Marsamxett Waterfront & Sliema Ferry
A swift, scenic ferry connecting Valletta and Sliema, offering breathtaking harbor views and a quick, affordable travel alternative.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the summer crowds
Marsamxett Waterfront & Sliema Ferry
Best Time
Beat the summer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A swift, scenic ferry connecting Valletta and Sliema, offering breathtaking harbor views and a quick, affordable travel alternative.
"Fast, convenient, and most importantly, incredible views open up."
Cash Only on Valletta Side
Be prepared for cash-only payments at the Valletta terminal. Card payments might be processed on the Sliema side. :moneybag:
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Second deck offers best views, first deck provides shade. Pick what suits your preference! :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Harbor Views
Open-top second deck
Capture stunning, unobstructed views of the historic harbors and cityscapes. Perfect for photos!

Quick Valletta to Sliema Hop
Marsamxett Harbour
A swift 5-7 minute journey, bypassing traffic and offering a refreshing sea breeze.

Affordable Travel Option
Ferry terminals
Budget-friendly fares make this an attractive option for exploring Malta's coast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Travel Between Valletta & Sliema
Best Views & Seating
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash Only on Valletta Side
Be prepared for cash-only payments at the Valletta terminal. Card payments might be processed on the Sliema side. :moneybag:
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Second deck offers best views, first deck provides shade. Pick what suits your preference! :sunwithface:
Faster Than the Bus
This ferry is significantly quicker than buses, especially during peak traffic hours. :rocket:
Great Photo Ops
The journey provides fantastic opportunities for capturing memorable photos of the harbor. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash Only on Valletta Side
Be prepared for cash-only payments at the Valletta terminal. Card payments might be processed on the Sliema side. :moneybag:
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Second deck offers best views, first deck provides shade. Pick what suits your preference! :sunwithface:
Faster Than the Bus
This ferry is significantly quicker than buses, especially during peak traffic hours. :rocket:
Great Photo Ops
The journey provides fantastic opportunities for capturing memorable photos of the harbor. :camerawithflash:
Tallinja Card Perks
Holders of a Tallinja card may enjoy discounted fares or even free travel. :credit_card:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers rave about the Marsamxett Waterfront & Sliema Ferry for its speed, convenience, and incredible harbor views, calling it a fast and pleasant way to travel between Valletta and Sliema. It's praised as a budget-friendly alternative to buses, offering great photo opportunities. Some minor issues include occasional overflowing bins and the cash-only policy on the Valletta side.
"A very cool and fast way to get from Valletta to Sliema. Fast, convenient and most importantly, incredible views open up. The boat has 2 floors, those who want can sit on the first floor and hide from the sun. And those who are not afraid of the sun and want to admire the views can sit on the second. The fare is 2 euros or free for Tallinja card holders."
Lucas Amadeo
"It takes only five minutes to reach the shores of Valletta. It is an alternative to crowded buses that get often stuck in the traffic 🚦⛔"
Ferraro N
"On time, good for quick travel between Sliema and Valletta (much quicker than bus). As it was public transport bins were overflowing with rubbish on the upper deck. Provides great views."
Magda L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ferry terminals are easily accessible on foot in both Valletta and Sliema. In Valletta, it's a short walk from the city center. In Sliema, it's along the popular promenade. Public buses also serve both areas extensively.
Absolutely! It's a very fast and convenient option, taking only about 5-7 minutes. It's a great alternative to the often crowded and traffic-prone buses.
The ferry typically operates frequently throughout the day, usually starting early in the morning and running until late evening. It's best to check the latest schedule upon arrival as times can vary seasonally.
Yes, taxis are readily available in both Valletta and Sliema and can drop you off directly at the ferry terminals. This can be a convenient option if you're coming from further afield.
The ferry is generally accessible, with ramps available. However, it's always a good idea to confirm specific accessibility details with the ferry operator if you have particular needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The fare is very affordable, typically around 2 euros for a single trip. There are often discounted rates for seniors (e.g., €0.90 return for over 60s) and potential benefits for Tallinja card holders.
Tickets are usually purchased directly at the ferry terminal before boarding. It's a simple process, and given the frequency of the service, advance booking is generally not necessary.
While the Sliema side may accept card payments, the Valletta side is often cash-only. It's advisable to have some cash on hand to avoid any issues.
The Tallinja card, Malta's public transport card, may offer discounts or be integrated with ferry services. It's worth checking the latest information on their website or at the terminal.
Typically, young children may travel for free or at a reduced rate. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter for specific age limits and policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-top second deck offers the most unobstructed, panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, Valletta's fortifications, and Sliema's skyline. The front of the upper deck provides excellent forward-facing shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbor views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on architectural details of Valletta or the Three Cities. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance sky and water colors. :camerawithflash:
Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' offer beautiful warm light. Evenings are also spectacular as Valletta lights up, creating a magical cityscape.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. Tripods might be restricted during busy periods.
Key subjects include the historic fortifications of Valletta, the Grand Harbour entrance, the Three Cities across the water, Sliema's modern skyline, and the general maritime activity within the harbor.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ferry Experience
When choosing your seat, consider the open-top second deck for the most breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic harbor views and ample photo opportunities. If you prefer to escape the sun, the first floor offers a shaded respite. However, be aware that during peak times, bins on the upper deck can sometimes become full, a minor point noted by some passengers. The affordability of the ferry is another major draw, with fares being very reasonable, especially when compared to other transport options. For those planning extensive travel around Malta, investigating the Tallinja card might offer further savings.
Capturing Malta's Beauty from the Water
For the best photographic results, aim for the late afternoon 'golden hour' when the light is soft and warm, casting a beautiful glow on the scenery. Evenings are equally magical, as the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a romantic and dramatic cityscape. While personal photography is generally welcomed, remember to be considerate of other passengers. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the harbor, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit