Private Picnic Cruise Experience in Malta

An Honest Look at the Private Picnic Cruise in Malta

If you’re dreaming of a special, intimate way to see Malta’s stunning coastline and historic harbors, the Private Picnic Cruise Experience might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally been on this boat, there’s plenty of information to help you decide if it fits your vibe. What really makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a completely private experience—meaning no crowded groups—just your party and the water. Second, the meal package, with its cheese platter and nibbles, adds a touch of indulgence and makes the trip feel more like a celebration.

But, as with any experience that involves a boat and weather-dependent plans, there are a few things to keep in mind. The price, at over five hundred dollars for a group of two, isn’t exactly budget-friendly, especially for those looking for a full-day adventure. However, for a romantic outing, a special birthday, or an anniversary, it could be worth it. Casual travelers or those on tighter budgets might want to explore other options, but if privacy and a luxurious vibe matter, this could be right up your alley.

This tour is especially well-suited to those seeking a romantic escape or celebrating a special milestone. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Malta’s waters in a quiet, personalized setting, and don’t mind splurging a little for exclusivity, this cruise could be a lovely choice. Now, let’s unpack what makes this experience tick and what you can realistically expect.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience—just for your group
• Waterfront views of Malta’s Grand Harbour and the Three Cities
• Ideal for special occasions like birthdays or proposals
• Includes a cheese platter and nibbles for a relaxed, indulgent vibe
• Flexible start times to fit your schedule
• Weather-dependent — good weather is essential for the best experience

What’s This Tour All About?

This private picnic cruise in Malta is designed for those wanting a personalized water adventure combined with a gourmet picnic. It’s a short, 1 hour 30-minute sail that starts in Valletta, offering a chance to see some of Malta’s most iconic sights from the water. Think of it as a luxurious, intimate way to explore Malta’s famous harbor and historic Three Cities without the crowds.

The main selling points? The private setting means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, which makes it perfect for romantic moments or a small celebration with friends. The flexibility in start times is handy, so you can choose a slot that best fits your day. The delicious cheese platter and nibbles add a gourmet touch, making the experience feel more indulgent than a simple boat tour.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour’s route focuses on the three cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—and the Grand Harbour of Valletta. These are some of Malta’s most historic and visually stunning areas, often visible from land, but on the water, they take on a new dimension.

The Three Cities and Grand Harbour

You’ll set sail from the Lascaris Water Taxi station in Valletta, heading out to see Malta’s historic port. The views of Valletta’s skyline, with its fortress walls and domed churches, are striking from the water. The cruise then passes by the Three Cities, each with their unique character. Vittoriosa (Birgu) has narrow alleys and medieval charm, Senglea (Isla) boasts a scenic waterfront with lush gardens, and Cospicua (Bormla) features impressive fortifications.

What’s the cruising experience like?

We loved the way the boat glides smoothly over the water, giving you a relaxed, quiet vantage point. The experience is very much about savoring the scenery, with the option to snap photos or simply sit back and enjoy the views. The tour promises to showcase Malta’s scenic coastlines and historic sites in a way that’s both peaceful and immersive.

Food and drinks onboard

The highlight for many is the cheese platter and nibbles, which are served while you’re cruising. While the specific menu isn’t detailed, the focus on “delicious food and tapas” in reviews suggests a tasty, thoughtfully curated snack spread. It’s a great way to enjoy a light meal without disrupting the tranquil vibe.

The Experience and Value

Considering the price of $572.31 for up to two people, this cruise clearly leans towards a luxury, special occasion experience rather than everyday sightseeing. For couples celebrating an anniversary or a proposal, the exclusivity and scenic views could make it unforgettable. The full privacy allows for intimate moments, and the option to pick a start time makes planning easier.

In terms of value, the experience offers a combination of scenic beauty, privacy, and gourmet snacks—elements that are often hard to find in standard boat tours or group excursions. Plus, the positive review from Matt highlights how memorable and well-organized the experience can be: “Everything was so perfect and my fiancé was so happy.” That’s a good sign if you’re looking for a high-quality, hassle-free outing.

Consideration: Weather and Cancellation

Since this is a weather-dependent activity, you’ll want to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans. The booking is flexible—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—so if rain or high winds threaten, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an intimate way to see Malta’s harbors and historic sights, and are willing to pay for privacy and luxury, this cruise fits the bill. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special day. Keep in mind that it’s not a full-day adventure—it’s a short, relaxing ride—so if you’re looking for a more active or extensive exploration, you might want to supplement this with other activities.

Travelers who value delicious, tapas-style snacks and scenic views over adrenaline or extensive sightseeing will likely enjoy this experience. It’s less about sightseeing for the sake of it and more about savoring the moment from Malta’s waters.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those looking to indulge in a luxurious, private boat ride with fine snacks and stunning vistas, this experience offers a memorable slice of Maltese life. It’s particularly suited for romantic moments or special occasions where privacy and atmosphere matter more than a packed schedule.

While the price might seem high, the combination of exclusivity, scenic beauty, and gourmet nibbles offers a level of comfort and intimacy that’s hard to match in bigger group tours. If you want to treat yourself or your loved one to a personalized water adventure with gorgeous views, it’s worth considering.

However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer more active or extensive sightseeing days, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a special, high-end experience, this cruise certainly stands out.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but since it’s a private boat experience, it can be suitable for children if your group includes them. Just consider their comfort with boat rides and the duration.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private 1 hour 30-minute boat cruise, with scenic views of Valletta and the Three Cities, plus a cheese platter and nibbles.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, the tour offers a wide range of start times, so you can pick what works best for your schedule.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since weather affects the experience, it might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if that happens.

How many people can join?
This tour is designed for up to 2 people per group, making it ideal for couples or a small private party.

Is the experience worth the price?
If you’re seeking a private, scenic, and gourmet-focused experience, the price aligns with the exclusivity and luxury offered.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Lascaris Water Taxi station in Valletta and ends back at the same point.

How far in advance should I book?
Since confirmation is within 48 hours, booking a few days ahead is advisable, especially if you want a specific start time.

This private picnic cruise in Malta offers a beautiful, intimate way to soak in Malta’s scenic harbors, enjoy gourmet snacks, and celebrate a special moment. For those who value exclusivity and a relaxed pace, it’s a memorable choice worth considering.