A moonlit boat party is a simple win. This one runs from Sliema on the Fernandes 2, with a DJ soundtrack, an unlimited open bar, and snacks as the coastline turns dark and beautiful. What I like is how it’s built for low-effort fun: you show up, cruise toward sunset, party on, then cool off at a swim stop. Another big plus is the variety in the drink lineup, from beer and wine to spirits and sangria, so you’re not stuck with just one option.

The main thing to consider is crowding. It’s a party boat, so space can feel tight, and the swim stop is more “jump in and enjoy” than a serious swim session.

You’ll be back in Sliema around midnight, which makes this a good “evening plan” if you want something different from restaurants without turning the whole night into a production.

Key points to know before you go

• Unlimited open bar with vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, beer, wine, and sangria means you control your own pace.
• DJ music on board keeps the energy up while the Maltese coast glows in the evening light.
• Snacks and fruit are included, so you’re not relying on buying food mid-party.
• Moonlight swim stop at an anchor point gives you the Malta-at-night feeling, even if it’s not a long swim session.
• Bring a towel and expect a party crowd, not a quiet sightseeing cruise.
• Adults-only vibe (not suitable for kids under 18), so plan for a louder, more social atmosphere.

Sliema boarding and the Fernandes 2 party setup

Boarding is straightforward: meet opposite The Black Sheep in Sliema Ferries. From there, the boat departs from Sliema and heads toward the setting sun while evening settles in. The timing matters. Early on, you get the cruise atmosphere and a chance to get settled. As night falls, the music gets louder and the whole vibe shifts into full-on party mode.

The boat itself is described as a beautiful party vessel (and it’s clearly meant for groups). The practical reality is that you should expect a social scene with plenty of other people and not much elbow room. If you’re the type who wants wide open decks and quiet views, this isn’t that. If you want energy, dancing, and a carefree evening, that’s exactly what the Fernandes 2 is set up to deliver.

One small planning tip: go with the mindset that you’re joining a group event. Keep track of your people before the music ramps up, because the more crowded it gets, the easier it is to lose each other on deck.

Unlimited open bar: how to get value out of the drinks

This is the headline feature, and it’s not vague. The open bar runs during the party, and it includes a long list of options: vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, beer, wine, and sangria. In plain terms, you can build your own mix—spirit cocktails if you want them, beer if you want an easy drink, or wine/sangria if you’re keeping it lighter.

For value, the math works best when you’re actually going to drink. Paying $81 for 4 hours can be a great deal when you’d otherwise spend close to that (or more) just buying drinks at bars and clubs in Malta—plus you’d still miss the boat part. The included snacks and fruit help too, because you’re not constantly chasing food while the drinks flow.

My advice is to pace it like you’re on a holiday evening, not a marathon drinking contest. The party runs until around midnight, and with unlimited drinks it’s tempting to go hard right away. You’ll have more fun if you start with one drink, see the energy level, and then decide how quickly to switch gears.

Also, remember the boat rule: no glass objects. That means you should leave any glass bottle or glassware behind, and you’ll still be fine—this is the kind of operation that’s set up for drinks to be served safely.

DJ music, dancing space, and the included snacks

A DJ plays music for the party, and the atmosphere is built around that. Expect dancing, singing along, and a general “come join us” energy. One of the consistent positives is that the music and dancing feel like the core of the night—not just background.

The snack situation is included, and that’s important. You’re not showing up hungry and hoping the vibe carries you. You’ll get snacks and fruit on board, which helps keep the evening comfortable if you arrive from a busy day sightseeing. Some comments also point out that the food could be better, so treat the snacks as fuel for the party, not a full meal replacement.

Space is the real catch here. With a group party format, you shouldn’t expect lots of open deck real estate. If you’re sensitive to crowding, it can wear on you—especially when you want to move around freely or take photos. If you’re happy to plant yourself near where the music is strongest, you’ll likely have a smoother time.

A practical move: plan on what you’ll do between drinks. If you want photos, take them early. If you want to dance, don’t wait until the boat gets packed—start when there’s room to move.

Sunset cruise and the moonlight swim stop (what to expect)

The route has a simple, satisfying rhythm: leave Sliema, sail as the sun drops, and let the music build as night approaches. Then you hit the highlight most people talk about: a stop at an anchor point for a moonlight swim.

Here’s how to set expectations. This is a party boat swim stop, not a dedicated snorkeling session with a long, structured water program. One good takeaway from the experience is that you can absolutely get that night-in-the-water moment. But if you’re specifically hoping for a “proper swim,” the stop may feel limited.

If you want to be comfortable at the anchor point, bring a towel (it’s required/explicitly advised). Also, don’t overpack the deck with stuff you can’t manage. Keep your phone and essentials secure. Water + party boats can get slippery fast, and you’ll enjoy the swim more if you can focus on the moment instead of your belongings.

And yes—the main emotional payoff is the moonlight effect. It’s a very Malta-at-night kind of memory: coastline, darker skies, music, then the cool break when you’re in the water.

Where this fits best: adults, groups, and party-minded nights

This experience isn’t for everyone, and the adult focus shows in the details. It’s not suitable for children under 18, and it plays like an evening for grown-ups who want fun first and sightseeing second.

I think it works especially well if:

• You’re traveling with friends or looking to meet people fast
• You want a night plan that includes drinks and entertainment without extra planning
• You like social music and dancing more than quiet coastal photography

It may feel less ideal if:

• You want a calm, curated nature or history cruise
• You’re easily bothered by crowds and limited space
• You’re expecting food to be a main-course meal (it’s snacks and fruit)

One caution worth taking seriously: keep your group together. There was an incident involving security who reportedly acted aggressively when someone tried to find the rest of their group. That doesn’t mean the whole operation is unsafe, but it does mean you should treat this like any crowded party environment: stay aware, stay close to your people, and handle coordination early.

Price and value: is $81 a good deal?

At $81 per person for 4 hours, the price makes sense when you look at what’s included. You’re getting:

• The party boat tour
• An open bar with a wide range of drinks
• Snacks and fruit
• DJ music

What you’re not paying for is also telling: no transfers are included, no guide is included, and you’ll have any personal expenses on your own. Still, the biggest cost you’d normally face on a nightlife outing is drinks—and this party includes drinks as part of the ticket price.

So the value question boils down to your style:

• If you’re planning on having multiple drinks and staying out for several hours, this is often a strong deal.
• If you only want one drink, you might feel like you paid for part of the experience you didn’t use fully.

In my book, the best “value match” is someone who wants a full evening package: music, movement, and an ocean setting with minimal add-on costs.

Small drawbacks you should plan around

Every party boat has tradeoffs. Here are the realistic ones, based on what people experienced and what the format implies:

1) Crowding and limited space

With lots of people on board, it’s not the place for quiet roaming. If you need personal space, plan to socialize close to your chosen spot.

2) Swim stop expectations

If your dream is long water time, the swim stop may feel short or not ideal. Still, it’s a genuine moonlight swim moment—just don’t treat it like a swim training session.

3) Food quality is mixed

Snacks and fruit are included, but some people felt the food could be better. I’d treat the included snacks as a bonus, not as your main meal plan.

4) Security can be firm

One reported issue involved aggressive behavior when someone was trying to reunite with friends. That suggests staff may move quickly and strongly in tense situations. Your best defense is simple: keep your group together and don’t wander when the boat is busy.

If you go in with those expectations, you’ll be less frustrated and more able to enjoy the good parts.

Should you book the Lazy Pirate Boat Party?

Book it if you want an easy, social Malta evening: unlimited drinks, a DJ-driven party vibe, included snacks/fruit, and a moonlight swim moment—all for a fixed price and a clear return time to Sliema around midnight.

Skip it (or choose something calmer) if you’re mainly after a quiet cruise, a long swimming session, or a sit-down dining experience. This is a party format first. The coastline is part of the backdrop, not the main “guided sightseeing product.”

My final decision rule: if you can handle a crowded boat deck and you’re excited about the open bar plus DJ energy, this is a smart way to spend a few hours in Malta without adding lots of extra stops.

FAQ

How long is the Lazy Pirate Boat Party in Malta?

The experience lasts 4 hours.

Where do I meet the boat party in Sliema?

Meet opposite The Black Sheep in Sliema Ferries.

What’s included in the ticket price?

You get the party boat tour, an open bar with drinks, snacks and fruit, and DJ music.

What drinks are available on the open bar?

The open bar includes vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, beer, wine, and sangria.

Is there a swim during the cruise?

Yes. There’s a stop at an anchor point for a moonlight swim.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. It’s not suitable for children under 18.

Are glass objects allowed?

No. Glass objects are not allowed.

You Might Also Enjoy

Three cities walking tour incl. entrance to Inquisitor’s palaceValletta Food Tour – Eat like a localWitchcraft and Blood in Birgu – Walking TourComino and Gozo Private Boat Tour : Julie Pearl Boat