Practical • 7–9 min
Dgħajsa Water Taxi Guide
A practical guide to the dgħajsa: Valletta’s traditional boat crossing in the Grand Harbour—what it is, how to use it, and how to pair it with viewpoints and walks.
Photo by Evy van Kan on Unsplash.
Highlights
- ✦A classic way to cross the Grand Harbour by boat
- ✦Great for couples and photographers
- ✦Pairs naturally with harbour viewpoint days
- ✦A short ride that changes perspective instantly
At a glance
- Best for
- A classic harbour experience
- Time needed
- Short ride + optional promenade
- Best pairing
- Upper Barrakka and waterfront walks
- Photo value
- Excellent skyline angles from the water
What a dgħajsa is
A dgħajsa is a traditional Maltese boat used for crossings in the Grand Harbour. For visitors, it’s a simple way to add a ‘classic harbour’ chapter to your Valletta trip.
The ride itself is short, but the perspective shift is huge: Valletta’s walls and skyline look different from the water.
Why it’s worth doing
It’s one of the easiest ‘experience upgrades’ you can do. It adds movement, breeze, and an authentic harbour feel without requiring a full tour.
- Great for: couples, photographers, and slow travelers
- Best time: late afternoon into sunset for light
How to build it into your day
Use it as part of a harbour sequence: viewpoint first, then waterfront, then a boat crossing. Return to Valletta for dinner and a night walk.
- Upper Barrakka → lift → waterfront
- Dgħajsa crossing
- Promenade on the other side
- Return to Valletta for sunset or dinner
Practical tips
As with any boat experience, be mindful of wind and weather. Bring a light layer for breezy evenings and keep your camera/phone secure.
- Check wind and sea conditions
- Bring a light layer
- Secure your belongings during the ride
FAQ
Is a dgħajsa different from the ferry?
Yes. Ferries are scheduled transport. A dgħajsa is a traditional boat experience—often shorter, more intimate, and more about atmosphere than commuting.