Boat Tours Overview
Malta's crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, dramatic coastline, and neighbouring islands make it a paradise for boat tours. Whether you want to swim in the famous Blue Lagoon, explore hidden sea caves, sail into a Maltese sunset, or charter a private yacht, there's a boat experience for every budget and interest.
The most popular departure points are Sliema Ferries, Bugibba harbour, and Cirkewwa (for Comino). Most tours run from April to October, with July and August being the busiest (and most expensive) months.
Here's everything you need to know about Malta's boat tours, including honest price comparisons, the best operators, and insider tips from locals.
Harbour Cruises
Valletta's Grand Harbour is one of the Mediterranean's most spectacular natural harbours, and a boat cruise is the best way to appreciate its massive fortifications, historic dockyards, and the iconic Three Cities skyline.
🚢 Grand Harbour Cruise
These cruises typically depart from Sliema Ferries and circle the entire Grand Harbour, passing Fort St Angelo, the Valletta bastions, and the superyacht marina.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Price: €15-25 per adult
Best for: History lovers, photographers, first-time visitors
🏰 Two Harbours Cruise
This extended cruise covers both the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, passing Manoel Island, Sliema's waterfront, and the Valletta fortifications from both sides.
Duration: 2-2.5 hours
Price: €20-30 per adult
Best for: Those wanting a comprehensive harbour experience
What You'll See
- Fort St Angelo: The Knights of Malta's historic headquarters
- Valletta Bastions: Massive 16th-century fortifications
- Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua from the water
- Dockyard Creek: Historic shipbuilding area
- Superyacht Marina: Where the mega-rich park their boats
Blue Lagoon Trips
The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is Malta's most famous swimming spot - a stunning turquoise bay with crystal-clear water over white sand. It's busy for a reason: the water really is that beautiful.
💎 Blue Lagoon Day Trip
Most Blue Lagoon trips depart from Sliema, Bugibba, or Cirkewwa and include 4-5 hours at the lagoon with return boat transfer.
Duration: Full day (typically 10am-5pm)
Price: €25-45 per adult (varies by boat type and departure point)
Includes: Return boat transfer, some include sunbed/umbrella
🛥️ Premium Blue Lagoon Experience
Catamaran and speedboat tours offer a more exclusive experience with fewer passengers, drinks included, and sometimes snorkelling equipment.
Duration: Full day or half day
Price: €45-80 per adult
Includes: Drinks, snacks, snorkelling gear, smaller groups
For complete Blue Lagoon information, including the best times to visit and what to expect, see our dedicated Blue Lagoon Guide.
Gozo & Comino Tours
Multi-island tours combining Gozo and Comino offer excellent value, letting you experience Malta's sister islands in a single day.
🏝️ Three Islands Cruise
This popular full-day cruise visits Malta's coastline, Comino (with Blue Lagoon swimming time), and Gozo (usually with a bus tour or free time in Victoria).
Duration: Full day (typically 9am-6pm)
Price: €35-60 per adult
Includes: Boat transfers, Gozo bus tour (on some), lunch (on some)
🌊 Comino Cave & Coast Tour
Smaller boat tours explore Comino's dramatic coastline, sea caves (including the famous Crystal Lagoon and Santa Maria caves), and secluded swimming spots away from the crowded Blue Lagoon.
Duration: Half day (4-5 hours)
Price: €30-50 per adult
Best for: Those who want to swim without the Blue Lagoon crowds
🚤 Gozo Day Trip by Boat
Rather than taking the regular Gozo ferry, scenic boat trips from Sliema offer a more leisurely journey with coastal views and sometimes stops at Comino.
Duration: Full day
Price: €40-65 per adult
Includes: Return boat, sometimes Gozo bus tour
For planning your own Gozo adventure, check our comprehensive Gozo Day Trip Guide.
Sunset Cruises
There's something magical about watching the Maltese sun sink into the Mediterranean from the deck of a boat. Sunset cruises are perfect for couples, special occasions, or anyone wanting a relaxed evening on the water.
🌅 Standard Sunset Cruise
Depart from Sliema or Bugibba in the late afternoon, cruise along the coast, and watch the sunset with drinks included.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Price: €40-60 per adult
Includes: Welcome drink, wine/beer, snacks
🍾 Premium Sunset Sail
Sailing yacht or catamaran experiences with champagne, canapes, and a more intimate atmosphere (smaller groups).
Duration: 3-4 hours
Price: €70-120 per adult
Includes: Champagne, premium drinks, gourmet snacks, smaller groups
Best Sunset Cruise Routes
- Sliema to Valletta: Watch the sun set behind Valletta's skyline
- Comino sunset: Longer trips include swimming at the Blue Lagoon before sunset
- North coast: Dramatic cliff views as the sun sets
- Dingli Cliffs coastal: Malta's highest point from the sea
Private Yacht Charter
For the ultimate Malta boat experience, charter your own yacht. Whether it's a romantic getaway, family celebration, or group adventure, private charters offer complete flexibility and exclusivity.
⛵ Sailing Yacht Charter
Classic sailing yachts for a traditional maritime experience. Most accommodate 6-10 passengers.
Half day (4 hours): €400-700
Full day (8 hours): €700-1,200
Includes: Skipper, fuel, basic refreshments (upgrades available)
🛥️ Motor Yacht Charter
Faster and more spacious, motor yachts are ideal for covering more distance or groups prioritising comfort over sailing romance.
Half day (4 hours): €500-900
Full day (8 hours): €900-1,800
Includes: Skipper, fuel, refreshments
🎉 Luxury Yacht Charter
For special occasions - larger yachts with crew, catering, and premium amenities.
Full day: €2,000-5,000+
Includes: Full crew, catering, water toys, premium drinks
Popular Charter Itineraries
- Blue Lagoon & Comino: The classic choice - swim in crystal waters without the crowds
- Gozo circumnavigation: Full-day exploration of Gozo's coastline
- South Malta caves: Blue Grotto, Ghar Lapsi, and hidden coves
- North coast cliffs: Dramatic scenery and secluded swimming
- Sunset charter: Evening sail with dinner on board
Fishing Trips
Malta's waters are rich with fish, and fishing trips offer a different perspective on the islands. From beginner-friendly outings to serious deep-sea expeditions, there's something for every angler.
🎣 Half-Day Fishing Trip
Ideal for beginners and families. Fish for sea bream, grouper, and amberjack in coastal waters.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Price: €60-100 per person (usually min 2 people)
Includes: Equipment, bait, instruction, refreshments
🐟 Deep-Sea Fishing
Target larger game fish including tuna, swordfish, and mahi-mahi further offshore.
Duration: 6-8 hours
Price: €400-800 per boat (up to 4-6 anglers)
Best season: May-October (tuna peak: August-September)
What You Might Catch
- Common catches: Sea bream, grouper, amberjack, dentex
- Game fish: Bluefin tuna, swordfish, dorado (mahi-mahi)
- Season-dependent: Lampuki (dolphinfish) in autumn is a Maltese delicacy
Prices & Comparison
Here's a quick comparison of typical boat tour prices to help you choose the right experience for your budget:
| Tour Type | Duration | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harbour Cruise | 1.5-2 hrs | €15-25 | Budget/History |
| Blue Lagoon Trip | Full day | €25-45 | Swimming |
| Three Islands Cruise | Full day | €35-60 | Value |
| Sunset Cruise | 2-3 hrs | €40-80 | Romance |
| Fishing Trip | 4-5 hrs | €60-100 pp | Anglers |
| Private Charter (half) | 4 hrs | €400-700 | Groups/Exclusive |
| Private Charter (full) | 8 hrs | €700-1,800 | Special Occasions |
Seasonal Price Variations
- Peak season (July-August): Prices 20-30% higher, must book in advance
- Shoulder season (May-June, September-October): Best value, good weather
- Low season (November-April): Limited tours, weather-dependent, best deals
Best Operators
Malta has dozens of boat tour operators. Here are some of the most reputable, organised by tour type:
⭐ Recommended Operators
Harbour Cruises:
- Captain Morgan Cruises: Malta's largest operator, reliable and professional
- Luzzu Cruises: Traditional Maltese boats, more intimate experience
Blue Lagoon & Island Tours:
- Supreme Cruises: Modern catamarans, good onboard service
- Hornblower Cruises: Competitive prices, includes snorkelling gear
- Comino Ferries: Basic but affordable, frequent departures from Cirkewwa
Sunset & Premium Cruises:
- Lazy Pirate Party Boat: Fun atmosphere, good music, younger crowd
- Hera Cruises: Elegant experience, quality catering
Private Charters:
- Malta Charters: Wide range of yachts, professional crews
- SamBoat/Click&Boat: Online platforms with reviews and easy booking
What to Bring
Being prepared makes your boat trip much more enjoyable. Here's your essential packing list:
🎒 Essential Items
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Reapply every 2 hours - sun reflects off water
- Swimwear: Wear it under your clothes for quick changes
- Towel: Quick-dry microfibre towels are ideal
- Hat and sunglasses: No shade on most boats
- Water: Stay hydrated - bring at least 1.5L per person
- Snacks: Especially for full-day trips - food on boats/islands is expensive
- Cash: For drinks/tips - not all boats accept cards
- Waterproof phone pouch: Protect your phone while swimming
🤿 Optional Items
- Snorkelling gear: Some tours provide it; your own is more hygienic
- Waterproof camera: Underwater shots at the Blue Lagoon are amazing
- Light cover-up: For when it's windy or after swimming
- Seasickness tablets: Take 30 minutes before departure if prone
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Better for the marine environment
📥 Download Your Free Boat Tours Comparison Chart
Get our printable PDF with all tours, prices, operators, and what to bring for every trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do boat tours cost in Malta?
Boat tour prices in Malta vary by type: harbour cruises start from €15-25, Blue Lagoon day trips cost €25-45, Gozo and Comino full-day excursions range from €35-60, sunset cruises are €40-80, and private yacht charters start from €400 for a half-day. Prices are higher in peak summer (July-August) and on weekends.
What is the best boat tour in Malta?
The most popular boat tour is the Blue Lagoon trip to Comino, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. For a more comprehensive experience, the Three Islands cruise visiting Malta, Gozo, and Comino provides excellent value. Sunset cruises from Sliema or Bugibba are ideal for romance, whilst harbour cruises offer fascinating historical insights into Valletta's fortifications.
When is the best time for boat tours in Malta?
The best months for boat tours are May, June, September, and October - warm enough for swimming but less crowded than July-August. Summer offers the calmest seas but Blue Lagoon trips can be extremely busy. Morning departures (before 10am) avoid the biggest crowds. Sunset cruises are magical year-round but check weather forecasts as winter seas can be rough.
Can I charter a private yacht in Malta?
Yes, private yacht charter is popular in Malta. Half-day charters (4 hours) start from €400-600 for a small sailing yacht or motorboat (up to 8 people). Full-day charters range from €800-1,500. Luxury yachts with crew and catering can cost €2,000-5,000+ per day. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance during summer. Most charters depart from Sliema, St Julian's, or Bugibba marinas.
Do I need to book boat tours in advance?
Advance booking is highly recommended, especially in summer (June-September) and for weekend trips. Blue Lagoon and sunset cruises often sell out 2-3 days ahead. You can book online through operator websites or platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator. Some operators accept walk-up bookings at Sliema Ferries or Bugibba harbour, but availability is not guaranteed.