Malta is a treasure trove you just need to know where to look. Hopefully, the tabs below will help you navigate your way around the sights, sounds and flavours that this tiny country has to offer.
Amazing, you’ve sailed to Malta, now what? If you’re wanting to abandon ship and get your exploring shoes on you’re going to want to drop anchor or tuck up in a marina. I’d suggest heading for the capital, Valletta, there’s a plethora of marinas and a few anchorages that offer great access to both Valletta and Sliema.
Places to ditch the ship
Marsamxett Harbour – To the north of Valletta
Anchorages
We were berthed at “Marina di Valletta” for most of our stay in Malta, but if we were to anchor we’d aim for the Ta’ Xbiex Water Polo Club, Ta, Xbien or Ta’ Xbiex Beach on Navily.
Marinas
If you’d like easy access to Valletta, I’d suggest Marina di Valletta. There are 2 routes up the most direct and slightly petrifying way is to follow the road out of the marina up the hill on Triq Sa Maison. If you’re not in a hurry or in the mood to play dodgems with the local rally drivers, then I’d either walk through or around Floriana garden. If in doubt ask google to take you to the Triton Fountain (you can thank me later), the entrance to Valletta.
Creek marina the Ta Xbiex side, gives you easy access to restaurants and mini markets.
Roland marina is great if you want to hang out at the Royal Malta yacht club or eat out at the Polo club.
Gardens yacht marina is perfect if you’re in Malta go get boat supplies. With 2 chandeliers Gauci Borda & International Marine Center right on your doorstep. As well as Fabian Enterprises (all things wiring and electrics), Ronnies Marine Centre (3rd party spares), RLR yachting (Volvo Penta parts) and Medcomms Limited (Garmin dealer). It’s also the closest marina to Sliema
Grand Harbour – To the south of Valletta
Anchorages
You may have already noticed that there aren’t many anchorages in these parts, if we were to drop the hook in Grand harbour it would be at Rinella Bay It’s relatively sheltered and gives you good access to both Valletta and the 3 cities (Senglea, Cospicua and Birgu)
Marinas
If you’d like to step off the boat straight into a bit of hustle and bustle then I’d recommend staying at Grand harbour marina. Kalkara Marina is nearby but doesn’t give you the same access to amenities that the other marinas do.
Our favourite anchorages
Now that you’ve got the shopping out of the way it’s time to really explore Malta and its gorgeous coastline.
Il Hofra
If you’re based in one of the marinas and need a bit of a break, then I’d head for Il Hofra ‘the hole’, it’s a gorgeous spot for a swim or to overnight and offers two choices, ‘BIG hole‘ and ‘little hole‘. Due to their close proximity to the marinas I’d avoid them on the weekends as they tend to fill up fast with locals enjoying their time on the water.
Dwejra Bay
One of our favourite anchorages. You have to squeeze in past fungus rock, but once you’re in, you’re in a wonderful bay surrounded by high cliffs and the sounds of birds roosting. On a clear night, it’s just you and the stars. Navily
If you’re feeling adventurous, hop aboard your tender and head for the inland sea. There’s a gap in the rocks big enough to get through with the tender, but take it slow as there’s a largeish rock lurking on the other side. There’s even a restaurant but make sure it’s open before getting your hopes up.
Xatt L-Ahmar
A very quiet little bay near the main harbour on Gozo. Not a huge amount going for it as a location, but if you’re into diving there are 3 wrecks
Ramla Bay
One of the few actually sandy beaches in Gozo. We swam ashore for a beer and a bite to eat at one of the reasonably priced beach cafes. If memory serves me correctly there are 2 to choose from.
There are lots of options when it comes to travelling around Malta, the bus system is pretty efficient, the taxi-hailing apps are plentiful and the ferries offer a great alternative when the roads are gridlocked. Oh, and did I mention the electric scooters, not only are they a nifty way to get around but they also offer a certain amount of entertainment to your journey.
The Maltese driving style is a little “different”, so unless you’re a super confident driver, I’d avoid renting a car. The taxis are affordable and parking spaces are limited, just in case you’re still tempted.
Call a cab
Make sure you’ve downloaded one of the taxi-hailing apps. If you’re flying in I’d definitely recommend using one of these rather than getting a taxi at the airport as they are usually more than double the cost.
We mainly used Bolt (they’re your one-stop shop for cabs, scooters and food delivery) Uber only made an appearance after we left, but who doesn’t want options.
Get a bus
Tallinja is the local bus provider, they have an app that you can download to help you navigate the bus network.
We love getting the bus as it’s a great way to discover new places. You can hop off and back on the same route in a certain time period without having to pay. (I can’t remember how long you have so double-check with the diver)
All aboard the ferry
The 3 main ferry routes around malta are between Valletta and the 3 cities 15 minutes, Valletta and Sliema 15 minutes (these don’t leave from the same stop) and Valletta to Mgarr Gozo 45 mins
Hop on a scooter
If you’ve not had a go on an electric scooter then now is the time, not only are they great fun, but when the roads are all snarled up and you’re not up for a long walk, these are a lifesaver. Bolt the app that just keeps on giving.