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Leisure Boating<br />

TOP 5 VIEWS<br />

of the Maltese Islands from the Sea Perspective<br />

No matter how precise your knowledge of the Maltese Islands happens to be,<br />

a yacht charter across the archipelago’s local waters will always lead to new and<br />

pleasurable discoveries. Believed to offer the best perspective of these Mediterranean<br />

hubs of history, landscape and culture, a journey by sea gives you access to magical<br />

coastal haunts only reachable by boat for a completely private experience. Being<br />

on board on a boat charter also means that you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery<br />

away from the bustle and noise on the crowded shore.<br />

Here are a few favourite local spots that are best viewed from the sea perspective:<br />

Vittoriosa Waterfront<br />

With the restoration of its waterfront completed just a few years ago, the 16th<br />

century port town of Vittoriosa is a delightful sight to behold. Opposite the state-ofthe-art<br />

yacht marina are al fresco cafés and upmarket dining establishments which<br />

sit beside historical buildings of the Knights Order. Birgu’s waterfront is a happening<br />

place where an intricate history, sumptuous cuisine and luxury motor yachts set the<br />

scene for an enjoyable moonlit evening, whether spent on board or ashore.<br />

Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay, Gozo<br />

With no fewer than twelve beaches across the Maltese archipelago awarded the<br />

prestigious Blue Flag eco-label for 2017, you’re literally spoilt for choice when it<br />

comes to dropping anchor for a refreshing swim in award-winning waters. Three<br />

such beaches line the Gozitan coast, among which is Hondoq ir-Rummien. This<br />

small, pebbly inlet to the southeast of Gozo has sandy-bottomed, crystal-clear waters<br />

and a string of caves along its coast that attract crowds of locals, holidaymakers<br />

and snorkellers all summer long. From Hondoq one can view the whole island of<br />

Comino, situated directly opposite; while to the right of the bay are centuries-old<br />

salt pans dug into the rocky coast, with some still being used today.<br />

Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay, Gozo<br />

Vittoriosa Waterfront<br />

Marsamxett Harbour, Valletta<br />

From this side of Valletta, on the other side of the Grand Harbour, the capital city’s<br />

legendary skyline and waterfront unravel before your very own eyes. Marsamxett<br />

Harbour encompasses the historical Manoel Island, which lies across the shore<br />

from the bastion walls that surround the capital – built by the Knights of St John<br />

as a form of protection back in the 16th century. Visibly dominating Valletta’s<br />

skyline from this angle are the 63-metre tall steeple of the 19th century Anglican<br />

Pro-Cathedral of St Paul, as well as the even taller basilica of Our Lady of Mount<br />

Carmel, measuring 73 metres high.<br />

Crystal Lagoon, Comino<br />

Comino’s attractively luminous waters go beyond the more popular Blue Lagoon<br />

area. Located further south, in fact, is Crystal Lagoon, providing a closer view of<br />

the imposing 17th century tower of Santa Marija. Shades of jade and turquoise<br />

appease the senses, as does the dramatically steep cliff backdrop which renders<br />

this secluded lagoon only accessible by boat. A few caves dot the coastline while a<br />

mesmerising underwater world awaits exploration. Here is one of the most private<br />

spots where to spend your day on board a yacht. Take the time to soak up the sun,<br />

bathe and snorkel in the most amazing sea, and savour the chance to admire one of<br />

the most striking seascapes of the Maltese Islands.<br />

Marsamxett Harbour, Valletta<br />

St Peter’s Pool<br />

Located in the southwest of the largest of the three islands – Malta, St Peter’s<br />

Pool lies on the Delimara peninsula in close proximity to the fishing village of<br />

Marsaxlokk. This pool of azure-and-turquoise-hued waters is a relatively remote<br />

bathing spot when compared to the packed beaches in the north of the island. A<br />

yacht charter stop around this white-rocked cove is ideal for those seeking a quieter<br />

setting for an invigorating swim, a snorkel and a spot of lunch on board.<br />

St Peter’s Pool<br />

Crystal Lagoon, Comino<br />

With leading yacht charter specialist Azure Ultra, you can build your own itinerary<br />

around the Maltese Islands. Accompanied by your very own experienced crew,<br />

you will have the opportunity to cruise the islands, visiting these and other<br />

favourite spots at your leisurely pace. Get in touch with one of Azure Ultra’s charter<br />

specialists to help plan a memorable day out or weekend staycation on board a<br />

luxury Sunseeker. MS<br />

Click on the Azure Untra's website or full information www.azureultra.com<br />

For further details, please contact:<br />

Azure Ultra, Grand Harbour Marina, Vittoriosa BRG1721<br />

Tel: 27782500; Email: info@azureultra.com<br />

All rights reserved - Copyright 2018<br />

Issue 7 >> 32

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