Thinking about adding some splashy fun to your Malta trip? This banana ride experience in St. Julian’s is a quick burst of adrenaline, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of speed, laughs, and scenic views. While it’s not a lengthy activity, it packs enough excitement to leave a lasting smile, especially if you love being on the water.

What we genuinely appreciate about this ride is how accessible it is—everyone from friends to families can hop on and enjoy the thrill, provided they meet the age and health requirements. Plus, the chance to see iconic sights like St. Paul’s Islands while bouncing over the waves makes it more than just a fun chase. That said, it’s important to note that this experience is quite fast-paced, so if you’re after a more relaxed water day, you might want to balance it with calmer activities.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a private ride—you’re sharing the inflatable banana with others—and timing can be tight if you’re running late. Also, it’s definitely not suited for very young children or those with certain health conditions, but for most normal travelers looking for a quick dose of fun, it hits the mark.

If a short, lively water adventure sounds appealing and you’re eager for great views with a splash of thrill, this activity could be just the thing to spice up your Malta itinerary.

Key Points

Quick but exciting: 10-minute ride packed with fun.
Scenic views: Pass by St. Paul’s Islands and enjoy Blue Lagoon.
Group activity: Suitable for friends and families, with safety considerations.
Accessible but with restrictions: Not for pregnant women, children under 6, or those with certain health issues.
Flexible booking: Book now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Professional staff: Friendly, caring, and fluent in English.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Banana Ride Experience in St. Julian’s

If you’re like us, you’ll appreciate the straightforward setup of this activity. It’s designed to deliver a quick dose of exhilaration in a gorgeous setting. The ride itself lasts for about 10 minutes, but plan for around 30 minutes in total including getting suited up and returning to the jetty. It’s a perfect little adrenaline shot during a day of sightseeing or relaxation.

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Starting Point and Meeting Details

You’ll find the activity at Sun & Fun Water Sports, near the Corinthia Verdi Hotel. The meeting point is clearly marked—just look for the black gate before entering the hotel’s reception area. From there, you walk along the jetty following the yellow line, making it a simple, stress-free process. The exact GPS coordinates are 35.92692565917969, 14.488992691040039.

The Itinerary

Begin at Sun & Fun Water Sports: This is your base, where you’ll check in and get instructions.
Banana boat ride (10 minutes): The highlight. Imagine holding on tight as the inflatable banana skims over the water, towed by a speedy boat.
Return to the starting point: After the ride, you’ll head back to the jetty, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and maybe capture some photos.

The Ride Experience

Once on the inflatable banana, the boat accelerates, and you’ll feel the wind rushing past you. The bouncing over the waves makes for some hilarious moments—think of it as a floating roller coaster ride. The view around you is stunning, with the St. Paul’s Islands looming in the background and the Blue Lagoon’s tranquil waters nearby, making the whole experience picture-perfect.

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The Views and Photo Opportunities

While the ride is about fun and speed, the scenery is a noteworthy bonus. Passing by St. Paul’s Islands gives you a chance to admire Malta’s rugged coastline from a new perspective. As you skim over the water, you’ll get a panoramic shot of the area’s natural beauty. Many reviews mention how stunning the vistas are, even from a quick ride like this.

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Who Is This Experience Best For?

This activity is ideal for travelers who want a short, energetic burst of fun without committing to a longer tour or more expensive excursion. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or families with kids over 6 who enjoy being on the water and don’t mind getting a little splashed.

However, since it’s not a private ride and has some restrictions (like no pregnant women or people with certain health conditions), it’s best suited for generally active, healthy individuals looking to add a dash of excitement.

If you prefer calm, contemplative boat rides or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving fast-paced fun combined with impressive views, this is a solid choice.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Duration and Value

At just 10 minutes, some may wonder if it’s worth it. Our take? The ride’s value lies in the adrenaline and the quick thrill—it’s a splash of fun that energizes your day. Plus, considering the overall cost, it’s an affordable way to add a lively moment to your Malta holiday.

Safety and Comfort

Safety precautions are emphasized, such as seating for the entire ride and restrictions for certain health conditions. The staff, described as friendly and caring, play a big role in making sure everyone enjoys the ride safely. They speak English, which helps if you need instructions or reassurance.

Group Size and Logistics

The ride isn’t private—so you’ll be sharing the inflatable with others. This can be fun, especially if you’re with friends, but keep in mind that it might be a little crowded during peak times. Booking in advance and arriving 15 minutes early ensures you don’t miss your slot, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

Weather and Conditions

Water sports depend heavily on weather, so check the forecast. Calm, sunny days will give you the best ride experience, while strong winds or rough seas could mean cancellations or a less smooth ride.

Reviews from Travelers

The feedback from past visitors is highly positive, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating based on four reviews. One traveler from France said, “activités top avec super moniteur,” highlighting the enjoyable activity and good instructor. Another from Cyprus mentioned, “Staff is awesome, very friendly and caring,” emphasizing the professionalism of the team. The overall sentiment is that this is a fun, well-managed activity that offers great views and a lively experience.

Practical Tips for Your Banana Ride Adventure

Bring a swimsuit and towel so you can dry off and change easily afterward.
Wear secure footwear—flip-flops are fine but avoid loose sandals that could fall off when bouncing.
Arrive early to avoid missing your slot, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.
Hold on tight during the ride—it’s all part of the fun, but safety comes first.
Disclose health conditions to staff if relevant—this activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or individuals with mobility issues.
Capture the moment with photos—many will want to remember the scenic views and the laughs.

FAQs about the Malta Banana and Sofa Rides

Is the ride suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old aren’t allowed, and kids under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult. The activity can be quite bouncy, so parents should consider their child’s comfort with water rides.

How long is the ride?
The actual banana ride lasts about 10 minutes, but plan for extra time to get ready and return to the jetty.

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

Is the ride private?
No, it’s not private. You’ll share the inflatable with others, which can add to the fun or require some patience.

What should I bring?
Swimwear and a towel are recommended. Remember, the activity prohibits bringing weapons, sharp objects, or cellphones for safety reasons.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, people with back or heart issues, mobility impairments, or recent surgeries should avoid this activity. The ride is also unsuitable for non-swimmers and those with motion sickness.

Where exactly do I meet?
Meet at Sun & Fun Water Sports, near the Corinthia Verdi Hotel, through the black gate. Follow the yellow line on the jetty to find your spot.

What’s the weather requirement?
Water activities depend on favorable weather—calm, sunny days are best for a safe and enjoyable ride.

Ready to Book?

St Julians: Banana Rides / Sofa Rides

4.8

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a short but lively water activity in Malta, the banana ride offers a perfect mix of speed, splash, and scenic beauty. It’s an activity that’s easy to book, reasonably priced, and genuinely fun—especially if you enjoy sharing laughs with friends or family while soaking up some of the best views Malta has to offer.

While it isn’t for the faint of heart or those with certain health issues, most active travelers will find it a refreshing, high-energy addition to their day in St. Julian’s. The views of St. Paul’s Islands and Blue Lagoon are bonuses that make the quick ride feel more special, turning a simple water sport into a memorable moment.

This is a great choice if you’re looking for a fun, exhilarating activity that adds a splash of excitement to your Malta adventure. Just be prepared for some bouncing, have your camera ready, and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: