St. Julian’s: Comino Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise by Speedboat

Taking a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island might be one of the most picturesque ways to enjoy Malta’s coastline—and doing it at sunset makes it even more memorable. This 2.5-hour speedboat tour offers a quick, exciting escape from the busy daytime crowds, giving you a chance to witness the lagoon’s true beauty as the sun dips toward the horizon.

We’re especially drawn to the thrill of a fast-paced ride and the opportunity to see the famous sea caves up close, but a potential downside is that the experience is more about relaxing leisure than in-depth exploration—so if you’re looking for a guided, historical commentary, this might not be your ideal choice. Nonetheless, it’s a fantastic option for travelers craving stunning views and a taste of the clear Mediterranean waters, especially if you prefer a more laid-back, less crowded experience later in the day.

This tour is perfect for those who love spectacular scenery, enjoy quick but scenic trips, and want an authentic glimpse of the Blue Lagoon without the daytime crowds. It suits active travelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate a balance of adventure and leisure.

Key Points

• Fast and scenic boat ride from St. Julian’s to Comino.
• Visit to sea caves, including the Santa Maria Caves.
• Less crowded Blue Lagoon experience at sunset.
• Leisurely free time on Comino Island.
• Breathtaking sunset views over the Mediterranean.
• No guided commentary—independent exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Sunset Speedboat Tour?

This experience offers a stunning perspective on Malta’s coastline, especially for those who enjoy high-speed boat rides. We loved how the tour combines excitement with the chance to relax and take in some of the most beautiful scenery Malta has to offer. The speedboat aspect means you get to cover the distance quickly, maximizing your time at each stop, especially at the Blue Lagoon.

The fewer crowds in the evening are a definite plus—there’s a more relaxed, almost private feel to the Blue Lagoon at sunset, making your swim or sightseeing more comfortable and less rushed. Plus, you’ll get a spectacular sunset view that’s difficult to beat, with the lagoon glowing in shades of orange and pink that reflect perfectly on the water.

The visit to the sea caves is another highlight. We loved the way the boat glided past the Santa Maria Caves, giving us a close-up view of Malta’s dramatic coastline. These caves are picturesque and fun to photograph, and they add a sense of adventure to the trip.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting from St. Julian’s, you’ll hop aboard a speedboat behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel. The departure time varies, so it’s worth checking availability in advance. The trip proceeds through the north Comino Channel, a stretch packed with scenic views and clear waters.

Your first stop is the Santa Maria Caves, where you’ll cruise past these fascinating formations carved by the sea. Passengers often comment on how close the boat gets, creating excellent photo opportunities. The caves are a visual treat, with their rugged cliffs and the chance to see seabirds nesting.

Next, you’ll head straight to the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its bright turquoise waters and soft sandy bottom. This is the highlight, especially at sunset when the crowds are smaller. You’ll have a brief swim stop—a perfect chance to cool off, snorkel, or simply float and soak in the view. The sunset transforms the lagoon into a dreamy, almost surreal landscape, making it a favorite time for many.

Since the tour is not guided, you’ll have free time to explore or relax at your own pace. It’s helpful to be aware that an access pass is required to disembark ashore at the Blue Lagoon starting in May 2025—so if you want to step onto the island, plan to acquire this pass in advance through the government website. Those without a pass will be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead.

On the way back, the boat cruises along the coast, passing St. Paul’s Islands, which add more scenic beauty to the return journey. The entire ride offers spectacular views, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments to enjoy the sea breeze.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Many reviewers appreciate the value of this trip at $51 per person, citing the excellent balance between a quick adventure and enough time to enjoy the sights. The experienced skipper is often praised for navigating smoothly and sharing helpful insights. All fuel costs are included, meaning no hidden extras.

A common praise is the stunning sunset views. Multiple reviews mention how the colors of the sky and water create a truly breathtaking atmosphere, perfect for photography or simply unwinding. One reviewer noted that “we loved the way the lagoon looked at sunset, peaceful and glowing,” highlighting how special this hour can be.

However, some travelers mention the lack of a guided commentary, so if you’re seeking historical or cultural insights, this trip doesn’t focus on that. It’s more about the scenery and the experience of being on the water.

The timing is another consideration—cruising in the evening means fewer crowds, but it also limits some activities like walking on the island. Plus, the pass requirement for disembarking at Blue Lagoon is a new regulation, so it pays to plan ahead if you want to step onto the island itself.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The speedboat departs from a well-marked jetty near the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel, making it accessible and easy to find. The ride lasts about 2.5 hours, which is a perfect length for a quick escape without feeling rushed.

Group sizes tend to be small to medium, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere. You’ll share the experience with fellow travelers, but it’s not overly crowded, maintaining a comfortable vibe.

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Price and Value Analysis

At $51 per person, this tour offers great value—especially considering the scenic and leisurely experience of the Blue Lagoon at sunset. The price includes all fuel costs, the speedboat ride, visit to sea caves, and free time on Comino. The only additional costs are the government-issued access pass to disembark, which is a smart investment if you wish to set foot on the island itself.

Compared to daytime trips that can be crowded and rushed, this evening cruise provides a more relaxed, authentic experience, making the price seem justified for the spectacular views and peaceful atmosphere.

Who It’s Best For

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy speedboat rides and natural beauty. It suits romantic couples wanting a memorable sunset, small groups or friends seeking a shared experience, and anyone who appreciates stunning scenery without the daytime crowds. Since it’s not guided, it’s better for self-sufficient travelers who enjoy exploring independently or simply soaking in the views at their own pace.

It’s less suitable for families with very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues, given the small boat size and no guided assistance. Also, those prone to seasickness should consider taking precautions, as the ride can be lively.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat sunset cruise from St. Julian’s to Comino offers a blend of excitement, scenic beauty, and tranquility. We admire the way it showcases Malta’s coastline from a unique vantage point, with the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters glowing at sunset as a true highlight. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re seeking an authentic, budget-friendly way to experience Malta’s famous sea caves and the iconic lagoon without the daytime crowds.

While it’s not a comprehensive guided tour, it compensates with stunning views and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The early evening timing ensures a more peaceful experience, making it perfect for photography lovers and those looking to escape the hustle of daytime tourism.

This tour delivers a memorable Maltese experience in a manageable timeframe, at a reasonable price, wrapped in a package that emphasizes natural beauty and authentic scenery.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability and to handle the government pass requirement.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price covers the speedboat trip, visit to sea caves, free time at Comino and Blue Lagoon, sunset viewing, skipper services, and all fuel costs.

Can I disembark at Blue Lagoon?
Disembarking ashore at Blue Lagoon requires an access pass, which can be bought online. Without it, you’ll be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, and motion sickness prevention if needed. Sun protection and water are also recommended.

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s not guided—you’ll have free time on Comino and will explore at your own pace.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours.

Are children allowed?
The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years, and those with certain health issues or mobility impairments should consider their comfort level.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets, baby strollers, luggage, large bags, and electric wheelchairs are not allowed onboard for safety and space reasons.

What if I want to see more of Malta?
This tour focuses on Comino and the Blue Lagoon. For broader exploration, consider combining it with other local trips or guided tours.

This boat cruise offers a visually stunning and relaxing way to enjoy Malta’s coastline, especially at sunset. Whether you’re after beautiful photos, a peaceful retreat, or an exciting ride, it’s an experience that captures the essence of Malta’s seaside charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: