Valletta is a natural hub for cruises and boat tours, thanks to its strategic location along the Grand Harbour and proximity to Malta’s most beautiful coastlines. Whether you’re looking to relax by snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon, explore the historic Three Cities, or enjoy a private sailing experience, the options are plentiful. We’re particularly fond of the Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise, which offers a full day of swimming and soaking up Malta’s most iconic waters. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a hassle-free day in the sun with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and take photos of that crystal-clear water.
Some tours focus on cultural exploration, like the Three Cities guided tour including harbour boat, which combines walking, cruising, and stunning vistas. For those seeking exclusivity, private charters like the Malta Private Boat Trip to Comino, Blue Lagoon & Gozo provide a custom experience, perfect for families or romantic getaways. Whether you’re after a relaxed day on the water or a tailored adventure, Valletta’s boat tours offer something for every traveler.
1. Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon
At number one on our list is this Blue Lagoon cruise, which is ideal for those who want to spend a full day swimming and lounging amid Malta’s most photographed waters. Starting from either Bugibba Jetty or Sliema Ferry, the tour offers a 2-hour sightseeing cruise, a quick photo stop at Crystal Lagoon, and then 4.5 hours to swim, snorkel, or relax in the Blue Lagoon. The boat itself is equipped with air conditioning, snacks, and amenities, making the trip comfortable even on hot days.
This tour scores a 3.6 out of 5 from over 700 reviews, mostly praising its value and the chance to enjoy Malta’s famous turquoise waters. While the price is reasonable at around $35, the length—6 to 8 hours—makes it a good choice for travelers with a full day to spare. The highlight? The chance to swim in pristine waters and take that perfect photo of the lagoon’s unspoiled beauty. Keep in mind that the reviews mention that the experience can be crowded. However, for a budget-friendly adventure filled with swimming and sun, it’s tough to beat.
Bottom Line: Best for budget travelers and water lovers seeking a full day of swimming and photos in Malta’s most iconic lagoon.
2. Three Cities guided tour including harbour boat tour
Number two on our list is this guided tour of the Three Cities, which is perfect if you want to combine cultural exploration with a boat trip. Starting from Valletta, this approximately 4-hour tour takes you beyond the main city to Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea, where Malta’s Knights of St. John settled in the 1500s.
What makes this tour special is the mix of walking through narrow streets, visiting the Gardjola Gardens for panoramic views, and cruising in a traditional ‘dghajsa’ boat. The boat ride gives you a different perspective of the harbor creeks, which photos from land can’t quite capture. The guide shares insights into Malta’s history, making it a well-rounded experience. Rating-wise, it’s solid at 4 out of 5, with reviewers mentioning it’s a perfect blend of guided and free time.
It’s priced at $45.28 per person, which is reasonable considering the included boat ride and guided walks. It’s ideal for history buffs or those interested in Malta’s maritime past, especially since the views from Senglea Garden of the Grand Harbour are stunning at sunset. The tour can be a bit rushed for some, but overall, it offers a comprehensive taste of Malta’s Three Cities.
Bottom Line: Excellent for history and architecture enthusiasts who want an overview of Malta’s harbor towns with a scenic boat cruise.
3. Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon in Comino and Gozo (VTT)
For those willing to spend around 7.5 hours, the Fernandes Cruise offers an immersive day exploring both Comino and Gozo. This cruise includes a buffet lunch, open bar, and stops at the Blue Lagoon and a secluded bay in Gozo, making it a premium experience. The tour begins from several pickup points, including Topaz Hotel, St. Gregory’s Church, and others, making it convenient to join from different locations.
What distinguishes this cruise is the focus on relaxed exploration and quality inclusions—like the buffet lunch with beer and wine. Guests consistently rate it highly, with a 4.7/5 from seven reviews. The captain takes you along the north-east coast of Malta, showing stunning cliffs, coves, and inlets that are inaccessible from land. The added benefit of round-trip transportation simplifies planning.
The trip is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience without the hassles of planning multiple stops. The reviews highlight the good service, delicious food, and smooth logistics. The main downside? It’s slightly longer and more costly than other options, but the amenities and scenic stops justify the price.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive boat trip with good food, drinks, and scenic views of Malta’s coastlines and islands.
4. Valletta: 3 Cities Guided Tour & Grand Harbour Boat Tour
Number four on our list offers a full-day guided experience of Malta’s historic Three Cities combined with a Grand Harbour boat tour. The tour begins with a guided walk through Vittoriosa, exploring the narrow streets and first auberges of the Knights of St. John. Then, a traditional ‘dghajsa’ boat takes you around the colorful creeks of the harbor. It wraps up with panoramic views from Senglea Garden, where you can see the impressive Fort Saint Angelo.
Rated 5 out of 5 from a single review, this tour offers a compact 4-hour window into Malta’s maritime history and scenic beauty. The tour includes transportation, guided walks, and the boat cruise, making it a convenient and engaging package. The boat ride provides unique perspectives that land-based viewing can’t match, and the views from Senglea Garden are unforgettable.
This tour is particularly suited for those with limited time but wanting a thorough introduction to the area. The guide’s storytelling, combined with scenic boat rides and vantage points, makes it a memorable experience. The small size of the group and inclusion of local insights add to its appeal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers and first-time visitors who want an efficient, well-organized overview of Malta’s Three Cities and harbor.
5. 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus + Harbour Cruise Ticket
Next is a flexible, self-guided option: the hop-on hop-off bus and harbour cruise. For about $41.54, you get a 24-hour pass that includes access to the bus routes covering Valletta, the Grand Harbour, and the Three Cities, plus a 1.5-hour cruise.
This option is great if you prefer to set your pace. The buses are modern and air-conditioned, with Wi-Fi onboard. The harbour cruise offers a scenic perspective of Malta’s coastlines and the Blue Lagoon from the sea. However, reviews are mixed—some find the routes a bit confusing or too long, with one reviewer rating it 3 out of 5. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy planning their own itinerary and want the flexibility to explore specific sites at their own pace.
The main benefit here is the convenience of combining transportation and sightseeing in one ticket, especially if you want to see multiple areas without committing to a guided tour.
Bottom Line: Good for independent travelers who prefer flexibility and want to combine land and sea views at their pace.
6. Malta: Private Boat Charter
For ultimate privacy, the Malta Private Boat Charter offers a customizable experience for up to 10 people. You choose your destinations—from scenic coastal tours to secluded islands—and enjoy the Maltese sun with soft drinks, water, and beer included.
This is perfect if you’re traveling with family or a small group and want a tailored experience. The boat can be booked for around 7 hours, and the captain will help craft your perfect day on the water. The reviews aren’t publicly detailed, but the concept of private charters in Malta is highly appealing for those seeking exclusivity and flexibility.
The main advantage? You control the pace, stops, and activities. The downside is that it’s pricier than group tours, so it suits travelers with a bigger budget or special occasion. It’s especially good for intimate celebrations or romantic days.
Bottom Line: Best for groups wanting a private, flexible experience on Malta’s waters with personalized stops.
7. Malta: Private Boat Trip to Comino, Blue Lagoon & Gozo
A step up in exclusivity, this private boat trip is a 4-hour custom tour that takes you to the Blue Lagoon, snorkel spots, and Gozitan shores. Guests can swim, snorkel, and explore underwater caves, with stunning scenery all around.
What sets this apart is the chance for a personalized experience—your guide can focus on the sights you most want to see, whether that’s swimming in pristine waters or exploring rugged coastlines. The reviews are highly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating, emphasizing the intimacy and flexibility of private tours. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed but tailored day.
Ideal for small groups or couples, this tour offers the chance to spend quality time in Malta’s best spots without the rush of group tours. The main consideration? It’s more expensive, but many travelers find the experience well worth it.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a private, flexible day with custom destinations and a focus on personal comfort.
8. Malta: Private Sailing Cruise
Finally, the Private Sailing Cruise offers a 4-8 hour experience for groups of up to 10. You’ll set sail from Wind Magic Charters Malta, exploring hidden coves, swimming in turquoise bays, and enjoying a sundown cruise with local aperitivo.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to experience sailing in a relaxed, intimate setting. You can choose whether to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery. The captain often points out Valletta’s skyline, giving you a different perspective of the city from the water. It’s a quieter, more immersive experience perfect for couples or small groups wanting something more exclusive.
Pricing at $548 per group makes it a good value for a private experience, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. It’s a flexible tour, allowing you to tailor the itinerary based on your preferences.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups seeking a private, leisurely sailing adventure with personalized touches and scenic views.
How to Choose the Best Cruise or Boat Tour in Valletta
Selecting the right tour depends on your budget, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a full-day adventure with swimming and photos, the Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise is hard to beat. For a cultural deep dive combined with scenic cruising, the Three Cities guided tour offers a great mix. If privacy and customization appeal to you, the private trips—like the Malta Private Boat Trip or Sailing Cruise—are excellent options. Budget travelers will appreciate the hop-on hop-off combo, though it’s less personalized.
Booking early is advisable, especially for private tours or during peak season, to ensure availability. Consider what’s most important—cost, flexibility, or guided insight—and choose accordingly. No matter which you select, each offers a unique way to see Malta’s stunning waters and historic coastlines.
Valletta’s boat tours provide a wonderful way to escape the city, soak up sunshine, and see some of Malta’s most beautiful sights from the water. Whether you prefer a lively day with snorkeling, a cultural exploration of the Three Cities, or a private sunset sail, there’s a tour tailored to your style. For many travelers, booking early guarantees a spot on these popular trips, so plan ahead and get ready to enjoy Malta from a different perspective.