Sailin'... Takes Me Away

Another "Must See" in Malta is really a "Must Do." Well, if you like the ocean. And Sailing.

And well, Malta is a nation of islands, so hopefully you like the ocean if you go. Because the best way to visit all of the islands is by boat.

I signed up to sail around the main island over to the island of Gozo on a beautiful, wooden schooner with Captain Morgan cruises (this blog is in no way sponsored by them). They were a great company. They picked me up and returned me to my hotel and provided an altogether lovely experience. While it was a bit early in the season yet, and a bit chilly, the day was still absolutely gorgeous.

We sailed out of a 500 year old Baroque, European, North African harbor city, one of the most stunningly poetic sights I've ever seen, and made for the isle of Gozo.

Along the way we hugged inlets of azure blue, cliffs resembling Sicilian terrain and kissed the wind and waves with the helm.

I couldn't help but grab the most forward seat possible - practically hanging off the bow - and was the only person to ride out the entire ride in the same spot. Everyone else gave up, either a bit too cold, too winded or too seasick.

I'm an old sea dog and can think of nothing better than possibly being reincarnated as a ship prow's mermaid.

When we reached Gozo we were served a lovely gourmet lunch and then set free for two hours to explore the island and all of it's charms.

Docked at Gozo, looking toward Comino

Gozo is home to a few natural beauties, not the least of which is it's hilly terrain. Other things you'll find there include a "Blue Hole" (which I didn't see, but I will next time I go), the Azure Window, and the Blue Lagoon.

Gozo is featured in the movie "The Count of Monte Cristo" and from Gozo you can see the old fortress used as the "Chateau D'if."

The fortress on Gozo used as the Chateau D'if in The Count of Monte Cristo

A few hours of swimming in the Blue Lagoon and warming my limbs on the sun-baked volcanic cliffs and we boarded the schooner once again and made for Valetta.

 The Blue Lagoon