Grand Harbour Cruise
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Grand Harbour Cruise

Active
(19 reviews)
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us on a 90 minute cruise of Malta's Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, the two natural harbours either side of Valletta, on a state of the art, eco-friendly, 20 metre, harbour catamaran ferry boat.

Relive Malta's gallant history with a detailed live commentary in English and German, unfolding the history between the two Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942.

Enjoy fantastic views of the magnificent forts, battlements, creeks and skylines of Valletta and the Three Cities - this is a great opportunity for some superb photos.

Sit outdoors or indoors in air-conditioned comfort. Free WiFi and restroom facilities are available on board and food and drinks are available to purchase.

Choose from various departure times starting your cruise from Sliema. Either stay on board for the 90 minute cruise back to Sliema or hop-off at the Esplora Interactive Science Centre in Kalkara to visit the science centre and the Three Cities and then hop-on later to return to Sliema.

Available options

From Sliema

What's included

Free WiFi on board
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Sit outdoors or indoors in air-conditioned comfort
Detailed live commentary in English and German
Option to hop-off at Esplora in Kalkara to visit the Three Cities & hop-on later to return to Sliema
Restroom on board
90 minute Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour cruise
Departure from Sliema with a choice of daily departure times

Detailed itinerary

1

Board the state of the art, eco-friendly, 20 metre, red iSee Malta harbour catamaran ferry boat operated by Captain Morgan, moored at the Ferries in Marsamxett Harbour in Sliema. Arrive early since boat boarding is on a first come first served basis.

Relive Malta's gallant history with a detailed live commentary in English and German.

Enjoy and take photos of the fantastic views of the magnificent forts, battlements, creeks and skyline of Valletta.

Marsamxett Harbour is a natural harbour located to the north of the larger Grand Harbour bounded by Tigné Point in Sliema and extending to Gżira, Ta' Xbiex, Pietà and Msida. Off Gżira lies Manoel Island, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The south eastern shore of the harbour is formed by the Sciberras peninsula, largely covered by the capital city Valletta. At its tip lies the 16th century Fort Saint Elmo.

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Stop 2 Pass by

The fortress captial city Valletta on the Sciberras peninsula, divides Marsamxett Harbour from the larger parallel natural harbour, Grand Harbour.

The use of Grand harbour dates back to prehistoric times to circa 3700 BC. The Grand Harbour has been described as Malta's greatest geographic asset.

Grand Harbour is bounded to the north Saint Elmo Point and the bastions of Valletta, and is bounded to the south by Ricasoli Point and the Three Cities of Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea.

Fort Saint Angelo in Vittoriosa was the base for the Order of Saint John for 268 years, from 1530 to 1798.

The area was the scene of much of the fighting in the Great Siege of Malta of 1565 when the Ottomans attempted to eject the Order of St. John but were ultimately defeated. The area was heavily bombed during the Second Siege of Malta during World War II, as the docks and military installations around the port became targets, causing a large number of civilian casualties.

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The harbour cruise starts from Sliema. You can either stay on board for the 90 minute cruise back to Sliema or hop-off at the Esplora Interactive Science Centre in Kalkara to visit the science centre and the Three Cities and then hop-on later from Esplora at 11:40, 13:40 or 15:55 to return to Sliema.

Esplora Interactive Science Centre is a fun, recreational and educational interactive space for visitors of all ages. Over 200 indoor and outdoor interactive science exhibits make science fun. An exciting Activity Centre allows visitors to experience hands-on workshops and entertaining science shows. Esplora’s stunning Planetarium includes a Colour space 4K theatre showing full-dome shows and live presenter-led visualizations of astronomy and other sciences. Visitors are encouraged to explore, think and imagine as they immerse themselves in a positive and exciting interactive experience. Please check here for opening times https://esplora.org.mt/opening-hours/

What's not included

Food and drink (available to purchase from vending machines on board)

Available languages

Audio guide
DE EN
Guide guide
DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.6
10 reviews
5★
3
4★
3
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor 3.7
9 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
1
2★
3
1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

iSeeMalta red harbour catamaran ferry boat operated by Captain Morgan from The Ferries, The Strand, Sliema in Marsamxett Harbour (Google map Plus Code: WG53+82 Sliema) opposite Sliema Hotel by ST Hotels (59 The Strand, Sliema)

Important notes

A cruise ticket will be sent to you 1 day prior to your cruise via the Viator/Tripadvisor platform. The cruise ticket must first be presented before boarding the catamaran either electronically or in printed form.

About Malta

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean Sea, known for its historic sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. With a rich history influenced by various civilizations, Malta offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions.

Top Attractions

Valletta

Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

Historical Full day Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees

Mdina

Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta, is a fortified city known for its medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets.

Historical Half day Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a famous swimming and snorkeling spot known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery.

Nature Half day Free, boat trips may have fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pastizzi

A flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, a popular street food in Malta.

Snack Vegetarian

Ftira

A traditional Maltese bread often filled with tuna, olives, and capers.

Breakfast Contains fish

Rabbit Stew

A traditional Maltese dish made with rabbit, wine, and herbs.

Dinner Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gozo Scuba diving Kayaking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting historic sites Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The peak season in Malta is characterized by warm, sunny weather, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Maltese, English
  • Widely spoken: English, Italian
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Malta is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use licensed taxis
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering services

Getting there

By air
  • Malta International Airport • 5 km from Valletta
By bus

Valletta Bus Terminal, Birkirkara Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Malta. They are affordable and connect most tourist attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: eCabs, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sliema St. Julian's Marsaxlokk

Day trips

Gozo
25 km from Malta • Full day

Gozo is a smaller island known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and relaxed atmosphere.

Comino
3 km from Malta • Half day

Comino is a small island known for its beautiful Blue Lagoon and crystal-clear waters.

Marsaxlokk
10 km from Valletta • Half day

Marsaxlokk is a charming fishing village known for its Sunday market and fresh seafood.

Festivals

Maltese Carnival • February Maltese International Fireworks Festival • April Maltese Arts Festival • July

Pro tips

  • Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens for a stunning view of the Grand Harbour
  • Try the local pastizzi at a nearby bakery
  • Explore the historic streets of Mdina on foot
  • Book a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon in advance during peak season
  • Visit the Marsaxlokk Market on Sunday for fresh seafood and local crafts
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-120
1
Childs
Age 5-11
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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