Senglea, one of Malta’s charming Three Cities, offers a fantastic setting for boat tours and cruises. Its scenic harbor, historic fortifications, and stunning views of Valletta make it an ideal spot to appreciate Malta’s maritime charm. Among the options, we particularly like the romantic sunset cruise on a sailing yacht for a private, intimate experience, and the traditional harbor cruise for those eager to learn about Malta’s storied past while enjoying a scenic boat ride. The private picnic cruise appeals if you’re after a personalized, relaxing outing with a touch of luxury. These options showcase Malta’s maritime beauty in different ways, helping travelers find something that suits their mood and interests.
Quick Overview
This list includes three standout boat tours and cruises in Senglea, each catering to different preferences:
– A private sunset sailing on a luxurious yacht, perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions.
– A guided harbour cruise exploring Valletta’s historic sites with live commentary.
– An intimate private picnic cruise with personalized decor and fine food on a traditional Luzzu boat.
Click here for the sunset cruise, here for the harbour tour, and here for the private picnic cruise, to learn more about each experience.
1. From Valletta: Romantic Sunset Cruise on a Sailing Yacht
This private sunset cruise takes place on the elegant sailing yacht Mowgli and offers an unforgettable way to see Valletta from the water. Priced at $567 per group (up to 6 people), it’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. The tour lasts around 4 hours, but check availability for exact departure times.
The cruise kicks off from Marina di Valletta and sails around Valletta’s coast, giving you prime views of the city’s fortifications, historic buildings, and the lively harbor. The highlight? Stopping at a quiet anchorage for swimming and a delicious dinner under the stars. The captain often plays your favorite tunes, turning the evening into a personalized, romantic experience. The dinner is usually served at anchor, allowing for a peaceful meal with spectacular scenery.
Guests praise this tour for its intimacy and unique setting. One reviewer said, “Beautiful evening out on the water with friends! Drinks, food, swimming, and a fireworks show made it special.” Another shared a memorable moment, noting, “The captain was fantastic, playing music and helping me surprise my partner with a proposal. Highly recommend for romance or celebration.”
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a private, luxurious way to enjoy Malta’s sunset, perfect for a romantic escape or a special celebration. It’s a pricier option but justifies its cost with exclusivity and stunning views.
2. From Sliema: Traditional Harbour Cruise (CMO)
For those interested in Malta’s maritime history, the Traditional Harbour Cruise provides a two-hour guided journey exploring Valletta’s harbours, forts, and historic sites. Starting from Sliema Ferries, the tour features live commentary in English and German, making it informative as well as scenic.
This cruise takes you through Marsamxett Harbour, past Gzira, and then into the Grand Harbour, where your guide will point out notable landmarks like Fort St. Elmo and the Malta Dockyard. The route continues through the Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—giving a closer look at Malta’s maritime defenses and historic architecture. The tour concludes back at the starting point.
Guests appreciate the depth of information provided, especially if they’re interested in Malta’s past. One reviewer mentions, “The commentary made the sights come alive, and the boat was comfortable and well-organized.” The tour is a good value for those wanting a short, engaging overview of Malta’s naval history with a scenic twist.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for history buffs or travelers who want a guided, commentary-rich experience while enjoying Malta’s scenic harbors. It’s a budget-friendly option with a good balance of education and scenery.
3. Malta: Private Picnic Cruise around Valletta & 3 Cities
At number three, the Private Picnic Cruise offers a personalized, relaxed experience aboard a traditional Luzzu boat. Designed for up to 2 people at $431, this 1.5-hour cruise is perfect for couples or small groups looking for an intimate outing. You can choose your preferred decorative theme, making it a romantic and fun experience.
This cruise takes you around the Three Cities and Valletta, offering beautiful views of Malta’s historic skyline. On board, you’ll enjoy a bottle of wine or Prosecco, along with a charcuterie platter or sushi—whatever fits your mood. The boat is decorated with cushions, blankets, and artificial flowers to set a cozy, romantic scene. The private driver shares stories about the area’s history, adding depth to your relaxing cruise.
Guests love the bespoke touches—one review highlights how they felt like VIPs, appreciating the personalized decor and drinks. This tour is well-suited for couples wanting to celebrate or simply enjoy a quiet, beautiful moment on the water.
Bottom Line: This private cruise shines for romantic getaways and special occasions, combining a relaxed atmosphere with good food and personalized service. It’s a bit more expensive than group tours but offers unmatched intimacy.
$431 per group up to 2
How to Choose
Choosing between these options depends on what you’re after: if you want a romantic, private evening with a dinner under the stars, the Romantic Sunset Cruise is hard to beat. For a quick, informative journey through Malta’s harbors and forts, the Traditional Harbour Cruise offers a great value. If you prefer a personalized, relaxed experience with wine and snacks, the Private Picnic Cruise is your best bet.
Consider your budget, how much time you have, and whether you want a private experience or a guided tour. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and time.
To sum it up, Senglea and the surrounding Malta waters offer a surprisingly diverse range of boat experiences. For romance and exclusivity, the sunset cruise on a sailing yacht is top-tier. For history enthusiasts, the guided harbour cruise makes a perfect short trip. And for couples seeking a quiet, personalized outing, the private picnic cruise combines comfort with charm. No matter your choice, you’ll find Malta’s waters an excellent way to see the islands from a new perspective. Just remember, these tours fill quickly—so plan ahead and book early to secure your spot.