Water Transport Overview
Malta's harbour ferries are one of the island's best-kept secrets for getting around. While most tourists battle through bus traffic, savvy travellers hop on a ferry and arrive faster, cooler, and with better views.
The two main ferry services — Sliema-Valletta and Valletta-Three Cities — are practical transport links, not tourist rides. They're used daily by locals commuting to work, which means they're frequent, affordable, and reliable.
Beyond the regular ferries, Malta offers traditional dgħajsa water taxis (pronounced "die-sa") and various harbour cruise options. Whether you need quick transport or a leisurely tour, there's a boat for every purpose. For a complete overview of all Malta transport options, see our Getting Around Malta Guide.
Sliema-Valletta Ferry
The Sliema-Valletta ferry is arguably the best travel hack in Malta. Instead of a 25-minute bus ride through traffic, you get a 5-minute scenic crossing with stunning views of Valletta's fortified walls rising from the water.
⛴️ Sliema-Valletta Ferry Service
Operated by Valletta Ferry Services, this route connects the Strand in Sliema with the foot of Valletta, near the Barrakka Lift.
Key Details:
- Journey time: 5 minutes
- Single fare: €1.50
- Return fare: €2.80
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Operating hours: 7:00am - 6:45pm (winter), extended in summer
Why Take the Ferry Instead of the Bus?
- Speed: 5 minutes vs 25+ minutes by bus
- Views: Stunning approach to Valletta's fortifications
- Comfort: Seats available, no standing in crowded buses
- Same price: €1.50 — identical to a bus fare
- Reliable: No traffic delays, runs on schedule
Three Cities Ferry
The Three Cities — Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (L-Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla) — are gems of Maltese history, and the ferry is by far the best way to reach them. For a complete guide to exploring this area, see our Three Cities Guide.
🚢 Three Cities Ferry Service
This service connects Valletta Waterfront with the historic harbourside towns across the Grand Harbour.
Key Details:
- Journey time: 10 minutes to Birgu
- Single fare: €2.00
- Return fare: €3.50
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Stops: Valletta → Birgu → Senglea → Cospicua
Why the Ferry Beats the Bus
Getting to the Three Cities by bus involves multiple changes and confusing routes. The ferry is direct, scenic, and deposits you right in the heart of the historic waterfront. You'll arrive relaxed instead of frazzled.
- Bus route: Multiple changes, 30-45 minutes, confusing
- Ferry route: Direct, 10 minutes, straightforward
- Bonus: The ferry crossing is an attraction in itself
All Ferry Routes
Here's a complete overview of Malta's regular ferry services:
| Route | Duration | Single | Return | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sliema → Valletta | 5 mins | €1.50 | €2.80 | Every 30 mins |
| Valletta → Three Cities | 10 mins | €2.00 | €3.50 | Every 30 mins |
| Valletta → Gozo (Fast Ferry) | 45 mins | €7.00 | €14.00 | Multiple daily |
| Cirkewwa → Mġarr (Gozo Channel) | 25 mins | — | €4.65 | Every 45 mins |
| Comino Blue Lagoon | 15-25 mins | €10-15 | Included | Seasonal |
Schedules & Timetables
🕐 Sliema-Valletta Ferry Schedule
Winter (October - May):
- First ferry from Sliema: 7:00am
- Last ferry from Sliema: 6:00pm
- Last ferry from Valletta: 6:45pm
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Summer (June - September):
- First ferry: 7:00am
- Last ferry: 10:00pm (approx.)
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes (15 mins in peak)
🕐 Three Cities Ferry Schedule
Year-round:
- First ferry from Valletta: 7:30am
- Last ferry from Valletta: 6:00pm
- Last return from Three Cities: 6:30pm
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Prices & Tickets
How to Buy Tickets
- On the pier: Ticket booths at Sliema Strand and Valletta Waterfront
- On the boat: Cash payments accepted onboard
- Online: Some services offer advance booking
💳 Payment Options
- Cash: Accepted everywhere
- Card: Accepted at ticket booths
- Tallinja Card: NOT valid on harbour ferries (buses only)
Saving Money on Ferries
- Buy return tickets: Slightly cheaper than two singles
- Children: Reduced fares for under-12s
- Residents: Special rates with ID
Where to Catch Ferries
📍 Sliema Ferry Terminal
Location: The Strand, Sliema (near the Fortina Hotel)
The terminal is on the main waterfront promenade. Look for the covered pier with the "Valletta Ferry" signs. It's impossible to miss.
Getting there:
- Walking from Sliema centre: 5-10 minutes
- Bus stops nearby on The Strand
- Closest landmark: Fortina Spa Resort
📍 Valletta Ferry Terminal
Location: Beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens
The Sliema ferry arrives at the foot of Valletta's bastions. From here, you can take the Barrakka Lift (€1) directly up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, or walk up the steps.
Key info:
- The lift is fast and offers great views
- Steps are steep but free
- Valletta bus terminus is a 5-minute walk from the top
📍 Valletta Waterfront (Three Cities Ferry)
Location: Pinto Wharf, near the cruise terminal
The Three Cities ferry departs from a different location than the Sliema ferry. It's at the Valletta Waterfront, a beautifully restored area with restaurants and bars.
Getting there from Valletta centre:
- Take the Barrakka Lift down (free)
- Walk along the waterfront (10 minutes)
- Or use the public lift at Victoria Gate
📍 Three Cities Landing Points
Birgu (Vittoriosa): Lands at the historic waterfront near Fort St Angelo
Senglea: Lands near the Safe Haven Garden viewpoint
Cospicua: Lands at the Dock No. 1 area
Traditional Dgħajsa Boats
The dgħajsa (pronounced "die-sa") is Malta's traditional water taxi — a brightly coloured wooden rowing boat that's been ferrying passengers across the Grand Harbour for centuries.
🛶 About the Dgħajsa
These iconic boats feature:
- Distinctive high, pointed prows (bow and stern)
- Bright paint — typically yellow, red, blue, or green
- Traditional hand-painted decorations
- Powered by oars (some now have small motors)
The dgħajsa has been used since the time of the Knights of St John. Originally, they were the only way to cross the harbour. Today, they're a charming way to experience Malta's maritime heritage.
Where to Find Dgħajsa
- Birgu (Vittoriosa) waterfront: Boatmen wait near Fort St Angelo
- Senglea point: At the tip near Safe Haven Garden
- Valletta Waterfront: Occasionally available
Dgħajsa Prices
Prices are negotiable and depend on the journey:
- Short crossing (e.g., Senglea to Birgu): €5-10
- Harbour tour (15-20 minutes): €15-25
- Extended tour (30+ minutes): €25-40
Dgħajsa vs Regular Ferry
The dgħajsa is not a substitute for the regular ferry — it's a different experience:
- Regular ferry: Practical transport, fixed price, scheduled
- Dgħajsa: Heritage experience, negotiable price, on-demand
Take the dgħajsa when you want a unique, photogenic experience and have time to spare. Take the ferry when you need to get somewhere efficiently.
Harbour Tours & Cruises
For a leisurely exploration of Malta's historic harbours, several operators offer boat tours ranging from quick cruises to full dinner experiences.
🛥️ Grand Harbour Cruises
Duration: 1-2 hours
Price: €15-30 per person
These cruises circle the Grand Harbour, passing:
- Valletta's impressive bastions
- Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities
- Historic dockyards and fortifications
- Cruise ship terminal and commercial port
Commentary (often in multiple languages) explains the history of each landmark. It's an excellent introduction to Malta's maritime heritage.
🌅 Sunset & Dinner Cruises
Duration: 2-4 hours
Price: €50-80 per person
Evening cruises typically include:
- Welcome drink
- Dinner (Maltese or Mediterranean cuisine)
- Views of Valletta illuminated at night
- Some include live music or entertainment
Popular Harbour Tour Operators
- Captain Morgan Cruises: Largest operator, multiple tour options
- Hornblower Cruises: Smaller boats, more intimate experience
- Luzzu Cruises: Traditional boat options
- Private charters: Available from most operators
Which Tour is Right for You?
| Tour Type | Best For | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dgħajsa ride | Quick, authentic experience | 15-30 mins | €15-30 |
| Harbour cruise | History lovers, photography | 1-2 hours | €15-30 |
| Sunset cruise | Romantic evenings | 2-3 hours | €35-50 |
| Dinner cruise | Special occasions | 3-4 hours | €50-80 |
📥 Download Your Free Malta Ferry Map
Get our printable PDF with all ferry routes, departure points, schedules, and prices!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Sliema to Valletta ferry cost?
The Sliema-Valletta ferry costs €1.50 for a single journey or €2.80 return. The crossing takes just 5 minutes and offers stunning views of Valletta's fortifications. Ferries run every 30 minutes from early morning until late evening.
Where do I catch the ferry to the Three Cities?
The Three Cities ferry departs from Valletta Waterfront (near the cruise terminal). It stops at Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua. A single journey costs €2.00 and takes about 10 minutes. Ferries run every 30 minutes.
What is a dgħajsa and where can I ride one?
A dgħajsa (pronounced "die-sa") is Malta's traditional wooden water taxi, painted in bright colours. You can hire dgħajsa boats in the Grand Harbour, particularly between Valletta and the Three Cities. Prices are negotiable but typically €5-10 for a short crossing or €20-30 for a harbour tour.
Are there harbour cruises in Malta?
Yes, several operators offer Grand Harbour cruises lasting 1-2 hours. These typically cost €15-25 per person and include commentary about Valletta's history, the Three Cities, and Fort St Angelo. Some operators offer dinner cruises for €50-80.
What time does the Sliema ferry stop running?
The Sliema-Valletta ferry runs from approximately 7:00am until around 6:45pm in winter and later in summer (until about 10:00pm). Services run every 30 minutes during the day, with reduced frequency early morning and evening.