Malta: Marsamxett Harbour and Grand Harbour Cruise by Night

If you’re looking for a way to see Malta from a different perspective, a night cruise around its two main harbors offers a beautiful and relaxing experience. This tour takes you through Marsamxett Harbour and Grand Harbour, two of the most iconic waterways in Malta, along with a dozen or so creeks that highlight the island’s maritime charm. It’s a chance to enjoy Malta’s illuminated skyline, historic fortifications, and lively marinas—all from the comfort of a traditional Maltese boat.

What we particularly like about this cruise? First, the informative commentary which gives you context about the sights you’re passing—no random boat ride here. Second, the stunning night-time views that make Malta’s harbors glow, providing spectacular photo opportunities. A possible consideration? The boat size and timing might not suit everyone—some reviews note the boat can be a little crowded or that it gets a tad breezy and noisy. But overall, this experience seems best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic overview of Valletta’s waterfront and a taste of Malta’s maritime culture.

If your idea of a memorable Malta experience involves beautiful vistas, local insights, and a relaxed mood, this cruise could be a perfect fit. It’s especially good for travelers who want an affordable, authentic, and visually striking way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Affordable price point of around $23 per person for a 90-minute scenic cruise.
• Expert commentary enriches the experience, adding historical and cultural context.
• Impressive views of Malta’s illuminated harbors, fortifications, and yacht marinas.
• Visit 10 creeks and notable waterways, offering a comprehensive water-level perspective.
• Cruises depart at 20:30 from Sliema Ferries, fitting nicely into an evening plan.
• Suitable for those who enjoy relaxed, scenic boat rides with a mix of history and nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Malta Harbor Night Cruise

This cruise begins in Sliema, a popular seaside town known for its bustling promenade and lively cafes. The boat departs around 8:30 PM, which means you’ll catch the sunset and witness Malta’s harbors lighting up as night falls—a truly hypnotic sight. The trip lasts about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and listen to commentary.

The route covers two main harbors—Marsamxett and Grand Harbour—and takes you through ten creeks on either side of Valletta, Malta’s capital. These waterways aren’t just scenic; many are steeped in history and local character. For instance, you’ll cruise inside Sliema Creek, which is a hub of activity with its lively marina and port facilities, and circle Manoel Island, a historic site with a fortress and a charming neighborhood.

Then, the boat heads to Lazzaretto Creek, better known as the Yacht Marina—a favorite among sailing enthusiasts. From there, you’ll pass Ta’Xbiex, a luxurious residential and marina area, before heading toward the Grand Harbour, with its formidable battlements and fortifications that once defended Valletta from invaders.

The cruise also takes in the Three Cities—Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa—each with centuries of maritime history. Along the way, you’ll see Marsa Creek, home to Malta’s shipbuilding yards, and French Creek, which hints at the island’s colonial past. Throughout the trip, the commentary provides insights into Malta’s military defenses, maritime trade, and development, making the experience engaging as well as scenic.

The Experience in Detail

We loved the way the boat glided smoothly through the waters, with the night sky and shimmering lights creating a magical backdrop. The traditional Maltese boat adds an authentic touch, and the presence of a fully stocked bar means you can enjoy a drink while soaking in the views—something that many reviewers appreciated. The toilets on board are a practical addition, especially for a 1.5-hour voyage.

The views are undeniably captivating. As the boat rounds each creek and headland, Malta’s historic fortifications and modern marinas are beautifully lit, creating a striking contrast between past and present. The illumination of Valletta’s fortifications, in particular, is a highlight for many. “Fabulous experience seeing the harbours all lit up at night,” one reviewer notes, capturing how special this visual is.

The commentary, which is in English, was generally well-received. Reviewers mention that it added a lot to the experience—Derek called it “an informative cruise,” and Rodrigo noted that “a lot of interesting information” was shared. This makes the cruise suitable for history buffs or anyone wanting to learn more about Malta’s military architecture and maritime history while enjoying stunning scenery.

Some reviews highlight the size of the boat—it can feel a bit crowded, especially when the weather gets breezy or noisy. Michael mentioned that “the bright lights on the top deck could have used some visors,” so if you’re sensitive to bright lights or wind, you might want to choose your spot early or prepare accordingly.

The timing is convenient, especially if you’re already in Sliema or Valletta. Departing at 8:30 PM allows you to enjoy sunset and night views before dinner or other evening plans. The return at 10:00 PM is quick enough to leave plenty of time for a post-cruise stroll or a relaxed evening in town.

Practical Considerations and Value

At around $23 per person, the cost is quite reasonable for a scenic, informative, and relaxing water tour. When you factor in the expert commentary, the views, and the overall atmosphere, it offers good value—especially for travelers seeking an authentic Maltese experience without blowing the budget.

The cruise’s flexible booking and full cancellation options (up to 24 hours in advance) add peace of mind, which is helpful if your plans change. It’s also suitable for a wide range of travelers, from families to solo explorers, due to its relaxed pace and inclusive nature.

While some travelers note the boat’s size or the potential for noise and fumes, most seem to agree that the overall experience is worthwhile. The friendly staff and well-handled boats contribute to a smooth, enjoyable journey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic views, historical insights, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want to see Malta from the water without the hassle of long or crowded trips. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find plenty to enjoy, especially if you love nighttime vistas and gentle storytelling.

If you’re looking for a more lively or energetic experience, this might not be the best fit. However, for a peaceful, beautifully lit tour that combines Malta’s maritime beauty with cultural context, it’s hard to beat the price and setting.

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FAQs

What time does the cruise depart?
The boat leaves from Sliema Ferries at around 8:30 PM and returns at 10:00 PM.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable window to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Is there a bar on board?
Yes, a fully stocked bar is available, so you can enjoy drinks while soaking in the views.

Are the commentary and guides in English?
Absolutely, all commentary is in English, and reviewers found the guides to be knowledgeable and engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute plans.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature suggests it’s suitable for families, though some reviews mention the boat size and noise levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and possibly a light jacket, especially if the evening gets breezy. No specific dress code is required.

Will I see Malta’s historic fortifications?
Yes, the cruise offers views of Malta’s battlements and fortifications around Valletta, giving a good sense of the island’s defensive architecture.

Final Thoughts

This Malta night harbor cruise offers a straightforward, affordable way to see Malta from the water. With stunning views, informative commentary, and a relaxed atmosphere, it appeals to travelers eager for an authentic and scenic experience. While the boat size and occasional noise might not suit everyone, most guests find the experience worthwhile—and many describe it as “spectacular” and “beautiful”.

If you enjoy water-based sightseeing, or simply want a peaceful way to appreciate Malta’s illuminated harbors, this cruise delivers good value and memorable sights. It’s an excellent addition to any Malta itinerary, especially after a day of exploring the city or beaches.

For those seeking a leisurely, authentic, and visually stunning tour, this experience should definitely be on your list. Just arrive early to get a good seat, and prepare to be impressed by Malta’s night-time maritime magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: