From Sliema: Cruise Around Malta’s Harbours & Creeks

Taking a boat tour around Malta’s harbors offers a surprisingly different perspective of this Mediterranean island. Whether you’re after iconic sights like Valletta’s fortifications, the charming Three Cities, or the lively marinas, this cruise aims to pack it all into a 90-minute journey. The experience is offered by Robert Arrigo & Sons Limited and boasts a solid 4.6-star rating from over 1,500 reviews—so it’s clearly a favorite among travelers.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it combines sightseeing with the relaxation of being on the water. The audio commentary is a real highlight, giving you a good sense of Malta’s history while you enjoy the scenery. However, because it’s a relatively short cruise, those with a passion for deep historical dives might find it a bit surface-level.

This tour suits those who want a convenient, affordable, and scenic introduction to Malta’s coastlines and harbors without committing to a full-day excursion. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but who still want to see key sights from a different angle.

Key Points

Beautiful Views: The cruise offers scenic vistas of Valletta, the Three Cities, and the grand harbors—ideal for photography and soaking in the atmosphere.
Informative Commentary: The audio guide provides historical insights, making the experience both relaxing and educational.
Great Value: At $23 per person, the cruise delivers a lot of visual and contextual value in just 90 minutes.
Accessible Experience: While not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, it’s straightforward for most able-bodied travelers.
Flexible & Convenient: Start times vary, and you can reserve in advance with the option to pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
Authentic Atmosphere: The small group size and open-air setting mean you can enjoy the sights and sounds without feeling overwhelmed.

An Inside Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This cruise begins at Sliema Ferries, a central and easily accessible location, making it a smart starting point whether you’re based in Sliema or nearby Valletta. From there, it’s a gentle 1.5-hour sail around Malta’s important waterways, and the itinerary is packed with iconic sights.

Starting Point and First Views

The cruise kicks off near the Ferries 4 stop, giving you a prime vantage point to watch the city wake up as the boat sets sail. The nearby Sliema promenade provides an energetic backdrop, and you’ll immediately start enjoying views of the coast, marinas, and the glittering waters of the Marsamxett Harbour.

Passing Manoel Island and the Yacht Marinas

As the boat glides past Manoel Island, you’ll marvel at the historic fortifications and lush green spaces that contrast with the deep blue sea. The Manoel Island Yacht Marina illustrates Malta’s vibrant sailing scene, and reviewers mention how close-up views of the boats and the island’s silhouette add to the charm.

Exploring the Creeks and Fortifications

The cruise then takes you through the Lazzaretto and Ta’ Xbiex areas, where you’ll notice the mixture of old military structures and modern marinas. The commentary occasionally highlights the significance of these sites, and many reviewers appreciated learning about Malta’s strategic maritime position from the guide.

Valletta and the Three Cities

One of the tour’s highlights is sailing past Valletta and the St. Andrews Bastions. You’ll catch glimpses of the fortified city walls and the historic Fort St Elmo, giving you a sense of Valletta’s impressive scale and history from a fresh perspective.

Further along, the boat approaches the Grand Harbour, showcasing the mighty fortifications and the ships docked at the Palumbo Malta Shipyard. You’ll also see the Cospicua, Senglea, and Birgu (Vittoriosa), collectively known as Malta’s Three Cities. These areas exude authentic charm, with their narrow streets and historic buildings, providing excellent photo ops.

The Creeks and Smaller Ports

The cruise’s route includes passing through the Marsamxett Harbour and various creeks around Valletta, which many reviewers find particularly appealing for avoiding crowds and appreciating the city’s beauty from a peaceful waterway. The views of Fort Ricasoli and Rinella Bay add to the sense of Malta’s maritime history.

Returning to Sliema

The voyage concludes back at Ferries 4, completing the loop. Many travelers mention how the relaxed pace and scenic route made for a memorable and stress-free experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Audio Commentary

Multiple reviews note that the commentary, available in English, is both informative and well-paced. Though some mention it could be more enthusiastic, the factual insights about Malta’s forts, city walls, and historical sites add substantial value. Interestingly, a reviewer pointed out that sitting on the right side of the boat enhances the viewing experience, as that’s where most of the commentary is directed.

The Views and Photographic Opportunities

This cruise is one of those experiences where you’ll want to have your camera ready. The calm waters around Valletta’s creeks and the sweeping panoramas of the Grand Harbour make for spectacular photos. Reviewers frequently comment on how the scenery looks even better from the water than from land, especially since you can enjoy the city’s architecture without the crowds.

Comfort and Group Size

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with open-air seating that allows for unobstructed views. One reviewer mentioned that the boat should ideally operate with a capacity that matches the number of seats to ensure everyone has a good view—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to crowded conditions.

Cost-Effectiveness

At just $23 per person, this cruise offers tremendous value. Considering the scenic beauty, the informative commentary, and the chance to see Malta from a unique angle, it’s a budget-friendly way to add a memorable experience to your trip.

Practical Considerations

The cruise is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the boat and route might not accommodate special needs easily. It does not include hotel pickup or food, so plan to arrive at Sliema Ferries on time and bring your own snacks if desired.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “the crew was really helpful and friendly,” and “the commentary was very detailed,” making the experience both enjoyable and enlightening. A few noted that the cruise can get a bit rough when entering the Grand Harbour, so it’s worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness.

Several reviews mention the importance of arriving early—at least 20 minutes beforehand—to secure a good spot, especially if you want to sit on the right side for the best views. This flexibility with scheduling, along with the option to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adds peace of mind.

The Sum Up: Who is This Cruise for?

This harbor and creek cruise is an excellent choice for travelers who want a quick but rundown of Malta’s waterfront attractions. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but still eager to see iconic landmarks from the water. If you’re interested in history, beautiful scenery, and good value, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s a fantastic option for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic, and educational outing. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the fair price, while those wanting to photograph Malta’s stunning coastlines will find plenty to love.

However, if you’re after an in-depth cultural or culinary experience, or require accessible facilities, you might want to explore other options or combine this with land-based tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the cruise’s duration and seating arrangement suggest it’s suitable for most children. Just be aware that the boat isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are recommended to protect against sun and splashes. Since food and drinks aren’t included, consider bringing some snacks or water, especially if you plan to spend a longer day exploring Malta.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, an English audio commentary is included, giving insights into Malta’s sights. Some reviews mention that it’s well-paced and informative, though a few wished it was more enthusiastic.

Can I reserve my spot in advance?
Absolutely. You can book online and choose to pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Full cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours beforehand.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The provider may reschedule your cruise if weather or sea conditions are poor. If rescheduling isn’t possible, a full refund will be issued.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it a perfect short activity for a busy travel day or a relaxing break.

Where exactly do I meet?
The cruise departs from Sliema Ferries, near the ‘Ferries 4’ bus stop. Arrive at least 20 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding.

Are there any restrictions to consider?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or those with large luggage, as there are no provisions for wheelchairs or bulky bags.

This cruise around Malta’s harbors and creeks offers a wonderfully scenic, informative, and budget-friendly way to see the island’s coastlines. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and flexible booking options, it’s especially ideal for travelers short on time but eager for an authentic Maltese water adventure. Whether you’re snapping photos, learning about Malta’s military history, or just relaxing on the boat, this experience is a solid addition to any Malta itinerary.