Sliema is known for its lively waterfront, vibrant cafes, and stunning sea views, making it an ideal starting point for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure to Gozo and Comino, a quick scenic cruise around Valletta’s harbors, or a fun party on a sailboat, Sliema offers a wide variety of options. We particularly like the From Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise for its immersive experience with swimming and exploring sea caves, and the Sliema: Boat Trip to Comino Blue Lagoon, Gozo and Caves for its excellent balance of adventure and cultural sightseeing. Both tours highlight Malta’s crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean.
Quick Overview
This list covers a wide range of boat experiences, from half-hour harbor cruises to full-day island explorations, private charters, and even party sails. Many tours include stops at iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon, Xlendi Bay, and the Santa Maria Caves. Some combine boat trips with bus or walking tours of Malta or Gozo, providing a comprehensive taste of island life. Others focus on relaxing day cruises with lunches and unlimited drinks, perfect for unwinding in style. Check each experience below to find the one that fits your schedule and interests.
1. From Sliema: Comino, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Lagoon Cruise
This popular cruise takes you from Sliema to explore Gozo, Comino, and the famous Blue Lagoon on a relaxing 5.5 to 7.5-hour adventure. The trip includes stops to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters and marvel at sea caves along the coast of Comino. Starting at Luzzu Cruises, you’ll pass by landmarks like St. Julian’s and Mellieha, with a quick Mgarr Harbour photo stop. The highlight is a 45-minute swim at Crystal Lagoon and a 3.5-hour break at Blue Lagoon for sunbathing and snorkeling. The tour also features a visit to the Santa Maria Caves, making it ideal for those wanting a mix of sightseeing and water fun. With a 4.5/5 rating from thousands of reviews, the trip offers great value and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore. Perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, full-day experience with plenty of time in the water.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, flexible tour perfect for families and water lovers who want a comprehensive day around Malta’s most famous spots.
2. From Sliema: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon Cruise
For those eager to see Gozitan landscapes and culture, this full-day cruise is a great pick. It includes direct sailing to Gozo, with stops at Xlendi Bay and Victoria to explore the Citadel and enjoy some free time. The tour then proceeds to the Blue Lagoon in Comino for about 1.5 hours of swimming and relaxing. Customers praise the friendly staff and the opportunity to explore Gozo’s main attractions by minibus or on your own. The itinerary balances cruise time with land exploration, making it suitable for travelers wanting a taste of both. The reviews mention the helpful crew and the stunning scenery, making this a reliable choice. It’s a good option if you want a full-day experience combining sea and land.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting to combine cultural sightseeing with beach time in a single day.
3. Sliema: Boat Trip to Comino Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and Caves
This power boat trip offers a more energetic way to explore Malta’s coastlines, focusing on crystal caves and deep blue waters. Starting from Sliema, the tour includes visits to the Blue Lagoon and Ħalfa Rock in Gozo, with swimming and snorkeling stops along the way. The boat is described as small and manageable, with friendly, humorous guides like Tony, who make the trip lively and informative. Guests mention that even in choppy waters, Captain Tony prioritized safety and kept the atmosphere fun. This option is ideal for travelers who want a dynamic, intimate experience with caves and coastline scenery. The 5/5 reviews reflect how much people enjoy the casual, yet adventurous vibe.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous spirits and those who want a speedy, fun day out with cave exploration.
4. From Sliema: Cruise Around Malta’s Harbours & Creeks
This 1.5-hour scenic cruise offers a relaxing ride around Malta’s most iconic harbors—Grand Harbour, Marsamxett, and the Three Cities. The cruise features audio commentary that enriches your experience with historical details while you soak in the views of Fort Manoel, Cospicua, and Valletta from the water. It’s a perfect option for travelers short on time but still eager to see Malta’s maritime landmarks. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and friendly crew. It’s an excellent choice if you want a short but informative overview of Malta’s key port areas without a long day at sea.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic introduction suitable for all ages, especially if you’re tight on time but want a taste of Malta’s maritime charm.
5. From Sliema: Gozo, Comino & The Blue Lagoon Boat & Bus Tour
This combination tour blends cruise and land exploration, giving you a full day discovering Gozitan landscapes, Victoria, and the Blue Lagoon. It includes bus trips in Gozo, allowing you to see Xlendi Bay and the Citadel without rushing. The tour is praised for long enough stops and well-organized logistics, with reviews mentioning the helpful staff and fish feeding activity. The total duration is around 7.5 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the full-day commitment of some cruises. The option suits history, culture, and water enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming with easy logistics and solid reviews.
6. From Sliema: Comino Island and Blue Lagoon Cruise
This tour is straightforward: a 7.5-hour cruise dedicated to exploring Comino’s stunning Blue Lagoon. It emphasizes sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing in turquoise waters, with time to walk around Comino’s countryside. The reviews mention friendly staff and beautiful water, making it a good choice for those looking for a relaxing day on the water. The trip’s simplicity makes it accessible, especially for families or travelers seeking a half-day escape from the busy city.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for those wanting a peaceful, scenic day with plenty of swimming and sunshine.
7. Sliema/St. Paul’s: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Ferry Cruise
Travelers wanting flexibility will appreciate this ferry-based cruise from Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay. It offers viewing opportunities of Malta’s coast, with free time in Gozo and Comino. The modern, air-conditioned catamaran makes for a comfortable ride, and reviews note the relaxing atmosphere and informative commentary. This trip is best suited for people who prefer independent exploration alongside scenic cruising, with the chance to wander or swim at your own pace.
Bottom Line: A good pick for independent travelers who want scenic views with flexible timing and comfort.
8. Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise w/ Lunch+Drinks
This luxury cruise on a traditional Turkish Gullet offers a relaxing 7.5-hour day with unlimited drinks, buffet lunch, and swimming stops at the Blue Lagoon and Gozo. The hot and cold buffet and drinks are highlights, and guests rave about captain Brian and his crew. The trip is perfect if you’re looking to combine luxury, leisure, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those wanting an indulgent day at sea with plenty of food and drinks.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a pampered, all-inclusive cruise experience.
9. From Sliema: Valletta and the Three Cities Scenic Cruise
This 90-minute scenic cruise offers a relaxed way to see Valletta, the Grand Harbour, and the Three Cities. The informative commentary about the history and architecture makes it a favorite for history buffs. Reviews commend the comfortable boat and the beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a short, yet enriching, water-based sightseeing experience, especially if they prefer less time on the water but still want to see Malta from the sea.
Bottom Line: Perfect as a quick introduction or for those with limited time but a curiosity for Malta’s maritime views.
10. Malta: Panoramic Cruise around Malta’s Harbours and Creeks
This 75-minute cruise is a panoramic ride around Malta’s largest harbors, including the Three Cities and Marsa Creeks. It features audio commentary and scenic views of historic forts and bastions. Reviewers find it informative and beautifully relaxing, making it an excellent choice for short sightseeing trips. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a quick, scenic overview and don’t mind standing or sitting outdoors.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic cruise ideal for a quick, scenic fix of Malta’s coast.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour
When deciding which boat tour in Sliema suits you best, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you want a full-day adventure with plenty of swimming, the Full-Day Gozo and Comino tour offers a balanced mix. For a short scenic overview, the Harbor & Three Cities cruise is ideal. If you seek luxury and relaxation, the Gulet cruise with lunch is hard to beat, especially during warm weather. Budget travelers will appreciate the Harbor & Creeks cruise, which provides a scenic ride at a lower price.
Booking early is recommended during peak summer months, especially for popular tours to Blue Lagoon or full-day excursions. Keep in mind the weather conditions—some tours may be affected by choppy seas or high winds, so check availability and reviews before confirming.
The Sum Up
From half-hour harbor cruises to luxury yacht experiences, Sliema’s boat tours cater to a variety of tastes and schedules. For a family-friendly day with swimming and caves, the Comino & Blue Lagoon Cruise is perfect. If you want to explore Gozitan scenery and culture, the Full-Day Gozitan Trip hits the mark. For pure relaxation, the Gullet with lunch provides an indulgent day afloat.
No matter your preference, booking your preferred tour early will ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. With such a diverse selection, there’s truly a boat trip in Sliema for everyone eager to see Malta from the water.