Late afternoon cruise to the Blue Lagoon and seacaves

Late Afternoon Cruise to the Blue Lagoon and Caves: A Relaxed Look at Malta’s Best Coastal Spots

If you’re considering a trip to Malta, chances are the Blue Lagoon is on your must-see list. This cruise offers an easy way to enjoy it without the daytime crowds and intense heat. Based on reviews and the experience described, it seems like a good option for those wanting a laid-back, scenic evening out. We love that it combines calm swimming, beautiful sunset scenery, and a chance to explore the caves around Comino – all in a manageable 4-hour window.

One thing to keep in mind is that this cruise’s main appeal lies in the late afternoon and evening. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the busy daytime hours when the lagoon is packed. However, if you’re after a full-day adventure or prefer daytime activities, this might not be your only stop. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxing on the water, catching sunset views, and taking a peaceful dip in crystal-clear waters with good company.

This tour could be a highlight for those wanting a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and chilling out without much fuss. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good value, scenic comfort, and a relaxed pace. Now, let’s unpack what makes this experience stand out — and what might be less ideal.

Key Points

• Relaxing Sunset Experience: Enjoy the Blue Lagoon during the golden hour, when crowds thin out, and the heat drops.
• Scenic Caves and Views: The cruise includes stops at caves and scenic spots around Comino, providing great photo ops and a sense of discovery.
• Comfortable Facilities: The boat has shaded decks, sun decks, snorkeling gear, and onboard amenities for a comfortable outing.
• Flexible Timing: You get about 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon, with additional sightseeing time around the caves and coastline.
• Value for Money: With amenities and a well-paced itinerary, many reviews call this a good deal.
• Weather and Weather Cancellations: The cruise is weather-dependent; cancellations or changes are possible if conditions aren’t ideal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Cruise Itself

This cruise kicks off from Sirens Quay, a central and easy-to-find starting point, about 15 minutes before departure. The boat itself is a sailboat operated by Seahorse Cruises Malta, and reviews praise its cleanliness and welcoming crew, especially Captain Owen, who’s described as very friendly and accommodating. Having a live guide in English and Italian adds to the relaxed, informative vibe.

The cruise typically lasts around 4 hours, including the stops. It starts with an hour of scenic cruising past St. Paul’s Island, offering a gentle introduction to the coastline. From there, you’ll pass by the famous Santa Maria Caves for about 10 minutes, taking in the views of the rugged coastlines and sea caves. These caves are a major draw and give a sense of the untouched beauty of Malta’s seaside.

Next, the boat anchors at the Crystal Lagoon for about 10 minutes. While brief, this stop offers stunning photo opportunities as you pass by or if you choose to take a quick look. It’s a scenic highlight that sets the stage for the main event: the Blue Lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon: the Highlight

With around 2 hours here, you have ample time to soak in the turquoise waters, sunbathe on the sand, snorkel with provided gear, or simply relax on the boat’s shaded deck. Many reviews mention how peaceful and less crowded it is during this cruise, compared to the busy daytime visits. One reviewer noted: “Swam for an hour and a half, this was enough swim time and the area was not too busy,” which sums up the vibe here nicely.

Swimmers will appreciate the boat’s facilities: a diving platform, side ladder, and snorkeling equipment. The warm, clear waters seem especially tempting in the late afternoon after a hot day, so don’t forget your towel and camera to capture the stunning scenery. The boat anchors far from the crowds, giving you a peaceful swim in the famous turquoise waters.

Sunset and Cave Views

While you’re swimming or relaxing, you’ll also enjoy watching the sunset over the water—a truly atmospheric moment. The guide will point out the caves and scenic spots along the coast, so you can admire the natural formations illuminated by the fading light. Some reviews call this “a lovely cruising back in the darkness,” emphasizing how the sunset adds to the experience’s charm.

The Return Journey

After your Blue Lagoon stop, the cruise takes you back past the caves and coastline, giving you a chance to appreciate the scenery from a different perspective. The trip ends back at Sirens Quay, around the original departure point, making it easy to continue your Malta adventures afterward.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll get a well-rounded experience with included amenities like snorkeling gear, a shaded deck, sun deck, toilet, shower, and a diving platform. The boat is designed to keep you comfortable during the cruise, and the facilities are mentioned positively in reviews.

Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard, which many travelers find reasonable. There’s also a note about the upcoming law requiring a free QR code to access the Blue Lagoon from May 2025, which means you’ll need to reserve your time slot and download the code if you want to step onto the sand. The cruise itself, however, doesn’t require this QR code unless you plan to stay on the beach.

The Practicalities: Timing, Meeting Points, and Tips

The meeting point is Sirens Quay, and arriving 15 minutes early is advised to ensure a smooth start. The activity lasts around 4 hours, which fits nicely into an afternoon or early evening plan. Check availability for starting times—these are flexible, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season.

Remember to bring:
– Comfortable shoes and clothes for the boat
– A camera to capture the scenery
– Cash for onboard purchases
– Towel and sun protection

Oversized luggage is not allowed onboard, so pack light and efficiently.

Weather can influence operations—if conditions aren’t favorable, the cruise might be canceled or altered. Keep an eye on updates and be flexible with your plans.

Authentic Voices from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly crew, with one describing Captain Owen as “a very welcoming person,” and the boat as “clean.” The value for money also gets high marks, especially considering the amenities and scenic stops included.

One traveler shared: “So glad we did the night cruise rather than the day. Excellent host, good food and drink prices. Swam for an hour and a half, this was enough swim time and the area was not too busy,” highlighting how the late afternoon timing makes this experience more enjoyable and less crowded.

Another review noted that the activity is “interesting and relaxing,” a perfect description for those looking to unwind while enjoying stunning coastal views. The focus on sunset and calm waters makes this a relaxing escape rather than an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic evening experience in Malta. It’s perfect if you love beautiful water views, snorkeling, and relaxing in a calm setting after a hot day. If you’re after a quick, high-energy tour, this might feel a bit laid-back for your taste, but for many, the tranquility and stunning sunset are exactly what makes it special.

It’s a good pick for those who value good facilities, friendly guides, and great value. Families or couples looking for a relaxed outing will find it a charming way to enjoy Malta’s coast. Just keep in mind that it’s weather-dependent and that the best experiences happen when the crowds are smaller, in the late afternoon.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who enjoy swimming and calm water will likely find this cruise enjoyable. The relaxed pace and scenic views make it suitable for most age groups.

How long is the stop at the Blue Lagoon?
You get approximately 2 hours to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the sand.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a towel, camera, cash, and sun protection. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are available to purchase onboard. Many reviews mention reasonable prices for drinks and snacks.

Do I need to book a QR code to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, from May 2025, a free QR code is required to step onto Comino’s Blue Lagoon if you want to stay on the beach. Booking your time slot in advance on the official website is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I stay on the boat if I don’t want to swim?
Yes, you can opt to relax on the boat’s shaded or sun decks if you prefer not to swim.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions may lead to cancellations or alterations. Always check the forecast and confirm your booking.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, it’s a group tour operated by Seahorse Cruises Malta, which generally implies a manageable group size for comfort and interaction.

Is there any guided commentary?
Yes, the tour includes a live guide who speaks English and Italian, providing insights during the cruise.

This sunset cruise to the Blue Lagoon and caves in Malta offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy some of the island’s most iconic sights without the daytime hustle. With comfortable facilities, friendly crew, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s suited for anyone wanting a gentle, beautiful evening experience by the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: