Spirit of Adventure blog

When a nice, calm and sunny day is forecast for Valletta, a good timing for our arrival means a lot. Sunrise was scheduled for 07:12, so our plan was to pick up the Pilot at 07:00 then aim for the Breakwater transit at a quarter past and the harbour entrance at 20 past, just as the sun hits the city walls. I had shared my plan in my evening announcement the day before, and had advised guests and crew that an early wake up would be worth the experience.

The Pilot boarded us 10 minutes ahead of our plan, and once we discussed my intention it became clear that as there was another ship behind us the Pilot was keen for us to get alongside asap. I told the Pilot that I had made a promise to 936 guests and I was not going to break it. Open decks and balconies were full.

We kept to our original plan and it worked like a charm. Just as we entered the harbour around the inner breakwater, the sun started its magic. The view was stunning. Staff Captain Denis, the designated driver of the day under my supervision, did a great job getting us through and safely alongside. When we were all fast fore and aft, I saw that the open deck in front of Britannia Lounge was still full of guests so I joined them to get a feel of their expectation vs. experience. I received only words of praise. Mission accomplished.

Everybody knows that Valletta is my favourite port. Therefore, I have left Denis in charge and I went ashore for a 90 minute stroll and a nice relaxing lunch. As on my last visit to Valletta I stayed in the harbour and went to the Hard Rock Café, this time I opted for the local dish – the rabbit stew for which Malta is famous.

Kind Regards
Captain Franko Papić