MALTA ESCAPE

We meet at the open air terrace at the Duke Boutique Hotel in Victoria for a pre trip briefing, where you will meet your guides and fellow swimmers. You’ll enjoy stunning views over Gozo’s north coast from here and the sight of the citadel illuminated as night falls. After the safety briefing, there’s time to enjoy a group dinner together before we start our swims the following morning.

On our first morning, We head down to Mgarr harbour to meet our support boat and local skipper. From here, we head west to Xlendi Bay and start swimming from the dramatic cliffs of Gebel Ben Gorg along Gozo’s western coast. We finish at Dwejra Bay, which is afforded protection from the outside sea by the imposing Fungus Rock. We stop off in this idyllic bay and have lunch on the boat.

The afternoon is given over to a shorter coastal swim which takes us past the ruins site of the now collapsed Azure Window. It’s an ideal way to prepare for the next few days as we’ll encounter both open seas and more sheltered waters.

This is the day of the iconic crossing from Gozo to Malta, a journey of 5km. During the crossing we will start underneath the cliffs of Qala before striking out towards Comino’s East coast. Upon reaching the island we then swim in its shallows and pass the imposing Elephant Rock. The last leg is from Comino to Malta where we finish near the White Tower, a former watchtower built in the 17th Century. We then have a well deserved break on the boat as we cruise back to Comino where we’ll stop for a hearty lunch in the beautiful Santa Maria bay. After a short walk to Comino Tower, which offers a stunning view of the morning’s crossing , we swim into the crystal clear waters of the awe inspiring Blue Lagoon. A wonderful way to finish off a great day of swimming.

This half day includes a fantastic swim under the imposing Ta Cenc cliffs which rise over 470ft above the sea. You’ll enjoy superb water quality and will be able to see the fish play in the underwater alcoves of the cliffs. The swim ends in the tranquil bay of Mgarr ix-Xini, the historic home to the ships and galleys of the Knights of Malta. We’ll enjoy one last lunch together before our short escape draws to a close.

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, and our SwimTrek trips offer some amazing marine life for you to swim amongst. However, you should be aware that certain marine life such as jellyfish and sea urchins are likely to be present during your swims. Whilst we work with our local boat pilot and team to reduce the chance of you coming into contact with these fantastic creatures, we strongly advise that you bring protective swimwear such as a long sleeved rash vest or wetsuit as some swims may require all swimmers to wear protection. Importantly, if you suffer from anaphylaxis, you must consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Distances

Walking Conditions

Walking is not a major part of the trip and we will generally walk on sealed paths to and from the bays and beaches that we start and finish our swims on. The short walk on Comino is on a maintained path but appropriate footwear should be worn for these walks.

Temperatures

• Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. As a consequence, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Group size and Boat Support

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort.  Boat support on this trip includes one main boat and two support boats to be piloted by your SwimTrek guides and a local boat pilot. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

In addition to your daily non-swimming clothes, we also recommend that you bring the following items:

For more information, please visit our Packing List page on the website.

*Try to bring one clear lens and one tinted lens for different light conditions.

SwimTrek will supply swim hats, water, and electrolyte drinks. The guides will no longer distribute shared drinks bottles but will fill your personal drink bottles. Please ensure these are clearly marked to help our coaches identify yours. If you would like to use a wetsuit, rash vest, snorkel, or fins during your swims, please ensure that you bring these with you.

The easiest way to reach the start of your trip is to fly into Malta International Airport (MLA) and take a private transfer to the hotel via a ferry from Malta’s northernmost point of Ċirkewwa to Mgarr, Gozo’s main harbour.

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out our SwimTrek flight tips page on the website.

Private Transfer from Malta International Airport to Hotel

After you arrive into the airport, you will find a chauffeur waiting for you with a name on a sign in the arrivals hall. They will drive you to the ferry port in Malta where you will board the ferry to Gozo as a foot passenger. Once in Gozo, another taxi chauffeur will be waiting for you for your transfer to the hotel. To book your split private transfer, please email your flight arrival details to info@xlendi.com as soon as possible.

Please note that the cost of the ferry ticket is not included.

It is also possible to be picked up from an alternative location to the airport. Please email info@xlendi.com directly to arrange an alternative pickup location. If you encounter any problems with your arrival, you can contact Xlendi Tours on their 24-hour emergency phone line (+356 99422810).

Direct Private Transfer from Malta International Airport to Hotel

The chauffeur that picks you up from the airport will board the ferry to Gozo with you and will drive you directly to the hotel. This will save you boarding the ferry on foot and handling your luggage. To book your direct private transfer, please email your flight arrival details to info@xlendi.com as soon as possible.

Please note that the cost of the ferry ticket is not included.

It is also possible to be picked up from an alternative location to the airport. Please email info@xlendi.com directly to arrange an alternative pickup location.

Bus from Malta International Airport to Ċirkewwa Ferry Port

There are a number of routes to Cirkewwa from various towns and villages across Malta. There is a direct bus line (X1) from Malta International Airport to Cirkewwa Port, departing every 40 minutes. For more details, visit www.publictransport.com.mt.

Ferry from Ċirkewwa Ferry Port to Mgarr Ferry Terminal (Gozo)

There are regular ferry services that run from Ċirkewwa Ferry Port to Mgarr Ferry Terminal daily. A standard foot passenger fare is €4.65 and are only sold at the Mgarr Gozo terminal on a return basis. Customers boarding the ferries at Cirkewwa in Malta do not have to be in possession of a valid paid ticket and can purchase their return ticket before making their return journey from Gozo. For more details, please visit www.gozochannel.com/en/home.

Bus from Mgarr Ferry Terminal (Gozo) to Hotel

The 301 bus between Mgarr (ferry terminal) and Rabat (Victoria) operates every 30 minutes. Passengers can travel using the same bus cards and tickets used in Malta. The cost per trip varies from €1.50 to €2. Tickets can be bought either online, from the booth machines or once you hop on the bus. Buses operate daily between 05.30hrs and 23.00hrs. Further information can be found at www.publictransport.com.mt. From the main bus terminal in Victoria, walk down Main Gate street onto Republic Street. Walk for 350m down to the Duke shopping complex and take the lift to the reception on the 4th floor.

The Duke Boutique Hotel is situated in the heart of Victoria and enjoys excellent views all around the island. The owners, Jason & Sharon Galea are long standing friends of SwimTrek and having hosted our trips to Gozo since 2010, they have an excellent understanding of your needs during this trip. Guests can choose from 5 distinctly designed room types and suites in this 4-star boutique hotel, many commanding magnificent views of the Citadel or the Villa Rundle Gardens. Room choices include standard and garden view rooms, or alternatively, there is the option to upgrade to a jacuzzi terrace room, junior suite or presidential suite, which are available upon request.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you would like to extend your stay in Gozo and need to book additional nights’ accommodation before or after your trip, please contact Jason & Sharon directly via: info@thedukehotelgozo.com.

Food and Drink

Three breakfasts are included during your trip, as well as lunch on Days 2, 3 & 4. Other meals are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the local cafes and restaurants of your choice in Victoria over the course of your trip. In Gozo, the average price of a meal in a local restaurant is approximately €18-30.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as lunches, dinners, drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc. The local currency in Malta is the Euro (€). You can exchange currency at the hotel or withdraw money at ATMs that can be found on Republic Street, where the Duke Boutique Hotel is based. Please note a tourist tax will need to be paid on location, currently €0.50 per person per night.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Malta is part of the European Union. Non-residents of Malta require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. Citizens of all E.U. member states, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Malta. Please note that visa regulations are always subject to change and we advise you check visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information about travel insurance, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

Here at SwimTrek we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Internet Access, Electricity and Travel Plugs

There is complimentary Wi-Fi internet access in the hotel. For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit worldstandards.eu.