From St. Julian’s: Jet Ski Safari to the South of Malta

Catching sea views at speed is hard to beat. This guided jet ski safari is built for adrenaline, with smooth pacing and a route that slides past big Malta landmarks and then gets properly scenic. I like that it stays focused on riding time, not long waiting, and I also like the small-group feel with an instructor guiding the whole outing.

You get a clear, active plan for 1.5 hours, and the safety setup feels serious, not casual. One thing to consider first is that it is not for everyone, especially if you have motion sickness risk or back or heart issues, since you’ll be bouncing a bit depending on sea conditions.

Key things you’ll notice before you go

• A guided south-coast route that runs from St. Julian’s past Valletta Grand Harbour, Marsascala, Delimara, and il-Ħofriet
• Small group operation limited to 6 participants, so you’re not stuck watching from the back
• Instructor-led riding plus a safety boat present throughout, which helps you feel more in control
• Time on the jet ski is the point for a total 1.5 hours, not a half-day of stops
• Fuel and fully comprehensive insurance are included, plus life jackets in the basic package
• The guide can make or break the vibe, and one standout name you’ll hear is Harry, praised for being fun and energetic

Why a St. Julian’s jet ski safari is so satisfying on Malta

Malta’s south coast looks great from land, but it hits different when you’re skimming the waterline. This tour is interesting because it strings together classic views, then pushes you into the open-sea feel where the Mediterranean looks wide and bright.

I like that you’re riding for the main event for about 90 minutes. You’re not paying for a bunch of sightseeing that happens at walking speed. The route also has variety, from harbors and bays to cliffy coastline and the unique il-Ħofriet area.

The other plus is guidance. Even if you’re not a speed junkie, you still get an instructor steering the experience so you spend less time wondering what comes next and more time enjoying the ride.

Where you start in St. Julian’s, and how to find the jetty fast

You meet at the jetty behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel area (formerly Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort). The address is listed as 8, Ix-Xatt Ta’ San Ġorġ, St. Julian’s, near the entrance to the hotel’s underground parking lot.

The practical trick: look for the black iron gate, go through it, go down the ramp, turn left, and follow the yellow line on the ground to the jetty. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early so you have time to check in, handle the life jacket and any paperwork, and get into position before the briefing.

No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll want to plan how you’re getting there on your own. If you’re staying in or near St. Julian’s, that’s usually straightforward, but if you’re farther away, factor in transport time.

The 90-minute route: Valletta Harbour, Marsascala, Delimara, and il-Ħofriet

This safari leaves at 10:00 AM from St. Julian’s and returns at about 11:30 AM. The route is a guided loop that threads through the Grand Harbour area first, then heads south along the coastline.

Valletta Grand Harbour, where the water feels busy

Right away, you’ll pass Valletta Grand Harbour. Even without getting out of the water, you’ll get that “big harbor in your periphery” feeling, which helps the start feel like more than just a quick launch.

One note to keep in mind: the harbor area can get rough around the water movement near the edges. If you’re sensitive to that, consider packing motion-sickness prevention, because the ride will reflect whatever the sea is doing that day.

St. Thomas Bay in Marsascala, a calmer scenic pause

Next on the path is St. Thomas Bay in Marsascala. This section is about views and rhythm. It’s the kind of coastline moment where you’re still moving fast, but the scenery helps you reset and enjoy what you’re seeing.

If you’re new to jet skiing, this kind of in-between section can help you settle into the controls. You get practice feeling how the ski responds without the ride suddenly going full chaotic.

Around Delimara, where the south coast turns dramatic

After Marsascala, the route runs around Delimara. Delimara is one of those parts of Malta that feels more rugged and open, so the experience shifts away from harbor visuals and toward cliff and open-water context.

Expect the coastline to look more “out there.” That matters because your sense of speed and distance grows when you’re not surrounded by tight harbor geometry. It’s also where the instructor guidance helps most, since you’ll want to keep your line and spacing.

il-Ħofriet, two bays connected by a natural passage

Then comes the signature scenic payoff: il-Ħofriet, two beautiful bays connected by a natural passage eroded out of the cliffs. Even if you’ve seen pictures of Malta bays before, seeing that passage context from the water helps it make sense.

This part is exciting because it’s not just pretty coastline, it’s a specific natural feature. The route makes sure you don’t just pass by the south coast, you pass by one of its most characterful shapes.

What makes this route worth it

The balance here is smart: you get landmark context early, then you get south-coast variety, then you finish with an iconic natural spot. It’s a good mix for people who want adrenaline but still want the “why Malta looks the way it does” payoff.

How the ride feels: adrenaline, sea conditions, and real comfort tips

The highlight is the jet ski itself, but your comfort will depend on sea state. The tour is described as riding smoothly, yet Malta’s waters can be choppy, especially around harbors and where weather and wind shape waves.

The best way to think about it: you’re going fast on a small craft in real ocean water. Even with an instructor maintaining spacing and a safety boat nearby, you should expect some bounce. That’s part of why people love it.

Comfort setup matters more than you’d think. Wear swimwear plus comfortable clothes you’re okay getting wet. Bring a towel, and skip sandals or flip-flops, because you need something secure for walking on the jetty.

If you’re worried about motion sickness, take the prevention you’ve used before or ask your pharmacist what’s appropriate for your body. The tour explicitly lists motion sickness prevention, which tells me they’ve seen the need again and again.

Safety setup and insurance: what you’re actually covered for

This activity includes a safety boat present throughout the entire activity, life jackets, and fully comprehensive insurance. Fuel costs are also included. That’s the kind of package detail that matters, because it reduces surprises on the water.

On liability, there’s a refundable security deposit of €100 for each jet ski, paid in cash at the base. Only cash payments are accepted for the deposit, and it’s per jet ski, so plan accordingly if you’re riding as a driver versus sharing.

If something goes wrong with the jet ski, you’re only liable for the insurance excess fee, not the full replacement value. That does not mean accidents are “fine,” but it does help you feel less exposed financially if an incident happens due to sea conditions.

Also, alcohol is not allowed in the vehicle, and intoxication is not permitted. That’s a basic rule, but it’s still worth appreciating because it signals they’re managing safety culture.

Price and value: does $241 make sense for this 1.5-hour safari?

At $241 per person for about 1.5 hours, the price lands in the “premium day activity” category. What makes it feel more worth it here is that the package includes fuel, a professional instructor, a safety boat, life jackets, and fully comprehensive insurance.

You’re also getting a guided route with actual geographic variety, not just a short loop near the jetty. The route passes major visual anchors like Valletta Grand Harbour and then goes south to Delimara and il-Ħofriet. For many people, that combination of views plus speed is the whole point.

The deposit is the main extra cost you should expect on site. It’s refundable, but it does require cash. If you’re budgeting, make sure you have €100 per jet ski in cash available before you arrive.

If you’re the type who hates paying for “extras,” this tour is relatively clean. Many jet ski activities add on fuel, safety gear, or insurance details later. Here, those core items are listed as included.

Who this jet ski safari suits best (and who should skip it)

This is designed for adults, and the minimum age required is 18. Drivers must be at least 18 and must show valid, legally binding identification like a passport or ID card. If you arrive without that, you forfeit your trip, and there are no refunds.

It is not suitable for:

• Pregnant women
• People with back problems
• People with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
• People with heart problems
• People over 65
• People who are non-swimmers
• People over 287 lbs (130 kg)
• People with motion sickness

If you’re physically comfortable on a bouncing water ride and you can handle speed, you’ll likely love the experience. If any of those health or mobility categories apply, it’s better to choose a calmer boat-based option.

Also, drivers under 18 are not allowed. And sandals or flip-flops are not allowed, so plan footwear that can handle wet surfaces.

Practical tips that make the difference on the day

Here’s how I’d set you up for less stress and more fun.

• Bring ID and have it handy. You need a passport or ID card, and you must present it to participate.
• Bring cash for the refundable deposit. It’s €100 per jet ski, paid in cash only. Credit and debit are not accepted for the deposit.
• Wear secure footwear. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and sandals or flip-flops are not allowed.
• Pack motion-sickness prevention if you’re even slightly unsure. The tour lists it, and rougher sections around harbors can happen.
• Swimwear and towel help. You will get wet, and a towel keeps you comfortable after you’re back.
• Arrive early and follow the yellow line. It’s easy to miss if you show up right on time.

If you’re deciding between riding and just watching, this is one of those activities where the “value” is tied to being on the jet ski. The tour includes one jet ski per person, so you’ll want to be in the driver or rider mindset.

Should you book this St. Julian’s jet ski safari to the south?

Book it if you want:

• a focused 1.5-hour experience centered on jet skiing
• a guided route with real geographic variety, including il-Ħofriet
• a safety-conscious setup with life jackets plus a safety boat throughout
• a company that puts instructors in charge, and you’re hoping for a lively guide like Harry who’s known for keeping the energy high

Skip it if:

• you have motion sickness risk or any of the listed health limits
• you prefer a calmer pace, or you want long sightseeing instead of speed on water
• you’re not comfortable arriving on your own at the St. Julian’s jetty (no hotel pickup)

If your trip is about high-energy, south-coast views, and you’re an adult with the right comfort level on open water, this is a strong pick. Just come ready with ID, cash for the deposit, and the mindset that the sea decides how smooth it feels.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

You depart from the jetty behind Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St. Julian’s. The address given is 8, Ix-Xatt Ta’ San Ġorġ, St. Julian’s, and you’ll go through a black iron gate, down the ramp, turn left, and follow the yellow line to the jetty.

How long is the jet ski safari?

The duration is 1.5 hours, with departure at 10:00 AM and return to the base at about 11:30 AM.

Is hotel pick-up or drop-off included?

No. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to get yourself to the jetty.

What’s included in the price?

The package includes one jet ski per person, a professional instructor, a safety boat present throughout, life jackets, all fuel costs, and fully comprehensive insurance.

Do I need to pay a security deposit?

Yes. There is a refundable security deposit of €100 for each jet ski, paid in cash at the base. Credit or debit card payments for the deposit are not accepted.

What are the age requirements?

The minimum age to participate is 18. Drivers must also be at least 18 and must present valid identification, or you forfeit the trip with no refunds.

What should I bring?

Bring a passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, cash (for the deposit), and motion sickness prevention.

Who is the activity not suitable for?

It is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, people with heart problems, children under 18, non-swimmers, people over 65, people over 287 lbs (130 kg), and people with motion sickness.