St Julian’s stands out as a top spot in Malta for boat tours, thanks to its prime location on the coast and its lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise, an adrenaline rush, or a private getaway, this area offers a range of options. The full-day Sliema: Three Bay Cruise with Lunch & Optional Transfers is a standout for those wanting a scenic sailing experience paired with great food. For a more exclusive feel, the Private Boat Charter with Captain offers personalized exploration of the Maltese Islands. For adrenaline junkies, the Jet Boat Ride delivers high-speed thrills, while the Inflatable Banana Boat Ride is perfect for families or those seeking a fun, energetic outing. And if you want a comprehensive experience combining sea, culture, and land, the Waves of Heritage: Cruise and Vintage Bus Tour is an excellent choice.
If you’re planning your time in Malta, you’ll find these options cater to a variety of interests, budgets, and activity levels. To help you decide, below is a quick overview of what each tour offers, along with links to learn more.
1. Sliema: Three Bay Cruise with Lunch & Optional Transfers
At number 1, this full-day cruise aboard a Turkish Gullet combines stunning coastal scenery with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. The trip highlights the coast of Malta, with stops at St. Paul’s Bay, Comino Island, and Dġlet Qorrot Bay. Guests enjoy a delicious cold buffet lunch and unlimited drinks on board, making it a good value for a relaxing day at sea. The boat itself is well-maintained, and the crew is praised for being friendly and helpful, adding to the overall experience.
This tour is perfect if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, all wrapped in a laid-back atmosphere. The Blue Lagoon, with its stunning natural pools, is a highlight for many travelers. The option of transfers makes it even easier to relax and enjoy your day without logistical worries. Reviewers have consistently rated it 4.2/5, citing clean boats and friendly crews as reasons for their high satisfaction.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, family-friendly cruise offering excellent value and memorable scenery—ideal for those who want a classic Malta boat experience with a comfortable touch.
2. All inclusive Gullet Cruise to Gozo & the Blue Lagoon (CMO)
Coming in at number 2, this all-inclusive tour takes you to the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino, with stops at a secluded bay and the famous Blue Lagoon. Unlike shorter trips, this one provides a full day of cruising with buffet lunch, snacks, and unlimited drinks included—a real convenience for travelers who prefer hassle-free planning.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on stunning coastal views and the chance to explore two different islands. It’s a good pick for those wanting more than just a quick splash, as it often includes a visit to a quiet bay, perfect for swimming and relaxing. While the review score is modest at 2.9/5, some recent comments highlight the tasty buffet and spectacular views, indicating that the overall experience can be quite enjoyable, especially if you value all-inclusive convenience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, worry-free day on the water, especially if you’re keen on exploring both Gozo and Comino in a single trip.
3. St. George’s Bay: Inflatable Banana Boat Ride
For a quick burst of fun, the Inflatable Banana Boat Ride ranks as a lively, family-friendly activity. Priced at just $30 per person and lasting about 10 minutes, it’s a great mini-adventure for those who want to feel the wind in their hair and a splash in their face.
You’ll be towed by a powerful speedboat, bouncing over the water as you hold on tight. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something lighthearted and energetic, especially for kids or groups seeking a straightforward adrenaline rush. While reviews aren’t officially available, the activity’s simplicity and affordability make it a popular choice for a quick, memorable experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a short but exciting water activity with minimal planning—great for families or groups of friends wanting instant fun.
$30 per person
4. St. Julian’s: Jet Boat Ride
Number 4 on our list, the Jet Boat Ride offers a thrilling 20-minute adventure off the coast of St. Julian’s. This high-speed trip is designed for those craving an adrenaline rush, with the boat carving through waves at exhilarating speeds.
What makes this experience unique is the combination of speed and maneuverability—it’s not just a boat ride but a pulse-racing thrill ride. Many reviews highlight the rush of feeling like you’re flying over the water, making it an unforgettable activity for thrill-seekers. The ride is short but intense, perfect if you want a quick burst of excitement rather than a full-day outing.
Bottom line: Best suited for adventure lovers who want to feel the wind and splash on a quick, high-energy ride that promises a sense of freedom and excitement.
5. St. Julian’s: Private Boat Charter with Captain
For those who prefer a personalized experience, the Private Boat Charter with Captain offers a flexible, tailored outing. You can choose between exploring the north or south side of Malta, with stops at iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon, Ghadira Bay, and St. Paul’s Bay.
This tour lasts about 3.5 hours and includes a dedicated captain who will navigate your preferred route. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking intimacy and control over their itinerary. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the boat while the captain takes care of the navigation. The price point of around $520 for up to five people makes it an accessible luxury for many.
Reviewers note that having a captain means expert guidance and a worry-free experience — you just sit back and enjoy the scenery. This tour is ideal if you want a custom, private day at sea.
Bottom line: Offers a flexible, exclusive experience perfect for travelers who value privacy, comfort, and personalized exploration of Malta’s coast.
$520 per group up to 5
6. Waves of Heritage: Cruise and Vintage Bus Tour Combination
Finally, the Waves of Heritage combines a scenic cruise with a vintage bus tour across Gozo. Starting with a cruise at the Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and Halfa Rock, you’ll enjoy several swim stops in pristine water. The land portion takes you through salt pans, historic villages, and lush countryside in a classic Maltese bus, providing insight into local life and scenery.
This combined tour gives a full-day experience covering sea, culture, and land. It’s especially suitable for those interested in history and heritage, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to explore. The cost is around $112 per person, offering great value considering the length and diversity of activities. Travelers love the mix of coastal beauty and rural charm, making it a well-rounded way to see Malta.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day covering multiple aspects of Maltese culture, nature, and scenery, all in one tour.
$112 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise in St Julian’s
When selecting a boat experience, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. If you’re after a relaxing day with good food and scenic swimming, the Sliema: Three Bay Cruise is a solid choice. For families or groups seeking fun, energetic activities, the Banana Boat or Jet Boat Ride fit the bill. For a tailored, private day, the Private Boat Charter offers flexibility and exclusivity. Meanwhile, the Waves of Heritage appeals to those wanting a deeper cultural and scenic experience that combines sea and land.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, and check availability for specific start times or transfers. If you’re unsure, think about how much time you want to spend on the water, whether you prefer guided or private tours, and how much adrenaline you’re craving.
Final Thoughts
Malta offers a fantastic variety of boat tours and cruises that can suit almost any traveler. For a classic day of relaxation and swimming, the Sliema Bay Cruise is hard to beat. If you want a private, customized adventure, the Private Boat Charter is unbeatable. For those looking for quick thrills, the Jet Boat or Banana Ride deliver action-packed fun. And for travelers interested in culture and scenery, the Waves of Heritage tour provides a well-balanced combination of sea and land exploration.
Whatever your style, Malta’s waters await—so consider booking early, pick the experience that matches your interests, and get ready for a memorable Maltese adventure on the water.