From Marsaxlokk: St Peter’s Pool Boat Tour

Travelers looking to combine stunning scenery, history, and a unique swimming experience often find this Malta boat tour from Marsaxlokk to St. Peter’s Pool an appealing choice. This one-hour journey offers a relaxed way to explore Malta’s rugged coastline, with sights like forts, a lighthouse, saltpans, and the star attraction — the natural swimming haven of St. Peter’s Pool. The tour’s flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides make it stand out, especially for those eager to see Malta from the water in a laid-back setting.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with the chance for a refreshing swim, especially given the praise from past travelers about the friendly guides and breathtaking views. However, a potential consideration is that, during winter months, the swimming stop isn’t available, which might affect those specifically looking for water fun. This tour suits travelers wanting an authentic taste of Malta’s coast, with options to tailor the experience to their interests and pace.

Key Points

• Authentic Maltese Experience: Travel in a traditional frejgatina, offering a genuine feel of local maritime culture.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Pass by historic forts, a lighthouse, and saltpans, with photo opportunities at each stop.
• Flexible Itinerary: Enjoy a short, well-paced tour with the option to stop and swim at St. Peter’s Pool if weather permits.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Jake in reviews are praised for their friendly attitude and interesting commentary.
• Small Group Vibe: The tour usually runs in a small group, making it more intimate and personal.
• Value for Money: The combined experience of sightseeing, a boat ride, and a beach stop provides good value, especially with flexible booking and cancellation options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Out from Marsaxlokk Harbour

The adventure begins at Rima Cruises, where you’ll meet your boat — a charming Maltese frejgatina that’s both authentic and cozy. The initial moments are perfect for soaking in the lively vibe of Marsaxlokk, a fishing village famed for its colorful boats and bustling market. Here, you can get a quick snapshot of local life before heading out to sea. The crew is friendly, and the process of boarding seems seamless, with wristbands and receipts ensuring you’re with the right company — a thoughtful touch that reviewers frequently mention.

The Coastal Highlights Along the Route

As the boat glides away from the harbor, you’ll quickly realize you’re in for a treat. The guide will point out Fort San Lucjan, a fortress with a history that sparks curiosity, and Fort Delimara, another military relic guarding Malta’s coast for centuries. These structures, though silent now, tell stories of Malta’s strategic importance and maritime resilience. Passengers like Soling noted that the crew was knowledgeable and eager to share insights, which enhances the experience beyond just the scenery.

The lighthouse becomes an immediate visual cue of Malta’s maritime heritage, standing tall against the horizon. Its classic design and commanding presence make for fantastic photos, especially when paired with the shimmering sea. Next, the boat passes over the saltpans — shallow pools used for salt harvesting for generations. These saltpans create a mosaic-like coastal landscape that’s particularly striking and offers a different perspective on Malta’s traditional industries.

The Main Event: St. Peter’s Pool

The highlight, of course, is the stopping point at St. Peter’s Pool — a natural rock formation with crystal-clear waters, often described as a hidden gem. Depending on the weather, the skipper may suggest a swim or photo stop. Reviewers like Cristina loved being able to take a dip and appreciated the calm, transparent waters— perfect for a quick refresh. The pool’s natural shape and clean, inviting waters make it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed swim in scenic surroundings.

It’s worth noting that during winter months, the swim option is generally unavailable, so if water fun is your priority, planning your visit in warmer months is advisable. Still, even just seeing the pool from the boat provides a sense of escape and natural beauty.

The Return Journey and Additional Sightseeing

After the swim or photo stop, the boat retraces its path back to Marsaxlokk, passing the same landmarks with additional commentary from guides. Past travelers like Marko appreciated the friendly guide, Jake, who combined historical insights with humor — making the hour feel engaging rather than just a quick ride.

The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the scenic vistas, with plenty of opportunities for photographs. The tour wraps up back at Rima Cruises, and many guests mention leaving with a deeper appreciation for Malta’s coast and a handful of memorable images.

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How to Make the Most of This Tour

Considering the tour lasts around one hour, it’s a quick but meaningful glimpse into Malta’s coastal charm. To maximize your experience, arrive on time and consider the weather forecast, especially if visiting in off-season. The flexibility of pick-up times adds convenience — you can choose a window that fits your day.

If you opt for the beach stop, you’ll enjoy the added thrill of swimming in St. Peter’s Pool, which reviewers found to be a highlight. If you prefer a more relaxed view without water activity, the standard tour still offers plenty of scenic beauty and informative commentary.

Pricing and Value

While exact prices aren’t provided here, reviews suggest that the tour combines sightseeing with an authentic local experience, offering good value, especially given the small group size and personal guiding. The inclusion of a round-trip boat ticket and a skipper ensures safety and comfort, with the option to add a beach stop for an extra splash of fun.

Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance. For travelers seeking a budget-friendly way to see Malta’s coast and enjoy some water time, this tour delivers noticeable value.

Real Traveler Insights and Tips

One reviewer loved how Gianella from Rima Cruises reached out beforehand to confirm the timing, which seemed to streamline the experience. The guides are knowledgeable, and their friendly demeanor is frequently highlighted — making the entire trip feel more personalized.

If you’re interested in photography, the stops at forts and saltpans provide excellent opportunities. For those with limited time but a desire to see the coast from a different perspective, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for travelers wanting to combine scenic views with historical landmarks in a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo explorers who like a mix of nature, history, and brief water activities. If you’re keen on a quick, authentic Maltese experience that offers great photo ops and a chance to cool off, this tour ticks the boxes.

However, if you’re visiting during winter and water swimming is a priority, be aware the swimming stop will likely be unavailable. Also, those looking for a longer or more adventurous excursion might prefer to explore other options, as this tour emphasizes quality over quantity.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a balanced introduction to Malta’s coast, this boat tour from Marsaxlokk to St. Peter’s Pool offers genuine value. It combines informative guiding, scenic views, and the chance to swim in a natural wonder — all within a comfortable, small-group setting. The opportunity to see historic forts, saltpans, and a lighthouse adds layers of interest that keep the experience well-rounded and memorable.

Travelers who appreciate authenticity, knowledgeable guides, and scenic beauty will find this trip a worthwhile addition to their Malta itinerary. It’s suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic photography, or just a refreshing dip on a warm day.

If you’re seeking a short, scenic escape that blends history, local charm, and natural beauty, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to experience Malta’s coast and create some lovely memories along the way.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, giving you enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Can I swim at St. Peter’s Pool?
Yes, if the weather is suitable, you’ll have the chance to stop and swim at the pool. During winter months, this option is typically unavailable.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a round-trip boat ride and a skipper. If you select the option, you’ll also enjoy a beach stop for swimming.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but those with mobility issues or health concerns should consider the nature of the boat and swimming options.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour starts at Rima Cruises, so you will need to make your way there. The flexible timing for pickup is available for the boat departure.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a camera. Be sure to check the weather forecast, especially if visiting during off-peak seasons.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in planning your trip.

Is there a small group option?
Yes, the tour offers a small group experience, making it more personal and engaging.

Traveling along Malta’s coast with this boat tour reveals a side of the island that’s often hidden from land-based travelers. Whether you’re snapping photos of saltpans, snapping a selfie at the lighthouse, or taking a dip at St. Peter’s Pool, this outing packs a punch of scenic beauty and relaxed fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby