Sunset at sea feels cinematic in Malta. I love the easy reggae soundtrack and the chance to cool off at Blue Lagoon, and I like how Captain Matthew keeps the timing smooth so you actually get sunset views instead of rushing. The one catch: it is not ideal for people with mobility limits since you board and move between the jetty and the boat.

This is a relaxed 3.5-hour cruise built around the light change from late afternoon into night. You start at Bugibba Jetty, ride north past coastal scenery, and finish back around 9:00 pm with the sea and sky lit by moonlight.

For about $28 per person, it is strong value if your priority is an iconic Maltese sunset with a proper swim option and an onboard chill vibe. You will still want to bring your own swimsuit and towel, and have cash for drink purchases and any snorkel gear deposit.

Key things that make this cruise worth your evening

• Reggae-forward atmosphere on board, mixing old and new hits for a laid-back mood
• Captain Matthew’s clear guidance and a schedule that keeps you on track
• A Blue Lagoon / Comino swim stop with crystal-clear water you can actually enjoy
• Sunset from the water, plus moonlit views on the return pass toward Mellieha
• Simple onboard comforts like restroom access and WiFi, with safety equipment on hand
• Drinks and snacks are optional, not included, so you stay in control of your budget

Where it starts: finding The Mermaid at Bugibba Jetty

Your evening begins in Bugibba at Bugibba Jetty. Look for the Mermaid Cruises staff to point you in the right direction, or watch for the red, blue, and white boat named The Mermaid.

Boarding starts at 5:15 pm and closes at 5:25 pm, so don’t treat that window like a suggestion. The crew, led by Captain Matthew, meets you at the boat, gets you settled, and then the whole plan kicks into gear.

What I like about this kind of setup is that it avoids the usual chaos of late departures. You get a clear, timed boarding window, and that matters when you’re chasing sunset light.

The 5:30 pm departure: how the timing protects your sunset

The boat departs at 5:30 pm sharp. That might sound strict, but it’s exactly what keeps the cruise from feeling like a long boat ride that never quite lands on the sky show.

You are cruising while the sun is still working its magic, then you move into evening as the water cools and the horizon starts turning gold and then softer tones. By the time you’re out on the sea, the sunset is the star, not an afterthought.

Also, the day-to-night transition is part of the attraction here. On the way back, you pass Mellieha, then you get that moonlit sea and sky view as you head back toward Bugibba.

Cruising north with reggae tunes and Maltese water views

Once you leave the jetty, you’ll head up the north side of the island. The vibe is intentionally laid-back: you’re listening to chill reggae tunes while you watch the Maltese coastline slide by.

I enjoy this style of cruising because you don’t need to “do” anything once you’re on board. You can sit, people-watch from a safe distance, take photos, and just let the evening roll.

And yes, the music is part of the point. The mix includes old and new reggae hits, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed without turning into a loud party. If you want an easy, low-effort way to spend golden hour, this delivers.

The Blue Lagoon and Comino swim stop: your towel matters

The highlight for most people is the swim option at the Blue Lagoon area around Comino. You can either go for a swim in the crystal-clear water or stay relaxed on board and enjoy the scenery.

Here’s the practical part: bring your towel and swimwear, because the window for getting in and out of the water is tied to the boat schedule. If you’re planning to swim, you’ll want your gear ready as soon as you arrive at the stop.

What makes this stop work so well is that it’s not just a quick look from the deck. You’re there long enough to actually enjoy the water and feel refreshed during the warmer part of the evening.

If you’re choosing between snorkeling gear and just swimming, decide based on comfort. Snorkel gear rental is available, but it requires a cash deposit, and masks and snorkels are not included.

Onboard vibe: drinks, WiFi, and the kind of comfort that actually helps

This cruise is family friendly, which tells you a lot about the overall mood. It’s more about shared relaxation than strict sightseeing.

You do get basic onboard extras, including a restroom and WiFi. That sounds small, but on an evening outing it helps: you’re not stuck trying to plan your comfort around the schedule.

Food and drinks are not included, but they are available to purchase onboard. If you want a chilled glass of wine or a beer while watching the horizon change color, you can do that. If you want to keep costs down, you can bring only what you need and skip the onboard purchases.

One more detail I appreciate: the cruise includes safety equipment for emergency use only. That’s the kind of inclusion you hope you never need, but it makes the trip feel properly run.

What to bring (and the cash detail people forget)

Pack like you’re going to the beach, because you essentially are. Bring sunglasses, your swimwear, a towel, and beachwear you’re comfortable wearing on a boat.

Bring cash for two reasons. First, you’ll want it for any drink purchases onboard. Second, if you rent masks & snorkels, there’s a cash deposit required.

Snorkeling gear rentals are available, but you’ll need to plan for that deposit. If you forget cash, you can still swim, but you may lose the option to rent gear on the spot.

Also, keep it simple with your personal items. You’re on a boat in open water, so avoid bulky stuff that’s hard to store.

Price and value: why $28 feels fair for this kind of evening

At $28 per person, the value is mostly about what you get for that time window. You’re buying three things people usually pay for separately: a sunset-focused boat ride, a swim stop at a top-area spot, and an onboard atmosphere with reggae and time to relax.

You’re not paying extra just to have a place to sit, restroom access, and WiFi. Those basics make the trip easier, especially if you’re traveling with kids, friends, or anyone who just wants comfort without fuss.

The optional extras are also good for value. Food and drinks cost extra if you want them, and snorkel gear rental is optional if you want it. That gives you control over your budget.

And the timing helps, too. Since the boat departs at 5:30 pm and returns by about 9:00 pm, you’re not losing your whole evening or gambling on when the best light will happen.

Who should book this sunset cruise in Malta

This is a smart pick if your priorities match the cruise design. You want a sunset at sea, a chance to swim, and a relaxed vibe with a reggae soundtrack instead of a strict tour pace.

It suits:

• Couples looking for a memorable evening with a sea view and a simple plan
• Friends who want a chill meet-up with downtime built in
• Families who want an activity that works for multiple ages
• Solo travelers who like comfort and music and don’t need a packed schedule

It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so skip it if you need barrier-free boarding or movement.

If your idea of “value” means paying for an experience you’ll feel while you’re actually on the water, this one fits.

A realistic mini-itinerary for your planning

Here’s how the evening typically feels from start to finish:

You meet at Bugibba Jetty and board between 5:15 and 5:25 pm. Then the boat leaves at 5:30 pm, and you cruise up the north coast with reggae playing and sunset light building.

Next comes the swim stop at the Blue Lagoon / Comino area, where you can go in for a refreshing swim or hang out onboard and enjoy the views. After that, you return while passing Mellieha, with moonlight views on the sea and sky.

You’re back at Bugibba Jetty by about 9:00 pm, giving you a full evening experience without stealing your whole night.

Should you book Mermaid Cruises for the Bugibba sunset?

If you want a straightforward, feel-good evening in Malta, I’d book it. The combo of a reggae cruise, a proper sunset from the water, and a real swim stop at the Blue Lagoon makes the time feel earned rather than dragged.

I’d say it’s especially worth it if you want the sunset experience but you’re not interested in a complicated day plan. Also, having Captain Matthew and the crew keep things organized helps a lot when you’re on a tight departure schedule.

Skip it only if mobility is a concern or if you prefer land-based sightseeing over time on the water. Otherwise, this is the kind of outing that turns an ordinary evening into one you remember.

FAQ

What time does the cruise board and depart?

Boarding begins at 5:15 pm and closes at 5:25 pm at Bugibba Jetty. The boat departs at 5:30 pm sharp.

How long is the sunset cruise?

The duration is about 3.5 hours.

Where do I meet the boat?

Meet at Bugibba Jetty. Look for Mermaid Cruises or the red, blue, and white boat named The Mermaid.

Where does the cruise go for swimming?

The cruise heads to the Blue Lagoon area around Comino for a sea swim stop. You can also relax onboard during the stop.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included, but you can buy them onboard.

Can I rent masks and snorkels?

Masks and snorkels are available for rent, but a cash deposit is required. They are not included.

What amenities are included on board?

The cruise includes a restroom, WiFi, and safety equipment for emergency use only.

Is this cruise suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

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