Photo: Malta Boat Trips | Birgu Panoramic View © ViewingMalta.com
You haven’t really visited Malta until you’ve explored its dazzling archipelago by sea. Though its ancient sites and gorgeous scenery certainly deserve your attention, the country also happens to be home to some of the Mediterranean’s most jaw-dropping caves, bays, lagoons and beaches. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of boat trips in Malta for those longing to get out on the water. This guide covers the most popular boat tours across Malta, Gozo, Comino, and Valletta, including how to visit the Blue Lagoon, the Blue Grotto, and the historic Grand Harbour.
Explore the Blue Lagoon Malta by Boat
A Blue Lagoon Malta boat trip is often considered the highlight of any island visit. Located off the tiny island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Many tours depart from Sliema, Bugibba, and Cirkewwa, ranging from family-friendly daytime cruises to romantic sunset sails.
Tour options vary from large catamarans to smaller, more intimate boats. Several operators offer combined excursions that include Comino and Gozo, making it a full-day adventure. For official information on Comino’s conservation status and visitor guidance, visit Malta’s Environment and Resources Authority.
Discover Gozo with Scenic Boat Trips
Gozo boat trips provide a relaxed and scenic experience, combining sightseeing with cultural immersion. The second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is rich with cliffs, coves, and small beaches that are best viewed from the water. Many tours include stops at Xlendi Bay, Dwejra Bay (site of the former Azure Window), and other coastal gems. Gozo boat tours often pair with Comino stops, giving visitors the best of both islands in one outing.
For travellers seeking more independence, local boat rentals or private charters from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo are also available.
Grand Harbour Cruises in Valletta
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, Malta’s capital city of Valletta is framed by forts, its skyline punctured by picturesque domes and spires, its golden hue especially tawny under the Mediterranean sun. After you’ve wandered its alleys on foot, you can add another dimension to your sightseeing with a boat tour of the striking Grand Harbour. You’ll also be rewarded with views of The Three Cities – Cospicua, Vittoriosa and Senglea. The Grand Harbour cruise experience is particularly striking at sunset, when the golden limestone buildings glow in the fading light.
Blue Grotto Malta Boat Tours
Located on Malta’s southern coast opposite the uninhabited islet Filfla, the blue Grotto is the collective name given to a group of seven extraordinary sea caves that can only be accessed by boat. Not to be mistaken for the Blue Lagoon, it was given its name by a British soldier in the 1950s who was struck by its similarity to the Grotta Azzurra in Capri. The area can be accessed via boat tours from Wied iz-Zurrieq, which lead visitors through the collection of extraordinary rock formations, including Honeymoon Cave, Cat’s Cave and the aptly named Reflection Cave.
Boat tours to the Blue Grotto are typically shorter and operate in calm sea conditions. They are perfect for travellers wanting a quick but unforgettable natural experience.
Boat Trips from Sliema
Sliema remains the hub for most boat trips in Malta. Whether you’re joining a Blue Lagoon tour, Gozo boat excursion, or Valletta harbour cruise, Sliema’s harbourfront is the primary departure point. Operators offer full-day, half-day, and evening cruises, many with onboard dining or swimming stops.
Travelers can easily access harbour cruise Malta departures from Sliema to explore the coastline, snorkel in remote bays, or enjoy a party cruise. Booking ahead during peak seasons (June–September) is strongly recommended.
How to Choose the Best Malta Boat Tour
Choosing the right Malta boat tour depends on your interests and time. For scenic exploration, opt for a Grand Harbour cruise or a coastal tour around Gozo. If swimming in pristine waters is the goal, prioritise a Blue Lagoon trip. Travellers keen on photography will appreciate sunset cruises, while families may enjoy full-day combo tours covering multiple islands.
Sail into Your Mediterranean Escape
Malta’s boat tours offer more than a chance to cool off, they provide access to hidden coves, breathtaking natural sites, and centuries-old harbour cities. Whether visiting for a weekend or a longer getaway, planning a day at sea is an experience not to be missed.
For a convenient base near Sliema’s departure points and easy access to the island’s top attractions, book your stay at Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina. Enjoy comfort, stunning sea views, and direct links to the best of Malta’s coastal experiences.
