Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks

Taking a full-day cruise along Malta’s coast sounds like a perfect way to see the islands from a different perspective. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard the Turkish Gullet from Sliema, this tour comes highly recommended for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snack, and soak up the views.

What we love about this experience? First, the breathtaking panoramic vistas as you cruise close to Malta’s cliffs and natural landscapes. Second, the comfort of a spacious deck perfect for sunbathing or relaxing with a drink. Third, the delicious buffet lunch and free-flowing drinks that keep you fueled throughout the day. The only caveat? With multiple stops and a packed itinerary, it’s not the best choice if you’re after a very quiet, secluded experience or have mobility limitations.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming and snorkeling, and delicious local food. It’s particularly suited for those wanting an accessible way to see multiple islands without the hassle of ferry transfers or organizing their own transport.

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Key Points

Impressive Views: Expect stunning scenery of Malta’s cliffs, bays, and coastline.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Buffet lunch and drinks included, making for a leisurely day.
Multiple Stops: Explore Comino’s Blue Lagoon, secluded bays, and scenic island views.
Easy Access to Water: Swim and snorkel in clear waters with convenient ladder access.
Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with commentary and local insights.
Good Value: A full-day experience packed with sightseeing, swimming, and food for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at 10:30 AM from the Sliema Ferries, opposite McDonald’s, aboard a traditional Turkish Gullet named Faith. The early start is perfect for maximizing daylight and scenery, with the boat suited for comfortable cruising along Malta’s stunning coastline.

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Cruising Near the Coastline

As you set sail, you’ll notice the impressive cliffs and natural beauty of Malta’s shoreline. The guides provide commentary (sometimes a bit hard to hear from the side of the boat), but from reviews, it’s clear they’re knowledgeable about the local sites and history. Expect views of rugged cliffs, quaint coves, and perhaps some local fishing boats, all with the gentle breeze in your hair.

Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon

The boat stops at Comino, where the highlight is the Blue Lagoon—a picture-perfect stretch of crystal-clear water surrounded by rugged rocks and sandy patches. Here, guests can explore the island or jump into the refreshingly cool water. Reviewers mention the ease of swimming off the boat’s ladder, with one noting the availability of noodles, making floating around more fun and accessible.

Secluded Bays for Swimming and Relaxation

After exploring Comino, the boat anchors in a secluded bay. This is where many guests take a break to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the deck. The tranquil waters and scenic coastlines make for a relaxing experience. According to reviews, the easy access to the water is a big plus, and the spacious decks provide plenty of room to sunbathe or unwind.

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Lunch and Drinks

Around noon, the buffet opens, offering a cold buffet featuring local flavors and simple, hearty fare. During lunch, you’ll enjoy soft drinks, beer, and wine, with the option to purchase spirits or snacks like ice-cream. Guests report the quality of the food and drinks as good, with many appreciating the variety and laid-back atmosphere.

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Returning to Sliema

The cruise winds down around 6 PM, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The return trip offers more scenic views and relaxing moments before docking back at Sliema.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The full-day cruise is designed for convenience. Included in the price are the cruise itself, a buffet lunch, and drinks (soft drinks, beer, wine). These are perfect for keeping you energized and hydrated during your day on the water.

However, there are some extras like spirits, ice-cream, and a powerboat cave ride that aren’t included. If you’re after a little extra adventure, be prepared to pay for those separately.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The boat, Faith, is easy to find opposite McDonald’s in Sliema. The experience is led by an English-speaking host, and you can reserve your spot with flexible payment options—either pay now or later.

It’s important to note that from May 1, 2025, visitors will need to obtain a free ticket online to walk on Comino, which involves a QR code scan on arrival. Reviewers advise choosing the morning slot when booking this free ticket.

The Experience from Reviews: What Travelers Say

Many guests comment on the friendly staff and guides, often mentioning how knowledgeable and approachable they are. Juliette notes that “the staff are very friendly,” which adds a lot to the overall experience.

The scenery and swimming spots are frequently praised. Mikkel describes the trip as “Really nice,” emphasizing both the food and the swimming locations as highlights.

Several reviewers highlight the ease of swimming—with one mentioning “easy access to swim off the ladder,” and another suggesting that snorkel noodles should be more visibly advertised, as they make floating in the water much more enjoyable.

Some guests mention that the commentary can be hard to hear from certain parts of the boat, but this doesn’t seem to diminish the overall enjoyment. The bar and food options are appreciated, especially as they allow for a relaxed, social atmosphere.

The Value of the Experience

Compared to other tours that can be more expensive or less comprehensive, this cruise delivers good value for a full-day adventure. The combination of scenic cruising, multiple stops, and a hearty buffet lunch makes it an appealing option.

The fact that drinks are included during the meal means no need to carry around extra cash for refreshments, and the accessible swimming spots mean everyone can participate. However, if you’re looking for a more exclusive or private experience, this might feel a bit busy or touristy.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Sun-seekers who want plenty of time to relax and soak up the Maltese sun.
Water lovers eager to swim, snorkel, and explore turquoise coves.
Food and drink enthusiasts who appreciate a generous buffet and drinks included.
Group travelers or families seeking an easy, guided day with scenic highlights.
Budget-conscious travelers looking for a comprehensive experience without hidden costs.

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives?

Those with mobility challenges, as the boat involves some walking and boarding.
Travelers seeking a very quiet or intimate experience might find the busy stops and group setting less appealing.
People who prefer more adventurous or niche activities like cave exploration or private yacht charters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is generally suitable for families, especially since swimming and relaxing are primary activities. Just be mindful of the boat’s ladders and ensure children are supervised during water activities.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The decks are spacious, but shade is limited, so sun protection is a good idea.

Can I swim at any time?
Yes, you can swim when the boat is anchored in the bays or at the Blue Lagoon. Reviewers mention that there’s easy ladder access, and noodles are available to make floating more fun.

Are there any restrictions on walking on Comino?
From May 2025, visitors need a free online ticket to walk on the island, identified via a QR code. If you don’t have one, you can still swim near the boat.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The full trip lasts about 8 hours, typically starting around 10:30 AM and returning by 6:00 PM. It’s a full-day commitment but offers plenty of time to relax and explore.

Is food included in the price?
Yes, a cold buffet is part of the package, with drinks like soft drinks, beer, and wine during lunch. Spirits and ice-cream are extra.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, with flexible reservation options, you can book close to the date, provided there’s availability. Just remember to check the availability for your preferred start time.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers enjoy the social atmosphere, meeting new people during the cruise and at the stops.

Final Thoughts

This Sliema 3-Islands Cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on Malta’s waters. From stunning landscapes and refreshing swims to delicious food and drinks, it captures the essence of a Maltese coastal adventure. The tour’s inclusive nature and ease make it a great choice for those wanting a comfortable, scenic, and fun-filled day.

While it might not satisfy those seeking complete privacy or ultra-quiet escapes, it’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor. The knowledgeable guides, convenient stops, and overall value make this cruise a solid pick for your Malta itinerary.

In essence, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and well-organized day with plenty of water activities and good food, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly ideal for groups, families, or anyone who appreciates a social boat trip in a stunning setting.