TA' XBIEX CATAMARAN FIELD GUIDE
Sunset Aboard a Ta' Xbiex Catamaran — Valletta’s Bastions Ignite as Day Fades
A 4-hour, weekday catamaran cruise from Ta' Xbiex/Marsamxett Creek into Malta’s Grand Harbour that guides travelers on what to expect, what to bring, and how the evening unfolds.
Sunset Aboard a Ta' Xbiex Catamaran — Valletta’s Bastions Ignite as Day Fades.
Slide away from the marina as the late sun gilds limestone bastions, sail through the narrow throat of the Grand Harbour and drift back by moonlight while Valletta’s façades slowly come alive. This Sunset Harbour Cruise is designed as an intimate, relaxed evening on the water—bring your own food and wine or opt for on-board catering—and it frames Malta’s history and harbor defenses in a single, cinematic passage.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Valletta at Dusk
Sail into the sunset and return under moonlight as Valletta’s lights glow against the harbor—an evening that turns the city’s fortifications into a luminous backdrop for an intimate cruise.
Grand Harbour and the Three Cities
The catamaran cuts from Marsamxett Creek into the Grand Harbour for close views of Valletta’s fortifications, then moves to the harbour’s southern side for a closer look at Cospicua, Vittoriosa and Senglea.
Anchored for a Quiet Evening
After the harbour tour the crew finds a sheltered anchorage where guests have time to relax against lit bastions; you may dine with your own provisions or choose catered platters or a buffet for an additional fee.
What the day feels like
How the Evening Flows
Departing in the later afternoon, the catamaran leaves Marsamxett Creek and traverses into the Grand Harbour for a private tour of Valletta’s historic fortifications. The vessel then rounds to the south side for views of the Three Cities before settling in a secluded anchorage. Guests are given ample time to relax, enjoy food and wine brought on board or served by the operator, and return to the marina by moonlight—typically concluding around 10:30 p.m.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits best and the operational limits to note.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring sea‑sickness pills if needed, your own food and alcoholic beverages if you prefer (boat fridges available but pack perishables in coolers), and any personal items for an evening on deck.
Food and alcohol are excluded by default; you may bring your own provisions or request on‑board catering (platters or buffet) for an additional fee arranged with the operator.
Skipper fees and fuel are covered; the boat supplies unlimited water as well as a paddle board and snorkelling equipment.
A safety briefing is provided before departure; plan for an evening on open water and bring remedies and layers for changing temperatures after sunset.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Catamaran Sunset Harbour Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.
Where does the cruise depart from?
The vessel leaves from Marsamxett Creek in the Ta' Xbiex/Valletta harbour area.
Is food or drink provided on board?
Food and alcohol are excluded; you may bring your own food and wine, or the operator can arrange catering for an additional cost.
What is included in the price?
Skipper fees, fuel costs and unlimited water are included, and the boat provides a paddle board and snorkelling equipment.
How many guests can join the cruise and when does it run?
The cruise accepts up to 15 guests and is available on weekdays only.
Is there a safety briefing before departure?
Yes. A safety briefing is provided prior to leaving the berth.