Plizio Visual Lab

Kalkara Marina

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Kalkara Marina is located within Kalkara Creek, a scenic inlet of the Grand Harbour, flanked by the massive walls of Fort Ricasoli and the fortifications of Vittoriosa. This harbour area has a long-standing tradition in shipbuilding, particularly the construction of the iconic Maltese luzzu boats, with traditional workshops still operating nearby. The marina provides sheltered berths for yachts and local fishing vessels, while serving as a key node for water taxi services within the harbour area. It is situated very close to Esplora, the interactive science centre housed in the historic former Bighi British naval hospital. In recent years, the waterfront has undergone significant regeneration to improve pedestrian access and preserve the area's historical architectural fabric. Despite these modern developments, Kalkara retains its character as a traditional fishing village, making the marina a quieter alternative to the busier parts of the Grand Harbour.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Villa Bighi · Esplora · Il-Port il-Kbir
Nearby: St. Julian's (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Kalkara Marina is located in Kalkara Creek within the Grand Harbour and serves as a marina for pleasure boats and yachts. It provides berths and service facilities for the boating community. The marina contributes to Malta's nautical infrastructure and is a meeting point for sailors.

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Visiting

The marina is publicly accessible, visitors can walk along the pontoons. Access to the berths is usually reserved for boat owners, however. From the surrounding streets and promenade, there is a good view of the boats and the historic surroundings.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is the promenade along Kalkara Creek, offering a wonderful view of the marina and the opposite fortifications of Valletta. From the Rampa Bastion, you have an elevated view over the entire basin. The boat ramp also gives a good perspective.

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Local products

In the marina itself, mainly nautical services and equipment are offered. In nearby shops and restaurants in Kalkara and Vittoriosa, Maltese specialities are available. The area is known for its historic ships and boat trips.

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Active season

The marina is active year-round, with the main season in the summer months (May to October). During this time, berths are often fully booked and many activities take place. In winter it is quieter, but there are year-round sailors.

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Nearby

Combine a visit to the marina with exploring the historic cities of Vittoriosa and Senglea on the other side of the Grand Harbour. The Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa is also worth a visit. Boat tours in the harbour offer a different perspective.

Geography

Coordinates

35.89500, 14.52300

Facts

Located in Kalkara Creek within the Grand Harbour
Flanked by the historic Fort Ricasoli and Vittoriosa
Traditional hub for building and repairing luzzu boats
Adjacent to the Esplora Interactive Science Centre
Waterfront regeneration project was completed in 2023
Key stop for water taxi services connecting to Valletta

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rinella Film Studios<1 km · SEExplore →

Floriana2 km · WExplore →

St. Helen's Gate2 km · SExplore →

Tigné Point2 km · NWExplore →

Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker2 km · SWExplore →

Xgħajra Promenade2 km · SEExplore →

Ta' Xbiex3 km · WExplore →

Tarxien3 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kalkara Marina (10)

Villa Bighi

Historic villa in Kalkara, Malta, formerly the admiral's residence.

Esplora 🏛 museum

Interactive science centre in Kalkara, Malta, for children and adults.

🌐 esplora.org.mt🕒 Tu-Fr 09:30-16:00; Sa 10:30-05:00; Su 11:30-06:00

Il-Port il-Kbir

Natural harbour in Valletta, Malta, one of the largest on the island.

Rinella Bay

Bay in Malta, known for its beach and clear water.

Fort Ricasoli🏰 castle

Fort in Malta that defended the harbour of Valletta.

Ricasoli Lighthouse

Lighthouse in Malta, a prominent structure on the Kalkara coast.

Wreck of SS Margit

Wreck of a sunken ship off the coast of Malta, popular with divers.

World War II Siege Bell

Bell in Valletta commemorating the siege of Malta in World War II.

Fort Saint Angelo🏛 museum

Fortification in Malta overlooking the harbour of Birgu.

Lower Barracca Gardens🌳 park

Park in Valletta, Malta, overlooking the harbour and the Three Cities.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Kalkara Marina touristy?

It is quieter and less touristy than other marinas, giving it a local charm.

What can you visit in Kalkara?

The Esplora Interactive Science Centre and Fort Rinella are very close by.

Is there a view of Valletta?

Yes, you have a lovely view of the opposite side of the Grand Harbour.

Are there restaurants at the marina?

Yes, there are some good local restaurants offering traditional Maltese cuisine.

How do you get from Valletta to Kalkara?

Best taken by ferry to the Three Cities, followed by a short walk or a bus ride.

Kalkara Marina: where is it located?

Kalkara Marina is located in Malta.

Kalkara Marina: what is there to see?

Highlights include Villa Bighi, Esplora, Il-Port il-Kbir.

Kalkara Marina: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Kalkara Marina: why is it worth visiting?

Kalkara Marina is located within Kalkara Creek, a scenic inlet of the Grand Harbour, flanked by the massive walls of Fort Ricasoli and the fortifications of Vittoriosa.

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