Malta's Harbors & Creeks Sliema Cruise

Go on a Harbor Odyssey

Depart from the coastal town of Sliema, where you'll board a comfortable boat for a leisurely cruise through two of Malta's most enchanting natural harbors – Marsamxett Harbor and Grand Harbor. Marsamxett Harbor provides picturesque views and hidden coves, while Grand Harbor features towering fortifications and historic forts, along with Valletta's impressive skyline.

Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to glimpse historic landmarks such as Fort Manoel, Fort Tigné, and Fort Lascaris, all while listening to detailed audio commentary in English, that delves into the history of Valletta.

Three Cities and Hidden Creeks Adventure

You will also pass by the historically rich Three Cities, which include Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla). Vittoriosa, the oldest of the trio, boasts a storied past that includes its pivotal role in the Great Siege of 1565 and is home to iconic sites like Fort St. Angelo, the Inquisitor's Palace, and the Maritime Museum. Thanks to the many creeks surrounding Valletta, including Sliema, Lazzaretto, Menqa, and Marsa, as well as the Inner basin, this tour promises a more peaceful and authentic experience.

Malta's Harbors & Creeks Sliema Cruise

Discover Malta’s rich maritime history and stunning coastal beauty on this 2-hour sightseeing cruise from Sliema, featuring Marsamxett Harbor, Grand Harbor, Fort Manoel, Fort Tigné, Valletta’s creeks, and the Inquisitor's Palace. This guided tour includes English audio commentary, wheelchair accessibility, and covers over 10 miles of coastline. Key highlights include passing by historic forts and bustling marinas while exploring serene creeks like Sliema and Lazzaretto. With stops at Valletta’s Inner Basin and Marsa, the cruise offers a comprehensive view of Malta’s strategic maritime heritage.

Explore Fort Manoel

Your tour stops at Fort Manoel where you can admire its imposing structure built in 1726 by the Knights of St. John to protect Grand Harbor from enemy attacks. The fort spans an area of approximately 5 acres, featuring a moat, ramparts, and bastions designed for defense. Visitors often marvel at the Main Guard building and the underground tunnels that run beneath the fort. Constructed during a period marked by frequent naval battles, Fort Manoel played a crucial role in Malta’s maritime history until its decommissioning in 1979. Guests typically spend around 30 minutes here, appreciating the intricate architecture and historical significance of this site, which sets it apart from other coastal fortifications.

Discover Fort Tigné

At Fort Tigné, guests can explore another significant military structure built in 1715 to defend Marsamxett Harbor. Covering an area of about 2 acres, the fort features a battery, ramparts, and casemates designed for artillery defense. Notable features include the bastions named after the Knights of St. John and the defensive walls that stretch over 300 feet in length. Fort Tigné played a vital role during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 when it was part of a broader fortification network protecting the island’s harbors. Visitors spend approximately 20 minutes here, learning about its historical importance and strategic location within the harbor defenses.

Marvel at Valletta's Creeks

Your tour navigates through Valletta’s many creeks, including Sliema, Lazzaretto, Menqa, Marsa, and the Inner Basin. Each creek offers a unique perspective on the city’s maritime heritage, with some dating back to medieval times when they were used for trading and naval operations. The total length of these creeks combined is over 5 miles, providing ample opportunities to observe historical landmarks such as old warehouses, mooring points, and shipyards. Guests typically spend around 40 minutes exploring the creeks, appreciating their quiet charm and distinctive cityscape that contrasts with the bustling harbors.

Visit Inquisitor's Palace

The cruise makes a stop at the historic Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu, built between 1571 and 1574 as a residence for the Grand Inquisitor of the Knights Hospitaller. Spanning an area of approximately 6,000 square feet, the palace features grand halls, courtyards, and chambers that reflect Renaissance architecture. Key highlights include the Hall of Justice and the Chapel of St. Anne. Visitors typically spend around 30 minutes here, exploring its historical significance as a center for religious trials during the Inquisition period in Malta.

Tour Highlights

• Set sail from Sliema with English commentary
• Pass by Fort Manoel and Tigné Forts
• Explore Valletta’s creeks, like Menqa and Marsa
• Discover the Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu
• Learn about Malta’s maritime history through audio guide
• Admire historic forts with strategic significance
• Enjoy panoramic views of Grand Harbor and Marsamxett
• Experience a quieter city perspective at Valletta’s creeks

Perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers, this 2-hour cruise provides an immersive experience through Malta's maritime heritage. The tour allows you to set sail from Sliema, pass by historic forts like Fort Manoel, explore Valletta’s serene creeks including Menqa and Marsa, and visit the Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Malta’s strategic maritime gem while enjoying panoramic views of Grand Harbor and Marsamxett.