The Best Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise of Malta

Exploring Malta’s Harbours: A Practical Look at the Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise

If you’re eyeing a way to see Malta’s beautiful coastline and historic docks without breaking the bank, the Best Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise might catch your interest. Offered at around $23 per person, this cruise promises a relaxed, scenic journey through Malta’s two main harbors, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and learn about the islands’ past.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is—short, affordable, and packed with highlights. The boat itself is described as spacious and equipped with amenities like toilets and a fully stocked bar, making it a comfortable ride. Plus, the live commentary seems to add a layer of insight that many travelers appreciate, giving context to the sights we see from the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cruise duration is about 90 minutes, which is a solid snapshot but not a full-day adventure. Also, since the boat leaves from Sliema Ferries, you’ll want to plan a bit of extra time to get there, especially during busy periods. This tour is well suited for those who want a quick, informative, and scenic overview of Malta’s harbor area—perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a laid-back outing.

Who should consider this tour? It’s great for first-time visitors wanting a scenic orientation, history buffs interested in Malta’s fortifications and cityscapes, or anyone simply looking to relax with a drink in hand while soaking up some stunning views.

Key Points:

• Affordable Price: At $23, it offers good value for a relaxed boat tour focused on scenery and history.
• Informative Commentary: Live guides provide insights into Valletta, the Three Cities, and the historical significance of Malta’s harbors.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat is equipped with toilets, a fully stocked bar, and a friendly crew.
• Scenic Views & Photo Ops: Expect lovely vistas of creeks, forts, dockyards, and the charming Maltese coastline.
• Flexible Experience: Check starting times locally; the tour lasts about 1.5 hours with easy booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Mixed Weather & Visibility: As noted by some reviews, weather can be choppy or windy, which might affect comfort and visibility, so dress accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Duration

The cruise departs from Sliema Ferries, right opposite McDonald’s, making it easy to find with a bit of navigation. The duration is roughly 90 minutes—a manageable chunk of your day that offers plenty of sights without feeling rushed. Be aware that, in some reviews, the trip ran slightly shorter or later than scheduled, so arriving a little early helps avoid missing the start.

What to Expect on the Boat

The vessel itself seems well-suited for sightseeing—described as a big, comfortable boat with a friendly atmosphere. It’s equipped with toilets, which is a thoughtful touch, especially for longer or warmer days. There’s also a fully stocked bar onboard, ideal for unwinding and enjoying your drinks as you take in the scenery. Although drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, reviews mention that the prices are reasonable.

The Route & Sights

The cruise takes you along Malta’s two natural harbors—Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour—and their ten creeks. This means you’ll get a close-up view of historic forts, battlements, and dockyards, illustrating Malta’s strategic maritime importance over centuries.

Some reviews highlight how the views of Valletta’s waterfront are especially compelling from the water, giving a different perspective compared to touring on land. You might find the scenery to be quite picturesque—perfect for photos, especially early in the day when the crowds are smaller.

Historical Insights & Commentary

An aspect many travelers rate highly is the live commentary. It offers a narrative about Valletta and the Three Cities—Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa—that date back to 1565. The guides also cover Malta’s role during the Siege and WWII, giving context to what you’re seeing. As one reviewer noted, the commentary is very informative and well-paced, allowing passengers to absorb the history without feeling overwhelmed.

Some reviews mentioned that the commentary can be difficult to understand due to a thick accent, or that the audio might be a bit muffled at times. If you’re eager for detailed history, sitting on the right side might enhance your experience, as suggested by travelers.

Weather & Comfort

Malta’s weather can vary, and some reviews mention choppy waters and spray, which added to the fun for some, but might be uncomfortable for others. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, especially if the forecast predicts windy conditions. On the bright side, many found the choppiness added a sense of adventure, and the crew was helpful during rougher patches.

Value for Money

Given the low price point, many travelers agree this cruise is a good deal. They appreciate the blend of scenic beauty, historical info, and relaxed environment. While drinks are extra, the availability of a bar means you can keep your glass topped up while enjoying the views.

Critical & Less Positive Points

Some reviews mention that the trip is not quite 90 minutes, more like 70, so if you’re after a longer cruise, this might feel brief. Finding the right boat at the start can be tricky due to signage, and the commentary might be hard to catch if you’re seated far from the speaker. Also, the boat isn’t fancy or multi-level—it’s a small, charming vessel, which is part of its appeal for some, but might disappoint those expecting something more luxurious.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This harbor cruise really caters to travelers looking for a relaxed, affordable, and informative experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a quick scenic overview of Malta’s harbors, a picture of the fortifications from the water, and a bit of local history. If you’re traveling with a group or family that enjoys easy, unobtrusive outings, this fits the bill nicely.

Its value is especially strong if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who bring history to life, and if you want to avoid overly commercial or lengthy tours. The boat’s comfort and amenities make it a good choice for all weather conditions, and the reasonable price tag means you’re not committing a lot for an hour-and-a-half of sightseeing.

FAQ

Is the boat suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour departs from Sliema Ferries and involves boarding a small boat. If access is a concern, contacting the provider beforehand to clarify accessibility might be helpful, as specific details aren’t provided.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the 90-minute cruise with live commentary. The bar is fully stocked, but drinks are not included in the ticket price.

Can I bring my own drinks onboard?
While the bar is available and drinks are sold there, bringing your own alcohol is generally discouraged and not specified as permitted. It’s best to enjoy the bar offerings during the cruise.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The description and reviews suggest it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, especially given the relaxed pace and scenic views. However, check with the provider if traveling with young children or those with specific needs.

What if the weather is bad?
Malta’s weather can be changeable; choppy waters and wind are possible. The trip is weather-dependent, but with a full refund available if canceled, you’re protected if conditions worsen.

How do I find the meeting point?
The cruise departs from Sliema Ferries, directly opposite McDonald’s. Arrive a little early to find your boat comfortably and avoid missing the start.

This harbor cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Malta from the water. It’s a relaxing, budget-friendly tour with enough historical flavor and scenic beauty to satisfy most travelers. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for a peaceful way to soak in the sights, it’s worth considering as part of your Malta itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: