Introducing the Marsaxlokk and Delimara Coast Boat Trip
This boat trip offers an inviting glimpse into Malta’s rugged coastline, departing from the lively fishing village of Marsaxlokk. For around an hour, you’ll hop aboard a traditional Luzzu, the colorful Maltese fishing boat, and cruise past salt pans, ancient towers, and secret beaches. From a viewpoint on the water, you’ll see landmarks like St. Lucian’s Tower, Fort Delimara, and the picturesque St. Peter’s Pool—a natural swimming hole that’s often featured in travel photos.
What I really like about this experience is how it combines authenticity with simple comfort. The guides, like Charlie, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip feel personal and informative rather than just a touristy ride. The option to swim in summer at no extra cost is a bonus, giving you a chance to cool off in the clear Mediterranean waters—something many reviews highlight as a highlight.
On the flip side, a consideration is the limited duration—just 1 hour. If you’re craving a deeper exploration or longer swim, you might feel this is a bit brief. Also, some mention that the guides’ commentary can be hard to hear, so bringing a pair of sunglasses or a hat with a shade might be handy.
This trip strikes a balance: it’s affordable, authentic, and packed with photo-worthy sights. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a romantic getaway, it offers a lovely slice of Maltese seaside life.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic Maltese Luzzu: The traditional boat adds charm and character to the experience.
- Scenic Coastal Stops: Expect to see salt pans, St. Lucian’s Tower, Fort Delimara, and the beautiful St. Peter’s Pool.
- Expert Guides: Charlie and his team are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge—making the ride both fun and educational.
- Swim Option in Summer: A free swimming stop in crystal-clear waters offers a refreshing break from sightseeing.
- Relaxed Pace & Comfort: The boats are slow-moving, shaded, and easy to stand up in for photos, suitable for families and beginners.
- Limited Duration: The hour-long trip is quick; for those wanting more time in the water or to explore, it might feel short.
Why You’ll Love the Delimara Coast Boat Trip
If you’re after an authentic Maltese experience with a touch of adventure, this boat trip hits the mark. The traditional Luzzu provides a genuine local vibe, and the coastline scenery is genuinely eye-catching—from salt pans shimmering in the sun to the historic towers standing sentinel over the sea. It’s these details that keep visitors returning, especially those who appreciate small groups and personalized guidance.
The guides’ enthusiasm consistently earns praise—like Nikki’s review, which called Charlie “fantastic,” thanks to his knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to answer questions. Plus, the multilingual staff at the booking stage, including Charlie’s daughter, make the whole process smooth and welcoming, even if you don’t speak Maltese or English as your first language.
The swimming stop in summer is especially appreciated. Many reviews mention how nice it is to take a dip in St. Peter’s Pool or nearby beaches, with some tips suggesting bringing swimming shoes to make access easier.
What I find particularly smart is the location of the departure point—at the far end of the promenade—avoiding the crowds at the busier start of the town. It shows a thoughtful approach to making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable.
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The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters
The tour begins at the meeting point in front of Liska restaurant in Marsaxlokk, a lively fishing village known for its colorful boats and fresh seafood. You’ll board your Luzzu, a boat with a traditional design, shaded for comfort, with easy standing room for photos—something a lot of reviewers, like Claudia, appreciate, especially in terms of taking pictures of landmarks or the coastline.
The cruise then takes you along the coastline of Delimara, renowned for its salt pans, which have a rustic, almost surreal look against the blue water. These pans are an interesting sight, often glinting in the sun, and provide a great photo opportunity. Guides like Charlie share tidbits about the area’s history, although some mention that their commentary can be a bit hard to hear—so bringing ear protection or a phone with a recording app might help.
Next, you’ll pass by St. Lucian’s Tower, a fortification dating back centuries. It’s fascinating to see how these structures have been incorporated into the landscape and how they protected the coastline from pirates and invasions. The boat then continues past Fort Delimara, which adds a sense of history to the scenery.
An important highlight is St. Peter’s Pool, a natural rock formation that’s famous for its crystal-clear water and unique shape. Many reviews mention how beautiful and inviting this spot is for a swim, especially in summer when the weather is warm. You may stay for about an hour, but some wish for longer—so plan accordingly.
In winter, the tour adds a visit to Hofriet Bay, giving a different seasonal perspective. The flexibility to choose how long to stay at St. Peter’s Pool, especially in summer, is a thoughtful feature appreciated by travelers.
Finally, the tour returns to the starting point, ending the loop with plenty of chances to snap photos or simply relax and take in the views.
Price and Logistics: Does It Offer Good Value?
For a 1-hour boat trip, the price is quite reasonable, especially considering the small group size—capped at 10 participants. This ensures a more personal experience and easier interaction with the guide. The inclusion of life jackets and the option to swim at no extra cost make it clear that the tour prioritizes safety and comfort.
Booking is flexible, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, reserving now and paying later offers some peace of mind in case your plans change.
The departure point is straightforward to find; the booking confirmation provides clear instructions. The tour is suitable for all ages, but avoid it if you’re prone to seasickness. The boat’s slow pace and shade-covered design make it comfortable, but don’t forget to bring sunscreen, water, and a hat for extra comfort—especially in the Maltese sun.
Who Is This Experience Best For?
This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and are interested in coastal scenery and history. Families with kids will find it easy to manage, thanks to the slow pace and safety features. If you’re keen on photo opportunities, you’ll love the ability to stand and capture the coastline and landmarks from the boat.
It’s also great for those who prefer small group settings and personalized guidance over large, crowded tours. If you’re visiting in summer and enjoy swimming, this is a perfect add-on, allowing a refreshing break in stunning waters.
Conversely, if you’re seeking a longer tour, or are very interested in diving or snorkeling gear, this experience might feel limited. Likewise, travelers who want an in-depth exploration of the history or coastline will probably need to supplement this with additional activities.
A Final Word
This boat trip offers a blend of tradition, scenic beauty, and relaxed fun that makes it a solid choice for many visitors to Malta. The small group size ensures a more intimate, personalized experience, and the expert guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable. The free swimming stop in summer adds a wonderful dimension, letting you enjoy the Mediterranean’s famously clear waters.
While the hour-long duration might leave some wanting more, it’s a perfect snapshot—especially when combined with other experiences in Malta. The cost is reasonable for what’s included, and booking flexibility means you can plan with confidence.
If you love charming local boats, scenic coastal views, and a touch of history, this is a delightful way to discover the Delimara coast. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or anyone craving a simple, authentic Maltese adventure on the water.
FAQ
How long is the boat trip?
The trip lasts about 1 hour, with departure times available based on availability. Be sure to check the schedule when booking.
Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of Liska restaurant in Marsaxlokk, a lively fishing village filled with colorful boats.
Is swimming included?
Yes, a swimming stop in summer is included at no extra charge, giving you the chance to enjoy the clear waters of St. Peter’s Pool.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes, life jackets are available for all participants, ensuring safety for children and adults alike.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely. The slow pace and safety features make it family-friendly. Just ensure children can sit comfortably and are comfortable with water activities.
Can I hear the guide’s commentary clearly?
Some reviews mention that audio may be hard to hear, so consider bringing a small device to record or ask questions directly.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimsuit, towel, camera, sunscreen, and plenty of water—especially if you plan to swim or spend time in the sun.
This boat trip delivers a genuine taste of Malta’s coast, combining scenery, history, and fun. Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to beat the heat.