Set in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta is a beautiful island nation steeped in history, vibrant with culture, and blessed with some of the purest blue waters in Europe. Though there are many ways to experience this fascinating location, visiting Malta by boat offers a special perspective of its beautiful coasts, charming harbours, and hidden coves. Whether you come by private yacht, sailing boat, or on a luxury cruise ship, the experience of seeing Malta rise from the water is amazing. Made up of Malta, Gozo, and Comino, the archipelago is little enough to traverse by boat yet still offers limitless variety and discovery. Paired with a stay at the stylish be.HOTEL in St Julian’s, your Maltese adventure promises both thrills and tranquillity.
First Impressions
Your boat welcomes you with one of the most spectacular entrances in all of Europe as it nears the Grand Harbour of Valletta. Rising steeply from the sea, fortified walls glimmer in the Mediterranean light. Golden limestone structures shine as well. From Phoenician merchants to the Knights of St. John, this harbour has welcomed seafarers for millennia; the vibrancy of nautical activity mixes with the historical significance of the UNESCO-listed capital, providing a moving first impression.
From the water, Malta’s beauty layers out. While peaceful beaches like Mellieħa and Marsaxlokk beckon you to drop anchor and absorb the sun, towering cliffs like Dingli offer a rough background. Every beach has a narrative; travelling them by boat lets you map your own path across history and nature.
Excursions to Take by Boat
A nautical trip to Malta would not be complete without a string of amazing boat trips. From immaculate beaches to undersea wonders, these cruises provide an unmatched approach to view the islands.
1. The Blue Lagoon (Comino)
Though some may disagree, a trip to the Blue Lagoon on Comino is arguably the most famous boat rides in Malta. The cleanliness and hue of the blue seas here are quite unreal. Whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just lay in the sun, this is ideal. Though the lagoon might be crowded during high season, coming by private charter or early in the morning offers a more tranquil experience.
2. Gozo by sea
A rural, greener alternative to Malta, Gozo is just a short jump from the main island. A boat to Gozo lets you arrive at several coastal locations like Dwejra Bay, where the now-collapsed Azure Window formerly stood. You can also visit the Ġgantija Temples, which are older than the pyramids of Egypt, go diving near the Inland Sea, or investigate sea caves.
3. St. Peter’s Pool and Southern Coast
Though it’s home to some of the island’s most rough beauty, visitors usually ignore the southern shore. A boat ride here takes visitors to locations including St. Peter’s hole, a natural bathing hole cut into the limestone. The smooth stones and pure water make it perfect for leisurely swims and cliff diving. Close by, Marsaxlokk provides a charming fishing town atmosphere and among the tastiest seafood on the island.
4. Grand Harbour and Three Cities Cruise
A brief harbour tour around Valletta and the Three Cities—Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua—is well worth your time. From the ocean, where their massive bastions, old docks, and baroque design can be completely appreciated, these walled cities are best enjoyed. As the old structures are wonderfully lit, night cruises provide a particularly stunning perspective.
5. Secret Coves and Hidden Beaches
Finding otherwise less approachable coves and beaches is one of the pleasures of visiting Malta by boat. Though by boat you may appreciate these quiet areas in tranquil solitude, places like Fomm ir-Riħ, Għajn Tuffieħa, and Armier Bay are only partially accessible by land. Given Malta’s flourishing and transparent underwater habitats, snorkelling equipment is absolutely necessary.
The Be.HOTEL Experience
There is no better place to recharge than be.HOTEL, a stylish and contemporary hotel situated in the lively St. Julian’s district, after exciting days on the water. Located inside the Bay Street Shopping Complex, the hotel provides quick access to the golden sands of St. George’s Bay, shopping, dining, entertainment, and more. For visitors seeking both convenience and elegance, this makes it a great spot.
The hotel’s modern décor and elegant design provide a soothing contrast to the rustic, sun-drenched days spent seeing Malta’s coast. Many rooms are large and many have breathtaking views over the bay or inland cityscape. Plush mattresses, opulent baths and fast Wi-Fi are among features that guarantee visitors uncompromising luxury.
Location is Key
Staying at be.HOTEL has many benefits, not least its closeness to Malta’s principal marinas and embarkation sites for water activities. A quick cab ride will take you to the Portomaso and Msida marinas, which will facilitate your connection to charter services, sailing schools, or scuba diving centres.
Organised boat cruises often pick up visitors in the vicinity and the ferry terminal to Gozo is within easy reach.
You will be just steps away from some of Malta’s most vibrant shopping, dining, and nightlife choices in the evening. From informal beach-side eateries to upscale eating experiences, the surrounding area meets every taste. When you are ready to end your day, be.HOTEL offers a quiet, cool escape from the outside commotion.
Why Select Malta by Sea?
Choosing to see Malta by boat is a way of life, not just a means of transportation. Built to be seen from the ocean, the islands have fortified harbours, marine caves, and sun-drenched cliffs all calling the inquisitive visitor. You can travel where the people can’t, swim in seas unaffected by shore-goers, and see the sunset in unbroken beauty.
Malta by boat provides an experience that is both exciting and profoundly calming for people who enjoy freedom and exploration.
Combining this trip with a stay at be.HOTEL strikes the ideal balance. You receive the curated comfort of a modern hideaway with the wild beauty of the sea. Perfect for couples, families, or lone travellers wishing to explore the Maltese experience—on and off the water.
Rest in the comfort of be.Hotel after a day at sea.
