Blue Lagoon is prettier after dinner. This evening catamaran turns Malta’s most famous swim spot into something calmer, with a relaxed pace and plenty of time to enjoy the water. I especially like the quieter evening hours in the lagoon and the starlit return ride back to Sliema.

One thing to consider: you must plan ahead for the government Blue Lagoon access pass, and the island time is at leisure (no tour guide), so you’ll need to handle your own walking and exploring.

Key Highlights You’ll Actually Care About

• Golden-hour departure from Sliema for sea views and softer light
• About 2 hours anchored in the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling time
• Access pass required to disembark at the Blue Lagoon (evening timeslot)
• Air-conditioned comfort + free Wi‑Fi onboard plus toilets
• Best camera views by seat: left side going out, right side on the way back
• A “real” cruise vibe with time to chill rather than a rushed schedule

Blue Lagoon After the Crowds: Why This Timing Works

The big reason to choose the evening catamaran is the simple fact that the Blue Lagoon changes. During the day, Comino can feel like a highlight reel of boats and people. In the late hours, the water still looks unreal, but the energy shifts. You get that peaceful window where you can actually float, swim, and snorkel without feeling like you’re sharing your oxygen with a small city.

I also like that the boat doesn’t just do a quick stop. When you arrive, the catamaran stays anchored, giving you real freedom to choose your own rhythm—go straight in for a swim, do a snorkel, or just hang out near the boat and take in the view as the sun drops.

The trade-off is that this is not a guided, scripted experience. If you want someone pointing out every rock and telling stories, you won’t get that here. You’re there for the water, views, and quiet time, and it’s on you to make the most of it.

The Catamaran Ride From Sliema to Comino (4:30–5:45)

You sail from Sliema Ferries at 4:30 PM. It’s scheduled to reach the Blue Lagoon area at about 5:45 PM, which means you’re crossing the water with daylight still in play—perfect for photos and that “we’re finally there” feeling.

The cruise is on a modern catamaran and you’ll find practical comfort onboard, including air-conditioning, toilets, and free Wi‑Fi. That matters more than you might think in Malta heat: even if you’re mostly outside for the views, having a cool cabin as a reset button is a nice option.

One small but helpful detail: you’ll want to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early and find the correct boarding spot. The departure is at Sliema Ferries along Triq Ix-Xatt, in the stretch between the Ferries 1 bus stop and Bouverie bus stop. Look for the red boat near the red-colored ticketing kiosks/booths.

Your Two Hours Anchored in the Blue Lagoon (The Good Stuff)

At around 5:45 PM, you reach Comino’s Blue Lagoon and the catamaran remains anchored so you can spend about 2 hours there. This is the heart of the experience: the time is long enough to do a real swim and still have room to slow down.

You can:

• Swim and snorkel in the clear water
• Explore Comino Island at your own pace during the free time
• Unwind just by the lagoon and enjoy the evening glow

Because you’re anchored, the boat becomes your home base. You’re not rushing from one stop to another. You can take a gentle approach—get in when you feel like it, then come back for a breather.

What to bring (and what to plan for)

This part is worth packing smart for. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses. If you’re even mildly prone to seasickness, also bring motion sickness prevention. Comfortable shoes help too, especially if you decide to walk around Comino Island.

Also pack light. Pets aren’t allowed, and luggage or large bags aren’t allowed either. Plan on essentials only.

The Comino Access Pass Rule You Must Follow

Here’s the big planning item: since May 2025, you need a government-issued access pass to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. The pass is limited, and you obtain it through the official site: blcomino.com.

For this specific cruise, make sure you book the evening timeslot when applying for the pass. Without the official pass, you won’t be allowed to get ashore at the Blue Lagoon.

This is not a “maybe” detail. If you want that island time, you’ll want the pass locked in before you go. The good news is the pass is required through the official process—you’re not stuck guessing at the docks.

Snorkel Time, Swim Vibes, and Optional Add-Ons on Comino

The lagoon time is yours to manage, and that includes deciding how active you want to be. If the water calls your name, you’ll have time to swim and snorkel. If you’d rather keep it low-key, you can simply relax with the boat as your base and enjoy the changing light.

A couple extra details that can affect your day on Comino:

• One person noted there isn’t a full bar onboard, but there are vending machines. You can bring your own food and drink, and there’s no need to plan around getting meals included by the operator.
• There may be an optional small-boat excursion to nearby caves, described as costing 15€ per person and taking about 20 minutes ashore. If you’re curious, it’s the kind of add-on that can work well if you like short “side quests,” but only you can judge if it fits your pace.
• Deckchairs can be hired on the island (one booking mentioned 5€ each). If you want a comfortable place to sit while you wait for the sunset, it’s an option to consider.

And yes—your catamaran won’t be the only boat in the lagoon. Even during the evening, you may see boats coming and going, including those with water features. Some people love the lively atmosphere; if you’re searching for quiet solitude, just know that you’re still in a popular place.

Onboard Comfort: Air-Conditioning, Wi‑Fi, Toilets, and Seating Tips

For a cruise this length (about 5 hours total), the onboard details help a lot. The boat is air-conditioned, and there’s free Wi‑Fi onboard. There are also toilet facilities, which makes the long return to Sliema much easier on everyone.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck dry. You can bring your own supplies. One person also mentioned getting a complimentary drink token on Comino that they used for a cocktail served in a pineapple. That sounds like a fun bonus, but it isn’t listed as a formal inclusion—so treat it as a possible perk rather than guaranteed meal planning.

A smart view trick: which side to sit on

If you care about photography and coastline views, grab the right side of the boat:

• Going out (toward Comino): sit on the left-hand side
• Coming back (toward Sliema): sit on the right-hand side

It’s the kind of small choice that can noticeably improve your pictures when the coast and landmarks are lighting up.

The Return Cruise Under the Night Sky (8:00–9:15)

At 8:00 PM you cruise back to Sliema. The plan is to arrive around 9:15 PM, which means you’re not just leaving after dark—you’re enjoying the night views.

One standout detail from the experience: you pass the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, beautifully lit against the night sky. People also described a nearly full moon in the background, which turns the return into more than just transportation. It’s that calm, “we made it” finale.

This is the part I like best when I want a vacation feeling. The Blue Lagoon is all about water and light. The return is quiet watching—sea, sky, and that slow settling of the day.

The Reality Check: Who Will Love It and Who Might Not

I’d book this if you want:

• A relaxed evening on the water, not a rushed schedule
• Real time in the Blue Lagoon (about 2 hours free time)
• A comfortable boat ride with air-conditioning and toilets
• The chance to swim, snorkel, or just hang around the lagoon at your own pace

I’d think twice if:

• You’re sensitive to seasickness (this trip doesn’t suit people prone to it)
• You need mobility accommodations (it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments)
• You’re expecting a totally quiet experience with no party energy. The lagoon is still a magnet, and some people found noise and crowding hard to enjoy

Also note: pets and large luggage aren’t allowed. If you travel heavy, you’ll want to switch to a lighter carry plan before you arrive.

Price and Value: Is $41 Worth It?

At $41 per person, this cruise is a value play if your priority is getting to Comino for the evening light. You’re paying for:

• A round-trip catamaran ride from Sliema
• Air-conditioned comfort onboard
• About 2 hours anchored in the Blue Lagoon
• Free Wi‑Fi and toilet facilities

What’s not in that price is food and drinks, and your disembarkation depends on the access pass rule (managed through blcomino.com). Still, even with snacks and whatever you choose to spend on the island, you’re essentially buying time on one of Malta’s top natural swimming spots plus a smooth return at night.

If you compare it to doing Comino some other way on your own, the biggest advantage here is the structured timing: the boat gets you there for the evening window and brings you back when the day crowds are already thinning.

Should You Book the Evening Catamaran to the Blue Lagoon?

I think you should book it if your ideal Malta evening looks like this: get on a calm boat in Sliema, reach Comino with daylight still soft, spend a couple hours in clear water, then cruise back as the lights of the coast come alive.

Book it with extra care if you’re planning to step ashore—because the access pass requirement is real, and you’ll need the evening timeslot. If you want total quiet, keep expectations realistic: Comino is popular, and the lagoon can still feel lively depending on the boats in the water.

If you want an evening plan that feels easy, scenic, and built around actual time in the lagoon, this one fits.

FAQ

What time does the catamaran depart from Sliema?

The boat departs from Sliema Ferries at 4:30 PM. Plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early so you can board without stress.

When do you arrive at the Blue Lagoon on Comino?

You’re scheduled to arrive at the Blue Lagoon at approximately 5:45 PM.

How long is the free time at Comino?

You get about 2 hours of free time in Comino (Blue Lagoon) while the boat remains anchored.

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

Yes. A government-issued access pass is required to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon, and you must obtain it in advance via blcomino.com. You’ll need to book the evening timeslot for this trip.

Is this a guided tour with a tour guide?

No. This is not a guided tour. Comino time is at leisure, and you’ll have English crew/staff assistance but no tour guide.

What’s included on the boat, and is food provided?

Included onboard features are an air-conditioned boat, free Wi‑Fi, toilet facilities, and assistance by crew and staff. Food and drinks aren’t included.