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Harbour Cruise Malta: Tour Valletta Grand Harbour

Taking a Valletta Grand Harbour cruise is one of the most popular and interesting things to do in Malta .

And for good reason: A harbour cruise in Malta tells the story of the rich history of the two natural harbours (and creeks) at Valletta, Malta’s capital city.

Here I’ll help you find out:

• Why this boat tour should be part of your trip plan
• How and where get your tickets
• What to expect and how to get the most out of your Grand Harbour tour.

Already decided? Buy your tickets here.

Let’s dive right in.

Why Take This Traditional Harbour Cruise Malta?

These tours are operated by  iSeeMalta . They’re a reputable company that offers hop-on-hop-off buses and ferries, as well as combo passes for sightseeing and museums around Malta and Gozo.

Why I recommend this cruise to my readers

• Excellent value:  At just €15 for adults and €10 for children (4-12y), this 90-minute tour is a low-cost tour that’s fun, informative and comfortable

These harbourside towns give you a glimpse of local life along the Grand Harbour and you can find some great restaurants and cafes there too.

You can also combine this tour easily with the hop-on-hop-off bus and ferry operated by iSeeMalta as well. On top of that, other sea cruises and tours depart from Sliema Ferries as well and can take you to other sightseeing attractions like the Blue Lagoon.

• Easy to reach:  The tours start and finish at Sliema Ferries, which is super convenient if you’re staying in Sliema or St. Julian’s (which is next to Sliema). If you’re staying in Buġibba, St. Paul’s Bay, Qawra or even Gozo, you can use the iSeeMalta hop-on-hop-off ferry to get onto this tour easily as well.
• Great family outing:  If you’re looking for things to do with the kids, I’m confident this will be a fun and interesting sightseeing experience for them too
• Unique views:  There are few better ways to explore the fortifications around Valletta than by sea, guided by commentary on board.

Where to buy tickets?

The easiest way to buy tickets is to get them in advance from the iSeeMalta website. Here’s how:

• Go to the Traditional Harbour Cruise page
• Select how many adults and children you need tickets for
• Pay for the tickets online, and either opt for tickets to be posted to your home address or pick them up from any iSeeMalta info point presenting your email receipt. Info points can be found in various destinations in Malta. (See the FAQ section on iSeeMalta.com for more info).

What to expect on your Valletta Harbour Cruise

The cruise boat itself.

On the boat, there’s plenty of space (also for social distancing when required) and with interesting, detailed commentary (in English and German), you’ll get a good understanding of the history of Valletta’s harbours.

Departure times from Sliema (daily)

The service runs all year round, but schedules may change.  Always check the iSeeMalta website for the most up-to-date info on their schedule.

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Valletta’s Harbours

Valletta is flanked by two of the largest natural harbours around the Maltese islands: Marsamxett Harbour (on the west side of Valletta – across from Sliema and Gżira) and Grand Harbour (on the east side of Valletta – across from The Three Cities).

This boat trip takes you deep into both of these harbours.

Marsamxett Harbour

After you depart from Sliema, you’ll head further into Marsamxett Harbour, passing by Manoel island and its recently restored Fort Manoel.

You’ll also be able to admire the famous West-facing skyline of Valletta. Recognisable by the bell tower of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the silver dome of Our Lady of Mount Carmel church.

Grand Harbour

As you exit Marsamxett harbour you’ll sail around Fort St. Elmo and the Breakwater Bridge (also restored in recent years), into Grand Harbour.

On your right, you can see the Siege Bell War Memorial (which commemorates those who fell during the Siege of Malta in World War II) and the Knight’s hospital building (La Sacra Infermeria). You’ll also see Valletta’s popularly visited Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Passing by the Valletta Waterfront, on the outskirts of the capital city and its nearby cruise port, you’ll be passing into the creeks of The Three Cities. Enjoy a sea view of Senglea (Isla), Birgu (Vittoriosa) and Bormla (Cospicua) and life by the harbour of  Cottonera  (another name for the area). These little towns and their surrounding area are one of the most densely populated areas in Europe.

There is a brief stop at Kalkara for those wanting to get off to explore the area on foot or to visit Esplora Interactive Science Centre.

Afterwards, the boat returns to Sliema, passing by the tip of Valletta once again.

Harbour area history

The harbour area has played an important part in the history of Malta, for example, when it was at the centre of the Great Siege of 1565. This conflict saw the Ottoman Empire try to overthrow the Knights of the Order of St. John and conquer the island.

The Knights of St. John ruled the Maltese islands between 1530 and 1798 and left a mark on Malta’s history that is still visible today.

While cruising the harbours, you’ll be able to admire several of their well-preserved fortifications from the past, guided by the audio commentary on board. They include Fort St. Angelo (at Birgu), Fort Manoel (Gżira) and Fort St. Elmo (at the tip of Valletta).

On the Grand Harbour tour, you’ll also see the docks, where boats and other vessels are serviced and repaired. You’ll also pass through French creek and Kalkara creek.

Looking for tours and excursions in Malta and Gozo?

Get my recommendations on the best day trips, boat trips, excursions and activities and book in advance!

Interested in taking this Malta Harbour Cruise?

Book your tickets online in advance here!

Looking for other popular boat tours?

Have a look at these:

• Blue Lagoon (Comino) tours :  Visit the famous Blue Lagoon.  Pro tip:   Take the late afternoon one (high season)!
• Gozo and Blue Lagoon :  Spend a half day touring Malta’s sister island and stop over at the Blue Lagoon
• Beaches and Bays excursion :  Visit some of Malta’s most beautiful beaches on board a catamaran.

TIP: On the above three tours you can get a discount using coupon code MALTA5!

• Round Malta Day Cruise :  Cruise around the island of Malta for a chill day out at sea!

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valletta harbour cruise

Tour the best natural harbours on the island.

What an amazing experience to see two natural harbours of Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour surrounded by magnificent fortifications cruising in every creek with a detailed running commentary about Malta's history of Valletta and the Three Cities of L'Isla, Birgu and Bormal.

Most of the fortifications were built by the Knights of St. John to withstand the Ottoman Empire and the British forces to withstand the World War ll airial attacks.

An incredible perspective at sea level to see these massive limestone fortifications and their cities within and surrounding including the present harbour activities of our time.

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What You Need To Know About The Tour

• Valletta Harbour Cruise Malta Tickets
• What You Will See On Tour
• Why Go On Tour
• What Can You Do During The Tour

Find tickets for the Valletta Harbour Cruise Malta

>Availability and Tickets

• You can find information about the tour, including pricing and availability, here .

Quick Info About The Tour

• The tour around the ports is 1 hour 30 minutes long.
• Departure and return from the same location at Sliema Ferries.

What Is Included

• The Valletta Harbour cruise

When Do Tours take place?

For better clarification check in the booking calendar while booking.

• Cruises happen daily all throughout the year.

Secure payments guaranteed

Enter 'maltainfoguide' in coupon box to get 5% discount. eTicket (mobile ticket) is available.

What You Will See On The Tour

Cruise around the natural ports where you see the towns of Gzira, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida with the marina along the beach. The Marina, around the Valletta bastions and Lower Barakka Gardens.

On the other side of the harbour the historical Three Cities of L'Isla (Citta Invicta) better known as Senglea, Birgu (Citta' Vittoriose) and Bormla (Citta' Cospicual). All names give by the Knights of St. John. Here lies Fort St. Angelo today a massive fort that was enlarged by the Knights of St John even more fortified after the great siege.

On the Marsamxett port side see the island in the middle with a large imposing fortification named for the Grand Master Manoel de Vilhema who financed its building.

The Valletta fortification completely surrounding the capital are imposingly visible from both ports.

Why Go On The Tour

• An unforgettable experience touring unique natural harbours that influenced the history of Malta and of Europe.
• A short tour which can be easily incorporated with your holiday schedule.
• Embarcation from a very central location of the Sliema Ferries which is reachable by public transport very easily.
• The opportunity to learn about the mighty and heroic history of the Maltese and the powers who where here from time to time.
• Malta in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea was always part of much bigger importance to their conquerors. Although small Malta was part of the Mediterranean history that shaded this region.  

A Little History On The Ports

These natural ports have been attractive to many mariners and conqueror due to their natural sheltered creaks.

The Great Siege of 1565

This brought with it the biggest siege of 1565 where the KNights of ST. John were attacked by the mighty Ottoman Empire with the intension of destroying the knights and taking over these islands that are very strategically located to then attack Europe. For three months the knights and Maltese endured the siege but finally won.

The Battles of World War II

At the time the Maltese islands were under British rule. German and Italian air forces heavily bombarded the harbour areas and the surrounding towns. They had the intension of destroying the British military power where they kept the battleships and the dockyard within the harbour creaks. Many damaged vessels used to come from different part of the Mediterranean to be repaired.

In the first stages of the war the British army heavily armed the port area with many antiaircraft concrete bunkers to withstand the assault.    

The Maltese endured all this and where they showed great courage where Malta was awarded the George Cross by King George VI.

More to know

Should I buy the tickets in advance? Yes why not. It is better to have them in hand since this particular cruise is very popular and tickets are sold very quickly especially in high season. It is better to have the tickets in hand than go to the boat and remain disappointed.

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Valletta’s Grand Harbour

Home / All Excursions   /   Valletta’s Grand Harbour

Grand Harbour Cruise

• All around the Grand Harbour
• Cruising into all creeks to admire forts, fortified walls & battlements
• Boat cruise around the Grand Harbour

The Valletta harbour cruise will be a truly memorable experience for you.

The Grand Harbour between Malta’s Capital City Valletta and the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua is aptly named. It is grand in every way. There are certainly other fortified harbours around the Mediterranean, but none reach the majesty or provoke as much awe as Grand Harbour with Valletta it’s towering glory and the lovely Three Cities. What better way to admire its seemingly endless fortifications and baroque and medieval architecture, than onboard a ferry cruising on its deep waters and many creeks.

Malta’s fortifications are considered to be the best examples of military architecture anywhere in the world.

Here are some expert comments on the fortifications surrounding the Valletta Grand Harbour:

“the most powerful artificial fortress in the world.” Major General Whitworth Porter of the Royal Engineers .

“for sheer concentration and majesty quite unmatched.” British architect Quentin Hughes.

“nowhere in the world are fortifications more extensive, more impressive, more outstanding than they are in Malta.” Judge and historian Giovanni Bonello.

The splendour of Valletta and the Grand Harbour attracts hundreds of cruise liners making the Valletta cruise port schedule full all year round. These sleek cruise liners make for an impressive sight as they sit along- side the towering bastions; old and new side by side. On this cruise you’ll be taken into all the creeks to admire the forts and battlements and along the towering walls that surround Valletta and the three cities as well as cruising Marsamxetto Harbour between Valletta and Sliema. A Grand Harbour cruise will be a truly memorable experience for you and one that you’ll never forget.

If you are a lone traveller, you can choose to book a Hop-on Hop-off bus for both Malta & Gozo with us. Click here to view details and to book your ticket.

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Valletta’s Grand Harbour Malta

A short history of the grand harbour.

Also known as il-Port il-Kbir, is one of the most impressive natural harbours in the world. Located on the island of Malta, this harbour has been in use since prehistoric times and has a rich history that stretches back thousands of years.

Knights of St. John & The Grand Harbour

The Grand Harbour’s strategic importance was demonstrated during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 when the Ottoman Empire attempted to dislodge the Knights. The siege was a key moment in the history of the harbour, and it played a pivotal role in the Knights’ successful defense.

The Grand Harbour during the British Period 

Malta became a British colony in 1813, and the Grand Harbour became a significant base for the Royal Navy, especially during the Crimean War, the First World War, and the Second World War. The harbour was massively bombed during the Second World War because of its strategic importance, suffering significant damage.

Post-Independence

Malta gained independence from Britain in 1964 but the Grand Harbour continued to host a British military presence until 1979. After the British forces’ departure, the harbour has been developed for commercial and touristic use. Today, it is a popular destination for cruise ships , and its surrounding area is rich in historical buildings and fortifications.

Throughout its history, the Grand Harbour has been a vital strategic and commercial asset, and it continues to play a central role in Malta’s economy and cultural heritage. The harbour and the city of Valletta have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites due to their historical significance.

What is the best Grand Harbour Cruise ?

• Shared Boat Cruise : This is the most affordable option, with prices starting from just €15 per person. These tours typically last around 1.5 hours and follow a fixed route around the harbour. You’ll get to see all the major attractions, like Fort Saint Angelo, Fort Ricasoli, and the Three Cities, from a unique perspective. Some tours also include a live commentary, providing interesting insights into the history and significance of the sights you’re seeing.

Private Boat Charter :

A private boat charter offers a more exclusive and flexible experience. With this option, you’re in control of where you go and how long you stay at each location. Prices for private charters will vary depending on the size of the boat, the duration of the tour, and any additional services you might want.

One of the most popular options for a private charter is a sunset cruise. This is a truly magical experience as you watch the sun set over the Mediterranean while cruising around the harbour. The city and fortifications are bathed in a soft, warm glow, creating a romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for a special occasion.

You can even go beyond the harbour and sail along the coast, enjoying the view of the city lights from a distance. As you’re taking in the scenery, the skipper and deck hand can set up a barbecue dinner for you. Imagine dining under the stars, on the deck of your private boat, with the Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop. This could be a wonderful way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or even a marriage proposal.

Specialized Boat Tours

Regardless of the type of cruise you choose, exploring the Grand Harbour by boat is a must-do when visiting Malta.

Is the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta, a popular location for marriage proposals?

Indeed, the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta, has earned a reputation as one of the prime spots for marriage proposals. The most recognized location is undoubtedly the Upper Barrakka Gardens, with its panoramic views of the harbour and the Cottonera 3 cities.

However, for an even more special and memorable proposal, one might consider a sailboat just outside the harbour. Imagine the romantic scene: as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the historic city and the tranquil waters, you ask your loved one for their hand in marriage. It’s a truly magical experience that will be remembered forever.

What are you expected to see on a harbour Cruise ?

Embarking on a cruise through Valletta’s Grand Harbour is a highly recommended activity for those wanting to experience the historic city and the captivating beauty of the harbour. Here are a few highlights you can look forward to on your voyage:

Picturesque panoramas: The harbour is nestled amidst a wealth of historic edifices, fortifications, bastions, and landmarks. This includes the fortified city of Valletta, encased by towering bastions and the ever-watchful Fort St. Elmo at the port entrance. The Three Cities – Birgu (Vittoriosa), Isla (Senglea), and Bormla (Cospicua) – are also part of the stunning view. This cruise provides a unique opportunity to see these heritage-rich sites from a fresh viewpoint, allowing you to appreciate the grandeur of the Grand Harbour. It offers an experience akin to the countless individuals who, throughout history, first set eyes on Malta from the deck of a ship.

Where do Cruise liners dock in Malta?

Cruise liners visiting Malta predominantly moor at the Valletta Cruise Port, oth

erwise known as the Valletta Waterfront. Situated within the confines of the Grand Harbour, this port is exceptionally well-placed, being only a stone’s throw away from the historic city

of Valletta – a city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This makes the port not only a convenient docking location for cruise liners but also an ideal starting point for visitors to join an excursion to explore Malta’s rich history and culture.

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Welcome to Grand Harbour Tours - Malta

Take a trip around the three cities and the valletta grand harbour.

Have you ever been on the traditional Maltese boat before? If not you have come to the right place.

The Barklor Cooperative offers Tours around Malta's Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, where you can enjoy the view of several attractions within the Maltese Boat.

Enjoy the view and the company of the friendly boat men on the traditional Maltese boat

There are many ways you can enjoy our Boats, you can either take the Grand Harbour Tour which will take you to the Three Cities and Valletta's Grand Harbour or you might use our services to cross from one cultural city to another. We also cater for special occasions.

Harbour Tours Malta

What do we offer?

Harbour tours.

We can take you on a trip around Malta's Grand Harbour area, where you can see St.Angelo's Fortress, Lower and Upper Barakka Gardens and many other attractions from on our traditional Maltese boat.

Water Taxis

If you happen to be in either Valletta, Senglea or Cospicua, you can book a traditional boat to take you to any of these beautiful cities.

Special Occasions

We also cater for special occasions such as engagements, weddings and holy communions. The grand harbour views seen when on the Maltese dghajsa, will make your occasion one to remember.

Want to know more?

Booking office phone (+356) 27805278.

Grand Harbour Tour

Tour duration: 6hrs or customised.

This Grand Harbour Tour of  valletta and vittoriosa takes you on a fantastic excursion around Malta’s Grand Harbour – a natural port with many creeks and historical fortifications. You will have an opportunity to capture incredible photographs and enjoy fantastic views of Valletta and the Three Cities as seen from sea level while we embark the traditional Maltese ‘Dghajsa’ boat for a short harbour cruise.

We will stop in Vittoriosa city also known as Birgu and take a glimpse into Malta’s maritime fortunes. Birgu, can rightly claim to be the cradle of Maltese history. Prior to the establishment of Valletta as a capital city of Malta, military powers that wanted to rule the Maltese islands would need to obtain control of Vittoriosa due to its significant position in the Grand Harbour.In 1530 the Knights of St. John first settled in this area and built the old historical centre which is known as the ‘Collachio’. They built their Palazzos and Auberges in this part of the city which is a maze of narrow streets and quaint alleys. Attractions include the old Naval Bakery, now housing the Maritime Museum; the Malta at War Museum; the Church of St Lawrence, which was the main place of worship for the Knights of St John; and Fort St Angelo, the headquarters of the Knights during the Great Siege of 1565, a former hospital run by the Knight of St John, now a Benedictine convent; and the Inquisitor’s Palace, where a series of Grand Inquisitors — civil judges in thrall to the pope — were based from 1574 until 1798.

We will continue to Valletta, the capital city of Malta. Valletta, Malta’s capital and Europe’s Cultural Capital City for the year 2018, is nothing short of an open-air museum. It is a living experience of Baroque architecture, a monument donated by the Knights of St John nearly five centuries ago. Throughout the years, Valletta has welcomed emperors, heads of state, artists and poets and is now the permanent seat of the Maltese government.

Dotted with quaint cafés and wine bars, this UNESCO city is today one of Malta’s main tourist attractions, hosting among others, Palaces, Auberges, Churches, cathedrals , imposing bastions and a treasure of priceless paintings. It also provides a stunning snapshot of Malta’s Grand Harbour, often described as the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.

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Malta is strategically positioned in the centre of the Mediterranean offering endless possibilities for Eastern and Western itineraries.

Step off the ship immediately onto the neighbouring Valletta Waterfront, an award-winning and favourite landmark on the Island of Malta. There are nineteen beautifully restored 18th century warehouses and bastions, built during the late Baroque period.

Malta's convenient size makes everything witin close proximity. Whether for homeporting or turnaround operations, Valletta Cruise Port is just minutes away from Malta International Airport.

Valletta Cruise Port Vault 1, Upper Floor, Pinto Wharf, Valletta Waterfront, Floriana FRN 1913, Malta

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Valletta (Malta)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-09-11 09:18

Port Valletta cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Valletta, Malta. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Valletta is the principal seaport and capital city of Malta (island country in the central Mediterranean Sea, southern Europe). Malta Island is located midway between North Africa and Sicily Island (Italy). Since 1974, Malta is a British Commonwealth nation. The other Malta cruise port is Mgarr Harbour (on Gozo Island) .

The cruise port is located within the Grand Harbour (port locode MTMLA), which is a natural deepwater harbor waterway.

The Valletta Cruise Port is a subsidiary company of Global Ports Holding. In December 2023, Valletta Cruise Port officially started to provide shore-side power supply to berthed vessels. The first ship ( Viking Saturn ) connected to Boiler Wharf's shore-power system on December 1st. By this project (budgeted EUR 50 million), the Port now provides electricity (from the city's power grid) at the Grand Harbour's five cruise quays.

Valletta Malta is also the port of registry/flag state for many cruise vessels including riverboats.

A fast-ferry service Mgarr/Gozo-Valletta is provided by two companies - Gozo Fast Ferry, and Virtu Ferries. Both operators offer 45-min crossings via high-speed catamaran ferries with max passenger capacity 300. The Gozo-Valletta distance is approx 43 km (27 mi).

La Valletta City was founded by the 49th Grand Master of Knights of St John - Jean Parisot de Valette (1495-1568). Most of the town's medieval structures still remain.

In 2015, Port Valletta handled 668,277 cruise passengers (29% increase over 2014). The cruise port in 2016 reported a record year with a total of 682,222 cruisers (embarking passengers were excluded), or 2% increase over 2015. During 2016, the port was booked by 42 different cruise shipping operators and 81 different vessels. In 2016, Gozo Island received 19 cruise ship calls and around 7,000 passengers.

In 2017, Port Valletta handled 330 cruiseship calls and 700,000+ tourists. With P&O UK 's ship Oceana in the Mediterranean during 2017 season, the port had scheduled 27 calls and over 100,000 passengers via P&O's fly-cruise deals (fares inclusive of flights from UK to Malta and back). The port also had another 5 calls with additional 10,000 passengers (visiting Valletta as port of call).

In 2017, Valletta welcomed its 700,000 cruiser. He arrived on MSC Meraviglia and received a free 3-day Malta vacation package for 2. The package (courtesy of Malta Tourism Authority) was inclusive of flights and a 2-night luxury hotel (provided by The Saint John Hotel). By the end of 2017, the cruise port reported a record year with handled 340 ship calls and around 780,000 passengers. For season 2017, here were homeported liners from the fleets of P&O UK and TUI . In 2017, Malta's inbound tourism results totalled nearly 2,3 million (15,7% increase over 2016). Total overnights in Malta increased by 10,3%. The tourism industry contributed EUR 1,9 billion to country's economy. As demographics, most cruise ship tourists are from North America (USA and Canada).

For 2018, Valletta City was designated "European Capital of Culture". In 2018, Port Valletta handled nearly 800,000 cruise tourists. Season's highlights included Seabourn Ovation 's christening ceremony (held here on May 11).

In 2019 (a record year) were handled 906,000+ cruise passengers via 373 ship calls. Season 2019 included roundtrip departures by P&O UK and TUI liners, representing ~31% homeportng operations.

In the post-COVID 2022, the cruise port handled nearly 530,000 passengers.

For 2023, the Port reported ~65% increase (over 2022) in handled passenger movements (~900,000). The industry contributed ~EUR 85 million to the Maltese economy, of which EUR 32M in cruise tourists spending and EUR 53M in cruise lines spending.

Valletta cruise terminal

Valletta Cruise Port is managed by Global Ports Holding Plc (GPH) - currently ranked the world's largest cruise port terminal operator with lease agreements in the regions of Europe-Mediterranean, Caribbean, Asia-Pacific.

Cruise ships dock at Valletta Waterfront pier in Valletta Harbour. Currently, the cruise port offers 7 ship berths, of which 4 are within a 15-min walk from city center. In 2020 was inaugurated an extended quay with capacity to handle larger vessels.

Ther terminal features 250-year-old warehouses from the baroque era. This is the city's historical Quay Wall where merchant vessels used to dock and unload their cargo.

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