Malta Harbours Cruise: Valletta & Three Cities from Sliema

Summary

Valletta’s stone walls, quiet creeks, and the Three Cities seen from the water

You’ll board in Sliema and sail past Valletta’s legendary fortifications, slip quietly into hidden creeks, and get close-up views of the Three Cities—all with local stories drifting through your headphones. Expect salty air, sun-warmed stone, and a glimpse into everyday Maltese life from the water.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the harbour breeze to hit me like that when we left Sliema Ferries. The city noise faded fast—just a few gulls squabbling overhead and that salty smell you only get near old docks. Our boat slipped out past other ferries, everyone craning for photos of Valletta’s golden walls catching the sun. I sat next to a local woman who pointed out Manoel Island and told me about her uncle who worked in the shipyards—her accent was soft, but she laughed when I tried to say “Gżira” right (definitely failed).

The commentary kicked in as we drifted through Marsamxett Harbour, but honestly, I kept getting distracted by tiny fishing boats bobbing along Lazzaretto Creek. There’s this odd hush in some corners—like Pieta Creek—where you hear nothing but water slapping against stone. Passing under those bastions around Floriana and Valletta made me feel small in a good way. You see all these layers of history stacked up: battered forts, cranes from the dockyards, laundry flapping over Senglea’s balconies. It’s not all postcard-perfect—some buildings are crumbling or graffitied—but it feels real.

I caught myself daydreaming as we circled the Grand Harbour. The Three Cities—Cospicua, Vittoriosa, Senglea—looked close enough to touch, their walls almost glowing at this hour. Someone on deck said their grandfather used to swim across here as a kid (I can’t even imagine). We passed Kalkara and Rinella Creeks too—quiet spots where life moves slower; you could smell someone cooking fish somewhere nearby. By the time we turned back toward Sliema Ferries, I felt like I’d seen a side of Malta most people just walk past. Still think about that view between Senglea and Valletta sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic cruise around Malta's harbours

• Depart from Sliema Ferries
• Cruise through Sliema Creek
• Pass by Manoel Island
• Pass through Lazzaretto Creek
• Pass Manoel Island Yacht Marina
• Pass through Ta' Xbiex Creek
• Pass through Msida Creek
• Pass through Pieta Creek
• Pass Valletta fortifications
• Pass Floriana fortifications
• Pass Valletta Grand Harbour
• Pass Marsamxett Harbour
• Pass Menqa and Marsa Creeks
• Pass French and Dockyard Creeks
• Pass Cospicua city
• Pass Senglea city
• Pass Vittoriosa city
• Pass Kalkara Creek
• Pass Rinella Creek
• Return to Sliema Ferries

Top questions

How long is the Malta harbour cruise from Sliema?

The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes round-trip.

Does the cruise include an audio guide or commentary?

Yes, there is audio commentary provided over a PA system during the cruise.

Which harbours does the tour cover?

The tour covers both Marsamxett Harbour and Valletta Grand Harbour.

Where does the harbour cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Sliema Ferries in central Sliema.

Are children or infants allowed on board?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Is there hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Sliema Ferries for boarding.

Are service animals permitted on the boat?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this cruise.

Is this cruise suitable for people with limited mobility?

The cruise is suitable for all fitness levels; specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes a 90-minute sightseeing cruise departing from Sliema Ferries with live audio commentary as you pass Valletta’s Grand Harbour, Marsamxett Harbour, Manoel Island, and the Three Cities before returning to your starting point. Public transport options are nearby if you want to explore more after docking.