Embark in the deep-water port of Grand Harbour Marina. The stunning marina is located right at the heart of Malta’s capital. The waterfront has a backdrop of watchtowers, monuments and ancient merchant houses with bars and restaurants aplenty. The Harbour Club is a great place to view the marina and yachts as you enjoy dinner on the terrace. Alternatively, the Quarter Deck Bar is great for early evening drinks.
Cruise out of the harbor, passing a maze of palazzos and fortifications before you reach the open sea and head to the south of the island. After a leisurely lunch on board spend the afternoon anchored at Island Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of watersports before heading on to Marsaxlokk in the early evening.
Stroll through the fishing village of Marsaxlokk and venture inland to explore the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. The underground necropolis was excavated around 2500BC and consists of a series of elliptical chambers to which access is gained from different tunnels. Back on board, take the tender, paddleboards or kayaks to explore the iridescent waters of the nearby Blue Grotto. Cruise on for a peaceful anchorage at Golden Bay.
Renowned as one of the best beaches in the whole of the Mediterranean, take an early morning dip in the clear waters that lap Golden Bay. Take a 20-minute car ride inland to the ancient capital of Mdina. Known as the Silent City, the citadel is testament to Malta’s long and often troubled history and abounds with historic sites including the Mdina Church and Dungeon, several museums and an underground labyrinth of ancient catacombs carved into the rock. Back on board, raise anchor and cruise north to Paradise Bay on the beautiful island of Comino.
With more than 30 miles of coastline to explore, Comino is famed for its aquamarine waters that are perfect for swimming. Take the tender to the Santa Marija Caves – a set of 10 caverns, many of which are interconnecting, with spectacular scuba diving opportunities. After lunch head to the charming island of Gozo. Known for its picturesque countryside and historic monuments, the island is just 25 square miles and can be explored by bicycle. Reward your efforts with a private wine tasting at the family-run vineyards Ta’Mena or Tal-Massar.
Spend a few days diving and snorkeling Gozo’s underwater world, rich in marine life, before cruising back towards Valletta, dropping anchor in beautiful little bays for a leisurely lunch or a dip in the warm waters wherever you please. Head on to Valletta for a final dinner on board.
