St Julian’s is a lively hub for water-based adventures, thanks to its prime location on Malta’s northern coast. Its proximity to the Blue Lagoon, Ghadira Bay, and the famous St. George’s Bay makes it a perfect launching point for a variety of boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re into relaxing sunset cruises, high-speed thrill rides, or private charters, St Julian’s offers options that suit all tastes and budgets. One of our favorites is the Evening Catamaran Ferry Cruise To The Blue Lagoon, which combines a scenic evening on the water with the chance to swim and snorkel in calm, clear waters—an ideal way to end a day in Malta.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quick, exhilarating ride, the St. Julian’s: Jet Boat Ride delivers a 20-minute adrenaline rush, carving through the waves with raw power. For those seeking a more personalized experience, a Private Boat Charter with Captain offers the freedom to craft your own itinerary around the Maltese Islands. These diverse options show just how versatile water excursions in St Julian’s can be, catering to both the adventure-seeker and the laid-back traveler alike.
Below, we’ve broken down the top five boat tours and cruises in St Julian’s, highlighting what makes each one special and who would enjoy them most. Whether you’re after sunset serenity, family fun, or a private escape, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Evening Catamaran Ferry Cruise To The Blue Lagoon
At number 1 on our list, the Evening Catamaran Ferry Cruise To The Blue Lagoon offers a relaxed way to enjoy Malta’s most iconic swimming spot. This 5-hour cruise departs from Sliema and takes you aboard a sleek catamaran through the peaceful evening hours. You’ll experience the Blue Lagoon in a calm setting, with fewer crowds and softer lighting—perfect for photography or simply soaking in the serenity. The cruise allows plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or explore Comino Island at your own pace. As the sun dips, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean sunset and the stars emerging overhead, making this a memorable experience for romantic couples or anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the busy day.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on unwinding after a busy day. The tranquil water, gentle evening breeze, and the chance to capture stunning photos under the glow of sunset or under a starlit sky make it feel special. The reviews give it a solid 4.2/5, with many visitors praising the calm atmosphere and picturesque scenery. The price isn’t listed here, but it’s considered good value for a 5-hour cruise with multiple swimming stops.
Bottom line: This cruise is best suited for travelers looking to unwind, enjoy scenic vistas, and take advantage of Malta’s clear waters in a peaceful setting.
2. St. Julian’s: Comino Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise by Speedboat
The St. Julian’s: Comino Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise by Speedboat takes the thrill up a notch. This 2.5-hour trip offers a fast-paced, exciting ride aboard a speedboat from St Julian’s. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, exhilarating way to reach the Blue Lagoon and see it in a different light—at sunset, when the crowds have thinned out and the colors are truly spectacular.
This tour also includes visits to the impressive sea caves around Comino, which are best explored by boat. The highlight is witnessing the breathtaking sunset over the lagoon, which adds a magical touch to the experience. The reviews are modest, with a 3.7/5 rating, mostly because of the limited time, but many praise the efficiency and fun of the speedboat ride. The shorter duration makes it an excellent choice for a half-day adventure, especially if you want to pack in a few activities.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of speed and scenic beauty, allowing you to cover ground efficiently while still enjoying Malta’s stunning waters. It’s ideal for travelers short on time or those craving a high-energy experience with a beautiful sunset payoff.
Bottom line: Best for adventure lovers and those who want to see the Blue Lagoon at sunset without spending the whole day on the water.
3. St. George’s Bay: Inflatable Banana Boat Ride
For a family-friendly, fun-filled water activity, the Inflatable Banana Boat Ride is hard to beat. Priced at just $30 per person for a 10-minute ride, this activity offers a quick burst of adrenaline as you bounce and slide over the waves while being towed behind a powerful speedboat. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a playful way to beat the heat.
What sets this apart is its simplicity and the pure fun factor. The ride is fast, loud, and exhilarating, making it an ideal quick activity in St Julian’s for those with limited time but a craving for some excitement. The inflatable sofa adds a layer of silly entertainment, and the experience is suitable for most ages, provided you’re comfortable in water.
Guests rave about the thrills and the adrenaline rush—”It’s over in a flash but totally worth it,” one reviewer said. Because of its short duration, it’s best as an addition to a day of beach lounging or other water-based activities. This ride is good for thrill-seekers who want a quick, memorable water experience without breaking the bank.
Bottom line: The inflatable banana boat ride is ideal for families or groups wanting a quick, fun splash of adventure in St Julian’s.
4. St. Julian’s: Jet Boat Ride
The Jet Boat Ride offers a 20-minute thrill-packed adventure off the coast of St Julian’s. This high-octane experience is perfect if you’re craving a fast, exciting cruise that pushes the limits of speed and agility on the water. The jet boat carves through the waves at high speed, providing a series of sharp turns, jumps, and splashes.
What makes this ride stand out is its adrenaline factor and the fact that it’s suitable for those who want their water adventure with a dose of adrenaline. The reviews rate it 4.3/5, with many describing it as “a wild ride you won’t forget,” and “great for thrill-seekers.” The ride’s short duration means it’s best as part of a broader day of exploring or water activities.
Who will love it? This is perfect for younger adults or anyone who wants to combine sightseeing with action. It’s not suited for those prone to seasickness or looking for a relaxing experience, but for adventure lovers, it’s a must-do.
Bottom line: If speed, splashes, and adrenaline are your top priorities, this jet boat ride will deliver, making it one of the most memorable quick excursions in St Julian’s.
5. St Julian’s: Private Boat Charter with Captain
Finally, the Private Boat Charter with Captain gives you the ultimate customizable experience. For $520 per group (up to five people), you get 3.5 hours of private access to Malta’s stunning waters. You can choose whether to explore the north or south side of the islands, with options to visit the Blue Lagoon, Ghadira Bay, St. Paul’s Bay, or St. Paul’s Islands.
What sets this apart is its flexibility. Your captain will guide you around, allowing for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck. You can tailor your route to include Valletta Grand Harbour, St. Peter’s Pool, Il-Hofriet, or other scenic spots. The itinerary usually involves a stop at Comino, photo opportunities, and free time for swimming or sunbathing.
This is perfect for travelers who want exclusivity and control over their day. The reviews are not listed here, but the value lies in privacy and the ability to craft your own adventure. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Malta at your own pace.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking privacy, flexibility, and a luxurious experience tailored to your interests.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Experience in St Julian’s
Choosing the right boat tour depends on your priorities. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic experience and love stunning sunsets, the Evening Catamaran Cruise is a great pick. For quick adventures and photo ops at sunset, consider the Speedboat to Blue Lagoon. Families or groups wanting pure fun should try the Banana Boat Ride, while thrill-seekers will love the Jet Boat Ride.
For those valuing privacy and custom itineraries, the Private Boat Charter offers a tailored day on the water. Consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience you’re after—each tour provides a different way to enjoy Malta’s beautiful coastline.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and time. Think about combining multiple trips—for example, a quick ride in the morning and a sunset cruise in the evening—to make the most of your Malta holiday.
Final Thoughts
From relaxing sunset cruises to adrenaline-pumping rides, St Julian’s offers a wide array of boat tours and cruises ideal for every traveler. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, the Evening Catamaran Cruise stands out. For action lovers, the Jet Boat Ride delivers a high-speed thrill. And for a truly tailored experience, the Private Boat Charter makes exploring Malta’s coast flexible and exclusive.
No matter your choice, early booking and considering your specific interests will ensure you enjoy the water adventures that best suit your Malta trip. Water lovers, get ready to make waves—Malta’s waters are waiting.