Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise

Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise Review: Exploring Malta from the Water

Taking a harbor cruise around Malta’s historic coastline is a fantastic way to see the island’s most iconic spots without the hassle of navigating busy streets or crowded tours. We’ve looked into this 1.5-hour boat trip offered by iSeeMalta, and it promises a relaxing, informative, and scenic experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers — from history buffs to those simply seeking a refreshing perspective on Malta’s stunning harbor.

What we love about this cruise are the modern catamarans equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning, the knowledgeable live commentary, and the flexibility to hop off for other nearby attractions like the Esplora Science Centre. On the flip side, a few reviews suggest that the experience can be affected by weather conditions and group size, which might impact visibility or comfort. This cruise is best suited for those wanting a laid-back, scenic introduction to Malta’s waterfront, especially if they appreciate a good value and informative guides.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At around $23 per person, this cruise offers a decent window into Malta’s coastal sights.
• Flexible Stops: Includes optional visits to local sites like Esplora, plus the ability to catch the next cruise or hop-on hop-off bus.
• Live Commentary: Guides like the one praised in reviews (though not named) provide insights that add depth to the scenery.
• Modern Comfort: State-of-the-art catamarans with Wi-Fi and air conditioning make the experience comfortable, even on warm days.
• Weather Dependent: The tour’s operation can be affected by rough seas, potentially leading to cancellations.
• Group Size and Timing: With a cap of 100 travelers, the trip remains intimate enough, and the timing is generally flexible, running daily from late morning to early evening.

An In-Depth Look at the Harbour Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The cruise departs from Sliema Ferry, a convenient hub with easy access via public transportation. The entire experience lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing a leisurely window to soak in the views without feeling rushed. This duration strikes a good balance—enough time to see key sights without wearing out your welcome on the water.

What You Can Expect

Once aboard, you’ll quickly realize that this is a well-maintained, modern catamaran designed for passenger comfort. Reviewers mention the excellent quality seats and climate control, making it pleasant even during warmer days. Some travelers, however, note that the roof canopy can obscure views, especially when trying to get a full panoramic shot of Valletta or the Three Cities.

The Highlights and Stops

The cruise’s itinerary includes several historical and scenic stops that elevate the experience:

Fort Manoel on Manoel Island is a star-shaped fort built in the 18th century by the Order of Saint John. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to view its Baroque architecture from the water, noting that this site commands the entrance to Marsamxett Harbour and Sliema Creek. One reviewer commented that the guide did a good job explaining the art and statues around the area, adding richness to the visual experience.

Fort St. Elmo is another prominent landmark, located on Valletta’s seaward shore. Its role in the Great Siege of Malta of 1565 makes it a must-see, and from the water, you can appreciate its strategic position. Many reviewers found the commentary engaging, describing it as informative and helping them understand Malta’s defensive history.

Valletta itself appears breathtaking from the water, with its bastions, palaces, and churches forming a stunning silhouette. Reviewers highlight that viewing the city from the harbor gives a different perspective than walking its streets—more relaxed and panoramic.

The Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—are the tour’s highlight for many. These fortified villages are full of history, with centuries of preservation and stories of resilience. Passengers can admire their medieval charm and vibrant waterfronts, often describing this part as the most memorable.

Fort St. Angelo in Birgu is another notable stop, with its medieval origins and role as the Order of Saint John’s headquarters during the Great Siege. From the boat, it’s easy to see why this site is called the “Gibraltar of Malta,” offering a commanding view across the Grand Harbour.

Optional Stop at Esplora Science Centre

One of the compelling features of this tour is the optional stop at Esplora, Malta’s interactive science museum opened in 2016. While admission isn’t included, many travelers appreciate the chance to explore hands-on exhibits and then catch the next harbor cruise or hop on a double-decker bus. Some reviews mention this as a great addition for families or those with children, even if the stop can be brief due to docking challenges.

The Return and Flexibility

After the cruise, travelers have the option to catch the hop-on hop-off bus or reboard for another cruise. This flexibility is often praised, allowing visitors to customize their sightseeing and continue exploring at their own pace.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

Reviewers consistently mention the value for money—at just under $25, this cruise offers a relaxing way to get a different view of Malta’s historic sites. The guide’s commentary is praised for being clear, informative, and engaging, adding context to the sights that might otherwise be missed. Several mention the clean, well-maintained vessel and the reliable Wi-Fi, which makes the journey even more enjoyable.

The slow-paced nature of the cruise allows for ample photo opportunities and a chance to simply soak in the scenery. The bumpy ride into Valletta during high tides, described as “so much fun,” is a memorable highlight for some—adding a bit of adventure to the smooth ride.

What Could Be Better

A handful of reviews point to weather-dependent cancellations. When seas are rough, the cruise can be canceled with little notice, leading to frustrations and the need to rebook or seek refunds.

Some passengers find that the view can be somewhat obstructed by the canopy and that the top deck isn’t fully open, which might limit the experience for those wanting unobstructed views. Plus, during busy times, the large number of travelers can make the commentary hard to hear, especially if loud children are involved, as some reviewers observed.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, and booking around 11 days prior ensures a spot.
• Check weather conditions: Be aware that rough seas could lead to cancellation, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• Bring a camera and sun protection: The views are fantastic, but the canopy can limit your photo angles.
• Consider the timing: The cruise runs from 10:30 am to 5 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Use the hop-on hop-off bus: It’s a great way to extend your exploration without extra hassle.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This harbor cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic overview of Malta’s key harbor sites without the need for extensive walking or crowded group tours. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comfortable, informative boat ride with good value.

Those with a curiosity for history will enjoy the narration about forts and the cityscape, while photo enthusiasts will love the panoramic vistas. However, travelers expecting an adventure-filled or highly detailed guided tour might find it a bit light on depth. Weather-sensitive travelers should be prepared for possible cancellations or delays.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For under $25, this cruise offers a great way to see Malta from the water, combining comfort, scenic views, and informative commentary. The modern catamarans and optional stops make it a flexible and enjoyable outing, especially if you’re after a laid-back experience rather than a busy, packed tour.

It’s a best fit for those who prioritize comfort, good value, and scenic sightseeing over intense tours. If you’re looking for a peaceful glide past historic forts and picturesque harbors, with the option to explore further ashore, this cruise is likely to meet your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, the cruise generally accommodates most travelers, including families and children. Keep in mind that some reviews mention loud groups, so bringing ear protection for little ones might help.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring your camera for photos, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket in case it gets windy. Wi-Fi is available onboard, which is great for quick updates or sharing your views.

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the sights without it being an all-day commitment.

Can I visit the Esplora Science Centre during the tour?
Yes, you have the option to stop at Esplora, but note that admission isn’t included. It’s a quick visit, perfect if you want a touch of hands-on science before rejoining the next cruise or exploring further.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If seas are too rough, the cruise may be canceled with full refunds or rescheduling offered. It’s best to check the forecast before your booking.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. For specific accessibility questions, contacting the supplier directly is recommended.

To sum it up, the Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise is a solid choice for anyone wanting an easy, scenic, and reasonably priced way to see Malta’s historic waterfronts. Its relaxed pace, combined with the comfort of a modern vessel and engaging guides, makes it a memorable part of any Maltese itinerary—if the weather cooperates. Whether you’re snapping photos of Valletta’s fortress walls or admiring the colorful Three Cities, this cruise offers a fresh, water-level perspective that’s well worth the modest cost.