St Paul’s Bay has a surprising undersea detour. Step into the Malta National Aquarium inside the starfish-shaped shell, and you’ll quickly feel like you’re walking through a living science exhibit. Two things I really like: the walk-through tunnel in the main tank, and the way the displays connect to Malta’s landmarks. It’s a smart mix of show-and-tell and hands-off observation.

My main caution is that it can get noisy and crowded at peak times, which can make the place feel less relaxing. I’d treat it as an easy family outing first, then a slow read-through if you arrive early and have time to linger.

Key highlights to look for

• Walk-through tunnel with marine life passing right overhead
• 51 tanks and 250+ species ranging from Mediterranean to beyond
• Malta history-themed exhibits that tie underwater habitats to the island’s story
• Marine conservation education focused on threats to local habitats
• Daily talks and feeding moments, plus optional behind-the-scenes add-ons if offered during your visit

Entering the starfish-shaped aquarium in St Paul’s Bay

The Malta National Aquarium sits in St Paul’s Bay and is housed in an unmistakable starfish-shaped shell. That design matters more than you might think. It makes the aquarium feel like an attraction on its own, not just a line of tanks squeezed into a box.

Once inside, your route is straightforward: you move through a sequence of display areas with multiple tanks at different heights. The layout helps you go at your own pace, whether you’re the type to stop for every label or you just want to spot the big animals and keep moving. Reviews also point to lots of seating/comfort on site, plus toilets and an on-site café and gift shop.

Practical note: the experience is set up for a family day. That means you’ll see kids up close, and you’ll also hear the place. If you prefer a quiet museum vibe, plan around busy hours.

The walk-through tunnel: the main tank’s best moment

If you only remember one part, make it the walk-through tunnel in the main tank. This is where the aquarium turns from “look at fish” into “feel like you’re inside the habitat.” You’re literally underneath the viewing area as marine life swims above you, so your perspective changes fast.

This is also the section many people get excited about because it’s visually dramatic without needing you to chase animals. You can slow down, let your eyes adjust, and watch the movement pattern instead of trying to find a single fish that refuses to pose.

Tip for enjoying it: don’t stand in the exact bottleneck spot. Step to the side, wait for a burst of activity, then move on. It keeps your view clean and helps your route flow, especially when it gets busy.

Malta history-themed habitats and the upstairs Malta floor

One of the smartest touches here is how the displays connect marine life to Malta itself. The tanks are themed in accordance with Malta’s historical landmarks, and each habitat is built to resemble a species’ natural underwater environment. It makes the science feel local, not generic.

There’s also more to do beyond the tanks. Some visits include an upstairs Malta history floor with artifacts found from the sea, plus the gift shop and restaurant upstairs. This turns the aquarium into a “two-part” stop: marine life below, Malta context above.

Why that matters for you: when you understand where Malta’s waters fit into a bigger story, the labels stop feeling like extra reading. You start seeing the exhibits as an explanation, not just decoration.

51 tanks and 250+ species: what you’ll actually spot

The headline numbers are impressive: 51 display tanks and over 250 species. But the more useful question is what kinds of animals show up in those tanks, and how varied it feels.

From the descriptions and notes people shared, you can expect to see a mix of:

• Marine life native to the Mediterranean plus species beyond that region
• Freshwater and saltwater fish
• Jellyfish
• Reptiles and amphibians
• Insects (yes, insects—so the aquarium is not only about fish)
• Other animals that cover a wider range than a typical “just fish” aquarium

Some reviews specifically highlight enjoyment around amphibians and reptiles, while others focus on the jellyfish and tunnel views. A few people felt they wanted more variety within certain groups (like wanting more frogs). That tells me the animal mix is strong, but it’s not going to satisfy everyone with the exact same wish list.

Also, the aquarium isn’t described as massive. That’s not necessarily a downside. It usually means you can cover everything without exhausting yourself. But if you love very large, sprawling aquariums with hundreds of tanks, set your expectations accordingly.

Conservation lessons you can use at home

This aquarium doesn’t treat education as a side project. It includes information on marine conservation and highlights threats to local habitats, including human activities. You’ll see signs and exhibit text that connect what you’re watching to why it’s at risk.

I like this approach because it gives the visit a purpose beyond entertainment. You don’t just leave thinking the sharks looked cool. You leave with a clearer sense of what’s under pressure and why awareness matters.

You’ll also see scheduled talks during the day. In reviews, people mention piranha feeding as an educational session and that staff give talks that feel enthusiastic and informed. One named staff member, Suz, is mentioned as friendly during an experience, which makes a difference: when the people running the education section care, you feel it.

Scheduled talks, feedings, and the fun add-ons

A good aquarium visit has a rhythm: tanks for wandering, then a timed moment to anchor the trip. Here, that anchor often comes from talks and feeding sessions.

What’s called out in the experience notes:

• Talks given by the education team that people describe as engaging and thorough
• Feeding moments, including piranha feeding
• Shark-related moments (including a guide-led experience to a shark feeding)
• An optional behind-the-scenes tour that some visitors say is worth it if offered during your visit

There are also extra playful elements that show up in some accounts:

• A small ride described as a submarine simulation
• A pressure chamber experience that lasts about two minutes
• Photo moments and additional interaction points sprinkled through the visit

One reality check: because the aquarium includes timed activities, your visit will be better if you’re flexible. If you want to catch a feeding or talk, don’t arrive when you’re locked into a tight schedule. Build in a little wiggle room.

Timing your visit: plan for 1 to 2 hours, then adjust

Most people land around 1 to 2 hours to see everything, especially if you read enough labels to feel satisfied. Some visits feel closer to 30 to 60 minutes if you’re moving quickly or you’re with younger kids who don’t want to stand still. Other people stretch to 2 to 3 hours when they read details and catch talks.

Crowds can also change your experience. One common theme: the place can get busy quickly. A visitor who arrived within about ten minutes of opening noticed it filled up fast. Another mentioned noise, and a few noted that waiting lines and crowded viewing spots can become stressful.

So here’s my practical advice:

• If you want a calmer run-through, try to arrive earlier rather than later.
• Keep expectations realistic about the busiest tank views. You may need to wait your turn to see things clearly.

Price and value for a $20 ticket in St Paul’s Bay

At about $20 per person, this ticket sits in the “worth it if you use the time well” category. It’s not priced like a huge mega-aquarium with endless halls, but the experience still gives you a lot for a short afternoon.

Why the value can feel strong:

• 51 tanks and 250+ species gives you variety without requiring an all-day commitment
• The walk-through tunnel is a clear standout moment
• Conservation and themed exhibits add meaning, not just spectacle
• On-site extras like a café, gift shop, and upstairs Malta history floor make it easy to turn it into a full stop rather than a quick entrance-and-leave

Where the value can feel weaker:

• If you’re very sensitive to noise or crowds, the experience may feel rushed or less relaxing.
• Since it’s not the biggest aquarium, you might finish sooner than you expected. Some people felt it ran a bit short for the price.

My take: it’s a solid choice when you want a family-friendly indoor activity with a lot of animal variety and an educational angle, and when you time it to avoid the worst crowd pressure.

Who should book this ticket (and who should think twice)

This aquarium is ideal if:

• You’re traveling with kids, and you want one place where they can see lots quickly without a complex schedule
• You like hands-off viewing with labels and short talks that explain what you’re seeing
• You want a rainy-day plan in Malta that’s easy to manage and usually takes about 1 to 2 hours

You may want to think twice if:

• You expect a huge, sprawling aquarium with massive tank counts and long walking routes
• You hate waiting for viewing spots or prefer very quiet spaces

If you’re somewhere in between, here’s the compromise: go early, focus on the tunnel and the tanks you’re most curious about, and then use the upstairs Malta history floor and café to round out the trip.

Tips to make your visit smoother (and more enjoyable)

A few simple moves can make a big difference:

• No flash photography. If you’re planning photos, switch off flash before you start.
• If there’s a feeding or talk happening, give it priority. Timed moments often become the highlight of the day.
• For the tunnel section, don’t block the best path for others. Step aside when you can so others can see too.
• If you’re visiting with kids or anyone who gets overstimulated, go with a flexible plan. Some people finish quickly and then go back for a second lap at the end.

Also, keep in mind the restrictions: no pets, and alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed. It’s a family-focused space, so basic etiquette matters.

Should you book the Malta National Aquarium entry ticket?

Yes, I think you should book this ticket if you want a straightforward St Paul’s Bay activity with a real wow moment (the walk-through tunnel) plus a lot of animal variety in a manageable time window. The $20 price makes sense when you plan to spend at least an hour reading and watching, not just a quick pass.

If you’re the type who gets stressed by crowds, go early and build in a plan for talks and feedings so your time doesn’t feel like guesswork. And if you love education, make sure you catch the scheduled education talks—this aquarium clearly shines when the staff are explaining what you’re seeing.

FAQ

Where do I start the Malta National Aquarium ticket?

You start your activity at the Malta National Aquarium.

How long is the ticket valid?

The ticket is valid for 180 days. You should check availability to see starting times.

Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included with the entry ticket?

The entry ticket to the Malta National Aquarium is included.

What is not allowed inside?

Flash photography isn’t allowed. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed, and pets aren’t allowed.

Can I cancel my booking?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Malta: First Experience Scuba Diving LessonScenic Tour by Vintage Bus to Buskett Garden & Dingli CliffsMalta: 3-City Self-Drive Exploration with GPS Audio GuideValletta City Walking Tour