Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities

Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities — A Detailed Review

Picture yourself gliding smoothly on a traditional Maltese Luzzu boat, surrounded by historic harbours, while enjoying a glass of wine and a carefully curated platter. That’s exactly what this private cruise experience offers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a unique way to see Malta, this 1.5-hour journey promises intimacy, comfort, and a touch of luxury.

What intrigues us most about this experience is the highly customizable nature—think choosing the decoration color themes and having a private guide to tell stories about the sights passing by. Yet, it’s worth noting that it’s a short experience, so if you’re looking to spend an entire afternoon on the water, you might want to consider additional options.

Ideal for couples or small groups wanting privacy, romance, and a taste of Maltese hospitality, this cruise isn’t suited for those prone to seasickness or in wheelchairs. Still, if you’re after a blend of scenic views, personalized touches, and excellent local wine, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Customizable decoration themes and private driver make this cruise feel exclusive.
• Authentic Maltese Charm: The Luzzu boat adds traditional character, elevating the overall experience.
• Gourmet Touch: Includes a charcuterie platter or sushi, with vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free options.
• Stunning Views & Stories: Learn about Malta’s sights from a knowledgeable guide while enjoying scenic vistas.
• Luxury and Comfort: Decorated with cushions, blankets, candles, and artificial flowers for a romantic atmosphere.
• Limited Duration: At 1.5 hours, it’s perfect for a quick, memorable outing but not for those seeking a lengthy cruise.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The experience starts the moment you arrive at the dock—ideally 15 minutes before departure—where you’ll find your boat beautifully decorated in your chosen color theme. The attention to detail is immediate; blankets and cushions invite you to settle in comfortably, while candles and artificial flowers add a romantic touch. The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth speaker and selfie stick, encouraging a fun, relaxed vibe.

A traditional Luzzu boat is the star of the show—this iconic Maltese fishing boat is instantly recognizable and lends an authentic feel to your cruise. Unlike modern yachts, it provides a more intimate connection to Malta’s maritime traditions. The boat’s decorations, including the custom letter board and cozy furnishings, help craft a personalized, Instagram-worthy environment.

The Route and Sights

Your private driver—who also serves as your guide—fills you in on the history of the area as you cruise past the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua) and Valletta. These historic districts are filled with fortress walls, bastions, and centuries-old architecture, all of which you’ll see from a perfect vantage point on the water. The views of the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour are truly breathtaking.

While the cruise isn’t long enough to explore in depth, you’ll get a wonderful overview of Malta’s waterfront and some interesting tidbits about the heritage sites, forts, and prominent landmarks. One reviewer mentioned the guide’s knowledge as a major plus, noting their ability to share stories that added depth to the scenery.

Food and Drink

A major highlight of this cruise is the gourmet platter—you can choose between a charcuterie board or sushi, with special options for vegetarians, vegans, pescatarians, and those with gluten sensitivities. The platter includes a variety of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, making it a perfect pairing with your wine or Prosecco.

The included bottle of wine or Prosecco elevates the experience further, turning your private cruise into a romantic celebration. Soft drinks are also available if you prefer a non-alcoholic refreshment. The drinks, paired with the relaxed atmosphere, make for a perfect toast to Malta’s stunning scenery.

Decor and Personalization

One of the more memorable aspects is the ability to choose the color theme of decorations, creating a tailored ambiance. The boat features blankets, cushions, and artificial flowers—all carefully arranged—making it feel more like a floating lounge than a simple boat ride. The personalized letter board also allows you to add a special message, which is a lovely touch for anniversaries, birthdays, or romantic surprises.

Limitations and Practicalities

This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly. The cruise is relatively short—just 1.5 hours—so if you’re after a leisurely exploration, you might want to supplement it with other activities. It’s also exclusive to private groups, which means you’ll have undivided attention from your driver-guide.

Since it does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation to the departure point. This is a minor inconvenience, but worth considering if you’re staying outside the immediate Valletta area.

Value and Price Analysis

At $431 for up to two people, the cost might seem high for a 1.5-hour cruise. However, given the personalized touches, private setting, gourmet food, and drinks, it offers a level of exclusivity and comfort many standard boat tours lack. Think of it as a special occasion experience—perfect for celebrating anniversaries, honeymoons, or just a luxurious day out.

Compared to larger, shared cruises, this private option provides much better value in terms of intimacy and customization. Plus, the reviews highlight the experience as “most amazing personalised experience,” which underscores how special this can feel when tailored to your preferences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for couples or small groups seeking a romantic and exclusive outing. It’s ideal if you’re celebrating a milestone or want to surprise someone with a memorable, personalized experience. The high level of customization and attention to detail make it perfect for those who appreciate luxury, scenery, and good wine.

However, travelers with mobility issues or seasickness concerns should consider alternative options, as the tour isn’t designed to accommodate wheelchairs or sensitive stomachs. It’s also better suited for those who appreciate a short but high-quality experience rather than longer, more extensive cruises.

Final Thoughts

This Malta private picnic cruise balances elegance, authenticity, and intimacy beautifully. The traditional Luzzu boat, combined with personalized decor, excellent wine, and a scenic route, makes for a memorable outing. The knowledgeable guide sharing insights about Malta’s landmarks adds educational value, enriching your trip beyond just the visuals.

While it’s a premium experience in terms of cost, the exclusivity and attention to detail justify the price — especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a luxe way to see the harbors. You’ll love the way this tour turns a simple boat ride into a personalized, romantic adventure with just the right dose of Maltese charm.

For those who want the best of Malta’s scenery, history, and hospitality in a private setting, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It offers a lovely blend of relaxation, storytelling, and gourmet treats—all on a boat that feels like a luxurious floating lounge.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You will need to arrange your own transport to the departure point.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it ideal for a quick, memorable outing.

Can I customize the decoration theme?
Yes, you can choose the color theme of the decorations to match your occasion or personal taste.

What food options are available?
A charcuterie platter or sushi is included, with vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free options available.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private cruise, driver-guide, decorations, soft drinks, one bottle of wine or Prosecco, the platter, Bluetooth speaker, and selfie stick.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
It’s a private experience for up to two people, making it perfect for couples or small groups.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness.

In summary, if you’re looking for a unique, romantic, and highly customizable way to experience Malta’s stunning harbors, this private picnic cruise offers a luxurious slice of Maltese life. Expect personalized touches, scenic views, and excellent wine, all wrapped up in an intimate setting—perfect for creating lasting memories.