Get Out and Kayak Malta Paddles from Ghar Lapsi to Birzebugia (One Way!) with stops in Blue Grotto!!
20/11/2021
Force 2 or less winds
Swells, none (till freeport)
Weather: Absolutely gorgeous!
We have been waiting very patiently to take the group on this side of the island. The problem is, there are not many places to rest, or get out of the boat, so, it needs to be a perfect day for the wind, and more importantly, the swells. If the waves are crashing from the wrong angle, you will have a very bad day.
We use many apps, websites, and other things to determine the best places for kayaking, and when we pulled up to Ghar Lapsi in the morning, we could see from way up on the road, it was going to be an amazing day on the water.
As soon as we pulled up, we saw familiar cars in the parking lot. Sometimes, our members really want to participate, but cannot come with us due to commitments on land. So, they come a bit earlier and take off, then meet us on the water.
Ghar Lapsi has a pretty tricky ramp that we have to defend very carefully with fully loaded kayaks, and this is one of the best parts for us, seeing everyone smiling, helping each other in the water so no one has an injury, gods forbid, just before the event starts. We are very careful to help others in the kayaks, and out throughout the journey.
The goal of the day is unlike other tours we do, as for this one, we will paddle all the way to Birzebugia, one way, and have eCabs pick us up and take us to the cars in Ghar Lapsi. Some will stay with the boats, others go for the cars.
For the kayakers that simply could not complete the entire paddle, they came to Blue Grotto, then returned to Ghar Lapsi as a group, and the rest of us continued to Birzebugia.
There are not many places to stop and get out of the boat, but, if you pick the right day, many opportunities arise that one can take advantage of.
We decided not to stop at Wied iz Zurrieq because it was simply too close to Ghar Lapsi, but we definitely enjoyed a decent break at the infamous, Blue Grotto area. It was really special because we were basically alone, except for the occasional tourist boat bringing people to see the caves. After seeing a hairy fireworm, we decided to pack it up and get going. We recommend proper footwear at all times when outside the kayak. You never know what is on the seabed waiting to give you a sting and ruin your day. Better to be safe than sorry.
We knew, once we left here, the opportunities for rest were few and far between. We paddled on...
and on...
To see some truly majestic cliffs and huge, unnamed caves.
Wied ix Xaqqa is a beautiful little beach just after the cliffs of Hal Far, where we stopped for a proper break before entering the Freeport.
Some tips for entering the Port:
1. You are in a kayak, a very versatile, quick, and nimble craft. Give way to larger vessels.
2. Stay in tight groups
3. Use your whistles and walkie-talkies to communicate.
3. If you cannot see the wheelhouse of the vessel, the captain cannot see you. Make yourself visible.
After our encounter with a massive ship and several tugboats, our journey sadly came to end.
Literally, as we arrived, the van pulled up to take 1/2 the crew to go get the cars. Everything went without a hitch! What an amazing day!!!
We want to thank everyone that participated and for those that could not, don't worry, we will definitely go again!
Interested in joining us?!? All you need is a positive attitude and a kayak (or SUP). Stay tuned to our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/getoutandkayakmalta and look out for upcoming events! All are welcome and all events can and do get modified to suit the groups' needs.
Have a question? feel free to Whatsapp us (+356 7704 7902) or write on FB
We, and the group, are looking forward to meeting you. What's stopping you, or holding you back? The only thing missing from our next adventure is you!
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