Golden Bay On A Stormy Winter’s Day

Few things are more majestic than the untamed power of stormy seas.

Few things are more frightening than the unleashed fury of powerful waves.

In summer this bay is a favourite bathing spot, its sandy shore lined with gaudy umbrellas and hundreds of sweltering bodies. Its waters are blue, welcoming and serene.

In winter it is almost a hostile place, the water turns a dark grey, the waves crash on the shore and the wind roars.

A totally different scene. It is deserted, desolate almost, unwelcoming and cold. But this  is how I love it best. Revealing its wild beauty to me alone.

Photographed at Golden Bay

February 2009

This bay, situated on the North-west coast of Malta is especially susceptible to the mighty NW wind, known in Maltese as Majjistral (the j’s sound like y’s). This pretty bay is known for its underground currents and caution is advised when swimming here even during the summer months.

Maltese Boats

Traditional Maltese boats are colourful and on, sunny days, cast pretty reflections in the water. The local fishermen have different names for the boats, depending on their type and size. Personally I cannot tell a luzzu from a frejgatina or a dghajsa, but whatever their name, I find them fascinating. It is thought that the design of some of these boats dates back to Phoenician times, the only exception being that these days motors are use instead of sails.

Nowadays these boats are not as plentiful as they used to be. It takes a lot of time and effort to keep the colours fresh and vibrant and the number of people who make a living just by fishing dwindles every year. I do hope though that, for generations to come, these boats will continue to bob gently on the sparkling blue waters of our harbours and bays.

 

I cannot believe it has been well over a month since I posted here but, in my defence, we were away on vacation for over three weeks and then I had to deal with the aftermath of a long vacation – unpacking, laundry …. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed my first post for the year.

Photographed at

Marsaxlokk Harbour

February 2011