Sliema: Three Bay Cruise with Lunch & Optional Transfers

Thinking about exploring Malta’s coast from the water? The Three Bay Cruise offers a full day of sailing, swimming, and relaxing on a beautifully maintained Turkish gullet. It’s a journey designed for those who appreciate scenic views, good food, and a laid-back vibe—all with a splash of adventure.

What we really like about this experience is how smoothly it combines sightseeing and leisure. The stunning coastal vistas along Malta’s northeastern shoreline are mesmerizing, and the swim stops at three gorgeous locations—including the famous Blue Lagoon—are the highlight for many. Plus, the onboard cold buffet lunch with unlimited drinks makes it excellent value, especially considering the all-day access to soft drinks, wine, and beer.

One potential consideration? The cruise is a full 8 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a day on the water. Those prone to seasickness or with mobility challenges might want to prepare or consider other options. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Malta’s seaside beauty in comfort, with some fun swimming and snorkeling thrown in.

If you enjoy scenic boat trips, authentic sailing vessels, and a well-organized day out, this cruise will likely be a hit. It’s especially perfect for those looking for a balanced mix of relaxation, stunning scenery, and good food in a friendly group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Turkish Gullet: A traditional sailing vessel with spacious decks and onboard amenities.
• Multiple swim stops: Including St. Paul’s Bay, Dalet Qorrot Bay, and the Blue Lagoon—each offering unique scenery and crystal-clear waters.
• All-inclusive lunch and drinks: Cold buffet, unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer, with fresh fruit in the afternoon.
• Stunning coastal views: Pass by villages, bays, and islands, with opportunities to snap memorable photos.
• Comfort and convenience: Optional transfers, freshwater showers, shade canopy, and English commentary.
• Flexible cancellation: Full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Departure from Sliema

Your day begins at the Sliema Ferries, a lively hub with easy access for most travelers staying nearby. The boat, named the Hera, is a classic Turkish gullet, giving the experience an authentic maritime feel from the moment you step aboard. The departure times vary, so checking your booking confirmation is wise—most trips leave in the morning, sometimes around 8:00 AM to 8:45 AM, giving plenty of daylight for the day ahead.

Our sources indicate that the crew is competent and friendly, making guests feel welcomed and well cared for. As you set sail, you’ll enjoy the panoramic views of Malta’s northeastern coast—villages like St. Julians Bay, Mellieha, and St. Paul’s Islands come into view, offering a glimpse of local life and scenic beauty.

First Swim Stop: St. Paul’s Bay

The first swim stop often happens at St. Paul’s Bay or beneath Selmun, depending on weather conditions. Expect calm waters ideal for swimming or snorkeling, and take advantage of the onboard swimming ladders and freshwater showers afterward. Reviewers mention that the crew is helpful here, making sure everyone gets comfortable in the water.

Second Stop: Dalet Qorrot Bay

Next, the boat heads toward Gozo for a second swim at Dalet Qorrot Bay. This small, picturesque bay is praised for its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings. It’s a quieter, more intimate spot compared to the Blue Lagoon, but equally stunning. You’ll love the “gorgeous” setting and the chance to cool off after some sunbathing on deck.

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The Main Event: Comino and the Blue Lagoon

The highlight for many travelers is the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. As one reviewer put it, “The spots were gorgeous.” The lagoon’s translucent cyan waters and white sandy seabed make it a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The marine life is lively, and the snorkeling here is often described as excellent.

This is the longest stop of the day—giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery, explore the island’s countryside, or simply lounge on the deck. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to relax in a picture-perfect setting, with some describing the water as “crystal-clear” and the environment as “beautifully peaceful.”

Lunch and Onboard Relaxation

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy a cold buffet lunch with unlimited drinks—soft drinks, soft mineral water, and local wine and beer. The quality of the food is generally praised, with comments about it being “lovely” and satisfying after a morning of swimming. Fresh fruit in the afternoon adds a nice touch.

The crew keeps the drinks flowing, and many reviews highlight the friendly service and helpful staff. The boat’s amenities, including freshwater showers and shaded areas, enhance comfort and make the whole experience more enjoyable.

Return to Sliema

By approximately 5:30 PM, your boat will head back to Sliema Ferries, concluding a full day of coastal adventure. The return trip offers more scenic views, with some passengers taking this time to relax and reflect on the day.

What We Love and What to Keep in Mind

We loved the smooth organization and the authentic feel of sailing aboard a Turkish gullet. The spacious decks and shaded areas offered plenty of comfortable spots to relax or socialize. The stunning scenery and swim stops make this a memorable trip—especially the Blue Lagoon, which truly lives up to its reputation with its clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.

The onboard food and drinks are also a big plus, providing good value and satisfying options after swimming. The unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer complement the laid-back vibe perfectly, and the fresh fruit in the afternoon is a nice seasonal touch.

However, keep in mind that this is a full-day tour, so it requires a good amount of stamina and patience for some travelers—especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer shorter trips. The need for advance planning around the Blue Lagoon access pass (effective from May 2025) might require some extra coordination if you plan to disembark ashore.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy laid-back, scenic days on the water with plenty of swimming and snorkeling. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic sailing experience rather than a modern catamaran. If you appreciate good food, friendly crew, and stunning coastal views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed day out. However, if you’re looking for a shorter or more active adventure, or if mobility is an issue, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Sliema Three Bay Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Malta’s coastal beauty—combining authentic sailing, scenic stops, and satisfying onboard meals. Its authentic Turkish gullet adds a touch of maritime charm, while the carefully selected swim locations make it a standout experience for lovers of water and nature.

The value is quite good considering the full day’s activities, onboard meals, and drinks included in the price. Plus, the option for transfers simplifies logistics, especially for those staying outside Sliema.

If your aim is to combine scenic sailing with swimming and a comfortable environment, this cruise hits the mark. Just remember to pack your sunhat, swimwear, and a sense of adventure—Malta’s coastal treasures await.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially if you want transfers or plan to visit the Blue Lagoon ashore, as passes are limited and must be arranged beforehand.

What is included in the price?
The cruise, optional transfers, a full onboard lunch buffet with soft drinks, wine, beer, fresh fruit, freshwater showers, and English commentary.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, outside alcohol is not allowed. However, you can purchase additional beverages from the onboard bar.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the trip is family-friendly, it’s a full 8-hour day, so consider your children’s patience and comfort level, especially if prone to seasickness.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunhat, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring a towel and sunglasses too.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The experience is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or non-folding wheelchairs. The boat is wheelchair accessible but check with the provider for specific needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe. Always check the forecast before going.

How long is the swim time at each stop?
It varies, but generally, you’ll have ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, especially at the Blue Lagoon.

What is the capacity of the boat?
While not specified, reviews mention that arriving early helps secure a good spot, indicating a moderate group size.

How do I get to the departure point?
The boat departs from Sliema Ferries, near the Burger King. If booked with transfers, your pickup time will be confirmed separately.

In summary, the Sliema: Three Bay Cruise combines the authentic charm of sailing on a Turkish gullet with the natural beauty of Malta’s shoreline. It’s a dependable choice for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and delicious day on the water—and likely to leave you with plenty of photos and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: