Manoel Island SUP Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to see Malta from a fresh angle, the Manoel Island SUP adventure offers a fun, scenic, and active experience. This two-hour tour combines the thrill of paddling with spectacular views of Valletta, Fort Manoel, and the surrounding waters. It’s a great choice for those wanting a mix of light exercise, cultural sights, and relaxing breaks in the sea.

One of the standout features is the professional guidance provided by an ASI SUP rescue certified instructor, Tibor, whose enthusiasm makes the experience both safe and engaging. The tour’s balance of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling makes it ideal for travelers eager to combine adventure with some well-deserved downtime.

A potential consideration is that, while suitable for most water enthusiasts, non-swimmers or those with back issues might want to think twice, as water comfort is essential for fully enjoying the tour. The tour is perfect for active travelers who appreciate a small-group setting — limited to just seven participants — and who want genuine, memorable moments on Malta’s waters.

Key Points

• Unique perspective of Manoel Island from the water, revealing sights you can’t see from land.
• Expert guidance from a friendly, knowledgeable instructor enhances safety and enjoyment.
• Includes snorkeling and swimming stops, perfect for cooling off and exploring Malta’s vibrant marine life.
• Photo memories are part of the package, offering high-quality pictures of your adventure.
• Accessible for most levels, with a brief paddling intro and options to refine techniques or try tricks.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Manoel Island SUP Tour

What is the Manoel Island SUP Adventure?

This tour is a two-hour paddleboarding excursion around the historical Manoel Island, set in the waters off Sliema, Malta. It’s designed to be a fun, accessible, and scenic activity that combines paddling with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax. The tour starts at the Manoel Island Slipway, an easy-to-find location on Google Maps, and ends back at the same point.

What makes this tour special?

What truly sets this experience apart is the combination of cultural views and outdoor adventure. You’ll get a new perspective of Malta’s scenic coastline, including Valletta’s skyline, Fort Manoel, and the surrounding bays. The tour strikes a balance between guided instruction, sightseeing, and downtime, which makes it suitable for a variety of travelers.

The itinerary broken down

Starting at Manoel Island Slipway, your day begins with a short but vital briefing on paddleboarding techniques. Tibor, the instructor, who is fluent in both English and Hungarian, makes sure everyone feels confident before hitting the water. The briefing covers essential paddling skills, safety tips, and some fun tricks for those wanting to challenge themselves.

Once on the water, the tour cruises around Manoel Island, offering views of the island’s historic fortifications, including Fort Manoel — a fortress that’s been standing since the 18th century. We loved the way the tour’s route allowed for great photo ops, especially with Valletta’s skyline as a backdrop.

The first stop in Sliema is perfect for a swim or snorkel. It’s a welcome break after paddling, and the clear waters make for an engaging underwater experience. The reviews reveal that guests appreciate the stops, with one mentioning it’s “great on such a hot afternoon,” and another highlighting how the water activity breaks make the tour more memorable.

Post-swim, the journey continues along the coast, with scenic views of the harbor, Ta’ Xbiex, and the city of Valletta. Participants can refine their paddling technique or even try some tricks, with Tibor offering helpful tips and encouragement. The chance to explore yoga postures on the paddleboard also adds an extra layer of fun and fitness.

What about the guidance and participants?

Guided by Tibor, a friendly and passionate instructor, the tour feels personal and relaxed. His knowledge of the area and engaging storytelling make the experience more than just paddling — it’s about appreciating Malta’s maritime beauty while learning new skills. With a small group limit of seven, everyone receives individual attention, making it a safe environment for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

Photo opportunities and memories

One of the highlights is the high-quality photos included in the package, captured during the tour. These images showcase you gliding past Valletta, with the historic forts and cityscape in the background — perfect for sharing or keeping as keepsakes. Guests have praised Tibor’s ability to capture these moments beautifully, adding a lasting memory to the adventure.

Practical details and value

At $56 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the inclusion of all SUP gear (board, leash, paddle, lifejacket), the guided instruction, the snorkeling stop, and the photos. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to reach the Manoel Island Slipway independently, but the location’s central position in Sliema makes it accessible.

The tour is suitable for all levels, provided you’re comfortable in water. It’s not recommended for children under 12, non-swimmers, or those with back problems or over 70. The activity is about two hours long, making it an easy addition to a day of exploring Malta.

What we love about this experience

We appreciated how this tour combines cultural scenery with outdoor activity. The historic views of Fort Manoel and Valletta from the water are unlike anything seen from land. The instructor’s enthusiasm and local insights elevate the experience, making it more engaging than a typical paddleboarding rental.

The stops for swimming and snorkeling are well-timed and give you a genuine chance to cool off and explore Malta’s vibrant marine life. Plus, the photos are high quality, and Tibor’s friendly manner makes even beginners feel comfortable on the paddleboard.

Considerations before booking

While the tour caters to most skill levels, it requires participants to be comfortable in water. If you’re unsure about swimming or have health concerns, it’s best to consult with the provider beforehand. Also, remember that transportation isn’t included, so plan your route to the starting point accordingly.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This SUP adventure is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s perfect for those looking for an active, scenic, and memorable experience. If you enjoy being on or near the water and appreciate small-group settings, you’ll find this tour enjoyable. It’s especially suited for those eager to learn new skills in a relaxed environment, with a knowledgeable guide making every step safe and fun.

It’s also a great choice for families with older children or teens who are comfortable in water, thanks to the manageable pace and inclusive nature of the activity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a brief but thorough introduction to paddleboarding, making it accessible for beginners. The instructor will guide you through the basics to ensure confidence on the water.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. All paddleboarding gear is provided, so you just need to come prepared for a water-based activity.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the starting point isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Manoel Island Slipway.

Can I do this tour if I don’t swim?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, as water comfort is important for safety and enjoyment. Participants should also be comfortable in water.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to just 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 12 years old. Participants should be comfortable in water and able to follow safety instructions.

Final thoughts

The Manoel Island SUP adventure offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and outdoor fun that’s hard to beat. With expert guidance, a small group size, and the chance to snorkel and take photos, it’s an activity that leaves you with lasting memories and new skills. Whether you’re a water novice or a paddling pro, this tour provides a relaxed way to see Malta from a different perspective.

Ideal for adventure lovers, photography fans, and anyone wanting a break from typical sightseeing. It’s a well-priced and authentic experience that balances fun, learning, and scenic views, making it a standout choice for your Malta itinerary.