Setting Sail from St. Paul’s Bay

The sun was already casting its golden glow over the Caribbean when I found myself in St. Paul’s Bay, ready to embark on the Hornblower Cruise. As a former professional surfer, I’ve always had a deep connection with the ocean, and the promise of exploring two islands in a day was too tempting to resist. The day began at 10:30 am, and the weather was nothing short of perfect—hot and sunny, just the way I like it.

As we set off towards Comino, the boat glided smoothly over the azure waters. The crew was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing fascinating tidbits about Malta and its rich history. We cruised through some intriguing caves, their shadows dancing on the water’s surface, adding a touch of mystery to our journey. It was a perfect start to what promised to be an unforgettable day.

Diving into the Blue Lagoon

Our first stop was the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. The boat moored up, and we had just over an hour to explore this stunning spot. The water was a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, inviting us to dive in and cool off. I couldn’t resist the urge to jump off the boat and feel the refreshing embrace of the sea.

The boat offered a 10-meter slide, and I felt like a kid again, sliding into the crystal-clear waters. It was pure joy. While there were food vendors on the island, I opted to support the Hornblower’s onboard cafeteria, which offered a variety of snacks and drinks at reasonable prices. Plus, it was a great way to avoid the fried food options on the island.

Exploring Gozo’s Charms

After our time at the Blue Lagoon, we set sail for Gozo. The boat docked at Mgarr Harbour, and we had three hours to explore the island. I decided to take the local bus to Victoria, the capital city. The ride was a bit crowded, but it was worth it to see the charming streets and vibrant atmosphere of Victoria.

I wandered through the city, soaking in the sights and sounds, before heading to Xlendi Bay. The fjord-like bay was a serene escape, and I took a moment to relax and enjoy the view. As the day drew to a close, I opted for a taxi back to the boat, a quick and convenient option.

The return journey to Malta was just as captivating, with the boat taking a different route and exploring more caves along the way. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the day’s adventure. The Hornblower Cruise had delivered an unforgettable experience, blending relaxation and exploration in perfect harmony.