3 Island Cruise onboard Faith

An Honest Look at the 3 Island Cruise onboard Faith in Malta

If you’re considering a boat tour around Malta’s coast, the 3 Island Cruise onboard Faith promises a full day of scenic views, swimming opportunities, and guided commentary. While it has its share of fans and some critics, this cruise offers a solid way to experience Malta’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines value and convenience—lunch, drinks, and round-trip transport are included, making it straightforward for travelers who want a hassle-free day. Plus, many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the stunning scenery, especially around the Blue Lagoon. On the flip side, some travelers note issues like overcrowding at popular stops and limited alcohol service, which could influence your experience.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate relaxed sightseeing, are happy with a group setting, and enjoy swimming or snorkeling in warm waters. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer an easy, all-in-one excursion over multiple separate activities. However, those looking for a very personalized or intimate experience might find it too crowded or somewhat rushed.

Key Points

• Comfort on board: The vessel has showers, air-conditioned areas, and spacious seating.
• Scenic stops: Includes the Blue Lagoon, Gozitan bays, and Malta’s coastline—ideal for photos, swimming, and relaxing.
• All-inclusive value: Lunch, soft drinks, wine, and beer are included, making it a good deal for budget-conscious travelers.
• Limited alcohol: Despite the “unlimited drinks” promise, alcohol is only available during lunch, and soft drinks are limited to an hour.
• Crowd considerations: Popular spots like the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, especially in July.
• Weather and delays: The tour is weather-dependent, and delays or cancellations are possible, so flexibility is key.

A Deep Dive into the Malta 3 Island Cruise

The Malta 3 Island Cruise onboard Faith is a well-rounded option for travelers who want to see the coast from the water without the hassle of planning multiple outings. Starting at 9:00 am from Sliema Ferries, this cruise runs about 8 to 9 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Pricing at approximately $88.60 per person offers good value considering what’s included. For that, you get round-trip transportation from Sliema, a hearty lunch with unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer during lunchtime, plus the chance to swim and snorkel. The onboard facilities like showers and air conditioning help keep passengers comfortable during the day.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

The tour’s journey begins with a stop in a bay in Malta for about an hour. This is a calm introductory point, perfect for stretching your legs or snapping some photos of Malta’s rugged coastlines. According to reviews, while this stop doesn’t come with a lot of commentary, it sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Next, the boat heads toward the Island of Gozo for another hour-long stop. From the reviews, we know that this stop is quieter than the Blue Lagoon, giving travelers a chance to explore or take a quick swim in Gozitan waters. The scenery here is charming and less crowded, which many appreciated.

The star of the trip is the Blue Lagoon, where the cruise stays for about three hours. This spot is famous for its crystal-clear, warm waters—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around with a drink in hand. Several travelers mentioned how crowded it gets in peak season, with one reviewer noting that “the Blue Lagoon is rather crowded in July,” but they still enjoyed the experience. The lagoon’s beauty is undeniable, and many find it worth enduring the crowds for the chance to relax in its turquoise waters.

What’s the Experience Like on Board?

The vessel Faith is praised for its spaciousness and comfort. With ample shaded areas, you can soak up the sun or hide from it if you prefer. The crew is frequently described as friendly and accommodating, making the day more enjoyable. One reviewer specifically appreciated the tasteful meal offered onboard, noting the extensive options.

The live commentary provides context about Malta’s coast and islands, though some reviews mention that the narration can be rushed or hard to understand, especially when the boat is moving quickly or the audio isn’t clear. This could be a concern if you’re a history buff or just enjoy detailed storytelling, but it’s usually enough to get the gist.

Food and Drinks – What You Should Know

The included lunch is generally described as hearty and tasty, with many reviewers calling it “delicious.” The drinks, however, are a mixed bag. The tour promises unlimited beer, wine, water, and soft drinks during lunchtime, but several reviews mention that soft drinks are only available for about an hour and that wine or beer is not available at all unless purchased separately. This discrepancy can be frustrating if you’re expecting a full open bar all day.

Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but they aren’t included in the base price. For those hoping for an endless supply of drinks, this could be a disappointment—so plan accordingly.

The Crowds and Timing

The Blue Lagoon is where you’ll find the most people, especially in July. Several reviews highlight the crowded nature of this stop, which can diminish the feeling of tranquility. If avoiding crowds is your priority, early or late in the season might be better, or choosing a less popular time of day.

Delays can happen, either due to weather or logistical issues. One review mentioned that transport can be late, and due to swell, some stops might be missed or shortened. It’s worth keeping a flexible mindset and understanding that the sea conditions can influence the experience.

Overall Value and Who It’s For

For around $88, this tour offers a rundown of Malta’s coastline with the added bonus of a scenic boat ride, swim opportunities, and an included meal. Many travelers, including those who left positive reviews, feel they got good value, especially considering the convenience of organized transportation and all-inclusive drinks.

However, it’s important to remember that crowds and limited alcohol might not suit everyone. If you’re looking for a peaceful, personalized day or want to explore less touristy spots, this might feel a bit rushed or crowded. But if your goal is to see the highlights of Malta and enjoy a fun, social day on the water, this cruise could tick plenty of boxes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, all-in-one experience with scenic views, swimming, and comfortable amenities. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate value for money and don’t mind a busier scene at popular stops like the Blue Lagoon. Families, groups, and those wanting a hassle-free day out will find this tour rewarding.

On the other hand, if you prefer quiet, intimate encounters with nature, or are sensitive to crowds, you might want to explore alternative options or smaller boat tours.

FAQs

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 9:00 am from Sliema Ferries and lasts about 8 to 9 hours, returning to the same meeting point.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a hearty lunch is part of the package, and it includes unlimited soft drinks, water, wine, and beer during lunchtime.

Can I swim or snorkel at each stop?
Yes, there are designated stops where you can swim and snorkel, especially the Blue Lagoon. The tour lasts enough time at each stop for a quick dip or walk around.

Are alcoholic drinks really unlimited?
Not exactly. Soft drinks are available during lunch for about an hour, but wine and beer are not served continuously and must be purchased separately if desired.

What about the crowd at the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon tends to get busy—especially in peak season—so expect a lively scene and possibly limited space for relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks or extra drinks if you’re picky about beverages. Also, a waterproof camera would be handy for capturing the stunning scenery.

Final thoughts:
The 3 Island Cruise onboard Faith offers a good-sized dose of Malta’s coastal scenery and water fun, all wrapped into one affordable package. Its friendly crew, scenic stops, and included lunch make it a practical choice, especially for travelers who value convenience and social atmosphere. While crowds and limited alcohol may temper the experience for some, many still find it a worthwhile way to spend a day on the sea. Perfect for those who want a straightforward, scenic, and comfortable outing with friends or family.