Exploring Malta’s waters with a guided snorkeling trip is a fantastic way to see a different side of this Mediterranean island. While Malta may not be famous for its vibrant coral reefs, this tour offers a balanced mix of accessible underwater sights and expert guidance that makes it a strong choice for travelers wanting a memorable aquatic adventure.
What we love about this experience is how approachable it is for all skill levels, the genuine knowledge of the guides, and the emphasis on responsible tourism. Plus, at just $41 per person, it’s quite a good deal given what’s included. The only consideration? Some may find the logistics around transportation and the need to bring their own towel a bit inconvenient—but these are minor points for a generally smooth and enjoyable trip. This tour suits families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone eager for a relaxed yet insightful glimpse beneath Malta’s surface.
Key Points
- Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and reassuring, making even beginners feel at ease.
- Underwater Highlights: Discover reefs, caves, shipwrecks, and Mediterranean marine life.
- Affordable Price: At around $41, it offers good value for the included equipment and guided experience.
- Flexible for All Levels: Suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers, with tailored guidance.
- Focus on Sustainability: Committed to responsible tourism, protecting Malta’s marine environment.
- Logistics: Includes transportation to the site but excludes hotel pickup, towels, and swimsuits.
What to Expect from the Malta Snorkeling Tour
This snorkeling adventure is designed to showcase Malta’s underwater treasures while keeping it accessible and safe. The tour typically lasts around an hour of snorkeling within a broader trip that includes briefing, transportation, and equipment handling. The experience kicks off with a briefing from your instructor, who will introduce you to the safety protocols and give a quick overview of what marine life you might see.
You’ll be provided with all the necessary snorkeling gear and wetsuits if needed — an important detail for those who might feel cold in the waters. The guides are focused on making everyone comfortable, regardless of whether you’re new to snorkeling or a seasoned swimmer. Their extensive knowledge adds a layer of richness to the experience, often sharing stories about local marine ecosystems and tips for spotting wildlife.
Once in the water, your guides will lead you to Malta’s most remarkable snorkeling spots. While the Mediterranean doesn’t boast the intense colors of tropical reefs, it offers its own unique sights: rocky reefs, caves, and even historical shipwrecks that tell stories of Malta’s past. Reviewers mention seeing crabs, fish, and even an eagle ray — proof that marine life can surprise you here.
Transportation is included to and from the site, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby. That said, you’ll need to organize your own towel and swimsuit, as these are not provided. Also, note that the activity is not suitable for non-swimmers, those with respiratory or mobility issues, or anyone with certain pre-existing health conditions.
Looking for more options in Sliema? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Snorkeling Spots and Experience Highlights
One of the main draws of this tour is visiting Anchor Bay and Popeye’s Village — spots praised for their scenic beauty and calm waters. Reviewers highlight how fun and supportive the guides are, especially for families and first-timers. For example, a family with young children felt reassured by the guides’ care, noting, “they took good care making sure the kids felt safe and had a great time.”
The guides do a great job of making everyone feel comfortable. Many comments mention how supportive and friendly the staff are. For example, reviewers like Floris appreciated the “friendly, experienced guide Rachel,” who was careful and attentive. Others touched on how the guides expertly tailored the experience to different ability levels, ensuring no one felt rushed or left behind.
The underwater sights are described as captivating, with some reviewers mentioning seeing octopuses, fireworms (advising not to touch!), and schools of colorful fish. A key insight from one reviewer: “We saw a big crab, various fish, some kind of scorpion urchin.” Such small encounters make the experience memorable.
While the Mediterranean’s marine diversity might not rival more tropical destinations, the uniqueness of Malta’s underwater caves, reefs, and historical wrecks make each snorkel session special. Expect to explore shallow waters and, if you’re adventurous, a sudden plunge into deeper sections—something reviewers find exhilarating.
The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and What’s Included
At $41 per person, this snorkeling tour offers solid value, especially given the inclusion of snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and transportation. The briefings and guidance are also part of that package, making it a worry-free activity for beginners.
The actual snorkeling lasts about an hour, but the overall experience—including the briefing and transport—may extend slightly longer, depending on weather and sea conditions. Many reviewers mentioned that the guides are flexible and accommodating, often making small adjustments based on the group’s comfort level.
In terms of logistics, you’ll need to bring your own towel and swimsuit, as these are not provided. The tour does not include hotel pickup, so you should plan to meet at the designated location. Participants must also be able to swim, as non-swimmers and those with certain health conditions are not suited for this activity.
Weather plays a critical role; since this is an outdoor activity, rough seas or bad weather might cause delays or cancellations. The guides are transparent about this and will advise accordingly, with the option to reschedule or cancel with a full refund if needed.
Authentic Feedback from Travelers
Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. One commented, “The team was very helpful and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend it,” reflecting the high standard of customer care. Several highlighted the personalized approach — “they tailored the session to our ability and confidence,” ensuring everyone had a positive experience.
First-time snorkelers especially appreciated the reassurance from staff like Francesca, who guided them through concerns and made the experience enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “They were very reassuring and guided us all throughout the journey!”
Marine encounters are another highlight. Many mention seeing fish, reefs, and even an eagle ray, which is quite special for a Mediterranean trip. The guides’ insights helped enhance the experience, making it educational and fun at the same time.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This tour is an excellent choice for families, thanks to its supportive guides and focus on safety. It’s also great for beginners or those with limited swimming ability who want a guided introduction to snorkeling without overextending themselves.
Adventure seekers looking for something more than just a beach day will enjoy the chance to explore Malta’s underwater caves and shipwrecks. Those interested in responsible tourism will appreciate the tour’s commitment to protecting Malta’s marine environment.
Travelers on a budget will find the price very reasonable, especially considering the guided instruction and equipment included. However, if you’re looking for a tropical reef experience, this might not fully satisfy, as Malta’s underwater scene is more subdued but equally charming.
- Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise W/ Lunch+Drinks
- Gżira/Online: Metaphorical Associative Cards Private Session
- Malta: Iseemalta Heritage Pass With Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
- From Malta: Gozo 4×4 Buggy Tour With Lunch and Transfers
- Malta: 2 Scuba Fun Dives for Certified Divers
- Malta: 4 Hour Quad Bike Island Tour
The Sum Up
This Malta snorkeling tour delivers a balanced mix of expert guidance, accessible underwater sights, and responsible tourism. It’s perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a relaxed day exploring Malta’s marine world without breaking the bank. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine through, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
While it’s not the most colorful marine environment you’ll find in the world, the unique caves, reefs, and shipwrecks add a touch of adventure and discovery. The included transport and gear make it convenient, and the reasonable price makes it a smart choice for many travelers.
If you’re after a safe, friendly, and authentic way to see Malta’s underwater charm, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring your towel, swimsuit, and a sense of curiosity—your aquatic adventure awaits.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this activity requires swimming ability. Non-swimmers may find the activity unsafe and are not recommended for participation.
What should I bring?
Bring your own towel and swimsuit. The tour provides snorkeling gear and wetsuits if needed, but personal items are your responsibility.
Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, transportation to and from the snorkeling site is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.
How long is the snorkeling portion?
The actual snorkeling lasts approximately 1 hour, but the full experience including briefing and transport may be longer.
Are the guides experienced?
Yes, the guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive, often sharing interesting facts about Malta’s marine life.
What marine life might I see?
Expect to see fish, crabs, seahorses, and possibly larger creatures like eagle rays or fireworms, depending on conditions.
Is the tour environmentally conscious?
Yes, the tour emphasizes sustainable and responsible tourism practices to protect Malta’s marine ecosystems.
What if the weather is bad?
Weather and sea conditions can cause delays or cancellations. The guides will inform you in advance and offer rescheduling or refunds if necessary.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Sliema
- Sliema: Boat Party with Full Open Bar
- Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise w/ Lunch+Drinks
- From Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise
- Private Boat Charter Malta South Coast Swim & Snorkel
- Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Cruise w/ Lunch
- Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks
More Tour Reviews in Sliema
Still browsing? Here are more Sliema experiences we've covered recently
- Malta: Snorkeling Tour
- Sliema: Boat Party with Full Open Bar
- Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise w/ Lunch+Drinks
- From Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise
- Sliema: Beach Yoga Class with Swimming
- Sliema: Comino Blue Lagoon Half Day
- Private Boat Charter Malta South Coast Swim & Snorkel
- Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Cruise w/ Lunch
- Sliema: Powerboat trip to Gozo & Comino with Caves
- Malta: Snorkeling Tour
- Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks
- Private Boat Charter Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo