Comino Island - Malta
Comino Island - All aboard!
There’s nothing quite like the breath of fresh salt air and the sparkling promise of a day exploring the Maltese archipelago. Welcome aboard the Hornblower’s cruise to Camino Island.
Along the way is St Paul’s Island, where the apostle is said to have been shipwrecked on his voyage to Rome to be tried as a political rebel. A replica statute of St Paul sits atop the uninhabited island as a reminder to passersby.
The caves and grottos of Comino Island slowly reveal themselves upon approach. The captain skilfully manoeuvres the vessel to access the better known formations, including Elephant Rock and the hidden face.
Upon arrival, the picturesque Blue Lagoon’s mesmerisingly translucent water dazzles and amazes. Across the white sandy base of the lagoon, with its rich diversity of marine life, is the islet of Cominotto.
If arriving in the warmer months the slither of available sand becomes popular with people who jostle for territory amidst parasol and deck chair rentals that crowd the beach further still.
Fortunately, the Hornblower’s sun deck features complimentary deck chairs from which to enjoy uninterrupted views. For the more adventurous, make an entrance to the crystal clear waters by way of slide or jump pad from the upper deck.
Venturing further afield is well worth the effort. Wildflowers spring out of rocky terrain. Another shade of blue captures the eye. Perilous and dramatic cliffs call closer. The raw-natural beauty here is enough to make you cry.
To the south of the Blue Lagoon is a narrow channel of water formed by the islet in the Camino. The area is renowned for snorkelling and diving. Walking parallel to the islet will reveal imaginative rock formations. Every step seems to inspire yet another photograph.
A few steps away is the much less visited Crystal Lagoon. Here the emerald green water is shielded by dramatic sheer cliffs. A steep path from the northern edge allows the more intrepid visitor to access the irresistible lagoon.
Continuing further south, hikers will happen upon the most visible man-made structure of the island, St Mary’s Tower. Since its construction during the reign of St John’s Knights, it has served as a watch tower, prison and more recently movie scene for the 2002 film, ‘The Count of Monte Christo’.
A short stroll north will bring visitors to a number of bays as well as the small sandy beaches of St Nicolas Bay and St Maria Bay respectively. Accommodation is available here and the police station’s waterfront property conveniently located.
What better way to end the day, than with a cruise back to port on the setting sun.
Book your experience abroad the Hornblower here:
http://www.hornblowerboat.com
