Traditional 2 Harbours Day Cruise

A short cruise that shows Malta’s true heart.

The 2 Harbours Day Cruise is a relaxed way to explore Malta from the water. This Malta harbour cruise lasts around ninety minutes and takes you through the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, both among the most historic harbours in the Mediterranean. Cruising during the day gives clear views of the coastline, so you see fortifications, creeks and historic buildings, with the light making everything easy to see and photograph.

Marsamxett and Manoel Island

The cruise departs from Sliema Ferries. First, you enter Sliema Creek and Lazzaretto Creek, where you pass Manoel Island. This island was once a quarantine station and later became an important military location.

Valletta’s bastions and the inner harbour

From there, the route continues towards Ta’ Xbiex, known for its yacht marina. You then sail into Msida and Pietà Creeks, where the bastions of Valletta rise directly from the water and Floriana’s defensive walls add to the view. The journey continues through Menqa Creek and Marsa Creek into the inner harbour area, where you can see the Malta Shipbuilding docks, showing the industrial side of the harbour.

Around the Three Cities

Next, the boat sails into French Creek and passes around the Three Cities: Cospicua, Vittoriosa and Senglea. These are among the oldest fortified towns in Malta and played a major role during the Great Siege. Before returning, the cruise passes Kalkara Creek and Rinella Bay, completing a full circuit of the harbour area. The route feels varied and complete.

On board a traditional luzzu

You sit on board a traditional Maltese luzzu, a colourful wooden boat that is part of local culture, with a design used for generations that adds to the authentic experience. Audio commentary is available in multiple languages, which helps you understand what you see and makes the cruise both relaxing and informative.

What you can see and do

In about ninety minutes, this cruise circles the historic harbour:

Why choose the 2 Harbours Day Cruise

The 2 Harbours Day Cruise offers an easy, relaxed way to explore Malta from the water, with free transport from selected locations and everything organised for a smooth experience. Book your place and see the historic harbours from a traditional luzzu.

Discover our daily boat cruises in Malta:

• SLM Daily Gozo & Comino Blue Lagoon Cruise
• Three Islands Cruise
• SLM Daily Comino Blue Lagoon Cruise
• Traditional Two Harbours Cruise By Night