SEE THE ISLANDS FROM THE SEA

THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT BEING ON MIRRORED WATER AT SUNRISE OR SUNSET. STILL, CRYSTAL CLEAR BLUE SEA, AND NOT A SOUL IN SIGHT. PEACE, QUIET, AND TRANQUILITY. THE SUN PEEPING OUT OR SINKING BACK INTO THE HORIZON ADDS TO THE SENSE OF CALM.

Spring in Malta brings warmth with it, while the rugged coastline would still be carpeted with greenery from a not so long ago Winter rainfall - and what a coastline it is! From sandy beaches in the North, to white cliffs in the South of the island, caves and inlets found all around, the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino ought to truely be discovered.

There is no better way to explore the coastline than heading out on a kayak or canoe. These may either be for two persons or a single person vessel. Usually quite slimline, one sits inside the canoe or kayak, as they move very close to the water level. With either a canoe or kayak, a handheld paddle is used to propel the vessel forward and glide across the water. Getting in one may be a little tricky at first as some balance is required, but once safely in and out on the water, kayaks and canoes are very easy to navigate. By being so close to the water, simply looking to the side, one can often see and enjoy the bottom of the sea, along with interesting marine life.

The beauty of such a sport is being able to carry provisions along with you, ideally in a closed dry bag, such as water, a snack, sun protection cream and your mobile. One can spend a whole morning or day on the water, stopping at ‘hard to reach on foot’ bays and inlets. Pulling the kayak or canoe onto the beach in order to rest, swim, and picnic is easy, once the back fin is kept protected!

For the more experienced and adventurous who’d like to head out alone, kayaks and canoes are available for rent on several beaches across the island, but guided trips are also offered for anyone wanting help. A certain level of fitness is required for longer trips, but anyone can easily paddle around the bays, along the coast outside the cordoned off swimming zones.

Kayaking puts me in a complete state of tranquility and I love the freedom that comes with it. I spend the whole time with a huge grin on my face, taking in the fresh sea air and the warmth of the sun.

My top spots in Malta are Ġnejna Bay, St Thomas Bay, Mistra Bay.

In Gozo I recommend: Ramla Bay, Xlendi.