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Blue Lagoon Malta: Boat Trips & 10+ Tips Before You Go

The Blue Lagoon Malta is an azure-coloured bay with crystal clear water on the small island of Comino. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Maltese islands and gets crowded at the height of summer.

I’m a tourist-turned-local and I help thousands of people plan their trip to Malta every year.

In this guide, I’ll help you with the following:

• An honest account of what visiting the Blue Lagoon is like
• Whether or not it’s worthwhile to visit
• When best to go
• How to get there – all methods
• Recommendations for boat tours that provide good value.

Where is the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon is located on the West coast of Comino Island, the smallest of Malta’s islands. It’s between the main island of Malta and Gozo and is easy to reach by boat from various locations.

Since there are currently no accommodation options on the small island of Comino , you’ll need to hop on a boat or the Comino ferry to get to the Blue Lagoon.

Only two people live on this tiny island, so there are few facilities and no paved roads. St. Mary’s Tower (referred to as Santa Marija Tower by the Maltese) and three surviving coastal batteries are among the few buildings built by the Knights of Malta to guard the channel between Malta and Gozo.

The Blue Lagoon on a map

What’s the Blue Lagoon like to visit?

You may have read that Malta’s Blue Lagoon is a slice of paradise, and I can tell you that visually, that’s true: It’s a stunning location, not just in Malta but around the Mediterranean Sea.

However, because it’s such a beautiful place to visit, it’s not the most idyllic place, especially in the summer.

The hugely popular Blue Lagoon is easily Malta’s worth-kept secret. Its crystal clear waters attract an estimated 8,000-10,000 tourists daily at the busiest time of year (July/August).

With only a tiny sandy beach and a relatively small bay, that means it gets crowded .

Having said that, most visitors to the Maltese islands enjoy visiting the Blue Lagoon, and there are a few ways to have an enjoyable experience if you decide to visit.

How much time should I spend at the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon features prominently in my Malta itinerary guides, but while some choose to spend a full day there on a boat trip, most people are happy with spending a few hours or half a day.

The most common reason is that there are quieter beaches to spend a full day on.

What’s the best time to visit the Blue Lagoon?

The best time of year to visit the Blue Lagoon is May or June (usually the start of the swimming season). September and October can also be a great time to go, but weather conditions can be a little unpredictable at this time of year. (However, most tour operators offer free cancellation if you need to change plans.)

July and August are by far the busiest months – the height of the summer season in Malta.

The best time of day in summer is either before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid most of the crowds.

Visiting the Blue Lagoon Malta, in winter

You can visit the Blue Lagoon in winter (November through March) as well. Although the water temperature drops to around 16 degrees Celsius and the sea will be too cold for swimming, visiting at this time of year makes for a much more peaceful experience.

Even if you’re brave enough to enter the sea, I’d advise you to avoid swimming during the winter season, no matter how inviting the crystal clear waters are. Treacherous undercurrents are quite common in winter.

How to get there and cost

The most popular ways of getting to the Blue Lagoon Malta are:

• Hop onto a ferry (€15 round trip for adults from Malta), or
• Book a boat trip (which starts at €25 per person). See my recommendations for both group and private boat trips further down.

My advice on which option to go for:

• If you want to wander around the island of Comino, taking the ferry is the most flexible option
• If you want to swim at the Blue Lagoon, go for a boat tour. It’s a far more comfortable experience. You don’t have to worry about finding a spot on the shore, where to leave your stuff, whether the public toilets are “safe” or not, etc. The shore is also too crowded for families with children in summer. If you can afford it, book a private boat trip.

Ferries from Malta to the Blue Lagoon

Comino ferries depart from Marfa and Ċirkewwa. Both seaside locations are located close to each other in the northernmost part of Malta.

Trips take around 15 minutes, and the ferry drops you off right at Blue Lagoon Bay.

The Comino ferry operators are:

• Comino Ferries Co-Op

You can get to both locations from other parts of Malta (Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, Buġibba/St. Paul’s Bay/Qawra, Mellieħa, etc.) by public transport (bus), though it can be quite a lengthy trip. For example, a bus ride to Marfa/Ċirkewwa from Valletta can take 1.5 hours, depending on traffic congestion.

Alternatively, you can get an Uber for around €30-40 (from Valletta, for example) depending on demand, and you may get there in around 45-50 minutes.

Here’s a map that shows you the ferry operator locations, as well as the driving/bus routes from popular tourist locations:

From Gozo to the Blue Lagoon

Ferries from Gozo to the Blue Lagoon depart from Mġarr Harbour, right opposite as you exist the Gozo ferry terminal building and the operators here are:

• Bella Comino Ferries

Mġarr Harbour is easy to reach by bus from Victoria (and through Victoria from other places in Gozo). Getting an Uber will be cheaper than in Malta, although limited availability means you may need to wait a little while to be picked up.

You can get more detailed directions here: How to get to Blue Lagoon Malta from Sliema, Valletta, Gozo .

Blue Lagoon Malta Boat Trips – My Picks

Taking a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon is by far the most popular and comfortable option.

• Boat trips depart from Buġibba and Sliema. Some operators offer transportation from your place of stay at an additional fee, but using Uber/Bolt is usually easier and cheaper.
• Private boat trips also depart from Marfa and Ċirkewwa.

I’ve personally tried various options over the past years, and these are my top recommendations to you.

Catamaran (standard)

• Small groups, families with kids

Hop on this catamaran with slides for a fun day out with the family.

Rough schedule:

• 4h at the Blue Lagoon
• 1h at the Crystal Lagoon
• Comino caves and return.

Catamaran (Sunset boat trip)

Recommended: Enjoy the Blue Lagoon at a quieter day, with an early evening swim and a stunning sunset.

• 2h at the Blue Lagoon
• 30 mins at the Crystal Lagoon

Beaches and Bays tour

• Couples, small groups

My personal favourite: This more spacious, quieter catamaran takes you to the Blue Lagoon and one or two other bays on the West coast of Malta. Top choice!

The BBQ add-on is worth the money.

Catamaran Comino Cruise

An excellent choice if you’re staying in Sliema and you want an all-inclusive boat trip to the Blue Lagoon.

This large catamaran  takes you to the Blue Lagoon and other places around Comino. Includes a cold buffet lunch and open bar (wine, beer, soft drinks, water). Good value!

Private Blue Lagoon boat trips

Taking a private boat trip is by far the best way to visit the Blue Lagoon. You get a much more peaceful experience with a boat to yourself and a captain who will take you around. You also have the flexibility to explore other beaches and bays around, and you can pick a preferred start time and duration.

These are a few of the most popular trips from the best (tried-and-tested) operator that specialises in private tours. They offer more flexible options, and I highly recommend considering this option if you want the best experience.

Private Blue Lagoon Sunset tour - Half-day

• Marfa (Malta) or Mġarr Harbour (Gozo)

This is the most popular option for private boat tours during the day, giving you good time and flexibility for visiting the Blue Lagoon and the island of Comino.

Price is for up to 6 people, but boat has capacity for more (on request).

This option is similar to the first, but the key difference is the timing: You’ll be enjoying the Blue Lagoon at a much quieter part of the day, approaching sunset. Highly recommended!

Full Day Gozo, Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Blue lagoon and gozo combo tours.

Gozo tour specialist Yippee organises Blue Lagoon and Gozo combo tours and day trips in the summer season (15th May – 15th October). That way, you can combine a swim stop at the Blue Lagoon with a tour of Gozo (- also highly recommended).

They take care of your full day trip (transfers to/from Malta are included) and get rave reviews consistently.

These are the two options I recommend, both of which start with a swim stop at the Blue Lagoon :

Sunset Tour by Tuk Tuk

• Couples, small groups, families with kids
• Transfers included

The Sunset Tour by Tuk Tuk is a fun way to explore Gozo. You’ll be driven around on a 6-seater, brightly-coloured Tuk Tuk and taken to a mix of locations, from tourist attractions to landmarks and lesser-known gems. Multiple languages are catered for.

Sunset Tour by Quad bike

• Couples, small groups, adventure-seekers
• €92.50 p.p.

The Sunset Tour on Quad bikes offers you the option of taking a tour on self-drive (+1 passenger) quad bikes to more rugged places around Gozo. You’ll follow a lead driver, a local expert who can show you around the most stunning parts of the island at the best time of day. This tour is offered in English as well as in French.

Looking for tours and excursions in Malta and Gozo?

Get my recommendations on the best day trips, boat trips, excursions and activities and book in advance!

Blue Lagoon FAQs

Are there sharks in the blue lagoon in malta.

Encounters with sharks in the Blue Lagoon in Malta are extremely rare, making it a safe destination for swimmers and snorkellers. There are various shark species around the Maltese islands, but interactions with humans are uncommon because of the shallow waters and busy nature of the Blue Lagoon. Around Malta, only a few shark attacks have been recorded since 1890, and that’s not surprising: Sharks typically inhabit deeper waters away from coastal areas with a lot of human activity.

Can you swim in the Blue Lagoon Malta?

Yes, you can swim in the Blue Lagoon Malta, but always keep an eye on the flag system that tells you whether or not it’s safe to do so. On crowded days, you can opt to swim at some of the nearby bays on Comino Island instead: The Crystal Lagoon (best accessible by boat), Santa Marija Bay and San Niklaw Bay.

Is Blue Lagoon and Comino the same?

Comino is the name of the island where you can find Blue Lagoon Bay.

Is the Blue Lagoon in Malta or Gozo?

The Blue Lagoon is located on Comino Island, which is part of the country Malta.

How long is the ferry from Malta to Blue Lagoon?

The ferry ride from Malta to the Blue Lagoon takes approximately 15 minutes, and you can hop onto the Comino ferry from Marfa or Ċirkewwa.

5 Interesting Facts about Blue Lagoon Malta

• The Blue Lagoon is one of the most naturally beautiful places to visit in Malta
• It’s a shallow beach with white sand and crystal clear water in between Comino Island and the tiny islet of Cominotto
• The surrounding area is a great place for snorkelling , as well as scuba diving, with many little inlets and caves around
• Featured in blockbuster films like Troy (2004, starring Brad Pitt)
• It’s the #1 reason why people flock to Comino Island, Malta’s third-largest island, which is a mostly rural landscape with just three permanent residents. The island’s name is derived from the Maltese word kemmun or cumin in English, a herb commonly found on the island.

Tips: Good to know

• Even if you decide to go on a day trip by boat, it pays to be on board early to get a good seat. With the huge popularity of its destination, these trips tend to be sold out to capacity on most days during the peak season.
• If you’re on a short holiday, you haven’t visited Gozo yet, and you have to choose between whether to go there or Comino Island and its Blue Lagoon, Gozo is the better choice to go sightseeing for most travellers. Alternatively, take a boat trip which combines the two destinations (as mentioned earlier).
• If you’re heading there for the day and worried about the kids getting bored, you can opt to get a speedboat tour around the island and its main sights as well. You can usually find the operator near the main jetty. Just make sure you know the return time for either the boat tour you’re with or the ferry.
• Waste and waste management: There are rubbish bins around the shore, so please discard your waste appropriately or bring a small disposable bag with you. Litter left behind is a big challenge, so please help us protect and preserve one of Malta’s few natural reserves and keep the area clean for other visitors.

Tips: What to bring with you

• Drinks and food can usually be bought from nearby beach kiosks (food trucks) or on most tour boats. If you’re spending the day, bringing a large bottle of water with you can be wise, particularly in summer.
• If you decide not to take a boat trip there in the high season: Shade is hard to come by, so always bring sun protection with you if you plan to go during the day. While tanning can be enjoyable, don’t underestimate just how hot it gets, and sun exposure in Malta during the day in summer (11+ UV index levels are common) is dangerous.
• If you have snorkelling gear, definitely get it with you. The Blue Lagoon and its surroundings are great for snorkelling. You can rent gear for the day with some boat tour operators, but it’s best to check that with your operator of choice beforehand.
• If you plan to wander around a bit while on Comino Island, be sure to wear sturdy shoes. There aren’t any paved roads around the island, so the surface is pretty rocky/sandy, and you’ll need them to be comfortable. Going on a little hike is a great idea (also because of the small island’s size – it’s hard to get lost) but avoid long walks in the hot summer heat in the middle of the day.
• If you plan on finding a spot on the water’s edge for the day, bring at least a thick towel to sit on or maybe a small inflatable cushion.

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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Lovely site! Are there any boat day trips from Gozo to the Blue Lagoon or only from Malta?

Thanks Rita

Hi Rita, yes, I’ve listed two options in the article for combo tours with Gozo. Good alternatives for full day trips I’m not aware of but honestly, 2-2.5 hours is enough for most people.

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Destined for the Lagoon 46 and Lagoon 51 , the mechanism of this boom is not hidden by a cover, but remains visible, a unique concept for greater ease of use.

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Best Bluewater Sailboats Under 24 Feet

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

December 28, 2023

Looking for a sailboat but don't want to bear the high costs? The best bluewater sailboats under 24 feet are trailerable and require low maintenance.

Many sailing enthusiasts cannot afford a large boat due to the docking fee and maintenance costs. Fortunately, bluewater sailboats under 24 feet, also known as pocket sailboats, are affordable small yachts that are trailerable to your choice of destination, so you don't have to bear the unnecessary docking fee.

The best bluewater sailboats under 24 feet are the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24, Norseboat 21.5, Catalina 22 Sport, Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20, and West Wight Potter 19. These sailboats have ample space for a couple and even a moderately-sized family along with all the amenities you may need.

A roomy cabin, galley, and settees are necessary to go cruising in the bluewater. However, sailboats are a cheaper and more convenient way to enjoy the shallow waters as all you require for sailing is a hull, rudder, mast, and sail. The sailboats on this list make your sailing experience even better with accommodations such as bedding.

We are a bunch of sailing enthusiasts and spend most of our weekends trailing our pocket sailboats, traveling to various offshore destinations. With years of knowledge, we have drafted a list of the best bluewater sailboats under 24 feet and discussed them in detail, so you can make an informed decision before buying your sailboat.

Table of contents

‍ Our Top Picks

West wight potter 19.

{{boat-info="/boats/west-wight-potter-19"}}

The West Wight Potter 19 is one of the most popular sailboats and has been at the top for over three decades. This sailboat is manufactured in California by International Marine, known for making reliable and robust sailboats.

Over the years, the West Wight 19 has seen significant changes in its design, making the boat easy to sail and increasing the storage space while keeping the design compact and available.

The 19-footer is the smallest sailboat on this list, but it doesn’t keep the boat from offering accommodations to make your experience comfortable.

Small sailboats are more about sailing instead of cruising with luxury. However, the Potter 19 offers several luxurious amenities.

The four berths allow you to camp in for a couple of days instead of spending only a day out on the water. Each berth is around six and a half feet long, with two settees and a v-berth.

The storage space under each berth and the ample walking space in between provide enough room for a small family to spend quality time. A small sink, stove, and mobile head increase the boat's functionality and ease the voyage.

The West Wight Potter 19 is far from disappointing when it comes to its sailing chops. Due to its lightweight build, you don't need a powerful truck to trail this sailboat to your preferred destination.

The hull and deck are fiberglass, which keeps the boat steady against rough water. A high freeboard keeps the cockpit and the deck dry.

The West White Potter 19's design is ideal for lake, river, and coastal sailing. However, this boat is up for the challenges as an individual has sailed from California to Hawaii, making history for the Potter 19.

You can buy West White Potter 19 from  Sailboat Listings  for $6,900.

Specifications

• Hull Type: Lifting keel
• LOA: 18.9 ft.
• LWL: 16.9 ft.
• Beam: 7.5 ft.
• Displacement: 1225 lbs.
• Ballast: 370 lbs.
• Sail Area: 115 sq. ft.
• First built: 1979
• Developer: International Marine (USA)
• Designer: Herb Stewart

Catalina 22 Sport

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-22-sport"}}

The Catalina 22 Sport has quickly become a hot cake sailboat since the Sport version of the 22 feet hull was recently released. A retractable lead keel in the upgraded version makes it easier to haul the boat.

Other than that, the vinyl seating, a chrome fence, and a more dynamic frame give the boat a sporty yet exclusive look, putting it above its close competitors. That is why the Catalina 22 Sport has become a common sight at harbors across the state.

The update maintains the superior quality of the original Catalina yacht with a robust built, easy and comfortable sailing, and several accommodation features. The hull is made from hand-laid fiberglass bonded with a hull liner.

Beautiful single-piece fiberglass makes the deck a sight for sore eyes. It is treated with non-slippery material to keep the passengers safe from injuries.

A complete standing rig with an upgraded stern rail with controls keeps the boat sailing steadily. But the absolute joy of sailing this beautiful sailboat lies in an exclusive cockpit design. Raised contoured coamings keep the cockpit high and dry.

This boat is not just all about the looks and easy sailing. As mentioned earlier, it also has a roomy cabin with accommodations that can allow you to spend a couple of days on the boat. Two full-length berths measuring over six and a half feet are comfortable for full-grown people to sleep peacefully.

The V berth makes a bed for two where children can rest. Even though the Catalina 22 sport has enough space for a family of four to walk around without stepping on each other's toes, it is ideal for a couple to get away for a refreshing couple of days.

The best thing about Catalina releasing a newer model is that it boasts a 12 Volt electrical panel. You can keep electrical appliances working for a comfortable sailing experience.

Besides that, Catalina offers several optional features to enhance your experience on the 22-footer. These include a mast carrier at the front and rear, fabric cushion upgrade, headsail furling gear, and more.

Since the Catalina 22 Sport is made on order, you can contact dealers from  YachtWorld  to get the price of this boat.

• Hull Type: Fin w/spade rudder
• LOA: 23.62 ft.
• LWL: 19.32 ft.
• Beam: 8.67 ft.
• Displacement: 2,380 lbs.
• Ballast: 550 lbs.
• Sail Area: 110 sq. ft.
• First built: 2004
• Last built: -
• Developer: Catalina Yachts
• Designer: Gary Douglas

Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-flicka-20"}}

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka is the most convenient and trailerable sailboat on our list, with an overall length of 20 feet. If you like a minimalist lifestyle and want the same in your bluewater pocket sailboat, this one's for you.

A functional galley with a sink and a counter and a small sink, toilet, and shower provides you with the basic amenities you and a couple of your friends and family need for a few days offshore.

There's more to the accommodation you can expect from this 20-footer sailboat. This boat has four berths, including a v-berth, so sleeping comfortably or stretching your legs occasionally is not an issue. A pop-up dining table and a chart table within the cabin make eating and other activities doable.

Nevertheless, most people underestimate the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20’s ability to handle offshore rigidity, and they are often surprised at what this boat has to offer. A full-ballast keel, hull shape, manageable rig, and a self-draining cockpit ensure satisfactory offshore performance by the littlest contender.

Moreover, we find its outstanding standing headspace one of the boat's best features. Unlike other pocket sailboats, the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 has a six ft. headspace. You don't have to duck every time to save your head from banging against the roof.

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20's size and its minimalistic yet fulfilling features are why this boat is in high demand. With only 400 of them ever made, you will have to dig deeper and longer to find one worth buying. Due to this, the price of this boat is also slightly higher.

You can buy the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 from  YachtWorld  for $29,900.

• Hull Type: Long keel
• LOA: 24 ft.
• LWL: 18.75 ft.
• Beam: 8 ft.
• Displacement: 6,000 lbs.
• Ballast: 1,750 lbs.
• Sail Area: 261.89 sq. ft.
• Fuel: 12 gallons
• Fresh Water: 20 gallons
• Engine: Yanmar
• First built: 1974
• Last built: 1994
• Developer: Pacific Seacraft
• Designer: Bruce Bingham

Pacific Seacraft Dana 24

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The Pacific Seacraft Dana 24 is the best overall sailboat on our list. This one is the larger of the two Pacific Seacraft sailboats mentioned. It has an overall length of 24 feet but provides you with loads of amenities.

According to the features listed, the boat might seem insufficient for an overnight sail on the water. Once you are on the boat, it won't occur to you that you are on a sailboat that is just 24 feet long.

While only four feet longer than the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20, it adds enough space to make the cabin roomier and another berth for one more person. Not only that, the extra length provides more space to the galley.

You have increased movement and work it better. However, the length still keeps the sailboat maintaining the qualities of a smaller sailboat, allowing you easy maintenance and mobility.

Despite being larger, Pacific Seacraft Dana 20 is faster than the smaller one. As surprising as it may sound, this is because this boat's engine is more powerful and helps the hull sail faster. A high bow flare and freeboard ensure the deck remains dry unless high tides take charge.

It is ideal for a pair, especially couples who do not look for much except spending quality days offshore with the basic amenities on hand.

The Dana 24 were sold as kits and bare hulls. No one knows how many of these sailboats exist and how many of those are factory assembled. Due to this, you might also find slight differences in the build from unit to unit.

You can get the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24 from  YachtWorld  for $49,000.

• LOA: 27.25 ft.
• LWL: 21.42 ft.
• Beam: 8.85 ft.
• Displacement: 8,000 lbs.
• Ballast: 3,200 lbs.
• Sail Area: 361.22 sq. ft.
• Fuel: 18 gallons
• Fresh Water 40 gallons
• First built: 1948
• Last built: 2007
• Designer: W.I.B Crealock

Norseboat 21.5

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Do you prefer an open sailboat with a rugged design to keep your sailing experience raw? Get your hands on the Open Cockpit Norseboat 21.5. This boat has no cabin.

Simple sailboat design with settees on the side and enough storage room for a couple of passengers to enjoy a voyage across the lake or cruise near the coast.

But that's not all. The Norseboat 21.5 also comes in a cabin design that offers enhanced comfort. Whichever version you prefer, this boat offers a rugged design with carbon-fiber material instead of fiberglass, making it stronger than most sailboats.

However, you will have to compromise on the beauty part. Still, the boat provides a steady sailing experience with all the necessities you might require.

The Norseboat 21.5 sits lower near the water, and with a simple handling sloop rig and fully battened mainsail, it sails light and quick against the light wind. The boat is highly responsive to the tiller, requiring minimum effort from you to put it in the right direction.

Both versions of Norseboat 21.5 are lightweight, making them easy to haul and trail. You won't need a large truck to trail this boat to your favorite spot.

A mid-sized vehicle will do the job. On the other hand, their build maintains a strong presence uplifting their seaworthiness while a foil-shaped stub keel maintains stability.

You can buy the Norseboat 21.5 directly from  Norseboat .

• LOA: 21.8 ft.
• LWL: 19 ft.
• Beam: 7.1 ft.
• Displacement: 1,750 lbs.
• Ballast: 275 lbs.
• Sail Area: 197.2 sq. ft.
• Developer: NorseBoat Limited (CAN)
• Designer: Kevin Jeffrey/Mark Fitzgerald

Easy handling, low cost of maintenance, minimalistic designs, basic amenities, all while going offshore — these are the main selling points of pocket sailboats. All the boats mentioned above will serve you well if you are looking for the best bluewater pocket sailboats. Choose wisely!

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Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.

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Blue Lagoon Island (Nassau): Full Review & Is It Worth It?

Blue Lagoon Island is without a doubt one of the most popular excursions for a cruise ship stopping in Nassau. Located just a few minutes by boat from the cruise port, Blue Lagoon feels a world away. Meanwhile, it offers lots to like, whether you’re looking for just a relaxing day at the beach or a day full of water activities, including getting up close with dolphins and sea lions. 

In short, no matter what you’re looking for, then the excursion could be for you. But is it worth it? And what’s it really like? We recently visited to give you a complete review of what you can expect.

Overview of Blue Lagoon Island

The best way to explain Blue Lagoon Island is that it’s like a cruise line’s private island, except independent. If you’ve ever visited a cruise line island, then you know that they pick out a perfect spot with clear water and white sand, and then build out facilities to cater to cruise passengers. That includes things to do, places to eat, and spots to relax.

That’s exactly what you can expect from Blue Lagoon, except that it’s not the property of any one cruise line. So no matter whether you’re sailing Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, or any other cruise line, you can visit the island.

The destination is located on Salt Cay — a barrier island that’s just northeast of Nassau. In fact, you’re only about 4 miles from the cruise ship dock.

When you visit, you’ll have any number of packages that you can purchase that include everything from just hanging out on the beach to swimming with dolphins. However, in general, you’ll arrive in the morning and spend 5-6 hours on the island at your leisure, eat lunch, and then head back to the ship in the afternoon.

So if you’re wanting a beach day, this is among your easiest and best options.

What’s Available to Do on Blue Lagoon

We’ve mentioned that there’s a lot to do and see on the island. While it’s not on par with a place like Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, the entire family should find something to enjoy.

Note that for excursions, anymore more than hanging out on the beach is going to cost extra. This includes everything from renting a locker to taking a tour to hanging out with the sea lions. So you can book a simple beach day with lunch, or you can opt to include dolphin swims, Segway tours, and more. There is a booth to book anything you need once you arrive to the island.

Beach Day w/Lunch: The most popular (and least expensive option), is to simply have access to the beach. Blue Lagoon is actually located in a cut in the island, which provides a protected beach with water that winds through the area. There are also beaches on the exterior part of the island in the open water. (Price seen: $79 per adult)

Dolphin Swim: Want to swim with dolphins? One side of the park is home to trained dolphins, giving you the ability to hop in and swim with them. It’s an experience you can only get a few other places in the Caribbean (Price seen: $299 per adult).

There is also a dolphin “encounter” available, where you don’t swim with them, but do get in the water to interact (Price seen: $175 per person). Note that these prices also include the beach day.

Sea Lion Encounter: In addition to dolphins, there are also sea lions that you can visit. In our day there, we simply walked over and watched the sea lions for free. But you can pay to go and get in the water with them to get up close and personal. (Price seen: $199). Note that this price also includes the beach day.

Segway Tour: If you’ve never ridden a Segway, this is your chance. You can go on a “Segway Safari” tour that takes you all around the island on a guided tour. (Price seen: $50).

Aqua Park:  As you arrive at the island, you’ll see an area filled with inflatable obstacles, including items that you can climb and jump off of, rafts that you walk over to challenge your balance, and more. This is the Aqua Park and if you have kids, they will likely want to do it. (Price seen: $20)

VIP Areas: While there is lots of beach for everyone to enjoy, sometimes you just want a little more space and fewer people. In that case, there is a VIP upgrade that gives you access to a private areas (including three different beaches) and amenities for a little bit more. Here things are more relaxed and quieter. (Price seen: $65)

Beach Rentals (clamshells, snorkels, towels, lockers, kayaks): In addition to the more notable activities, there are also lots of rentals for a day on the beach. Whether you want snorkel gear, or a locker to put your items in, you can rent anything you need.

Bar Service: What’s sitting on a beach without a drink in your hand? There’s a bar on the island serving up tropical drinks, so you have have a pina colada while putting your feet in the sand. Prices are in line with what’s on the cruise ship. Expect to pay about $10-12 for a cocktail and $6-8 for a beer.

Shifting Tides Restaurant: Most excursions to Blue Lagoon include lunch. In the middle of the island is the Shifting Tides Restaurant. Here, there is a buffet-like spread that’s put out with burgers, dogs, chicken, and sides. It’s typically included in any excursion you take from the cruise ship.

Review: Our Day at Blue Lagoon Island

During a recent visit to Nassau, we booked a beach day with lunch at Blue Lagoon. So how was it?

The first thing we noticed is that the excursion seemed VERY popular.

Lining up on the pier to board the boat over to the island, there were seemingly dozens — if not hundreds — of passengers lined up. In fact, as the boat arrived at the pier to take us to Blue Lagoon, the first one filled up, meaning we had to wait out in the heat and sun for another boat to arrive.

The ride over was on an open-air powered catamaran. In total, the ride takes about 20-30 minutes and gives you a great view of some of the high-end homes on Paradise Island, along with Atlantis, the hotel that’s the most visible landmark in Nassau. (One suggestion is to get a seat on the lower deck to keep out of the sun, if possible.)

Arriving at Blue Lagoon, the boat enters a small cut in the rock among electric blue water. As the boat docks, you get your first view of the area, which is hidden away from the open water.

There, you see how the beach wraps around, and the rock creates a literal lagoon through the middle of the park. If you’re someone looking for a beautiful beach, this is it.

You also notice that you’re not alone in the park. In fact, during our stay it was not only passengers from our ship visiting, but passengers from all four cruise ships in port were there. The beach area closest to the pier was very busy and you had to wade through a crowd to finally get to the beach.

Stepping onto the island, the first thing we wanted to do was to get our bearings. So we took off on a walk just to see the island and what all is available. There we passed the bar, the rental/booking booth and the restaurant. Music was playing, the crowd was lively, and the atmosphere was definitely upbeat.

One thing we noticed is that it doesn’t take long from when you initially get away from the pier that the crowds start to thin out. Even with four different cruise ships in port, there was plenty of room to spread out as you got farther down the beach.

Another thing we noticed is that shade is hard to come by. There are some umbrellas available for you to use, but it’s only a few compared to the number of chairs. In fact, we found a quieter part of the beach and simply pulled a chair under a tree to give us some shade.

Heading out into the water, it’s hard to explain just how wonderfully clear it is. And because of the lagoon nature, it’s always calm even if the water outside the lagoon is more rough. The water never got too deep — no more than about six feet at the deepest point we found — while also offering a gentle slope for smaller kids.

After swimming for a bit, we simply relaxed under the shade, appreciating the chilled vibe that comes when you get away from the larger crowds. If you can’t relax in a spot like this where the beach and the water are picture perfect, then that’s on you. Then we hit the showers that are available for a quick rinse and decided to explore the other part of the island.

While one side of Blue Lagoon is for relaxing or playing on the beach, the other part is dedicated to the animals. This area had practically nobody in it, giving the vibe that maybe we were in the wrong spot. We did see some folks in the water with dolphins and also made our way to where the sea lions are kept, while seemingly no one was there. It was neat to be able to stand and watch the sea lions play on their own.

From there, we headed to grab a bite to eat for lunch. When you are standing in line at your ship to start the excursion, you’re given a wristband, along with a ticket for lunch. When it’s time to eat, you head to the restaurant, hand over the ticket and walk in.

While the restaurant has a full menu posted, what was served was a meal-line buffet. So hop in line and choose what you want to eat. Selections were classic buffet/beach food. There were hamburgers and hot dogs, along with grilled chicken, and then sides. Dining is open air in the restaurant.

How was the food? It is what you would expect from a beachy buffet. Certainly adequate and a nice treat when you’ve spent the morning in the sun and in the water, but nothing you’d write home about.

After lunch, we headed back to our shady spot on the beach for a repeat of the morning, enjoying the gorgeous sand and warm water until the call was made that our boat back to the cruise ship was now boarding. Your colored wristband given during the start of the excursion is your ticket back to the ship and each color band is given a different departure time to spread out the crowds.

By the time our ship was called, passengers from a couple of other ships had already departed, giving the island a bit of a more subdued atmosphere. From there, it was time to board and head back to the ship. By now instead of the buzzing atmosphere of excitement that the boat had when heading out to Blue Lagoon, it was obvious that everyone had been spending a lot of time in the sun and water. In fact, some people even caught a quick nap as we headed back to the port.

Final Thoughts/Is It Worth It?

When you picture visiting The Bahamas, you likely think of a white sand beach and electric blue water. Well, that’s exactly what Blue Lagoon Island offers for cruise passengers. As mentioned at the start, we thought of it as a private cruise line island, except it was open to everyone.

In total, we paid $79 for the excursion (but received a $50 discount from the cruise line for a total of $39). For that amount, the excursion lasted about six hours and included lunch.

There are definitely less-expensive ways to enjoy a day at the beach in Nassau, but they also won’t have the atmosphere, amenities, and activities that you’ll find at Blue Lagoon Island.

Between the swimming area that’s protected from the open water, the beach chairs, and facilities like showers/restrooms, there’s a lot to like even if you don’t opt for the things like the Aqua Park or the animal encounters.

In short, we had a great time at the beach during our day. The beach area could use some more umbrellas and shade, and in general it would be nicer to have a little more space for those days when four or five ships are in port.

Even so, those are smaller issues. If you want to enjoy the atmosphere that comes with a private island like the cruise lines offer, then Blue Lagoon Island will fit the bill in Nassau.

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I didn’t like the Raccoons were being held in a cage. Yikes. That’s terrible. And the Sea Lions and Dolphins, were obviously in held too, but I don’t like seeing animals held in captivity.

I didn’t see the raccoons. Sea lions/dolphins, yes. Honestly, I struggle with how to approach that as well. I never personally do excursions such as dolphin swims due to my feelings toward it. But what about if that’s just part of a larger experience?

This place is horrible. Way to crowded, not enough chairs or shade. The water smells like rotten eggs. Parts are closed down. The food is cheap and dried out. You only get one cup of a drink with it and water is not an option. We found 2 little outdoor showers that had little to no water pressure to get the smell and sand off you. Do not waste your money or time.

100%. We waited in the sun 104 degrees for over an hour waiting for boats. There were 100s of us from just the oasis of the seas, the staff was rude, the food was dog crap, the drinks were Kool aid and you recieved one small cup with the terrible lunch. It did stink of sulfur and eggs. Worst part of our trip without question

These dolphin exhibits are cruel. They are condemned worldwide for inhumane treatment of the animals. Do your research before supporting any animal exploitation exhibits. We must make a difference by not supporting mistreatment of animals

Thanks for the comment. I think that’s a valid point.

Do NOT book this excursion. The list of people complaining on our excersion was really long. You are throwing money away on this one. It is inconvenient, confusing and a waste of time. We waited in line for our 10am departure for an hour. The drinks on the boat were $17 each. Once you arrive you are shuttled to the beach and anything that is a tent is extra. The sand is full of tripping hazards with jagged rocks. Once we got to our place to relax it was nice. The water is about 2 foot deep and it was fun to play. The food is left open and was not tended to the hour we sat in the grill. Good luck with that. The dolphin interaction was about 5 minutes of fun. When leaving we arrived at the planned time and we could not fit on the boat. So we had to wait an additional hour and half. When you are dealing with little ones, it is something to consider as this is certainly something we would never do again.

Do I need to book ahead of time or at Port? We are doing a Disney Cruise.

Booked my day via the cruise line excursion desk once on the ship.

Can you take your own Sun shade tent to blue lagoon?

That I don’t know, but if it’s relatively easy to carry, I can’t see it being a problem. Even on a busy day in port there was open beach in many parts where even a large sunshade wouldn’t be obtrusive.

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It was City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center’s opening celebration in Huntington Beach on Tuesday. Earlier that morning cancer survivor Kathy Miller Willahan stood on stage with doctors and dignitaries and declared, “Hope is the only thing stronger than fear.”

For Kleker, his music is his hope.

Dr. Nishan Tchekmedyian speaks during the opening ceremony of City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center in Huntington Beach on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Johnny Kleker, 86, is acknowledged during the City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center opening ceremony in Huntington Beach on on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Kleker whose “Big Band” performed at the event will also be a patient there. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Johnny Kleker’s band plays in Huntington Beach on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. They were performing during the opening ceremony of City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center. Kleker will also be a patient there when it officially opens May 20. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Buddy Goldfarb readies his music while performing with the “Johnny Kleker Big Band,” in Huntington Beach on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. They were at the opening ceremony of City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

The “Johnny Kleker Big Band,” belts out music in Huntington Beach on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. They were at the opening ceremony of City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

The City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center in Huntington Beach holds an opening celebration on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. It will welcome patients on May 20. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Doctors, patients and officials celebrate the opening of City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center in Huntington Beach on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. It will officially welcome patients on May 20. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Johnny Kleker, 86, performs with his “Johnny Kleker Big Band,” during the opening ceremony of City of Hope’s Seacliff outpatient cancer center in Huntington Beach on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Kleker will also be a patient there when it officially opens May 20. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Diagnosed simultaneously with lung and prostate cancer, he has been receiving infusions every three weeks since 2020.

“Playing is a highlight for me,” he said. “It keeps me alive.”

Kleker discovered the trumpet at the end of the swing era when he was 12. His first solo performance was in junior high. In high school, he was a member of “The Scatterbrains,” performing rock and roll tunes in a big band sound, he said.

During his early career in the 1960s, “when everyone was trying to integrate ethnically,” the blue-eyed, tanned-skin horn player joined the Black big band “Peppy Prince.” They performed in Hollywood and Los Angeles clubs and ballrooms.

While studying music education and psychology at Pasadena City College, Kleker met his wife, Joyce, and they have been married for “something like 63 years,” he said.

At 24 Kleker was drafted into the Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  “I never left California,” he said. Instead, he was placed in the Army band and he performed for the troops, during parades and during memorials where he played “Taps.”

When he returned in 1963, he bought a house in Huntington Beach for $19,675. He still lives there today with Joyce after raising three children – all of whom are musically inclined.

Despite his passion for music, Kleker made his living as a boat mechanic and then worked his way up in the business.

He always knew he wanted to be a musician, but after he got married, his wife advised him to get a more stable job.

So he played in dozens of bands as a freelance musician during his off time and has been a member of Hollywood’s musicians union since the late ’50s.

He formed Johnny Kleker’s Big Band in 2005, consisting mostly of senior citizens who are professional musicians. His modesty is displayed on the band’s signs, where the emphasis is on “Big Band,” and not his name.

Kleker wanted to get people into church since his music and faith are intertwined.

“I enjoy playing gospel and blues,” he said. “I can express myself.”

He started “Jazz @ the Naz” at Long Beach First Nazarene Church. It’s a free big band concert every third Saturday of the month and it’s now in its 19th season.

“People are pleasantly surprised,” he said. “I give the pastor five minutes for a motivational speech,” and the band plays mostly secular music the rest of the night.

The trumpet is an “athletic instrument,” Kleker. “You play it with your whole body.”

Nowadays, however, he spends less time honing his skills and more time at doctors’ appointments.

When he arrives for infusions, “they always ask about my music,” said the man with an expansive smile.

At the City of Hope event, Kleker’s doctor explained the importance of personalized treatment.

“The main thing with Johnny is we want him to continue living his life and doing the things he likes to do,” Dr. Nishan Tchekmedyian said.

“We pay close attention to maintaining his energy level and his lung function so he can do exactly what we see him doing here today,” Tchekmedyian said.

In the background, Kleker’s band played “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown.” It’s a song about a feared man who — much like he hopes cancer will be —  is beaten in a fight.

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