Malta is a small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea, known for its picturesque beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. One of the most popular attractions for tourists visiting Malta is taking a cruise or tour to visit the Valletta Grand Harbour.
Valletta Ferry Services

Malta is a small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea, known for its picturesque beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. One of the most popular attractions for tourists visiting Malta is taking a cruise or tour to visit the Valletta Grand Harbour.
The floodlit Fort St. Angelo on the tip of the peninsula Vittoriosa, Birgu, as seen from Valletta across the Grand Harbor at the blue hour after sunset, Malta, Europe

The History of the Valletta Grand Harbour

Valletta Harbour, also known as the Grand Harbour, has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The natural harbour has been used by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. In the Middle Ages, the Arabs and the Normans also used the harbour as a strategic point for trade and military operations.

During the 16th century, the Knights Hospitaller, a Christian military order, recognized the strategic importance of the harbour and decided to build a new city, Valletta, on the peninsula overlooking the harbour. The city was built to withstand attacks from the Ottoman Empire, and it served as an important base for the Knights during the Great Siege of 1565.

In the following centuries, the harbour was used by the British military and served as a major naval base during World War II. The city of Valletta and the harbour were heavily bombed during the war, but they were later rebuilt and restored. Today, the harbour is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque views, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.

It's also worth mentioning that the Valletta Harbour area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's a vital part of the Maltese identity and culture.
Valletta Ferry Services

The History of the Valletta Grand Harbour

Valletta Harbour, also known as the Grand Harbour, has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The natural harbour has been used by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. In the Middle Ages, the Arabs and the Normans also used the harbour as a strategic point for trade and military operations.

During the 16th century, the Knights Hospitaller, a Christian military order, recognized the strategic importance of the harbour and decided to build a new city, Valletta, on the peninsula overlooking the harbour. The city was built to withstand attacks from the Ottoman Empire, and it served as an important base for the Knights during the Great Siege of 1565.

In the following centuries, the harbour was used by the British military and served as a major naval base during World War II. The city of Valletta and the harbour were heavily bombed during the war, but they were later rebuilt and restored. Today, the harbour is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque views, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.

It's also worth mentioning that the Valletta Harbour area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's a vital part of the Maltese identity and culture.

Things to see and expect on your Valletta Grand Harbour Cruise

A Valletta Harbour cruise is a popular way to see the historic city and the beautiful Grand Harbour.

Here are some of the things you can expect to see on a typical Valletta Harbour cruise:

The Grand Harbour: The Grand Harbour is one of the largest and deepest natural harbours in the Mediterranean Sea. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Three Cities: The Three Cities are Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea. These historic cities are located on the opposite side of the Grand Harbour from Valletta.

Fort St. Angelo: Fort St. Angelo is a 16th-century fort located at the entrance to the Grand Harbour. It played a key role in the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.

Fort Ricasoli: Fort Ricasoli is another 16th-century fort located at the entrance to the Grand Harbour. It was heavily damaged during World War II, but has since been restored.

The Valletta Waterfront: The Valletta Waterfront is a modern development located along the Grand Harbour. It features restaurants, bars, shops, and a marina.

Why take a Valletta Grand Harbour Cruise?

There are many reasons to take a Valletta Harbour cruise. Here are just a few:

See the sights of Valletta and the Three Cities: Valletta Harbour is one of the most beautiful and historic harbours in the world. A cruise is a great way to see the sights from a different perspective.

Learn about Malta's rich history: Malta has a long and fascinating history, and Valletta Harbour has played a central role in many of the country's most important events. Many Valletta Harbour cruises offer a narrated tour, which provides historical and cultural information about the harbour and its surroundings, making it a great way to learn more about Malta's role in World War II, culture and more.

Photographic opportunities: The historic sites and the beautiful surroundings of the harbour provide great opportunities for photography, so don't forget to bring your camera!

Relax and enjoy the views: A Valletta Harbour cruise is a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the harbour.

How to get to Valletta and visit the Grand Harbour

There are a few companies that offer Valletta Harbour Cruises, and finding the right one can be a bit overwhelming. To help make the decision easier, we've put together a list of all the Valletta Grand Harbour Cruises in Malta.
Valletta Harbour 3
Valletta Harbour 3

How to get to Valletta and visit the Grand Harbour

There are a few companies that offer Valletta Harbour Cruises, and finding the right one can be a bit overwhelming. To help make the decision easier, we've put together a list of all the Valletta Harbour Cruises in Malta.

Valletta Grand Harbour Cruises (Tickets & Options)

Option 1:
The Traditional Harbour Cruise

Option 2:
Valletta Harbour Cruise

Option 3:
Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise

Option 4:
Three Cities guided tour including harbour boat tour of the harbour creeks

Option 5:
Grand Harbour Cruise

Option 6:
Harbour Cruise in Valletta - 90 minutes

Option 7:
Private Harbor Cruise - Marsamxett & Grand Harbor Valletta

Option 8:
Private Picnic Cruise Experience in Malta

Tips for planning and using the Valletta Grand Harbour Cruise

Using the Valletta Harbour Cruise in Malta is easy and convenient. To start, you'll need to purchase a ticket online. Prices can cost between €16 and €35 per person. For private cruises the prices can cost between €100 and €450 per group depending on the duration requested.

Here are a few tips for planning a Valletta Harbour cruise:

Book in advance: Valletta Harbour cruises are very popular, so it is advisable to book in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season (June to August).

Choose the right cruise: There are many different types of Valletta Harbour cruises available, so it is important to choose the right one for you. Consider the length of the cruise, the time of day, and the type of sights you want to see.

Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that will protect you from the sun or weather. In summer, the sun can be very strong in Malta, so it is important to bring sunscreen and reapply it throughout the cruise.

Once you have your ticket, you'll need to board the cruise at the designated time. Most boats are modern and well-maintained, with seating for passengers and space for luggage. Some of them also have restrooms on board, as well as a snack bar and vending machines.

The cruise is an enjoyable experience, with panoramic views of the Grand Harbour areas and can take around 1.5 hours or more.
Valletta Harbour 2

Tips for planning and using the Valletta Grand Harbour Cruise

Using the Valletta Harbour Cruise in Malta is easy and convenient. To start, you'll need to purchase a ticket online. Prices can cost between €16 and €35 per person. For private cruises the prices can cost between €100 and €450 per group depending on the duration requested.

Here are a few tips for planning a Valletta Harbour cruise:

Book in advance: Valletta Harbour cruises are very popular, so it is advisable to book in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season (June to August).

Choose the right cruise: There are many different types of Valletta Harbour cruises available, so it is important to choose the right one for you. Consider the length of the cruise, the time of day, and the type of sights you want to see.

Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that will protect you from the sun or weather. In summer, the sun can be very strong in Malta, so it is important to bring sunscreen and reapply it throughout the cruise.

Once you have your ticket, you'll need to board the cruise at the designated time. Most boats are modern and well-maintained, with seating for passengers and space for luggage. Some of them also have restrooms on board, as well as a snack bar and vending machines.

The cruise is an enjoyable experience, with panoramic views of the Grand Harbour areas and can take around 1.5 hours or more.

How to visit the Valletta Grand Harbour with a private boat cruise

Boat Charter Malta has the most advanced filters to help you find the perfect private boat cruise for an amazing experience of the Grand Harbour.
View All Boats
The floodlit Fort St. Angelo on the tip of the peninsula Vittoriosa, Birgu, as seen from Valletta across the Grand Harbor at the blue hour after sunset, Malta, Europe
The floodlit Fort St. Angelo on the tip of the peninsula Vittoriosa, Birgu, as seen from Valletta across the Grand Harbor at the blue hour after sunset, Malta, Europe

How to visit the Valletta Grand Harbour with a private boat cruise

Boat Charter Malta has the most advanced filters to help you find the perfect private boat cruise for an amazing experience of the Grand Harbour.
View All Boats