Sliema is a fantastic base for exploring Malta’s coastline and islands, especially if you enjoy combining a good meal with a dash of adventure. The lunch cruises and day trips here are more than just scenic rides—they’re opportunities to enjoy authentic maritime experiences, stunning views, and delicious food. We’re particularly fond of the Turkish gulet cruises that serve a hearty buffet while you soak up the sun, as well as the longer island circumnavigation that offers a comprehensive taste of Malta’s maritime charm. For a true taste of the Blue Lagoon’s famous turquoise waters, these tours are hard to beat. If you’re interested in a more relaxed, full-day experience, the 3-islands cruise also offers a great buffet and several swimming stops.
To help you pick the right outing, we’ve rounded up the best lunch experiences in Sliema—each with its unique appeal. Whether you prefer a half-day boat trip, a full-day cruise around Malta, or a more intimate tour with fewer crowds, there’s something here for every traveler.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of lunch cruises and full-day tours that incorporate meals, swimming, and sightseeing. They include:
- The Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise, perfect for a relaxing day with unlimited drinks and scenic stops.
- The Comino, Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Cruise, focusing on gorgeous swimming spots and a stylish boat experience.
- The Round Malta Cruise, ideal for a comprehensive day exploring Malta’s coast.
- The 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch, which hits three spots at a manageable pace.
Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise w/ Lunch+Drinks
This cruise offers a 7.5-hour journey around some of Malta’s most breathtaking spots aboard a traditional Turkish gullet. It’s the ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxed day at sea with plenty of swimming, good food, and drinks. The trip includes visits to the tiny island of Comino and its famous Blue Lagoon, plus a secluded swim stop in Gozo. You’ll enjoy two swim stops—perfect for cooling off—and a buffet lunch featuring hot and cold dishes.
What makes this cruise stand out is the unlimited drinks package—beer, wine, soft drinks, and mineral water flow freely all day. The crew, led by Captain Brian, is praised for their friendly service and smooth organization. Passengers consistently mention the breathtaking scenery and the well-organized itinerary. While some note the boat gets crowded, most find it a small trade-off for the lively atmosphere and fantastic value.
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect for those who want an all-in-one day of sightseeing, swimming, and hearty food — ideal for groups or families seeking a fun, social vibe.
2. Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Cruise w/ Lunch
This 7.5-hour cruise on a beautiful Turkish gulet emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty. It’s tailored for travelers who want to explore Comino’s stunning Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon’s famous turquoise waters in style. The trip includes exploring Malta’s coastlines en route to Comino, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. A delicious lunch is served onboard, allowing you to enjoy the views while eating.
What makes this experience distinctive is the focus on crystal-clear waters and the chance to relax in comfort aboard a traditional vessel. The reviews highlight the stunning coastal views and the excellent quality of the onboard lunch. Because it’s a smaller, more intimate tour with fewer reviews, it may appeal to those seeking a more refined experience, but the overall experience remains casual and enjoyable.
Bottom Line: For sunseekers who want a stylish boat ride and top-notch swimming spots, this cruise offers a balanced mix of comfort and adventure.
3. From Sliema: Round Malta Cruise with Lunch and Transfers
This 8.5-hour tour takes you all around Malta aboard a traditional Turkish gullet, with a full day of sightseeing and swimming. The highlight is the 360° view of Malta’s coastline from the water, with a refreshing swim stop at a scenic bay. The cruise includes transfers from Sliema—a helpful feature for travelers staying elsewhere—and a delightful cold buffet lunch with drinks.
What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive itinerary, giving you a full picture of Malta’s maritime scenery. Passengers rave about the breathtaking views and the value for money—especially since it combines sightseeing, swimming, and a hearty meal in one package. Some mention the boat can feel crowded, but overall, it’s praised as a great way to see Malta’s coast in one trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a full overview of Malta’s coast with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing, especially if you prefer organized transfers.
4. Sliema: 3-Islands Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Drinks
This 8-hour cruise offers a full day exploring three beautiful locations around Malta, including a bay in Gozo and the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. The cruise features a buffet lunch and complimentary drinks, making it a convenient all-in-one package. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting ample swimming opportunities and scenic vistas without too many stops.
While some reviews mention crowding and slightly limited commentary, most praise the variety of swimming spots, including easy access off the boat and the chance to relax in tranquil waters. The included buffet and drinks make it a good value, especially for those who want a full-day experience with multiple stops. The main drawback might be the large group size, which can sometimes feel hectic, but it’s balanced by the variety of locations visited.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers looking to see three spots in one day with good food and drinks, especially families or groups who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Sliema
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you want a relaxing day on a traditional boat with unlimited drinks, the Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise is a top choice. For travelers craving a stylish swim at the Crystal Lagoon, the Comino & Crystal Lagoon Cruise offers a more refined experience. Those seeking a comprehensive tour around Malta with a full day’s worth of sightseeing and swimming should opt for the Round Malta Cruise. Finally, for a full-day adventure covering three islands, the 3-Islands Cruise provides a lively, all-in-one option.
Think about your budget, time availability, and whether you prefer small, intimate tours or larger group outings. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular cruises.
Final Thoughts
Sliema offers a diverse array of lunch cruises and island tours that combine stunning scenery, swimming, and delicious local food. For those seeking luxury and comfort, the Blue Lagoon Cruise is hard to beat. If you want a full-day adventure around Malta, the Round Malta Cruise is a superb choice. For a balanced mix of multiple stops and good food, the 3-Islands Cruise hits the mark.
No matter your preference, these tours provide memorable ways to enjoy Malta’s coast and islands with a good meal in hand. Book early, pack your sunscreen, and prepare for a day full of sun, sea, and tasty eats.