Dinner in the sky has finally landed, err… taken off, in Malta. Flying high over Valletta, this unique dining experience is one meal you won’t forget. But here’s a few things to keep in mind before you go:

1. This is NOT for the faint hearted

I’ve never been afraid of heights but I must say that dangling from a crane 35 metres high is not the most relaxing experience in the world. Take it for what it is, a unique experience that you want to enjoy at least once. It only lasts an hour and a half so even if you’re shit scared, it’ll be over soon and you’ll have a good story to tell. 

2. You’re going to have to hold in your piss

This is amply explained to you before the experience, but just be aware that if you’re strapped in your seat along with 22 other people for an hour and a half in the sky, the last thing you want to do is ruin everyone’s fun by needing to piss. So do your business before it starts at the portaloos provided at source. That being said, it only takes a few seconds to go up and down so if it’s a real emergency, you’ll be catered for. 

3. The food is pretty damn good

Marvin Gauci is a legend in the Maltese food scene. He’s got three of Malta’s top restaurants: Tarragon, Buddhaman and Caviar & Bull. He likes to experiment with molecular gastronomy and other experiential techniques. The food at Dinner In The Sky is probably not at par with these restaurants because a lot of it needs to be prepared before. But we had a ceviche, pork belly and pannacotta that were all pretty much to die for.

4. It’s a set menu so flag any dietary requirements beforehand

Don’t expect an a la carte menu. This is a set menu. So if you’re vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant or celiac, make sure you bring this up at booking. Also, the food comes served with wine. If you don’t drink alcohol, mention this beforehand and the team will prepare you some mocktails instead. 

5. Dinner In The Sky is a worldwide franchise with a clean safety record

Malta doesn’t have a great reputation for health and safety, so it’s understandable to get cold feet. But the Dinner in the Sky franchise has been operating for over a decade in more than 50 countries worldwide, without incident. The franchise takes safety very seriously which is why it took years for this project to get off the ground in Malta. You’ll feel relaxed the second you notice you’re in the hands of a Dutch safety expert.

6. You might fear for your belongings more than your own life

Maybe it’s just because my iPhone is an extension of my body, but I was more afraid of dropping it than falling myself. Best to leave all your belongings in the lockers provided. But who wants to do Dinner In The Sky without taking photos? Just be extra careful about it because if it falls, it’s falling a long way down. 

7. There are no weight restrictions but you need to be a certain height

For the fat fucks like me, it’s a relief that you don’t have to be weighed publicly before being allowed on. But there is a minimum height of 150 centimetres simply to make sure you can be strapped to your seat properly. That means only tall children allowed.

8. Don’t be late

Since several tables go up each evening, the organisers have to stick to a strict time table which means you really need to plan beforehand to make sure you’re not left behind. 

9. It’s only here for three months 

The plan is to run for three months into October. But everything is weather permitting so don’t leave it too late or you might end up disappointed. 

Prices start from €85 per person for champagne and canapés, and climb to €135 for the full dinner.

Will you be going to dinner in the sky? Who will you be taking? Tell us on Facebook, or send us a Snap if you’re up there!

READ NEXT: Dinner In The Sky Coming To Malta This August

Chris Peregin

Christian is an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur who founded Lovin Malta, a new media company dedicated to creating positive impact in society. He is passionate about justice, public finances and finding ways to build a better future.