Grand Harbour Cruise

Planning a trip to Malta? If you’re considering a boat tour around the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve looked into this popular Grand Harbour Cruise offered by V. Tabone Travel, and while it has some real highlights, there are a few things to keep in mind before booking.

What we love about this experience? First, the fantastic views of Valletta, the Three Cities, and historic forts from the water are truly something special. It’s a relaxed way to see Malta’s key spots without walking or driving. Second, the informative live commentary in both English and German adds a layer of context that can transform a simple boat ride into a mini history lesson.

However, a potential downside is that the audio quality can be inconsistent—some passengers have found it hard to hear or understand the guides, especially on the lower deck. So, if you’re someone who loves crystal-clear narration, this might be a consideration.

All in all, this cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic overview of Malta’s coast and harbor defenses. It’s especially good if you want a quick, affordable way to get water views and learn a bit about Malta’s storied past without committing to a full-day tour.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this a good value for a short sightseeing trip.
• Flexible departure times allow you to fit the tour into your Malta itinerary easily.
• Options to hop-off at Esplora Science Centre provide additional fun and educational opportunities.
• Indoor and outdoor seating cater to different preferences and weather conditions.
• Wi-Fi on board can help you share your experiences or plan your next stop.
• Historical commentary offers context about Malta’s forts, sieges, and key sites.
• Mixed reviews on audio clarity highlight the importance of managing expectations about the narration quality.
• The tour’s duration is about 90 minutes—short enough for a quick overview, but possibly too brief for a deep dive into Malta’s history.
• Group size can be up to 197 travelers, meaning it’s a popular, communal experience, but crowds might impact comfort or noise levels.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Sliema and the Ferry Ride

Your adventure kicks off at Captain Morgan’s terminal in Sliema, where you’ll board the eco-friendly, bright red iSee Malta harbour catamaran. It’s a modern vessel, approximately 20 meters long, offering a comfortable environment whether you choose the indoor or outdoor seating. We’ve heard from some guests that the boat is quite nice and well-maintained, but others mention that the Wi-Fi password isn’t always easy to find—so if staying online is important, it’s worth asking the crew upfront.

The boarding process is on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot, especially if you prefer outdoor seating with the best views. The ride itself lasts about 90 minutes, giving ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Highlights of the Cruise

Once underway, the boat glides across Marsamxett Harbour, offering a fantastic vantage point of Valletta’s skyline, the historic forts, and the intricate network of battlements that have protected Malta for centuries. The commentary, provided live in English and German, helps bring these sights to life, sharing stories of the Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942, and pointing out key sites along the way.

From the water, you’ll get clear views of Fort Saint Angelo in Vittoriosa, which played a pivotal role in Malta’s history. Many reviews mention that the views are truly splendid and that it’s a great way to see parts of Malta you might not easily access on foot.

The Stops and Optional Hop-Off

A unique feature of this tour is the option to disembark at the Esplora Interactive Science Centre in Kalkara, for a visit to the science exhibits and the Three Cities. For those interested in combining the cruise with some hands-on learning, this is an easy add-on. The science centre is described as a fun space with over 200 interactive exhibits, making it a good stop for families or anyone curious about science.

If you choose to hop-off here, you can reboard later at scheduled times—11:40, 13:40, or 15:55—to return to Sliema. This flexibility lets you tailor the experience to your interests, whether you want the full cruise or prefer a quick visit to Kalkara.

The Scenery and Views

Throughout the cruise, you’ll really appreciate the stunning views of Valletta’s fortress walls and the Three Cities—Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea. Several reviewers note that the photo opportunities are excellent, especially from the top deck.

One passenger described it as “a great way to see Valletta, Sliema, and the Three Cities from the water,” emphasizing how unique and picturesque the perspective is. If you’re a fan of scenic water views, this cruise offers plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The positives include the affordable price ($23.13 per person), making it accessible for most travelers. The group size is moderate, and the live commentary adds value, especially if you’re a history buff. The option to sit indoors or outdoors helps accommodate different weather conditions, which is helpful given Malta’s sunny climate.

On the downside, the audio narration can be hard to hear or understand at times, especially downstairs. Some reviews suggest that a pre-recorded commentary might be a better option for clearer listening. Plus, Wi-Fi access can be inconsistent, which might frustrate those wanting to upload photos or stay connected.

Another point to consider is the duration—an hour and a half may not be enough for those wanting a deep dive into Malta’s history, but it’s perfect as a quick scenic overview.

What Reviews Tell Us

The majority of feedback is positive, with reviews praising the value for money and the views. One guest said, “Very good value for money, we would definitely recommend it,” while others loved the fantastic scenery and the friendly crew.

However, some travelers found the audio narration difficult to follow, with comments like, “Sometimes hard to understand the guide,” and “Nobody knew the Wi-Fi password,” which suggests that some logistical details could be better managed.

A few reviews also highlight the modern boat and the friendly staff, which contribute to a comfortable experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a short, scenic overview of Malta’s harbors with good value. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy visual sightseeing from the water, appreciate a bit of historical context, and don’t mind some minor audio issues. If you’re traveling with family, the hop-off option at Esplora could add a fun extra.

It’s less suited for those seeking a deep historical tour or expecting crystal-clear narration throughout. Also, if you’re very particular about Wi-Fi or sound quality, you might want to prepare accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Grand Harbour Cruise offers a relaxed, budget-friendly way to see some of Malta’s most iconic coastal sights from the water. The stunning views, informative commentary, and the flexibility to hop off at Esplora make it a worthwhile addition to your Malta trip—especially if you’re not after an exhaustive history lesson but want a quick, scenic experience.

While the audio clarity isn’t perfect, the overall value and the chance to snap great photos make this a solid choice for most travelers. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water-based sightseeing, want a snapshot of Malta’s impressive fortifications, and appreciate being able to choose their departure times.

If you’re after a casual, inexpensive cruise with a bit of local color, this tour could very well fit the bill. Just remember to arrive early, ask about the Wi-Fi, and enjoy the views.

FAQ

Is there a specific start location for this tour?
Yes, it begins at Captain Morgan Malta Harbour Cruise, Tower Road, Sliema, Malta. It’s easy to reach via public transport.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise takes approximately 90 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and listen to the commentary.

Can I sit indoors or outdoors?
Yes, you can choose your preferred seating—either inside in air-conditioned comfort or outside on the deck for the best views.

Is Wi-Fi available during the cruise?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided on board, but some reviews mention that the password isn’t always easy to find or the connection can be inconsistent.

Can I hop off at the Esplora Science Centre?
Absolutely. You have the option to disembark at Esplora in Kalkara and re-board later at scheduled times, making it a flexible part of your day.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase from vending machines on board.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 197 travelers, so it’s a popular experience, but you may find it crowded at peak times.

Is this suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, children who enjoy boat rides and scenic views will likely find it enjoyable, especially with the hop-off option.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, some water, and perhaps a light jacket if you’re sensitive to wind on the open deck.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

There you have it—a practical, honest look at Malta’s Grand Harbour Cruise. Whether you’re after a quick scenic tour or hoping to snap memorable photos, this experience offers a good balance of value and enjoyment. Happy sailing!