Valletta is an ideal base for exploring Malta’s stunning waters and coastlines. Its natural harbors, crystal-clear Blue Lagoon, and proximity to charming islands make boat tours a highlight for visitors. Whether you want a quick cruise, a full-day adventure, or a romantic private experience, Valletta offers options that suit various interests and budgets. For example, the From Malta: Full-Day Gozo Buggy Tour with Lunch & Boat Ride combines land, sea, and local food for a well-rounded experience, earning high praise with a 4.7/5 rating from hundreds of reviews.
Valletta’s waters are best enjoyed with tours that blend sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation. The list below covers a variety of experiences: from group adventures on rugged buggies, scenic day cruises to the Blue Lagoon, and luxurious private charters. No matter your style, you’ll find a tour that makes the most of Malta’s maritime charm.
Overview of the Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Valletta
In this guide, we feature full-day adventures, half-day sightseeing cruises, private boat experiences, and specialty night cruises. Each offers unique views of Malta’s coastlines, historic harbors, and nearby islands. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or seeking a romantic escape, our list highlights the best options for every budget and interest.
1. From Malta: Full-Day Gozo Buggy Tour with Lunch & Boat Ride
This tour is a full-throttle way to see Gozo. Starting with buggy riding, you’ll traverse rugged terrain, stopping to swim, enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch, and finish with a powerboat ride back to Malta. It’s rated 4.7/5 based on 444 reviews, highlighting its popularity for combining active exploration with comfort.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of adrenaline and relaxation—offering family-friendly fun with plenty of scenic stops. Certified guides ensure safety on the buggies, and the experience is ideal if you want to combine adventure with cultural sightseeing. One reviewer described it as “truly enjoyable,” citing the helpful staff and memorable landscapes. The short boat ride adds a fun twist and a different perspective of the Maltese coast. The price of $131 per group makes it a good value for a full day of diverse activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a comprehensive, fun-packed day with great food and coastal views.
2. Malta: Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with Lunch and Boat Trip
This full-day buggy adventure covers a lot of ground, starting at Mgarr Harbour, with stops at scenic viewpoints like Qala Belvedere and Calypso Cave. The tour includes a lunch break at Mariblu Bed and Breakfast, a visit to the Ggantija Temples, and a scenic drive through rural villages like Nadur.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 by 154 reviews, it’s praised for its well-organized itinerary and attentive guides. Guests enjoy the lively commentary and easy access to some of Gozo’s most famous sights. At around $98.33, it offers good value considering the extensive sightseeing, lunch, and off-road driving. Guests particularly appreciated the guide’s energy and professionalism, making it a memorable day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking an active, well-rounded day exploring Gozitan culture, history, and landscapes.
3. Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise inc Photo Stop at Crystal Lagoon
This cruise is a popular choice for swimming and snorkeling in Malta’s most iconic waters. Starting at Bugibba Jetty or Sliema Ferry, you’ll spend about 4.5 hours swimming in the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters, with additional sightseeing on the cruise. The highlight is a photo stop at Crystal Lagoon, where you can capture pictures of one of Malta’s most famous spots.
Rated 3.6/5 from over 700 reviews, this tour appeals to those wanting a relaxing day at sea with plenty of time to enjoy the water. The cruise offers amenities like air conditioning and snacks, making it a comfortable way to spend a day in the sun. It’s very affordable at just $35 per person, making it an excellent choice for families or budget travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for water lovers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day swimming in Malta’s famous lagoons.
4. Malta: Comino Cruise and Jeep Tour with lunch and Transport
This tour combines a half-day cruise around Comino with a jeep safari on Gozo. The boat trip highlights include the Blue Lagoon, while the jeep adventure takes you to Qala, Nadur, the Inland Sea, and Fungus Rock. It’s perfect for those who love multiple activities in one day.
Rated 4.5/5 from 49 reviews, travelers praise the off-road safari for its scenic routes and local insights. The tour is quite comprehensive, lasting about 8 hours, and costs around $102.03. Guests note that the combination of boat and jeep allows you to see both the marine highlights and rural landscapes without sacrificing variety.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a full-day experience with both sea and land explorations—especially if you like off-road adventures.
5. Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities
For a more intimate experience, this private cruise offers a luxurious ride around the Three Cities and Valletta. You’ll enjoy sipping Prosecco or wine, a charcuterie platter or sushi, and a relaxed atmosphere aboard a traditional Luzzu boat. The personalized touches include choosing the decoration theme for your cruise.
Rated 5/5 by five reviewers, this experience is perfect for romantic getaways or special occasions. The hour-and-a-half trip provides a personalized way to appreciate Malta’s historic harbors with cushy cushions and blankets for comfort. It’s a premium option, but the exclusivity and customization make it well worth the cost.
Bottom Line: Best for couples or small groups seeking a romantic, personalized boat experience with excellent service.
6. Three Cities guided tour including harbour boat tour
This tour explores Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea by walking, coach, and traditional ‘dghajsa’ boat. It’s rated 4.0/5 from 81 reviews, combining historic walking tours with a harbor boat ride. Highlights include the Gardjola Gardens and Fort Saint Angelo.
Guests commend the well-organized itinerary and entertaining guides, with many appreciating the different perspectives of land and sea. The boat ride offers a close-up view of the colorful creeks. Costing $45.28, it’s an affordable way to see Malta’s historic fortifications and waterfront.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs who want a comprehensive, multi-sensory experience of Malta’s Three Cities.
7. The Three Fortified Cities of Malta Half Day Tour Incl. Boat Trip and Transfers
This half-day tour visits Cospicua and Vittoriosa, combining city walking with a boat trip. With expert guides, you’ll see impressive fortifications and narrow streets. The boat cruise around the harbor offers unique views of the Knights of St. John’s defenses.
Rated 4.0/5 from 58 reviews, travelers enjoy the balance of walking and boat riding. The tour is good for those short on time but eager to see Malta’s military architecture and picturesque harbors. Costing $46.25, it offers good value for its shorter duration.
Bottom Line: Suitable for visitors wanting a quick, comprehensive look at Malta’s fortified cities and harbor.
8. From Valletta or Sliema: Sail to Science with Boat Transfer
This scenic boat ride takes you from Valletta or Sliema to Esplora Science Center using a traditional Maltese luzzu. It’s a unique mix of maritime adventure and learning, perfect for families curious about Malta’s sea and science.
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, it’s praised for its reliable transfers and engaging experience. The trip is about a full day, with options to combine educational visits with scenic boat rides, making it ideal for families.
Bottom Line: A fun, educational alternative for families wanting a water-based experience that combines culture and science.
9. Sliema: Special Night Harbour Cruise
This evening cruise offers a relaxing 1.5-hour sail around Malta’s main harbors. It’s perfect for those seeking a romantic or peaceful way to see Valletta’s illuminated skyline.
Rated 4.4/5 from 10 reviews, travelers enjoy the intimate atmosphere and beautiful views. The night setting makes it especially memorable, with the lights of Valletta and the harbor creating a stunning backdrop. At only $23 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a calm, scenic cruise.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or anyone wanting a relaxing, atmospheric evening on the water.
10. From Valetta: Catamaran Tour with Hop-On, Hop-Off Gozo Tour
This combo offers a high-speed catamaran crossing from Valletta to Gozo, plus a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of the island. It’s an efficient way to cover more ground in a single day.
Rated 3.7/5 from 75 reviews, travelers appreciate the speed but note some issues with audio guides and timing logistics. For around $34, it provides a cost-effective way to see Gozo’s top sights, especially if you’re pressed for time.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a quick, seamless transfer and flexible exploration of Gozo.
11. Malta: Sightseeing Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
Designed for cruise visitors, this 4-hour tour includes stops at Mdina, Valletta, and key sights like the St. John’s Co-Cathedral. It expertly combines guided visits with comfortable transport.
Rated 4/5, reviewers highlight the expert guidance and efficient itinerary. It’s priced at $112 per person, making it a good investment for limited time in port. The tour balances historic highlights with convenience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers who want to see Malta’s highlights with minimal hassle.
12. Coast and Culture Full Day Private Tour from Valletta cruise port
This private tour offers a luxurious, tailored experience. Visiting Valletta, the Three Cities, and local neighborhoods, it provides a deep dive into Malta’s urban and coastal charms.
Rated 5/5 from a single reviewer, it’s ideal for discerning travelers seeking a personalized day at their own pace. It includes visits to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace, and scenic viewpoints like Hastings Gardens. Priced at $373.21 per person, it’s a premium but highly customized option.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a bespoke, in-depth exploration of Malta’s coast and culture.
13. Valletta: 3 Cities Guided Tour & Grand Harbour Boat Tour
This combined walking tour of Vittoriosa and a boat ride around the Grand Harbour offers a multi-layered perspective. Rated 5/5, it includes narrow street explorations and views from Senglea Garden.
It’s well suited for history lovers who want to see both land and water. The tour costs $46 and is a compact, engaging way to learn about Malta’s maritime and urban landscape.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a balanced mix of walking and boat experience.
14. Sunset Buggy Tour in Gozo and Blue Lagoon Boat Trip
This evening tour combines a scenic boat ride at sunset with a buggy drive through Gozo. Starting with a boat trip to the Santa Maria Caves, then enjoying the Blue Lagoon for a swim, it’s a memorable way to end the day.
Rated 4.5/5 from 2 reviews, travelers love catching a stunning sunset and dinner as part of the experience. At $107.14, it’s a great choice for romantic evenings and those wanting a relaxed yet scenic outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples seeking a romantic sunset experience with a touch of adventure.
15. Afternoon Harbours Cruise with Guide and Roundtrip Transfers
This 3-hour cruise offers a guided exploration of Valletta’s harbors, including Fort St. Angelo and Lower Barrakka Gardens. It’s a straightforward, informative trip with on-board bar and toilets.
Rated 3.8/5, it’s a solid option for those with limited time who want a classic harbor cruise. At $44 per person, it’s an affordable way to see Malta from the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for short visitors who want a relaxed, educational boat trip.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Valletta
Picking the best boat experience depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. For a full immersion into Gozo’s landscapes, the Full-Day Buggy Tours (Tour #1) and Tour #2 offer active adventures with cultural highlights. If your priority is relaxing swimming in the Blue Lagoon, then the Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise provides a straightforward day in the water.
For those seeking personalized or romantic experiences, the Private Picnic Cruise is unbeatable. Budget travelers will appreciate the Blue Lagoon cruise, while history enthusiasts should consider the Three Cities guided tour. Remember, booking early, especially for top-rated tours, ensures availability and better choices.
Final Thoughts
Valletta’s boat tours cover an impressive range—from adventure-packed buggy rides in Gozo to peaceful sunset cruises and luxury private charters. For active travelers, the Full-Day Gozo Buggy Tour promises a full day of fun, while water lovers will find the Blue Lagoon cruise hard to beat on a hot summer day. Meanwhile, couples and small groups seeking intimacy should consider the Private Picnic Cruise, offering personalized service and a romantic setting.
No matter your interests, booking your preferred tour early will secure your spot in Malta’s incredible waters. The variety of options means there’s truly something for all—so choose what excites you most, and prepare for a memorable Malta experience on the water.