Malta Cruises, Boat Trips and Blue Lagoon Tours
One of the best ways to experience Malta is from the sea, and Malta cruises and boat trips are among the most popular activities on the island. With clear water, dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and small islands like Comino and Gozo, it is easy to see why so many visitors choose to spend a day on a boat during their trip.
Most Malta cruises include stops for swimming, visits to the Blue Lagoon, views of sea caves, and sometimes time on Comino or Gozo, depending on the type of trip you choose. There are half-day trips, full-day trips, sunset cruises and harbour cruises, so there is something suitable for every type of traveller.
Boat trips usually depart from Sliema, Bugibba, St Paul’s Bay and Valletta, and many hotels and tour companies offer organised trips that include transport to the departure point. During the summer months, these cruises run throughout the day, and some operate into the evening for sunset trips and dinner cruises.
Many visitors say that a boat trip to Comino and the Blue Lagoon is one of the highlights of visiting Malta, especially because some of the most beautiful places in Malta can only be properly seen from the water. The coastline, caves and small bays are often more impressive by boat than from land.
Whether you want a relaxing cruise, a swimming trip, a sightseeing harbour tour or a day trip to Gozo, Malta cruises are one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the islands.
Types of Malta Cruises and Boat Trips
There are several different types of Malta cruises available, and choosing the right one depends on whether you want swimming, sightseeing, island visits or a relaxing cruise along the coast.
The most popular trips are Blue Lagoon and Comino boat trips, which usually include swimming stops, time on Comino, and visits to sea caves along the coast. These are usually half-day or full-day trips and are ideal for travellers who want to swim and relax on the water.
There are also Gozo boat trips, which travel from Malta to Gozo, sometimes stopping at Comino and the Blue Lagoon on the way. These trips allow visitors to see multiple islands in one day and are popular with travellers who want to see Gozo without organising transport themselves.
Another option is Valletta harbour cruises, which are shorter sightseeing cruises around the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. These trips focus more on history and scenery rather than swimming and are ideal if you want a shorter activity.
Sunset cruises are also popular, especially in summer, as the coastline around Malta and Gozo looks very different in the evening light, and many sunset cruises include drinks or dinner on board.
There are also catamaran party boats and private boat hire options, which are popular with groups and special occasions. These are more expensive but offer more space and a more private experience.
Choosing the right cruise depends mainly on whether you want swimming, sightseeing, island visits or a relaxing boat trip, as each type of cruise offers a different experience.
Blue Lagoon & Comino Boat Trips
The Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is the most famous boat trip destination in Malta, and many Malta cruises are focused entirely around visiting this area. The Blue Lagoon is known for its very clear, shallow turquoise water and white sandy seabed, which makes it one of the best swimming spots in Malta.
Most Blue Lagoon boat trips include a stop for swimming in the lagoon, a visit to Comino island, and a cruise along the coast past sea caves and cliffs. Some trips also include snorkelling equipment, drinks, or lunch depending on the type of cruise you choose.
Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon usually depart from Bugibba, Sliema or Valletta, and travel around the north coast of Malta before reaching Comino. The journey itself is part of the experience, as you pass cliffs, caves and small bays along the way.
It is important to know that the Blue Lagoon can be very busy in summer, especially during the middle of the day when many boats arrive at the same time. Morning trips and sunset trips are often more enjoyable because there are fewer people and the light is better for photos.
Many visitors consider a Blue Lagoon boat trip to be one of the must-do activities in Malta, especially if you enjoy swimming, snorkelling and spending time on the water.
Gozo Boat Trips from Malta
Another popular option is taking a boat trip from Malta to Gozo. These trips usually combine coastal cruising, visits to sea caves, and time on Gozo island, making them a good option for travellers who want to see more than one island in a single day.
Some boat trips travel directly to Gozo, while others stop at Comino and the Blue Lagoon first before continuing to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. Once in Gozo, tours often include a short bus tour of the island or free time to explore places such as Victoria (Rabat), the Citadel, or coastal viewpoints.
Taking a boat trip to Gozo is different from using the ferry, as the journey itself becomes part of the experience rather than just transport, and you see much more of the coastline along the way.
These trips are usually full-day trips and are popular with travellers who do not want to organise buses, ferries and transport themselves. Instead, everything is included in one organised tour.
For visitors with limited time in Malta, a combined Malta, Comino and Gozo boat trip can be one of the easiest ways to see multiple islands in a single day.
Malta Harbour Cruises (Valletta & Grand Harbour)
Not all Malta cruises involve swimming or visiting the Blue Lagoon. One of the most interesting and relaxing boat trips in Malta is a harbour cruise around Valletta and the Grand Harbour, which focuses more on history, scenery and the impressive fortifications around the capital.
Valletta’s Grand Harbour is considered one of the most beautiful natural harbours in Europe, and seeing the city from the water gives a completely different perspective compared to walking around the streets. From the harbour, you can see Valletta’s city walls, the Three Cities, Fort St Angelo and the historic dockyards, all of which played an important role in Malta’s history.
Harbour cruises are usually shorter than Blue Lagoon trips and typically last one to two hours, making them a good option if you want a boat trip but do not want to spend a full day at sea. Some cruises also run in the evening, which is a great time to see Valletta illuminated at night.
These cruises are more about sightseeing and photography rather than swimming, so they are ideal for travellers interested in Malta’s history, architecture and coastline rather than beaches and lagoons.
Many visitors combine a harbour cruise with a visit to Valletta or the Three Cities, as the departure points are usually located near the Valletta waterfront or Sliema Ferries.
Where Malta Cruises Depart From
Malta cruises and boat trips depart from several different locations around the island, and it is important to check the departure point before booking, as this affects travel time and transport planning.
The most common departure points are Sliema Ferries, Bugibba, St Paul’s Bay and Valletta. Some smaller boat trips and private charters also depart from Mellieha or near the Gozo ferry terminal in the north of Malta.
Sliema is one of the main departure points for harbour cruises and some Blue Lagoon trips, and it is very easy to reach from Valletta using the ferry across the harbour. Bugibba and St Paul’s Bay are very popular departure points for Blue Lagoon and Comino boat trips, as they are closer to Comino and Gozo.
Valletta is mainly used for harbour cruises and the Gozo fast ferry, although some coastal cruises also depart from the Valletta waterfront. If you are staying in Valletta, this can be one of the easiest departure points to reach.
When booking Malta cruises, it is important to check the departure location and arrival time carefully, especially if you are relying on buses or taxis to reach the harbour. Some trips start early in the morning, and others return late in the evening.
Choosing a cruise that departs near your accommodation can save a lot of travel time and make the day much easier.
Malta Cruise Prices & What’s Included
Prices for Malta cruises vary depending on the type of boat trip, the length of the cruise, and what is included in the price. However, most Malta boat trips are reasonably priced compared to similar trips in other Mediterranean destinations.
Half-day Blue Lagoon trips are usually cheaper than full-day trips, while full-day cruises that include multiple swimming stops, lunch, drinks or transport are more expensive. Harbour cruises are usually the cheapest option because they are shorter and focus on sightseeing rather than swimming.
When booking a Malta cruise, it is important to check what is included in the price, as different companies include different things. Some cruises include drinks, snorkelling equipment or lunch, while others charge extra for these items.
Some boats are large passenger boats with hundreds of people, while others are smaller boats or catamarans with fewer passengers, which can be a more comfortable experience but usually cost more.
In general, Malta cruises offer good value for money, especially full-day trips that include swimming, sightseeing and island visits all in one day.
Which Malta Boat Trip Should You Choose?
Choosing the right Malta cruise depends on what you want to do during the trip, as different cruises focus on different experiences.
If you want swimming and clear water, a Blue Lagoon and Comino boat trip is usually the best option. These trips focus on swimming stops and coastal scenery.
If you want to visit multiple islands, a Gozo and Comino boat trip is a good choice, as you can see more places in one day without organising transport yourself.
If you are interested in history and photography, a Valletta harbour cruise is often the best option, as the views of Valletta and the Three Cities from the water are very impressive.
If you want a relaxing evening activity, a sunset cruise can be one of the most enjoyable experiences in Malta, especially during summer.
There is no single best cruise for everyone, but most visitors choose either a Blue Lagoon boat trip or a harbour cruise, depending on whether they want swimming or sightseeing.
Tips for Malta Cruises and Boat Trips
Taking a boat trip is one of the highlights of visiting Malta, but there are a few things worth knowing before you book or board a cruise. The sun in Malta is very strong, especially when you are on the water, so sun protection is essential. Bring sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water, particularly for full-day cruises.
It is also important to bring swimwear, a towel and comfortable footwear, as many cruises include swimming stops at the Blue Lagoon, Comino or small bays along the coast. Some boats provide snorkelling equipment, but not all do, so check what is included when booking your cruise.
Sea conditions are usually calm in summer, but outside peak summer months boat trips can sometimes be cancelled or routes changed due to wind and sea conditions, particularly trips to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. It is always a good idea to leave some flexibility in your itinerary in case trips are rescheduled.
During summer, the Blue Lagoon can become very busy in the middle of the day when many boats arrive at the same time. Morning cruises and sunset cruises are often quieter and more enjoyable, and the lighting is also better for photos.
Finally, it is usually worth booking Malta cruises in advance during peak season, especially Blue Lagoon trips, as popular boats can sell out several days ahead.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Thinking about taking a Malta boat trip? Here are a few useful tips before you book:
- Morning or sunset cruises are best: The Blue Lagoon is quieter and more enjoyable outside the middle of the day.
- Bring sun protection: The sun is much stronger when you are on the water all day.
- Check departure locations: Many cruises leave from Bugibba, Sliema or Valletta, not all from the same place.
- Book in advance in summer: Popular Blue Lagoon trips can sell out several days ahead.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Further Reading & Related Malta Guides
If you are planning a trip to Malta, start with our Malta travel guide, which covers transport, attractions, where to stay and essential travel tips for visiting the islands.
If you are arriving by plane, read our Malta airport transfers guide to understand the best ways to get from the airport to Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s and Gozo.
Planning to visit Gozo? Our Gozo day trip guide explains ferry options, travel times and the best things to see on the island.
If you want to explore the island easily, read our Malta hop on hop off bus guide, which explains routes, stops and whether the sightseeing bus is worth using.
If you are visiting attractions in northern Malta, see our Popeye Village Malta guide and our Malta National Aquarium guide for visitor information and ticket advice.
Last Updated
This Malta cruises and boat trips guide was last updated in April 2026. Cruise routes, prices and departure locations can change, so always check booking providers or official operators before travelling.
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