Late afternoon cruise to the Blue Lagoon and seacaves

A Relaxing Sunset Cruise to Malta’s Blue Lagoon and Caves

Our review focuses on a popular late afternoon cruise experience in Malta, offering an opportunity to enjoy the iconic Blue Lagoon as the day winds down. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed information, reviews, and itinerary paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect—an enjoyable blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and authentic Maltese charm.

What we love about this experience is how it combines avoiding the daytime crowds with the chance to see the lagoon in a more tranquil, sunset setting. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and visits to caves makes it more than just a boat ride. The only possible consideration? The tour is weather-dependent, so a calm evening is ideal. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate relaxed, scenic outings, especially those who want to avoid the heat and crowds of midday, and who enjoy a gentle adventure with some swim stops and spectacular views.

Key Points:

• Ideal for sunset views and avoiding daytime crowds
• Includes ample time at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling
• Accessible facilities like shaded decks, showers, and diving platforms
• Affordable price offers good value for the 4-hour experience
• Caves and scenic cruising add extra visual interest
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours

Discovering the Charm of Malta’s Evening Blue Lagoon Cruise

This late afternoon cruise is a well-rounded way to experience one of Malta’s most famous natural sites—the Blue Lagoon—without the busy daytime crush. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a calmer, more relaxed vibe, as the sunset adds a magical glow to the already stunning turquoise waters. The cruise departs from Sirens Quay, a conveniently located starting point, and heads past St. Paul’s Island, setting the scene for an authentic Maltese adventure.

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Why Choose This Cruise?

One of the main attractions here is the timing—you get to enjoy the Blue Lagoon as the sun begins to set, which means fewer crowds and more peaceful waters. Several reviews emphasize this, with travelers noting how crowded the lagoon can get during the day and how the evening offers a more serene experience. As one guest put it, “Swam for an hour and a half, this was enough swim time and the area was not too busy. We were told it is absolutely packed during the daytime.”

The boat itself is equipped with great facilities—snorkeling gear, shaded decks, sun decks, a diving platform, and side ladders—making it comfortable and functional for various activities. You can simply relax on board with a drink or take a dip into the clear waters without feeling rushed. It’s a good mix of leisure and adventure, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a gentle, scenic outing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise’s schedule is carefully designed to maximize your experience:

• Start at Sirens Quay: Arrive 15 minutes early and look for the Seahorse Cruises boat—an easy, central meeting point.
• Sightseeing cruise (1 hour): This initial leg takes you past St. Paul’s Island and along scenic coastlines, setting the tone with beautiful views.
• Visit the caves (10 minutes): The Santa Maria Caves are included, offering a quick glimpse into Malta’s rugged coastline. While you won’t explore them extensively, passing by these caves provides excellent photo opportunities and adds visual variety.
• Blue Lagoon stop (2 hours): The highlight, where you’ll anchor away from the crowds, giving you plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat. The waters here are famously clear, and with nearly two hours, you can really soak it all in.
• Return cruise (1 hour): After your swim, you’ll cruise back along scenic routes, with views of caves and coastline, culminating in your return to Sirens Quay.

What to Expect at the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon’s waters are described as crystal clear and temptingly warm in the late afternoon, thanks to the Mediterranean sun. You’ll have the option to snorkel, which is made easier with snorkel equipment provided. The lagoon’s shallow, turquoise waters are perfect for relaxing in, and the boat’s anchoring away from busy areas ensures you won’t be overwhelmed by other travelers.

One review captures this well, stating, “Boat is clean and the prices of the bar are very reasonable,” indicating that the onboard amenities add to the overall value. The cruise also offers shaded decks for those who want to avoid too much sun exposure, and the presence of showers and toilets makes the experience more comfortable.

Visiting the Caves

The Santa Maria Caves are a quick pass-by, offering scenic views as the boat glides past. While you might not explore them thoroughly on this cruise, passing by these caves adds a sense of adventure and highlights Malta’s rugged coastline. A review notes the scenic views on the way, making the experience feel more dynamic beyond just swimming.

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The Sunset Experience

One of the reasons this cruise is highly recommended is the sunset. As the sky shifts from gold to pink, the waters reflect this changing light, creating a picture-perfect scene. Several travelers mention how peaceful and beautiful this moment is, particularly after a day of sightseeing. It’s a different experience than daytime visits, offering a tranquil, almost mystical vibe.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 4 hours, with 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon, which strikes a good balance between activity and relaxation.
• Price: At $34 per person, it’s quite reasonable considering the included amenities and scenic stops.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a camera, towel, cash for extra purchases, and suitable clothes for swimming and sunbathing.
• What’s Not Included: Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but bringing your own might be more economical or enjoyable if you prefer specific snacks.
• Booking & Cancellation: Reserve in advance as tickets can sell out; free cancellation is available up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Legal Note: From May 2025, a QR code is required to access the Blue Lagoon, so plan to reserve your time slot online.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise suits those seeking a peaceful escape in Malta’s most famous waters, especially at sunset when the environment is calmer. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid the busy daytime crowds and still enjoy the Blue Lagoon’s beauty. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides and easy swimming will find this an appealing option.

If you’re curious about caves, scenic cruising, and the chance to relax on a boat with reasonable amenities, this tour hits the mark. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, good value, and beautiful views, making it a dependable choice for a memorable Maltese outing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including a 2-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon and scenic cruising.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Sirens Quay, where you should arrive 15 minutes early and look for the Seahorse Cruises boat.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the entire cruise, snorkeling equipment, a 2-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon, visits to caves, and onboard facilities like toilets, showers, shaded and sun decks, and a diving platform.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are available to purchase onboard, but you’re free to bring your own if you prefer. Note that the bar prices are considered reasonable.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and snorkeling options suggest it’s suitable for families, provided children are comfortable in water.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a towel, camera, cash, and suitable clothing for swimming and relaxing in the sun.

Are there any legal requirements to access the Blue Lagoon?
Yes. Starting in May 2025, a QR code is necessary to step onto the Blue Lagoon itself, but you can still enjoy the cruise and visit the caves without it.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise can be canceled or altered due to weather conditions, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. At $34, with included snorkeling gear, scenic stops, and a peaceful sunset at the Blue Lagoon, many reviewers feel it offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This sunset cruise offers a wonderful way to experience Malta’s renowned Blue Lagoon and caves without the daytime crowds. The combination of scenic cruising, tranquil swimming opportunities, and the chance to see caves makes it a well-rounded, relaxing outing. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a peaceful, picturesque experience that includes some leisure time in beautiful surroundings.

The onboard facilities, friendly guides, and affordable price point all contribute to a memorable trip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful way to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty, this tour delivers a satisfying blend of scenic views, gentle adventure, and authentic Mediterranean charm.

If you’re after a more relaxed, less hectic experience at the Blue Lagoon, this cruise is probably your best bet. It’s a smart choice for those who value comfort, scenic beauty, and good value, all wrapped up in a beautiful sunset setting.

Ready to enjoy Malta’s tranquil waters and stunning caves? Book ahead, bring your camera, and prepare for a peaceful, scenic adventure that captures the magic of the Maltese evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: