Sliema: Special Night Harbour Cruise

Sliema: Special Night Harbour Cruise – A Relaxed View of Malta’s Harbours

If you’re wandering around Malta and want a gentle, visually rewarding experience, the Night Harbour Cruise from Sliema offers just that. For about an hour and a half, you’ll glide around the main harbours—Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour—surrounding the historic city of Valletta. This small boat trip, priced at $23 per person, appeals to those seeking a laid-back, scenic escape from the bustling streets, especially at sunset or after dark when the harbours light up beautifully.

What I like most? First, the peaceful atmosphere on a smaller boat makes for an intimate and relaxing experience—no noisy crowds, just a handful of fellow travelers. Second, the insightful commentary offered by the guide adds depth to what you’re seeing, transforming a pretty boat ride into a mini cultural tour. A possible drawback? If you’re expecting a lively party vibe or a full-blown night adventure, this cruise leans more towards serenity and scenery than high energy.

But don’t let that deter you. If your idea of a memorable Maltese evening involves stunning views, gentle sea breezes, and a bit of history, this cruise hits the mark. Plus, with flexible booking options—cancel for free up to 24 hours ahead—you can plan without stress. Just remember to bring your own snacks and drinks for a personalized picnic onboard, making the ride feel even more special.

Key points / Takeaways

• Affordable and intimate: The small-group setting offers a more personal experience at a budget-friendly price.
• Ideal for relaxed evenings: The 6:00 PM departure coincides with sunset, perfect for those wanting softer lighting and cooler temps.
• Insightful guide commentary: Learn about Malta’s harbours and history from the English-speaking guide, making the views more meaningful.
• Bring your own food: The cruise is a DIY dining experience—pack some snacks and drinks to enjoy while soaking up the scenery.
• Stunning harbor views: The cruise takes in ten historic creeks, with the stunning lights of Valletta and the surrounding harbors creating a magical backdrop.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind to adapt your plans.

Discover Malta’s Harbours by Boat: A Quiet, Scenic Escape

Malta is famous for its stunning coastlines and historic ports, and the Night Harbour Cruise from Sliema offers a relaxing way to see this maritime landscape without the crowds. Starting at 6:00 PM from Sliema Ferries, the trip lasts around 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the harbors. I love the fact that the tour is small—fewer boats, fewer people, more space to breathe. This makes it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a peaceful evening out on the water.

The cruise travels around ten different creeks—like Gzira, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, and the Three Cities—each with their own charm. As the boat glides through these historic spots, you’ll catch fantastic views of Valletta’s fortified walls, the lively marinas, and the twinkling lights of the harbor. The commentary provided by the guide is a real bonus, helping you appreciate Malta’s port history and culture that you might otherwise overlook.

One of the standout features is how easy it is to customize the experience—bring along your own snacks or drinks, and you’ve created a personalized evening cruise. It’s a surprisingly good value for just $23, considering the views and the relaxed vibe. The only consideration? If you’re looking for a lively, party-style cruise, this isn’t the right fit. It’s all about slow sightseeing and enjoying the evening.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Itinerary & Stops:
The departure from Sliema Ferries at 6:00 PM is the starting point for this gentle voyage. The boat will cruise through the main harbours—Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour—covering key areas like Pietà, Floriana, and the historic Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua). You’ll be able to see Valletta’s impressive fortifications from the water, along with other notable sites like Marsa and Rinella.

Onboard Atmosphere:
The vessel is described as small and relaxed—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting rather than large, crowded tourist boats. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for taking photos, chatting quietly, or simply enjoying the scenery. Many reviews highlight the stunning views of Valletta’s walls and the harbor’s lights, which seem to shimmer more vibrantly at night.

What You’ll Hear:
Your English-speaking guide provides live commentary, sharing stories and facts about Malta’s history and ports. This adds context to the beautiful sights and can turn a simple boat ride into a mini cultural lesson. The guide’s insights help you understand why these harbors have been vital to Malta’s past, from ancient times through the modern era.

What to Bring:
Since food and drinks are not included, packing some snacks and a drink or two makes the trip more enjoyable. A lightweight jacket or sweater might be useful if you’re sensitive to the evening breeze or if the weather is cooler in the night. The cruise’s timing during sunset or after means softer natural light, making for better photos and a more romantic setting.

Navigating the Logistics and Value

Pricing & Duration:
At $23 per person for a 1.5-hour cruise, this experience offers solid value, especially given the scenic views and personalized atmosphere. It’s not a big-ticket event, but it delivers a lot for the price—especially if you’re keen on a relaxed, scenic overview of Valletta’s harbors.

Booking & Flexibility:
With the option to reserve now and pay later, you can plan your evening without immediate commitment. Plus, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for spontaneity or schedule adjustments.

Group Size & Language:
The tour is conducted in English and tends to be small, which means you’ll likely get more personal attention from the guide and a quieter environment compared to larger boats.

Who Will Love This?
This cruise suits travelers who appreciate quiet, scenic moments and prefer a gentle introduction to Malta’s harbors. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for an affordable, relaxing way to see the city from the water. It’s also a great option if you want to combine it with other sightseeing, as it’s short and flexible.

Why This Experience Leaves a Lasting Impression

What really makes this cruise stand out is the combination of beautiful views and calm atmosphere. The lights reflecting off the water, the historical significance of every creek and fortification, and the insightful guide commentary create a layered experience that feels authentic. The fact that you can bring your own snacks means you can turn it into a personalized mini picnic, making the trip more memorable.

It’s not a wild night out, but rather a tranquil stroll at sea—perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing or for an early evening escape into Malta’s maritime beauty. The views of Valletta’s impressive defenses, the lively ports, and the shimmering harbors are something you’ll talk about long after the cruise ends.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

If you’re traveling with a partner or small group and want a quiet, scenic, and affordable way to see Malta’s harbors at night, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who love photography, history, or simply relaxing on the water. If you’re traveling with kids or in search of a lively party cruise, you might find this experience a bit too mellow. But for anyone craving a peaceful, picture-perfect evening, it’s hard to beat.

The Sum Up: A Gentle Escape into Malta’s Harbour Lights

This Night Harbour Cruise from Sliema offers an accessible, peaceful way to appreciate Malta’s stunning coastlines and historic ports. The small boat setting, combined with insightful commentary and beautiful vistas, transforms what might seem like a simple boat ride into a memorable evening. The affordability makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers, while the flexible booking ensures you can plan with confidence.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy relaxed experiences, scenic views, and a touch of Maltese history. If your idea of a perfect evening involves gentle breezes, shimmering harbors, and a quiet atmosphere, this cruise will not disappoint. It’s a calm, charming way to see the islands from the water and gather some unforgettable photos of Malta’s magical night scenes.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, starting at 6:00 PM from Sliema Ferries and returning around 7:30 PM.

What is the cost?
The ticket price is $23 per person, offering good value for a scenic and relaxing boat ride around Malta’s harbors.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you’ll need to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy onboard, creating a personalized dining experience.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the cruise includes a live English-speaking guide who provides commentary on Malta’s harbors and history.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it a flexible option.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing is fine, but consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for the evening breeze.