The Best Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise of Malta

Exploring Malta’s Harbours by Traditional Maltese Boat: An Authentic Experience

Taking a boat cruise through Malta’s bustling harbors offers a fresh perspective on this storied island. We haven’t personally set sail on this tour, but reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect. For travelers keen on combining scenic views, historical insights, and a relaxed vibe — all at an affordable price — this cruise promises an engaging way to spend around 90 minutes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it features a traditional Maltese Luzzu boat, which adds an authentic maritime touch. Second, the live commentary offers insightful context about Valletta and the Three Cities, making the waterway views more meaningful. Lastly, the onboard bar ensures you can sip a drink while soaking in the scenery. The main consideration? The cruise is relatively short, so if you’re after a deep dive into Malta’s history, you might want to supplement this trip with other tours. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxing, scenic overview — perfect for a quick break during a busy Malta itinerary.

Good To Know

• Authentic Maltese Luzzu boat adds charm and local character
• Live commentary enhances understanding of Malta’s history and geography
• Affordable price point offers great value for a scenic experience
• Stunning views of Valletta, the Three Cities, and harbours suitable for photo enthusiasts
• Bar onboard available, making it easy to relax with a drink
• Short duration (90 minutes) perfect for a quick, scenic overview

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Malta Traditional Harbour Cruise

This cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey around Malta’s two natural harbours — the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour — showcasing the island’s coastal beauty and historic sites. Departing from Sliema Ferries, the tour is designed to provide a comfortable, informative, and visually appealing experience.

The Departure Point and Ease of Access

Starting at Sliema Ferries, right opposite a McDonald’s, the meeting point is straightforward, but some reviews mention it can be tricky to find the exact boat, so arriving early is wise. The boat itself is described as being well-equipped with toilets, and there is a fully stocked bar onboard. This setup helps keep the mood relaxed and comfortable, especially after a morning of sightseeing.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Learn

Once aboard, the boat cruises along Malta’s harbours, passing by historic forts, battlements, and lively marinas. The boat circles the two natural harbours and their ten creeks, offering a comprehensive look at Malta’s maritime landscape. A live commentary guides you through the significance of each site, providing historical context that elevates the experience beyond just pretty views.

Expect to learn about Valletta and the Three Cities — Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa. The guide will share stories dating back to 1565, including Malta’s role during the seige of WWII. Reviewers highlight that the commentary is informative and delivered at a steady pace, allowing passengers to absorb details without feeling rushed. One reviewer, Andrew, appreciated the humorous tone of the guide, making the history feel lively and engaging.

The Views: Scenic Highlights and Photo Opportunities

The views of the Grand Harbour are stunning, especially with the iconic fortifications and the cityscapes of Valletta from the water. You’ll also get unique angles of Malta’s creeks, quiet inlets, and docking areas, making this a photographer’s delight. Several reviews mention the beautiful scenery, with some noting that early morning trips are best to avoid crowds and the intense sun.

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The Bar and Comfort During the Cruise

Having a fully stocked bar onboard is a major plus, especially since the cruise runs at a steady, comfortable pace. Reviewers mention that drinks are not expensive, making it easy to unwind with a cold one while enjoying the views. The boat’s toilets and outdoor seating ensure comfort throughout the ride.

The Experience From the Reviewers’ Perspective

The majority of reviews praise the tour’s value for money, with many pointing out the quality of the commentary and the beautiful scenery. For instance, Catherine called it a “well-organized, informative trip,” emphasizing the large boat and onboard facilities. Alex enjoyed the slight choppiness of the sea, which added a bit of fun with some spray — an unexpected but memorable element.

Others appreciated the timing and ease of booking, with Paul noting how smoothly the process was and how the trip allowed for great views at a steady pace. Several reviewers mentioned that early trips tend to be quieter and offer better lighting for photos.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the cruise is generally well-liked, some reviews highlight minor drawbacks. A few mention that finding the exact boat can be tricky without clear signage, so arriving early helps. The commentary can sometimes be hard to understand if you’re on the noisy right side or if the guide’s accent is thick — so sitting on the left side or closer to the speaker might enhance your listening experience.

The duration (around 70-90 minutes) means this is more of an overview than an in-depth exploration. If history is your passion, consider this a tasty appetizer, not the main course.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those with limited time who want to quickly see and learn about Malta’s harbours and historic sites. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a laid-back activity that combines sightseeing with relaxation. The affordable price means you can enjoy a scenic outing without breaking the bank.

If you enjoy photography, the views of Valletta and the Three Cities are worth capturing. For history buffs, the commentary provides enough detail to deepen your understanding of Malta’s strategic coastal position, especially with stories dating back to the 1500s and WWII.

This experience also works well as a prelude to more detailed tours. Many reviewers recommend doing it early in your trip to get a good orientation and then explore specific sites more deeply later.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Worth It?

This Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise offers excellent value. It blends scenic beauty, local character, and informative commentary into a short, relaxed trip. The boat’s authentic Luzzu design makes it feel genuinely Maltese, and the on-board bar adds a nice touch of comfort.

This tour is especially suited for travelers seeking a quick, scenic overview without the fuss of large crowds or overly commercialized experiences. It’s a perfect way to get your bearings in Malta, enjoy some beautiful views, and learn a bit of history along the way.

Remember, it’s a shorter trip, so if you’re craving an in-depth historical tour, this should be complemented with other activities. But if you’re after an authentic, affordable, and scenic water experience, this cruise ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing a comfortable window to enjoy the scenery and learn about Malta’s harbours.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Sliema Ferries, directly opposite McDonald’s, which is a central and easy-to-find location.

Is there a bar onboard?
Yes, a fully stocked bar is available, offering drinks at reasonable prices, making it easy to relax during the trip.

Are toilets available on the boat?
Absolutely, the boat is equipped with toilets for passenger convenience.

What is the commentary like?
The live commentary is described as informative, steady, and delivered with a touch of humor, enhancing the viewing experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility should your plans shift.

In summary, this Malta harbours cruise is a charming, budget-friendly way to see some of the most iconic views and learn about the island’s past. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a quick, scenic, and authentic water tour that’s easy to fit into a busy Malta itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: