From Sliema: Traditional Harbour Cruise (CMO)

Sliema’s Traditional Harbour Cruise: An Authentic Maritime Adventure

Imagine gliding across Malta’s storied waters, watching centuries of history unfold around you. That’s exactly what you get with the Traditional Harbour Cruise departing from Sliema. This two-hour journey offers a relaxed yet immersive way to see Valletta’s forts, battlements, and scenic harbors, all while listening to engaging commentary in both English and German.

We love that this cruise combines straightforward accessibility with authentic views of Malta’s maritime past—plus, it’s a great way to avoid tourist crowds on land. The friendly guides are knowledgeable, the scenery spectacular, and the historical stories make it more than just a boat ride. However, it’s worth noting that the duration and the limited departure times might not suit those seeking a longer or more flexible experience. This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, stunning vistas, and a relaxed pace with an expert commentary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic maritime experience: See Malta’s beautiful harbors and forts from the water.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable commentary in English and German enriches the experience.
• Historic insights: Learn about the Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942 from a maritime perspective.
• Convenient schedule: Departures at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:45pm make planning easy.
• Accessible and straightforward: Suitable for most mobility levels, with a focus on comfort.
• Value for money: A compact, informative experience that covers key historical sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The cruise kicks off at Sliema Ferries, a central and easily accessible location. From here, you’ll board a traditional-style boat that feels more like a classic Maltese vessel than a modern touristic craft. The departure times — 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:45pm — give some flexibility, whether you’re an early riser or prefer a late morning start.

The meeting point is straightforward: just opposite Marks and Spencer, making it easy to find, even if you’re unfamiliar with Sliema. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch for those with mobility considerations.

The Voyage: Navigating Malta’s Historic Harbors

Once aboard, the boat begins its gentle circuit through Marsamxett Harbour and Valletta’s Grand Harbour. The guides, whose names aren’t specified but are praised for their knowledge, lead the way with lively commentary in both English and German, making the experience accessible to a diverse group.

Marsamxett Harbour is the first stop, offering views of Creeks and the coastline of Gzira, a charming area with its own maritime vibe. The guides share stories about the harbour’s role in Malta’s defense and trade. As the boat moves toward Valletta, the iconic forts and battlements come into view, telling stories of sieges and resilience passed down through generations.

The highlight is Valletta’s Grand Harbour, where impressive fortifications, historic ships, and scenic coves create picture-perfect moments. One reviewer noted: “The views of the forts and battlements are absolutely stunning, and the live commentary made it even more engaging.” This segment offers great photo opportunities and a sense of Malta’s strategic maritime importance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Key Sites from the Water

Next, the boat glides toward Senglea, a fortified city with narrow streets and a rich past. The guides provide insights into its role during sieges, especially the Great Siege of 1565, when the Knights of St. John defended Malta against the Ottoman Empire.

Then, the cruise continues to Cospicua and Kalkara, two other historic fortifications and shipbuilding areas. These stops, though brief, give travelers a chance to absorb Malta’s layered defense architecture and maritime history through stunning views and expert narration. As one reviewer commented, “The guides made history come alive with their storytelling, making the landmarks more meaningful.”

What’s Notable About This Cruise?

While the cruise doesn’t include land visits or extended stops, it excels in offering a rundown of Malta’s maritime defenses and scenic beauty from a comfortable vantage point. The boat’s size is manageable, allowing everyone to see the sites clearly and listen to the commentary without feeling rushed or crowded.

Value and Practical Aspects

This tour is priced as a short, focused experience, making it accessible for those wanting a quick but meaningful introduction to Malta’s harbors. Given that it’s a 2-hour trip with live commentary, the cost aligns well with the value of seeing key sites with knowledgeable guides. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer a laid-back, scenic overview rather than a full-day tour or land-based exploration.

What Real Travelers Say

One reviewer, describing the guides, mentioned: “The guides were very knowledgeable, making history interesting and easy to follow.” Another appreciated the stunning views and said, “Watching the forts and creeks from the boat gave a different perspective that I couldn’t get from land.” Some travelers noted that the experience felt a bit short, but overall, most considered it a worthwhile snapshot of Malta’s maritime history.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This cruise offers a smooth, relaxing way to see Malta’s historic harbors without the hassle of land-based tours or self-navigation. The combination of scenic vistas, historical commentary, and comfortable boat makes it a solid choice for those who want a quick culture, especially if they’re visiting Sliema or Valletta for the first time.

It’s particularly suited for travelers interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying Malta’s natural beauty from the water. The multilingual commentary enhances the experience, making it accessible for a diverse group.

However, if you’re after a longer or more interactive experience—like visiting forts or exploring land sites—you might find this cruise a bit brief. Still, for a two-hour overview, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting a relaxing scenic tour of Malta’s harbors. It’s especially good for travelers who value expert narration and want to see the sights without a lengthy commitment.

The value for money is reasonable, given the inclusion of live guides and the chance to see Malta from a fresh perspective. The short duration makes it ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary or combining with other activities.

If you’re after a straightforward, authentic boat experience with a local touch, this cruise will deliver just that. It’s a simple but memorable way to connect with Malta’s maritime heritage, from the safety and comfort of a well-equipped boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet rundown of Malta’s harbors.

What are the departure times?
It departs daily at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:45pm, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.

What languages are the guides speaking?
Guides provide commentary in both English and German, catering to diverse visitors.

Are there any land visits included?
No, this is a water-only cruise. It focuses on scenic views and maritime sites seen from the boat.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations are flexible—reserve now and pay later.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is a traditional style, designed for sightseeing comfort, with good seating and clear sightlines.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection, plus a camera to capture the stunning views.

Are there any restrictions?
Weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances are not allowed onboard.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially since it’s a relaxed, scenic cruise with informative guides.

Wrapping Up

The From Sliema Traditional Harbour Cruise offers an excellent snapshot of Malta’s historic maritime landscape. Its combination of stunning views, engaging storytelling, and convenient scheduling makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic, educational, and scenic experience without a lengthy commitment.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth land exploration, it provides a memorable perspective on Malta’s strategic and cultural importance from its waters. Perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone looking for a peaceful way to see the harbors, this cruise balances value, comfort, and insight beautifully.

Whether you’re on a short stopover or simply want a relaxing way to soak in Malta’s maritime charm, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty to think about—and a camera full of stunning photos.

You can check if your dates are available here: