Reggae at sea is pure Malta magic. I love the reggae soundtrack and the way the Blue Lagoon swim stop turns a sunset cruise into something you actually do, not just watch.

The reggae playlist style matters here, because it makes the whole trip feel relaxed from the moment you step aboard.

The only catch is the tight boarding window at Bugibba Jetty. If you miss it, you risk losing the 5:30 pm departure and the whole timing of the sunset.

Key highlights worth planning for

• Reggae cruise mood: chill old and new hits as you sail
• Blue Lagoon or Comino swim time: crystal-clear water breaks up the evening
• Sunset viewing from the boat: watch the light change as the sky turns dark
• Captain Matthew and crew: friendly, organized, and keeping things moving
• Family-friendly evening: works for couples, friends, and families
• Return before 9 pm: you are back in Bugibba with time to still enjoy Malta nightlife

Checking in at Bugibba Jetty and meeting the Mermaid team

This cruise starts in Bugibba, where you’ll head to Bugibba Jetty and look for the sellers called Mermaid Cruises. The boat is the red, blue, and white vessel named The Mermaid, so you can use that as your visual anchor.

Boarding begins at 5:15 pm and closes at 5:25 pm. The crew, including Captain Matthew, greets you at the boat, which is a nice touch because it means you’re not guessing what to do or where to stand. Then the boat leaves at 5:30 pm sharp, so plan to arrive early. Early here just means calm. You want time to park your stuff, find a seat, and settle in before the cruise gets rolling.

The 5:30 pm to sunset stretch: reggae, views, and calm sailing

Once you depart at 5:30 pm, the evening shifts into an easy rhythm. The plan is to cruise up the north of the island, taking in Maltese coastal scenery while the soundtrack does its job.

I like this part because it gives you something active without pressure. You are moving, but you’re not on a schedule that makes you feel rushed. If you’re traveling with people who hate “touring all day,” this is a great reset. The reggae music keeps the tone light, and it also helps you get into that I’m-on-vacation mindset fast.

This is also where sunset planning starts to matter. You’ll be out on the water as the sky changes, so you get that classic Mediterranean effect, not just a sunset you catch from a promenade. The goal is simple: enjoy the transition from daylight to night in a place where the horizon is wide and the air feels open.

The Blue Lagoon or Comino swim stop: your chance to make it more than scenery

The highlight is the stop for a swim, aimed at the Blue Lagoon and the Comino area. The timing works because it’s in the middle of the cruise, so you’re not stuck waiting forever with nothing to do.

What you should expect from the swim stop:

• You’ll have time to get into the water and cool off
• The water is described as crystal clear, which is exactly what you want for a satisfying swim
• It feels less crowded, so you can spread out a bit and actually enjoy your time there

This is the part that turns a standard sunset cruise into a “this was worth it” evening. If you only wanted a view, you could do that from shore. The swim stop is what makes the trip memorable, because you’re blending sea time with sunset time.

Onboard comfort: WiFi, restroom, and buying drinks when you want

Once you are aboard, the essentials are covered. You’ll find a restroom and WiFi, plus safety equipment for emergency use. WiFi is not why you book this, but it can help if you want to send a quick message before the phone signal vanishes.

Food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase them onboard. The vibe is relaxed enough that people often treat it like a floating lounge. If you want a chilled glass of wine or beer, you can do that while you watch the light shift outside.

Practical comfort tips that match the format:

• Bring sunglasses so you’re not squinting during the sun angle changes
• Wear beachwear under your clothes if you plan to swim
• Pack a towel so you don’t end up drying off with whatever you have

Masks and snorkels: renting is possible, but plan for cash

If you want to snorkel, masks and snorkels are available for rent, but there is a cash deposit required. That means you should bring cash even if you are planning to keep your spending low.

If you don’t want to snorkel, you can still enjoy the water at the swim stop. The trip is designed for a sea dip as much as anything else. But having a mask can extend the fun, especially if you like seeing more than just the surface.

Night sky and the return route via Mellieha

After the swim and the relaxed cruising, the route brings you back down past Mellieha. This matters because it sets you up for a different kind of view on the way home.

As the evening deepens, the sky and sea change again. You’ll get the moonlight effect, which is a big reason people love this kind of cruise in Malta. It’s quiet, it’s cooler, and it’s the sort of scenery that feels best when you stop doing things and just look.

The boat arrives back at Bugibba Jetty by 9:00 pm, so you’re not ending the night exhausted. You can still eat after, or head out for a short stroll while the rest of your travel day still feels fresh.

Price and value: is $28 per person worth it?

At around $28 per person, this cruise is priced like a true “evening experience,” not a bargain throwaway. The value comes from two things that cost extra on your own:

1) A planned swim stop in Blue Lagoon/Comino waters

If you tried to coordinate a similar evening by yourself, you would spend time and energy figuring out transport, timing, and the best moment for the swim.

2) Sunset time from the water, not shore

From land, you can watch the sunset, sure. From a boat moving gently with a reggae soundtrack, it becomes the main event.

Also, the duration is about 3.5 hours, which is long enough to feel like a full plan, but short enough that it doesn’t eat your whole day. For the money, the schedule gives you a proper sequence: boarding and departure, scenic cruising, swim time, then sunset and night-sky views.

Who this cruise suits best (and who should skip it)

This is a family-friendly evening, so it works when you have mixed ages in your group. It’s also a nice fit for:

• Couples who want a romantic sunset without a strict dinner plan
• Friends who want an easy hangout at sea
• Families making a shared memory that does not require hiking or long walks

If you want a loud, party-style boat, this is probably not your match. The point here is chill reggae, calm sailing, and a swim break.

Two important notes to match expectations:

• The boat is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, based on the info provided.
• If you hate arriving early, remember boarding closes at 5:25 pm. Showing up late hurts here.

What to bring for a smooth evening at sea

Keep your packing simple and practical. Here’s what you should bring based on what the cruise asks for:

• Swimwear and beachwear
• Towel
• Sunglasses
• Cash (for the mask and snorkel deposit, and for onboard purchases)

If you like to be prepared, also bring a light layer. Even in warmer months, the boat can feel cooler once the sun drops.

Should you book the Mermaid Reggae Sunset Cruise?

I think you should book this if you want a Malta sunset that feels like an event. The key reason is the combo: reggae atmosphere plus a real Blue Lagoon or Comino swim stop, with sunset viewing from the water.

Book it now if:

• You want something easy for the whole group
• You’d rather spend 3.5 hours doing one great thing than rushing between sights
• You care about timing, and you like the idea of being on the water before the sky goes dark

Skip it if:

• You need a more accessible boat setup
• You arrive late to things and can’t reliably make a tight boarding window

If you do book, aim to get to Bugibba Jetty early, find The Mermaid fast, and give yourself time to settle in before Captain Matthew gets underway.

FAQ

What time does boarding start and end?

Boarding begins at 5:15 pm and closes at 5:25 pm at Bugibba Jetty.

When does the boat depart?

The boat departs from the jetty at 5:30 pm sharp.

How long is the cruise?

The duration is 3.5 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

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

What is included in the ticket price?

Included items are a restroom, WiFi, and safety equipment for emergency use only.

What is not included?

Food and drinks are not included, and masks and snorkels are not included. Mask and snorkel rentals are available with a cash deposit.

Are food and drinks available onboard?

Yes, food and drinks are available to purchase onboard.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, beachwear, and cash.

Is the cruise family-friendly?

Yes, it is described as family friendly and fun for all ages.

Is it suitable for people with mobility impairments?

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