Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities — A Relaxed and Personal Way to See Malta’s Harbour
When it comes to exploring Malta, there’s no shortage of guided tours and full-day excursions. But if you’re after something more intimate, personalized, and a bit special, a private cruise like this might just fit the bill. We’ve come across a tour where you get to glide around Valletta and the Three Cities on a traditional Maltese Luzzu, all while enjoying good wine, tasty nibbles, and the chance to soak in some spectacular views.
What really caught our attention? First, the chance to cruise in a beautifully decorated Luzzu — it’s not every day you get to feel like a VIP on a classic Maltese boat. Second, the personalized experience, including choosing your decoration theme and learning about Malta’s landmarks directly from your guide. The only thing to keep in mind? This cruise isn’t suited for those prone to seasickness or users in wheelchairs, so it’s best to plan accordingly.
This experience works best for travelers wanting a relaxed, romantic outing or a unique way to see Malta’s harbor area without the hustle of large group tours. If you appreciate personalized touches, good food, and a bit of history with your view, this could be just right.
Key Points
- Intimate Private Experience: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking privacy
- Beautiful Decor & Personalization: Choose your color theme and enjoy a thoughtfully decorated boat
- Culinary & Drink Options: Sip on wine or Prosecco while munching on charcuterie or sushi
- Learn from Your Guide: Easy to absorb Malta’s sights and stories from your private driver
- Short & Sweet: 1.5-hour cruise ideal for a quick, memorable break
- Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with seasickness issues
What to Expect from the Malta Private Picnic Cruise
This 1.5-hour cruise is designed to be both relaxing and engaging, centered around a traditional Maltese Luzzu — a boat that’s as iconic as the country itself. You’ll be picked up and transported to your private boat, which is decorated with cushions, blankets, artificial flowers, and even a customized letter board to match your preferred color theme. It’s designed to feel cozy and romantic, perfect for creating a memorable atmosphere.
The boat setup includes essentials like glassware, cutlery, an ice basket, candles, and a Bluetooth speaker for your playlist, making it feel more like a floating lounge than a tour. You’ll also have a selfie stick on hand, so capturing the moments is easy.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Valletta
A View Like No Other
As your private Luzzu glides around Valletta and the Three Cities, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of Malta’s historic waterfront. The driver, who speaks English and Maltese, will share insights about the area’s landmarks and history, making the trip not just a visual delight but also an informative one. You can choose your preferred decoration color scheme, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Many reviewers highlighted how stunning the scenery is, especially during sunset — a time when the light casts a warm glow over the harbors and makes everything look extra special. The boat’s pace is relaxed, allowing you to take it all in without feeling rushed.
Food & Drink on Board
The highlight for many is the selection of drinks — you can opt for soft drinks, wine, or Prosecco, which is served chilled and ready to enjoy. The food options include a charcuterie platter or sushi, making this a much more refined experience than a typical boat tour. The quality of both the wine and the nibbles has received positive remarks, emphasizing that it’s worth the price.
Learning & Personal Touches
Your private driver isn’t just there to navigate but also to share stories about the sights passing by, giving you some context that you might miss on a larger tour. The ability to customize the decoration theme adds a layer of personalisation, making this experience feel special rather than generic.
More Great Tours NearbyBreaking Down the Experience
The tour begins with a prompt departure — arriving about 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start. Once onboard, the emphasis is on relaxation and enjoyment. The boat’s cozy setup invites you to sit back, sip, and chat as you cruise past key areas in Malta’s Grand Harbour area.
The passage around the Three Cities — Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua — is especially scenic. These ancient fortified towns are full of history, with narrow streets, old fortifications, and a lively maritime atmosphere. As your guide narrates, you’ll learn about the significance of each area, adding depth to your sightseeing.
The cruise also offers views of Valletta, Malta’s capital, with its impressive bastions and historic buildings. Watching the city from the water is a different perspective that captures its grandeur and charm.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Valletta
- Malta: Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with lunch and Boat Trip
- Three Cities guided tour including harbour boat tour
- Malta: Comino Cruise and Jeep Tour with lunch and Transport
- 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus + Harbour Cruise Ticket
- Malta: Sightseeing Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
- Gozo: Full-Day Quad Tour with Private Round-Trip Boat
What Our Reviews Say
Multiple reviewers raved about the knowledgeable guides and the quality of food and wine. One comment described the experience as “outstanding for all senses,” highlighting how the sunset lighting and the boat’s decor combined for a truly memorable outing. Another reviewer from the UK called it the “most amazing personalized experience,” confirming that small details, like choosing the color theme, make all the difference.
The fact that the trip feels tailored — from decoration themes to the choice of drinks — is a big plus. Many found it provides excellent value, especially considering it’s a private group and includes drinks and snacks.
Some pointed out the limited accessibility — it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and those susceptible to seasickness, which is worth considering if you or your travel companions have these concerns.
Is It Worth the Price?
While it’s not the cheapest way to see Malta, the value is rooted in its exclusivity and personal feel. For about 1.5 hours of relaxed cruising in a beautifully decorated boat, enjoying drinks and snacks, many consider it money well spent, especially for celebrating special occasions or just treating yourself to something memorable.
The small group size (private booking) means you won’t be crammed with strangers, and you get the benefit of a guide who can tailor the experience slightly to your interests.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise suits couples celebrating a romantic getaway, small groups wanting a private experience, or travelers looking to add a unique, comfortable activity to their Malta itinerary. It’s ideal if you love a bit of personalization, scenic views, and leisurely sipping wine in a cozy setting.
However, if you or your travel companions are prone to seasickness or require wheelchair access, you might want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts
This private picnic cruise offers a beautifully curated, intimate way to see Malta’s historic harbors. From the thoughtful decor to the quality of drinks and the engaging commentary, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances relaxation with a touch of elegance.
While it’s not a tour for everyone — especially those sensitive to movement or with accessibility needs — for those seeking a special, personal outing, it’s a standout choice. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic afternoon, or simply indulging in a different perspective of Malta’s stunning coast.
If you’re after a memorable, tailored experience that combines scenic views, good company, and a splash of luxury, this private Luzzu cruise could be just what you need.
Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short but sweet outing.
Can I choose the decoration theme?
Yes, you can select your preferred color theme for the boat’s decorations, adding a personal touch.
What drinks are included?
You can sip on soft drinks, wine, or Prosecco during the cruise.
What food options are available?
There’s a charcuterie platter or sushi, both of good quality according to reviews.
Is this suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically designed for children, and it’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness.
Are there any accessibility considerations?
Yes, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
What languages are spoken by the guide?
The driver speaks English and Maltese.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this experience good value?
Most reviews suggest yes — especially considering the private setting, personalized touches, and included drinks and food.
If you’re looking for a blend of scenic beauty, personalized service, and a relaxing vibe, this private cruise around Valletta and the Three Cities can be a highlight of your Malta trip.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Valletta
- Private Full Day Malta Tour: Valletta, Mdina, Rabat and Mosta
- Valletta: Private Walking Tour
- Vallettas Historic Charm: A Private Guided Walking Tour
- Explore Malta Your Way -Private Customizable Tour w/ Local Driver
- Private Full day tour with Hagar Qim tickets from Valletta port
- Malta: Private Jeep Tour of Gozo
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Valletta
- Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon
- From Valletta or Sliema: Sail to Science with Boat Transfer
- Sliema: Special Night Harbour Cruise
- Afternoon Harbours Cruise with Guide and Roundtrip Transfers
- Sunset Buggy Tour in Gozo and Blue Lagoon Boat Trip
- Gozo: Full-Day Quad Tour with Private Round-Trip Boat
More Tour Reviews in Valletta
- Guided Walking Tour of Valletta with Licenced Guide
- The Grand Tour of Valletta: A walking tour of Valletta.
- Highlights of Malta Tour:Icons and Experiences of the Island
- Malta: Ancient Wonders, Coastal Charms, and Cities Tour
- Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon
- The Dark History of Valletta – Walking Tour
More Valletta experiences we've covered
- The Grand Tour of Valletta: A walking tour of Valletta.
- Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities
- Highlights of Malta Tour:Icons and Experiences of the Island
- Malta: Ancient Wonders, Coastal Charms, and Cities Tour
- Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon
- The Dark History of Valletta – Walking Tour
- Valletta Aperol Spritz Aperitivo Experience
- Valletta : Highlights & Hidden Gems Walking Tour
- Private Full Day Malta Tour: Valletta, Mdina, Rabat and Mosta
- Valletta: Maltese Food and Drink Guided Walking Tour
- From Valletta or Sliema: Sail to Science with Boat Transfer
- Valletta: Private Walking Tour



