turning. That matters, because most Comino trips are either daytime-only or late-afternoon chaos. Here, the timing is built around the sunset, so the views are part of the schedule, not an afterthought.

Meet at Bugibba Jetty and look for the boat called The Mermaid (blue, red, and white). You’ll get a greeting from the Captain right at the boat, which helps you feel organized from minute one. Boarding begins at 5:15pm and closes at 5:25pm, then the boat departs at 5:30pm sharp. In plain terms: if you’re even slightly late, you can miss the boat.

The cruise itself is simple and scenic. You head north of the island area, watching the horizon as the light fades. Even if you’ve seen sunset photos from Malta before, you’ll still find this one more satisfying because you’re moving—coastline, open sea, and the sky keep shifting around you.

The cruise portion: relaxing on open water

You spend about one hour cruising while sightseeing. This is the “set your brain to slow mode” part of the trip. There’s a lot of value in that, because Comino and the Blue Lagoon are popular. When you arrive right at the right time, you’re less likely to feel like you’re fighting a crowd for your one good photo.

Onboard, the vibe is family-friendly and easygoing, and the format works for different travel styles. Couples tend to enjoy the sunset atmosphere. Families usually like that the evening has built-in variety: water, views, and time on Comino. You don’t need to be a swimmer to enjoy the ride, because you can take it in from the boat for much of the experience.

If you do plan on spending time in the water, the cruising segment is a good moment to get your essentials ready. Bring sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel. Also pack a jacket—even in warm months, evening air on the water can feel cooler than you expect.

Blue Lagoon swim stop at Comino: when the trip earns its keep

The big reason people do this cruise is the Blue Lagoon. You’ll get about 1.5 hours in that area, with a mix of time for photos, cruising, and free time on site. The payoff here is that this is one of the Mediterranean’s famous clear-water spots, and the cruise brings you there without you having to coordinate your own transport in the evening.

Here’s what makes the Blue Lagoon stop practical:

• You don’t just view it from a distance—you get a chance to swim in the clear water.
• You also get time for basic exploration and walking around during your window on Comino after the sunset (more on that below).
• You have a guided structure, so you’re not stuck guessing when things will happen.

Snorkeling is mentioned in the experience highlights, but the important detail is this: snorkels are not included. If you want them, they’re available to rent onboard. If you don’t have your own snorkel gear, you’ll still be able to enjoy the swim time, but don’t assume snorkeling equipment is waiting for you.

Also keep your expectations realistic about crowds. A 1.5-hour window is great for photos and swimming, but it’s not long enough to feel totally unhurried if multiple groups arrive at the same time. I’d treat the first minutes as your “best shot” window: get in, get settled, and then come up for photos and whatever free time you can enjoy.

Comino after sunset: island time with a different vibe

After the swim window, you’ll continue into the evening portion of the trip with more sightseeing. There’s also a chance to explore Comino after sunset, and this is where the experience feels more than just a photo stop.

Night changes the way an island feels. During the late evening, the focus shifts from bright highlights to atmosphere: calmer water, softer light, and a slower feeling as the boat returns. If you’ve only seen Comino in daytime sun, you’ll probably appreciate this twist. It turns the evening into your “wander” time instead of another rush to catch the last ferry.

Your itinerary includes additional cruising time after the island stop—about one hour—as you head back. On the way, you’ll return past Mellieha and arrive back at Bugibba Jetty by 9:00pm. That back-on-the-water stretch matters because it gives you continuity. You’re not simply dropped off, you’re still part of the journey while the sky shifts fully into night.

And yes, there’s a reason the listing emphasizes the starry sky. You’re on open water at night, and when conditions are right, it’s easy to look up and feel how dark the sky can get away from shore lights.

Onboard comfort: what’s included and what you’ll need

What’s included is straightforward, and that clarity helps you plan without surprises. You get:

• Sunset boat cruise
• Swim stop at Blue Lagoon, Comino
• Leaflets to help you track the map
• Toilet facilities onboard

You’ll need to handle drinks and some gear yourself. Drinks are available to purchase onboard, but they’re not included in the price. If you want something specific, decide in advance if it’s worth buying rather than assuming you’ll be able to get it easily later.

The boat and evening schedule are also a key comfort factor. This trip is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so if anyone in your group has mobility limitations, it’s worth checking other options before you commit.

Even when nothing “goes wrong,” evening boat rides come with basics. I’d plan to bring:

• Towel
• Swimwear / beachwear
• Jacket
• Sunglasses

If you’ve packed only for beach time, add one layer for the ride back at night.

Price and value: is $28 actually a good deal?

At $28 per person, this cruise sits in the “reasonable if it’s your main experience” category. What makes it feel like good value is that the price includes the hardest part to DIY in the evening: getting out to Comino, arriving with the sunset timing, and building in a swim stop plus Comino time.

You’re not paying only for pretty scenery. You’re paying for:

• The structured sunset ride
• The included swim time at the Blue Lagoon
• The return to Bugibba without you figuring out late transport

To judge if it’s a smart use of your evening, think about your alternatives. If you’re planning to spend the evening around the water anyway, this is a clean “do it all in one ticket” choice. If you already have your own plan to reach Comino at a similar hour, then this becomes more about convenience than necessity. But for most people, that convenience is the value.

Just remember the potential extras: entry access to Comino (more below), and optional snorkel rental and drinks onboard.

The Comino entry ticket you must sort out first

One important item before you go: you must sign up with the Maltese Government Website to get an entry ticket to access the Island of Comino. The information provided says it’s free to purchase through this link: https://blcomino.com/product/blue-lagoon/

Don’t assume this is handled for you. If you skip it, your plans can run into a wall right when you want to be relaxed.

Also, because this is an island entry system, treat it like a real pre-trip task. I’d do it early enough that if you run into any website or account issues, you can fix them without stress.

Weather and schedule reality: what can change

Boat trips are weather-dependent, and this one is explicit about that. The cruise is subject to change or cancellation for bad weather or unsafe seas, or if capacity isn’t reached to fulfill the tour.

That’s not a reason to avoid it. It’s a reason to stay flexible. If your Malta schedule is tight and this is your one shot at sunset, I’d keep backup evening plans in mind.

Also, be strict about timing at the start. Boarding begins at 5:15pm and closes at 5:25pm. The boat leaves at 5:30pm sharp. Arriving late is the kind of mistake that can wreck an otherwise perfect evening.

Who this sunset cruise suits best

This is a good match if you want an evening that feels easy, scenic, and built around a real highlight. Based on the trip format and what’s included, it fits:

• Couples who want sunset views and a romantic pace without long travel logistics
• Families who like a clear structure and a fun mix of boat time plus water time
• First-timers to Malta who want Comino and the Blue Lagoon without planning their own evening transport
• People who prefer not to overcomplicate the day with multiple connections

It’s less ideal if you strongly dislike crowding, because even at a calm pace, the Blue Lagoon area is popular. And it’s not suitable for guests with mobility impairments due to boat access.

Should you book this Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise from Bugibba?

I’d book it if you want a sunset-focused evening that includes the Blue Lagoon swim stop and Comino time, without the hassle of coordinating everything yourself. The $28 price works best when you treat it as your main event for the evening, not as an add-on.

I’d think twice if you’re sensitive to crowds or if you’re traveling with someone who has mobility limitations. And if you’re the type who hates being at the mercy of weather, plan your schedule with a little slack.

If you do go, take the pre-trip Comino ticket requirement seriously, bring your jacket for the night air, and aim to be at the jetty early so boarding is smooth. That’s how you turn a good cruise into a memorable one.

FAQ

What time does the cruise leave Bugibba?

Boarding begins at 5:15pm and closes at 5:25pm. The boat departs at 5:30pm sharp.

How long is the Blue Lagoon sunset cruise?

The activity lasts about 3.5 hours (check availability for starting times).

Where do I meet the boat?

Head to Bugibba Jetty and look for the boat named The Mermaid (blue, red, and white).

Where does the cruise swim, and is swimming included?

You’ll have a swim stop at Blue Lagoon, Comino, and swimming time is part of the experience.

Are drinks included onboard?

No. Drinks are available to purchase onboard.

Do I need snorkels, and are they included?

Snorkels are not included. Snorkels can be rented onboard.

Do I need an entry ticket to access Comino?

Yes. You must sign up with the Maltese Government Website to get an entry ticket to access the Island of Comino.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a jacket, and beachwear.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

What happens if weather is bad?

The tour can change or be cancelled for bad weather or unsafe seas, or if capacity isn’t reached to fulfill the tour.