From Sliema: Blue Grotto Trip – Including Boat Cave Tour

If Malta’s rugged coastline and shimmering waters have caught your eye, a trip to the Blue Grotto from Sliema is a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights. While this isn’t a secretive off-the-beaten-path experience, it offers a well-rounded day packed with scenic views, light adventure, and authentic Maltese charm.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning panoramic views from the Blue Grotto panorama point are truly jaw-dropping. Second, the short but scenic hike to Xutu Tower rewards you with sweeping vistas of the coast and sea below. And third, the boat tour into the caves offers a close-up encounter with Malta’s famous sea caves, with opportunities for swimming and exploring.

A potential consideration? The waiting times for transportation can be a bit longer than ideal, with around 30-minute waits for buses. Still, most travelers agree that the overall experience is worth it.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of nature, light activity, and cultural exploration. It’s suitable for anyone with decent mobility who wants a balanced day out that’s both memorable and manageable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or in a group, the friendly, international vibe makes it easy to connect and enjoy.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Blue Grotto and Xutu Tower give ample photo moments.
• Diverse Activities: From hiking and sightseeing to boat caves and swimming, the variety keeps things interesting.
• Inclusive Transport: Private transportation ensures a smooth, hassle-free day.
• Authentic Experience: Explore local village shops and enjoy a picnic or nearby restaurant for a taste of Malta.
• Social Atmosphere: Meet travelers from around the world and share the experience.
• Affordable Price: At $34, this experience offers excellent value, especially with all logistics covered.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Blue Grotto Tour from Sliema

If you’re after a full day of Malta’s coastal beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s not just a boat trip — it’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, light hiking, and relaxing by the water, all led by guides who know their stuff.

We love how the tour starts with a private bus ride, away from the busy streets of Sliema, heading straight to the Blue Grotto’s most impressive viewpoint. The view of the cave itself, which looks like a turtle from the right angle, is genuinely photogenic and will be a highlight for your camera roll. The optional short hike up to Xutu Tower offers sweeping views over the coast, perfect for a quick stretch and some memorable shots.

What’s truly unique is the boat ride into the caves. Expect sunlight filtering into the blue waters, creating that famous kaleidoscope of colors. Several reviews highlight the boat tour as a major highlight, with one reviewer calling it “super cool” and a perfect way to see the caves up close.

While the trip covers a fair amount of ground, it’s designed to be accessible. The light walking involved is suitable for most people with decent mobility, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax, swim, or explore at your leisure. Just remember to pack water, sunscreen, and your swimming gear!

What You’ll Experience: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Burger King in Sliema at 9:45 am, where you’ll meet your guides. From there, a private coach whisks you away on a scenic 45-minute ride along Malta’s coast, giving you your first glimpse of the rugged shoreline and salt flats. The comfort of private transport means you avoid the hassle of public buses and get more time to enjoy the scenery.

Blue Grotto Panoramic Viewpoint

The first major stop is at the Blue Grotto panoramic viewpoint. This is where you’ll get a sweeping shot of the sea caves below. The view has been praised by travelers for its breathtaking quality — one reviewer described it as “marvelous” and worth every minute of the wait. It’s an ideal spot for photos, so bring your camera or smartphone.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Short Scenic Hike to Xutu Tower

Next, you’ll enjoy a short hike to Xutu Tower — a charming, historic lookout that offers breathtaking views of the coast. The walk is light, but comfortable footwear is recommended, especially since some reviewers advise not to forget good walking shoes and a hat. The climb is manageable and provides a chance to absorb the natural beauty of Malta’s coastline away from the crowds.

Boat Cave Tour

The highlight for many is the boat cruise into the caves. This part lasts about 30 minutes and offers close-up views of the towering caves where sunlight dances over the water, casting an array of blues and greens. Many reviews mention how magical the caves look when sunlight hits the water and how special it is to glide through these natural formations. If you’re brave enough, you can even take a refreshing swim in the Blue Grotto canal, which is usually a relaxing and memorable experience.

Leisure Time: Picnic, Local Food, and Exploration

After the boat ride, you’ll have around 1.5 hours of free time. The default plan is to gather at Xutu Tower for a friendly picnic, with a variety of snacks and drinks provided. Alternatively, you can choose to dine at a nearby restaurant with local cuisine.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to unwind, chat with new friends, or explore the small Blue Grotto village shops. It’s a chance to buy souvenirs or simply soak in the local atmosphere.

Return Journey

The journey back to Sliema takes another 45 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. The tour wraps up at the original meeting point, making it convenient for most travelers staying nearby.

Practical Details and What to Bring

This tour costs $34 per person and includes private transportation, the boat ride, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s a good value considering all the logistics and activities included. Food and drinks are not included, so packing a sandwich or snack is advisable, especially if you plan to stay for the picnic.

What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be hiking. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and a towel and swimwear if you plan to swim. A light jacket is recommended if it’s windy or chilly.

Timing: The tour departs at 10:00 am and returns around 4:00 pm, making it a relaxed but full day out. Keep in mind, there may be some waiting for transportation, but most travelers agree that the experience more than compensates.

Authentic Feedback and Insights

One traveler shared, “The trip was very well organized, the hike was nice (remember your hat and shoes), and the boat ride was super cool.” This highlights the importance of comfortable footwear and a sun hat, especially since some reviews noted waiting times could be improved.

Another review emphasized the value of the guides’ knowledge, saying, “The supervisors were really kind and made the day special.” The guides, often from English Cafe Malta, are praised for their friendly, approachable manner and local tips.

While some wished for more information about the Blue Grotto itself, the overall consensus remains positive, with travelers recommending the tour for its beautiful scenery, relaxed pace, and friendly atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a relaxing yet engaging day discovering Malta’s coast. It suits those with decent stamina who enjoy light hiking and boating, but it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

Travelers looking for a social atmosphere will appreciate the diverse group, often including expats, students, and travelers from many different countries. If you love scenic viewpoints, natural caves, and a bit of swimming, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for budget-conscious travelers, since the full experience offers good value for the price, especially with all logistics, transportation, and guides included.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 18, mainly because of the light hiking and boat activities, but older teens with good stamina could enjoy it.

What should I wear for the hike and boat tour?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking, and bring a hat and sunscreen. Swimwear and a towel are recommended if you plan to swim.

How long do the boat caves last?
The boat tour into the caves lasts about 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery and take photos.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’re encouraged to bring your own snacks or enjoy local eateries during your free time.

What are the start and end times?
The tour departs at 10:00 am and returns around 4:00 pm. Check availability for specific starting times, as they can vary.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation to and from Sliema is included, making the day stress-free and comfortable.

To sum it up, this Blue Grotto trip from Sliema offers a well-rounded day exploring Malta’s stunning coastlines, caves, and villages. With scenic viewpoints, a gentle hike, and a memorable boat ride, it strikes a great balance for active travelers who want to see the best of Malta’s natural beauty without overexertion. The friendly guides, combined with the opportunity to swim and relax, make it a worthwhile experience at an accessible price point. Perfect for social travelers, nature lovers, and those craving a taste of Malta’s coastal magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: