From Marsaxlokk: St Peter’s Pool Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see Malta’s coastline while enjoying some sun and sea, the St Peter’s Pool Boat Tour from Marsaxlokk offers a relaxed, scenic experience. This tour, rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 33 reviews, combines history, nature, and leisure in just an hour—making it perfect for travelers short on time but eager to soak in Malta’s maritime beauty.

What we love about this experience are the stunning views of the coast, the chance to learn about Malta’s historic forts, and the opportunity to swim at St Peter’s Pool, a natural gem. One consideration is that during winter months, the swimming stop is not available, so it’s best suited for warmer seasons. This tour appeals most to those who appreciate scenic boat rides, historical touches, and some free time to enjoy the sea.

Key Points:

• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy Malta’s rugged coastline, saltpans, and historic forts from the water.
• Flexible Timing: You can choose your pickup time and, if weather permits, stop for a swim at St Peter’s Pool.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Expect friendly, informative commentary, often delivered with humor and personality.
• Value for Money: This short, one-hour tour offers a memorable experience without a hefty price tag.
• Seasonal Considerations: Swimming is weather-dependent; winter months typically don’t include the stop for a dip.
• Small Group Feel: The tour generally accommodates a small group, making it intimate and personal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Maltese Coastal Adventure

The stunning scenery of Malta’s southeastern coast is what makes this boat tour stand out. Starting from Rima Cruises in Marsaxlokk, you’ll board a traditional Maltese frejgatina, a small, charming boat that immediately sets a relaxed tone. The boat’s size and the knowledgeable crew mean you’ll get a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

The route takes you past Fort San Lucjan, where the sturdy fortress still guards the coastline and hints at Malta’s strategic maritime history. Next, you’ll see Fort Delimara, quietly witnessing centuries of maritime defense, and then be guided past the lighthouse, which has become a familiar beacon in the landscape. These historical sights are complemented by the saltpans, a picturesque reminder of Malta’s traditional salt harvesting practices. The shallow pools and patterned layout of the saltpans create a unique visual experience, perfect for photos.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Start at Rima Cruises: The departure point is straightforward. The crew is praised for their friendly professionalism, with some reviews mentioning they receive a wristband and payment receipt beforehand to avoid any mix-ups with other boat companies. As Soling describes, the crew is “friendly” and proactive, reaching out before the trip to confirm details. This level of communication adds peace of mind, especially in a busy tourist hub like Malta.

Delimara Sightseeing: The boat then heads toward the Delimara area, where we spend about 30 minutes enjoying the views. Passengers can admire the rugged coastline and the forts from a close but comfortable vantage point. The experience is enriched by the guides’ narration, which many reviewers find engaging and informative. Cristina mentions how the sightseeing was “beautiful” and how the team was “really nice,” enhancing the overall experience.

Photo Stop at St Peter’s Pool: The highlight for many visitors is the brief stop at St Peter’s Pool, which only lasts around 2 minutes as a photo opportunity. If the weather allows, travelers can choose to stay longer and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Marko praises guide Jake for his friendly demeanor and how he shared historical insights with humor, making the trip both educational and fun. Many reviews concur that the guides are knowledgeable and personable, adding value to the tour.

Return Journey: After the swim stop, the boat heads back along the coast, passing the same forts and saltpans, offering a different perspective from the water. The entire trip lasts around an hour, but it feels like a quick, immersive glimpse into Malta’s seaside life.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authentic Local Experience: Traveling on a traditional Maltese boat offers a more genuine feel than larger, commercial excursions. The frejgatina is a charming vessel that adds to the relaxed, local vibe.

Historical and Natural Highlights: Seeing forts like San Lucjan and Delimara from the water gives a sense of Malta’s strategic maritime importance. The saltpans serve as a scenic reminder of old-world salt harvesting techniques, now transformed into picturesque pools.

Guides with Personality: Many reviews highlight how guides like Jake make the tour lively, combining storytelling with humor and local knowledge. This fosters a friendly atmosphere and makes the experience memorable.

Flexibility and Convenience: You can choose your pickup time, which is a big plus for fitting this into a busy itinerary. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions.

Value for the Price: At just around an hour, the tour offers a cost-effective way to see Malta’s coast and enjoy a bit of swimming if weather permits. The inclusion of a beach stop (if selected) means you’re also getting a chance for some relaxing poolside fun.

Practical Details That Matter

Duration and Timing: The tour lasts approximately one hour, with specific start times available upon checking. This brevity is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape without devoting a whole day.

Price and what’s included: The ticket covers your round-trip boat ride, a skilled skipper, and if you select the beach stop, time to swim at St Peter’s Pool. Food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or snacks if you wish.

Group Size and Guides: The tour tends to operate as a small group, fostering a more personalized experience. Guides like Jake are praised for their friendly, humorous approach, which makes the commentary engaging rather than dry.

Seasonal Caveats: During winter, the swimming stop isn’t offered, so if swimming is a priority, plan your visit for warmer months.

Meeting Point: Easy to find at Rima Cruises, with clear instructions. The flexible pickup time means you can coordinate with your schedule.

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Authentic Reviews That Shine

One traveler, Soling, appreciated how the crew reached out beforehand and provided wristbands and receipts, which helped avoid confusion—something that adds a layer of professionalism. She also noted that the crew was knowledgeable and shared interesting tidbits about passing sites.

Cristina mentioned how the sightseeing was “beautiful,” and the crew was “really nice,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere. She also highlighted the chance to swim at St Peter’s Pool, describing it as a “wonderful time.”

Marko praised guide Jake, describing him as “amazing” and “friendly,” who combined storytelling with humor. His review underscores how guides can elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate scenic coastal views and want a quick, authentic look at Malta’s maritime landmarks. It suits travelers seeking a relaxed, family-friendly activity with opportunities to take photos and, seasonally, swim in natural pools. It’s also perfect for visitors who value friendly guides and small-group settings, making the trip both informative and intimate.

If you’re short on time but want to experience Malta’s coastline in a meaningful way, this boat tour hits the sweet spot between sightseeing and leisure. However, if swimming is a key part of your trip, plan for the warmer months when the stop is available.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts about one hour, including sightseeing and the photo stop at St Peter’s Pool.

Is swimming included?
Swimming at St Peter’s Pool is available if weather conditions permit and if you select the option that includes a beach stop. During winter, this stop is not offered.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Rima Cruises, with clear instructions provided. The flexible pickup time allows you to choose when you want to begin.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews frequently mention guides like Jake who deliver engaging, humorous, and informative commentary, making the trip fun and educational.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most likely, yes. The short duration and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, especially if they enjoy scenic boat rides and a bit of swimming.

Are there age restrictions?
The information doesn’t specify age limits, but the activity is family-friendly; young children should be supervised around the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

The From Marsaxlokk: St Peter’s Pool Boat Tour offers a charming, affordable way to see Malta’s coast from a different perspective. It’s a great pick for travelers who love scenic views, historical landmarks, and a chilled-out vibe. The small-group setting and friendly guides make it feel personal, and the optional swimming stop makes it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While it’s seasonal—best during spring and summer—the experience captures the beauty and history of Malta’s coast in a brief but memorable hour. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing break, this tour makes a worthwhile addition to your Malta itinerary.

Enjoy Malta’s coastal treasures on a boat that’s as charming as the island itself. Perfect for a quick but meaningful escape to the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: