Grand Harbour Cruise

If you’re visiting Malta and want a scenic, informative way to see the island’s iconic harbors, the Grand Harbour Cruise might catch your eye. Offered by V. Tabone Travel, this 90-minute boat adventure takes you through the bustling waters of both Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour on a sleek, eco-friendly catamaran. While it’s not a full-day excursion, it’s a great way to soak in stunning views, learn a bit of Malta’s storied past, and get a sense of the island’s vibrant maritime life.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to choose your departure time from several options, making it flexible for different schedules. Plus, you can opt to sit indoors or outdoors, depending on your preference for sun or shade. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi on board is a thoughtful touch, especially if you want to snap photos or post a quick update during the cruise. However, some reviews note that the live commentary can be hard to hear at times, which might be frustrating if you’re eager to soak up all the historical insights.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic overview of Malta’s most famous harbors without committing to a full-day adventure. Families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a quick yet meaningful experience will find it worthwhile. Keep in mind, the experience is largely dependent on the quality of the commentary and weather conditions, but overall, it offers good value for money.

Key Points

• Flexible Departure Times: Multiple daily options suit different schedules.
• Comfortable Seating: Indoor air-conditioned or outdoor options available.
• Rich Views & Commentary: Expect stunning skyline views and insightful historical commentary.
• Hop-off Option: Visit the Esplora Science Centre or the Three Cities with an easy return option.
• Wi-Fi & Facilities: Free Wi-Fi and restrooms onboard enhance comfort.
• Cost-Effective: At around $23, it offers a decent balance of price and experience for most travelers.

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

The cruise begins in Marsamxett Harbour, a naturally scenic area in Sliema, where you’ll board the state-of-the-art, eco-friendly catamaran operated by Captain Morgan. The vessel, about 20 meters long, is bright red and modern, promising a comfortable ride whether you prefer sitting outside in the fresh sea breeze or inside in air-conditioned comfort. Boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early ensures a good spot—something quite consistent among reviews, with many travelers noting that securing a seat, especially upstairs, can sometimes be a challenge.

The Main Stops: Valletta and the Three Cities

Once underway, the boat makes its way to Valletta, Malta’s historic fortress capital situated on the Sciberras Peninsula. The views from the water are particularly striking here: the skyline of Valletta, with its fortified walls and domed churches, is breathtaking. As the boat circles around, the guide offers live commentary in English and German, sharing stories about the site’s history, including the notable use of the Grand Harbour dating back to around 3700 BC.

According to reviews, the commentary is both informative and passionate, with guides often sharing details about Fort Saint Angelo in Vittoriosa—a hub for 268 years of the Knights of St. John—and the 1565 Great Siege of Malta. While some found the narration difficult to hear at times, most appreciated the effort and depth of knowledge conveyed.

The Forts, Battlements, and Scenery

Expect impressive views of fortresses, battlements, creeks, and the skyline of Valletta. The boat tour provides a unique angle that’s hard to replicate on land, allowing you to appreciate the strategic importance of these historic defenses. From the water, the Three Cities of Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea look especially picturesque, with traditional boats and charming harbors adding to the scene.

Optional Hop-Off at Esplora Science Centre

A major perk of this tour is the option to hop off at the Esplora Interactive Science Centre in Kalkara. This is a popular choice among families or science enthusiasts, with over 200 exhibits, workshops, and a planetarium. You can spend up to an hour exploring before catching the next boat back to Sliema. Reviewers say this adds an educational twist to the cruise, though note that admission to Esplora is not included.

What the Reviews Say About the Experience

Many travelers have found this cruise to be a good value for its price. Comments like “Very interesting and informative,” and “Great views of Valletta from the water,” highlight the scenic and educational appeal. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness also earned praise, with one reviewer mentioning, “All members of our crew were friendly,” which contributes to the overall enjoyment.

However, some reviews mention audio issues, especially downstairs, where the live commentary was hard to hear. One traveler pointed out, “We asked for the volume to be turned up, but it wasn’t,” and suggested that a pre-recorded narration might improve clarity. This is worth considering if detailed historical stories matter a lot to you.

The Practical Aspects: Comfort, Cost, and Convenience

For around $23 per person, the cruise offers a balanced experience. It’s not overly pricey but provides a good mix of sightseeing, education, and relaxation. The duration of about 1 hour 30 minutes makes it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a leisurely overview rather than an exhaustive tour.

The availability of Wi-Fi is a nice touch, especially if you want to upload photos or check messages during the ride. The restroom onboard adds convenience, particularly on a tour that includes scenic views and some walking around later.

Timing-wise, the multiple departure options mean you can choose a slot that fits your plans, whether morning, afternoon, or evening. This flexibility is often highlighted positively in reviews, with no complaints about the scheduling.

The Downside: Some Small Drawbacks

While many enjoyed the views and guides, some found the audio commentary challenging to understand, especially from downstairs. Plus, a few reviewers felt that the views from certain angles could be better, or that the hop-off option at Esplora was too limited in time—though, at this price point, most see it as a fair trade-off.

Another minor consideration is the weather dependency. Since the tour is outdoors, bad weather could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable experience, so checking the forecast before booking is wise.

This cruise suits those looking for a quick, scenic introduction to Malta’s harbors. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic views, and a touch of history without a full-day commitment. If you’re interested in interactive science or exploring the Three Cities, the hop-off option makes it more appealing. However, if you’re a history buff craving detailed narration or seeking a more immersive experience, you might find the commentary somewhat lacking.

In essence, the Grand Harbour Cruise delivers a relaxing, visually stunning experience at an accessible price. The combination of beautiful vistas, friendly crew, and flexible options makes it a reliable choice for travelers wanting a taste of Malta’s maritime charm. The main caveat is that the commentary can sometimes be hard to hear, but for many, the breathtaking views and the opportunity to capture memorable photos outweigh that inconvenience.

This tour is particularly well-suited for first-time visitors eager to grasp the layout of Malta’s key harbors and fortifications. It’s an excellent starting point before diving deeper into the island’s history or exploring further.

Is the cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, the cruise is designed to be family-friendly and accessible for most travelers. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the views and learn a bit about Malta’s history.

Can I sit indoors or outdoors?
Absolutely. The boat offers both indoor air-conditioned seating and outdoor options, so you can choose your comfort level.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring your camera or smartphone for photos, sunglasses, and sunscreen if sitting outside. A hat or cap can help keep the sun off during the ride.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving early is recommended, especially if you want to secure a good spot, as boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. In case of cancellations due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I hop off at Esplora and catch the next boat?
Yes, you can hop off at Esplora in Kalkara and rejoin later, with multiple return times available. Keep in mind that admission to Esplora is not included.

Is food or drink available onboard?
Yes, vending machines on board offer snacks and beverages, but you’ll need to purchase these yourself. It’s a good idea to bring your own water or small snacks if needed.

In the end, the Grand Harbour Cruise is a solid choice for those seeking a scenic overview of Malta’s harbors with a touch of history and modern comfort. While it may not satisfy hardcore history buffs or those wanting a more detailed guided tour, it’s a great way to relax, snap photos, and gain a fresh perspective on Malta’s maritime landscape.