Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks

Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks — A Practical Guide

Planning a day on Malta’s waters? This full-day cruise from Sliema offers a chance to soak in the island’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. For those who love good views, a laid-back atmosphere, and a taste of authentic Maltese scenery, this trip ticks plenty of boxes.

Two things we particularly like about this cruise are the opportunity to relax on a classic Turkish Gullet and the well-curated stops at Comino and Gozo, which truly showcase Malta’s coastal charm. However, a potential consideration is the moderate 3.8-star rating based on 53 reviews—meaning there might be some hiccups, and not all aspects are perfect. Still, for travelers seeking a leisurely, all-in-one experience, this tour often delivers good value and memorable moments.

This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy scenic views, casual swimming, and a relaxed day on the water. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see the islands, enjoy good food and drinks, and take in Malta’s rugged coastline without overloading their schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-day relaxation on a traditional Turkish Gullet with panoramic views.
• Multiple stops including Comino’s Blue Lagoon and a secluded bay for swimming and snorkeling.
• Inclusive buffet lunch with soft drinks, beer, and wine—great for recharging.
• Short, manageable duration of 8 hours, fitting comfortably into a Malta itinerary.
• Informative crew and guides (based on reviews) enhancing your understanding of the sights.
• Good value for the price, considering the food, drinks, and scenery included.

An In-Depth Look at the Sliema Islands Cruise

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at Sliema Ferries, opposite McDonald’s, around 10:30 am (check availability). The cruise lasts roughly 8 hours, which is enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed. You’ll return around 6 pm, making it a full but comfortably paced day. The boat’s name is Faith, and the group size tends to be moderate—large enough for a lively atmosphere but intimate enough for personal interaction.

The Boat and Comfort

You’ll be cruising on a beautiful Turkish Gullet, a vessel known for its tradition and charm. The decks are spacious enough to lie back, soak up the sun, or take in the views. The reviews suggest that getting in and out of the water is straightforward, with easy access to swim off the boat’s ladder. One reviewer mentioned the availability of pool noodles, which can be handy for relaxing in the water.

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Scenic Highlights and Stops

Gazing at the Maltese coastline from the water is one of the trip’s biggest pleasures. As you cruise close to shore, expect impressive cliffs, natural formations, and rugged beauty. The first major stop is Comino, renowned for the Blue Lagoon—a shallow, crystal-clear stretch of water perfect for swimming and picture-taking. The boat will berth stern-to, making it easy to jump in and relax.

The Blue Lagoon offers calm, transparent waters, ideal for snorkeling and cooling off. Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of swimming and the ease of access—one guest commented on how accessible it was to swim off the ladder, adding convenience to their fun. Duration at this stop is flexible, so you can take your time.

Next, the cruise continues to a secluded bay—a peaceful spot for more swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun. The calm waters and quiet environment make it a favorite for those wanting a break from busier tourist spots.

The final stop is at Gozo’s Bay, where the views of the Maltese coast and neighboring islands are spectacular. The cruise’s itinerary is designed to showcase Malta’s natural beauty without overloading you with too many stops, allowing for a leisurely experience.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Comfort

Included in the ticket is a cold buffet lunch, offering a variety of options to satisfy different tastes. Accompanying drinks include soft drinks, beer, and wine, providing a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Unlike some tours, this cruise doesn’t include spirits, but the wine and beer are well-reviewed, adding to the pleasure of the trip.

Guests have appreciated the generous quantities of food and drinks, with some reviews noting the “good amount of included food and drinks and bar for cash sales.” The food is described as delicious, although specifics aren’t provided. Expect to enjoy a typical buffet that fuels your afternoon on the water.

The Experience and Atmosphere

While some reviews mention difficulty hearing the commentary, most agree that the friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make up for it. The scenic views, gentle breeze, and the sound of water lapping against the hull create a calming ambiance.

The crew’s knowledge and friendliness are often highlighted, making the experience more engaging. Travelers who enjoy informative guides will find the crew’s commentary helpful, though some might want to bring their own earplugs if they’re sensitive to sound.

Additional Considerations

One upcoming change in 2025 will require visitors to reserve a free ticket online for walking on Comino. The QR code received upon booking will be scanned by authorities. If you don’t have it, you can still swim next to the boat but won’t be able to walk on the island itself. Remember to select the morning slot when booking your free ticket.

The tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers, as getting on and off the boat and navigating the stops could be challenging.

The Value Proposition

Considering the full-day duration, included buffet lunch, drinks, and multiple scenic stops, this cruise offers good value. It’s a convenient way to explore Malta’s islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or transportation arrangements. The moderate rating of 3.8 out of 5 indicates that while most travelers enjoy it, some may find minor drawbacks—such as sound issues or crowded spots.

Price-wise, paying for this all-in-one experience often amounts to less than booking separate excursions for each spot. The convenience of departing from Sliema, a popular tourist hub, adds further appeal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water with minimal planning. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and good, uncomplicated food. Families, couples, or small groups will all find plenty to enjoy, especially if they’re interested in seeing how Malta’s coast looks from the sea.

It’s less ideal for those with mobility limitations or those craving a more active, adventure-packed day. If you’re someone who appreciates friendly guides, scenic views, and a casual atmosphere, this cruise should meet your expectations.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Based on available info, children who enjoy swimming and relaxed boat trips will likely enjoy this cruise, but there’s no specific mention of age restrictions. It’s best suited for families comfortable with a full-day boat outing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are recommended. The boat’s decks are spacious, and you’ll want to be prepared for sun exposure and swimming.

Can I swim in all the stops?
You can swim and snorkel at Comino’s Blue Lagoon and the secluded bay. The ease of swimming is praised in reviews, especially with accessible ladders and potential noodles.

What meals are included?
A cold buffet lunch with drinks, including soft drinks, beer, and wine. Spirits are not included.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, additional purchases like ice-creams or a powerboat cave ride are available but aren’t included in the base price.

What time does the cruise start and end?
Departure is around 10:30 am, and the return is approximately 6 pm. Check availability for exact times.

Is there any flexibility for cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, and you’ll need a free online ticket to walk on Comino starting May 2025.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, the Sliema 3-Islands Cruise offers a balanced, laid-back way to experience Malta’s coast and islands. It’s a good option for travelers who value scenic beauty, good food, and a relaxing day on the water. The included buffet and drinks make it a standout for those looking to enjoy a fuss-free experience, while the multiple swimming stops provide plenty of opportunities to cool off and soak up the sun.

While it might not satisfy everyone—especially those seeking a high-energy adventure or expert guided narration—it delivers on comfort, convenience, and memorable views. For couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Malta’s maritime charm, this cruise can be a highlight of your trip.

If you’re after an easy, scenic, and enjoyable day on the sea—without breaking the bank—this tour is worth considering. Just remember to plan for the free Comino ticket if you want to walk on the island, and bring your sun protection and swim gear. With a little flexibility and a sense of adventure, you’ll leave Malta with plenty of stories and spectacular photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: