Traditional dġħajsa water taxis cross Grand Harbour between Valletta and the Three Cities (Birgu/Vittoriosa and Bormla/Cospicua). These colorful wooden boats operate from two main departure points: near the Valletta Waterfront cruise terminal and below the Upper Barrakka Gardens via the lift access.

Journey duration is 8-12 minutes depending on destination, costing €2-8 per person based on operator and season. Private operators run different schedules but generally operate 09:00-18:00 daily with reduced winter hours. The experience provides stunning water-level perspectives of Valletta's fortified limestone walls — Impossible to appreciate from street level.

Best strategy: combine with exploring Vittoriosa's narrow medieval streets and Fort St. Angelo. Take the regular Valletta-Birgu ferry (€1.50) over and the atmospheric dġħajsa back for variety. The traditional boats offer photo opportunities and cultural immersion that standard ferries lack.

Note: operators are independent so schedules vary seasonally. Check availability at the waterfront rather than relying on fixed timetables. During rough weather (common November-February), services may suspend operations for safety.