Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1544958
11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 15 MAY 2026 CULTURE NATURE lovers and curious travellers are being invited to experience one of the Maltese Islands' most magical wildlife spectacles as BirdLife Malta brings back its popular Shearwa- ter Boat Trips for summer 2026. Taking place on selected eve- nings in June and July, the sunset excursions sail along the spec- tacular Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs in Gozo, offering passengers a rare op- portunity to witness hundreds of Scopoli's Shearwaters gathering at sea before returning to their cliffside nests after sunset. Often overlooked by visitors, this natural event is considered one of Malta's most remarkable wildlife experiences, combining dramatic coastal scenery, gold- en-hour views and unforgettable birdwatching moments. Departing from the Ċirkewwa Comino Ferry Jetty, the trips take guests across calm evening waters towards the towering Ta' Ċenċ coastline, one of Gozo's most iconic natural landmarks. As dusk approaches, flocks of Scopoli's Shearwaters, locally known as "Ċief", can be seen raft- ing together on the sea surface before flying back to their nest- ing sites hidden within the cliffs. The sight and sound of the birds gliding across the darkening sky creates a truly atmospheric experience for photographers, families and nature enthusiasts alike. The trips are designed to be relaxed and accessible, mak- ing them ideal for visitors look- ing to explore a different side of Malta beyond beaches and his- toric sites. Boat trip dates The sunset excursions will take place on the following dates: • 11, 18 and 19 June 2026 • 9, 16 and 17 July 2026 Passengers are asked to arrive at 6:30pm for a 7pm departure. Boats are expected to return to Ċirkewwa at approximately 9pm. Ticket prices Adults: €20 Children aged 12 and under: €10 Places are limited on each trip and bookings are being accept- ed on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets must be booked on- line in advance. After booking, passengers will receive an automatic con- firmation email, which should be presented on the day of the trip. Visitors planning a summer holiday in Malta or Gozo are encouraged to reserve early, as the excursions regularly attract strong interest from both locals and tourists seeking memora- ble eco-tourism experiences. Sunset Shearwater boat trips return to Gozo for summer President marks official visit to the Gozo sites of the Malta Biennale 2026 PRESIDENT of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, made an official visit to the three Gozo sites where the international exhibition of the Malta Biennale is being held, spe- cifically to the Cultural Centre at Ċittadella, Ġgantija Archaeolog- ical Park and Ta' Kola Windmill in Xagħra. The President of Malta has giv- en her patronage to the second edition of the contemporary art platform, thereby sealing her support from the inaugural edi- tion, which was launched in 2024. Malta Biennale 2026 runs till May 29th, at 11 Heritage Malta his- torical sites and museums across Malta and Gozo. This marks the second official visit by the Presi- dent of Malta who, last month, toured the Grand Master's Palace in Valletta and the Birgu Old Ar- moury in Vittoriosa. The President was accompanied by the President of the Malta Bi- ennale 2026 and Chairman of Heritage Malta, Mario Cutajar, together with the members of the core team. During the visit, the President was given an over- view of the artists exhibiting their work in the Gozo sites, together with an explanation of how the selected works dialogue with the collections and with the history of place, thereby bridging the past and the present, and connecting cultural heritage with contempo- rary art. There are over 130 artists partic- ipating in the Malta Biennale 2026 through the international exhibi- tion, which has been curated by Artistic Director Rosa Martínez, and through the national and the- matic pavilions which can be ex- perienced at Fort St Elmo, the Birgu Old Armoury and at MUŻA, the National Community Art Museum. The exhibitions are accom- panied by a strong public pro- gramme, which includes a series of satellite events that activate this year's Biennale sites and locations further, by engaging with myriad and diverse audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The full sched- ule of exhibitions, participating artists, pavilions, events in the public programme and satellite events can be accessed via malta- biennale.art. The official closing ceremony of the Malta Biennale 2026 will be held at Fort St Elmo, in Valletta. During the ceremony, the final re- cipient of the Maltese Falcon – the Malta Biennale People's Choice award – will be announced. The voting for the award took place across a whole month and closed last Sunday. Tickets for the Biennale are available for purchase via the website, from where visitors can also download the official Guide- book for free, in order to aid and enhance their visit, and purchase the Malta Biennale 2026 Cata- logue, which is a comprehensive resumé of all the artists, pavilions and events that have formed part of this year's edition. Departing from the Cirkewwa Comino Ferry Jetty, the trips take guests across calm evening waters towards the towering Ta' Cenn coastline, one of Gozo's most iconic natural landmarks The President was accompanied by the President of the Malta Biennale 2026 and Chairman of Heritage Malta, Mario Cutajar