Two lagoons, one calm evening. This Mellieħa cruise is a smart way to see Comino when the day crowds start fading, with stops at the Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon plus time to swim and relax on board. You cruise along Malta’s north coast and arrive ready to enjoy the water, not fight for it.

What I like most is the Crystal Lagoon stop: clear water, cliff views, and time to explore sea caves at a relaxed pace. I also like the small-feeling vibe, where the crew keeps things organized so you’re not constantly dodging other swimmers. One key drawback to plan around: as of May 2025, you must have a government access pass to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon, and you won’t be allowed off without it.

Key Points to Know Before You Go

• Evening timing means the lagoons feel calmer than peak-day visits
• Crystal Lagoon delivers 360-degree views, sheltered water, and sea caves to explore
• Two swim stops with about an hour at each place gives you real time in the water
• Blue Lagoon anchoring lets you snorkel, swim, or stay relaxing on the boat
• Small-group feel (often closer to families and a couple dozen seats than huge crowds) helps the mood
• Bring cash and your own snorkel gear if you want it: food/drinks and equipment aren’t included

Why an Evening Comino Cruise from Mellieħa Feels Smarter

The biggest advantage here is the clock. A 3-hour evening slot lets you hit Comino’s lagoons after the hottest hours and before late-night chaos. That translates into more comfortable swims, fewer people hovering over the same swim spot, and a more relaxed pace overall.

You also avoid the all-day Comino slog. Instead of bouncing between spots and trying to time buses and ferries, you get a direct boat rhythm: sail out, swim, sail, swim, then head back by about 8:00 PM.

And yes, the water is the star. The Crystal Lagoon looks vivid even from the boat, and the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise tone is the kind of thing you understand immediately once you’re standing at the rail.

Getting on Board at Marfa Jetty (and Finding the Pegasus Fast)

You start at Marfa Jetty/Slipway in Mellieħa, right across from Riviera Spa Resort. When you arrive, look for a white boat named Pegasus.

If you need help, the provider’s office is near the jetty, next to the Dive Vision Malta Snorkel & Diving Centre. In plain terms: don’t wander for long. Once you spot the boat, you’re basically ready to go.

Crew communication is in English, and you’ll get guidance on what to expect during each stop. That matters on a boat trip because small timing choices—like where you swim first or how you move around the boat during boarding—make the whole evening smoother.

Crystal Lagoon Stop: Cliffs, 360-Degree Views, and Sea Caves

The first major stop is Crystal Lagoon on the west side of Comino. After cruising along the northern coastline, the boat reaches a spot known for crystal-clear water and big cliff scenery. The feel here is more sheltered than the open sea, which helps you enjoy the water without constant chop.

You’ll have about one hour for this swim stop. That’s a sweet length of time: long enough to get in, take a few laps, and still have a calm minute to float and take it in. It’s also a place that works for different comfort levels. If you want to snorkel, you can. If you want to just swim and look at the water surface and surrounding rocks, you can do that too.

One detail I’d plan around: there are sea caves in the lagoon. Even without special equipment, you’ll get that “how is it this blue?” feeling as you peer around rock features from the water. If you’re bringing a friend who gets nervous in deep water, this lagoon is often easier psychologically because the setting feels contained and scenic.

Potential drawback: you’re swimming in open water conditions. The lagoon is sheltered, but you still need to manage sun, water entry, and any motion discomfort. Bring what you need before you hit the water so you’re not scrambling once you’re anchored.

The Blue Lagoon Hour: Swimming, Snorkeling, and the Access Pass Rule

Next comes the famous Blue Lagoon, and the contrast is immediate. You get transparent cyan water, a white-sand look beneath the surface, and that “this can’t be real” clarity.

You get another one-hour stop here. The boat anchors near the lagoon, so you’re not stuck going ashore if you don’t want to. You can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat while the water does its thing.

Here’s the big planning item: since May 2025, Malta requires a government access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. This pass has to be obtained in advance via blcomino.com, and daily allocations are limited. The operator specifically notes you should choose the evening slot when applying.

If you don’t have the pass, you won’t be allowed to step ashore. And you should take that seriously: there are no refunds mentioned if you can’t access the lagoon without the pass. The practical takeaway is simple—decide early whether you truly need to go on land. If you only care about swimming and staying by the anchored area, you’re still in good shape. But if your plan includes walking around, you’ll want that pass ready.

How to use your hour well:

• If you’re snorkeling, go early in the stop so you’re not rushing when others pile in.
• If you’re staying on the boat, pick a spot where you can comfortably watch the water and climb in and out easily.
• Have your swim time and towel setup done quickly right after anchoring.

What It’s Like on the Boat: Showers, Toilets, and That Evening Calm

On this cruise, the boat isn’t just for transportation. The essentials are included: toilet facilities and a shower are available onboard. After time in salt water and sun, that alone can make the difference between enjoying your evening and feeling sticky and cranky on the way back.

You’ll also want to think about clothing habits. Plan to wear swimwear and bring a towel so you can rinse, dry, and settle in when you return to calmer footing. Sunglasses and sunscreen matter here too. Even when the sun is gentler in the evening, it can still feel strong once you’re out on the water.

Because food and drinks aren’t included, you’ll likely want cash in your pocket if the boat bar or onboard snack options are something you want. One thing I appreciated from feedback around this trip is that prices were seen as reasonable and not wildly out of step with what you’d expect in a tourist setting.

If you’re traveling with kids, check with staff about life vests. There’s been mention of availability for children on at least one sailing, which is reassuring when you’re trying to keep everyone comfortable.

Timing, Weather, and Motion-Sickness Reality Check

This cruise runs about 3 hours and returns around 8:00 PM. That time structure is ideal if you want Comino without sacrificing your whole day in Malta. You’ll still get that end-of-day light on the water, and you’ll avoid arriving at the lagoons when everyone else is doing the same thing.

Weather matters. The operator can change the itinerary depending on conditions, so keep expectations flexible. If waves pick up, anchoring and swim comfort can shift.

One honest note: this trip is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and it also isn’t for those prone to seasickness or motion sickness. If you’re even slightly unsure, take the motion-sickness prevention they recommend and bring it early, not after you’re already feeling off.

Value for Money: Is $35 Worth It?

At about $35 per person for a 3-hour cruise, you’re paying for three things that are hard to DIY comfortably:

1) the boat ride out to Comino,

2) two scheduled water stops with set swim windows,

3) onboard basics like toilets and a shower.

So the value isn’t just the sightseeing. It’s the time structure. You’re given around an hour at Crystal Lagoon and an hour at the Blue Lagoon, which means you can actually swim instead of spending the day commuting between spots.

What’s not included is where you may spend a little extra:

• Food and drinks
• Snorkeling equipment (rental is available)
• The Blue Lagoon access pass if you want to step ashore

That means the total cost depends on your preferences. If you pack your own swim kit and you’re fine staying in the anchored area rather than walking ashore, you’ll likely stay close to the stated price. If you want snorkel gear or plan to disembark at the Blue Lagoon, budget for those add-ons.

Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This is a great match if you want:

• a comfortable evening plan instead of a full-day excursion,
• time in clear water without complicated ferry schedules,
• a calm vibe that’s easier for families and mixed groups.

It’s also a strong choice for people who like options. One hour at Crystal Lagoon and one hour at the Blue Lagoon gives you room to choose: swim, snorkel, or just float and watch the cliffs and changing light.

But skip it if you:

• use a wheelchair or need mobility support you can’t count on with a boat transfer,
• are prone to seasickness,
• want a guaranteed shore walk at the Blue Lagoon without planning the access pass in advance,
• travel with pets or large luggage (not allowed).

If you’re sensitive to water shoes slipping or stairs on boats, it’s worth thinking ahead about how you’ll enter and exit calmly. The trip is short, but you’ll still be managing those moments twice.

My Booking Checklist Before You Pay

If you want this evening cruise to feel smooth, do these simple prep steps:

• Decide if you need to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon. If yes, get the access pass ahead of time and choose the evening slot.
• Pack for water time: swimwear, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen.
• Bring cash in case you want onboard drinks or snacks.
• If you snorkel, consider renting equipment rather than relying on limited onboard gear expectations.
• If you’re motion-sensitive, take prevention before symptoms hit.

That’s it. If you handle those basics, the rest is just watching Comino turn into one of Malta’s most photographed colors.

Should You Book This Mellieħa Two-Bay Evening Cruise?

Yes, I’d book it if your goal is a relaxed Comino experience with two real swim windows and an evening schedule that avoids the worst heat and crowds. The Crystal Lagoon stop and its cave-and-cliff feel makes it more than a one-spot tour, and the Blue Lagoon hour gives you enough time to make the water pay off.

But book it smart. Make sure you understand the Blue Lagoon access pass rule if stepping ashore is part of your plan. And if you’re prone to motion sickness or you need wheelchair-friendly access, this one isn’t the right fit.

If you want an evening where the main event is the water and you don’t want to fight logistics all day, this cruise is a strong value.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The cruise lasts about 3 hours.

Where does the boat depart from in Mellieħa?

It departs from Marfa Jetty/Slipway opposite the Riviera Spa Resort. Look for the white boat named Pegasus.

How long is each stop at Comino’s lagoons?

You get about 1 hour at Crystal Lagoon and about 1 hour at the Blue Lagoon.

Do I need an access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes. Since May 2025, you must obtain a government access pass in advance via blcomino.com. Limited daily passes are allocated, and you must choose the evening slot. No disembarkation is allowed without the pass.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included, but it is available for rent.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included.

What facilities are available onboard?

Toilet facilities and a shower are available on the boat.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash, and motion sickness prevention.

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It is also not suitable for people prone to seasickness or motion sickness.