Malta as a Sailing Destination

Malta, a small island nation strategically located in the heart of the Mediterranean, is a dream destination for sailors and yachting enthusiasts. Its warm climate, picturesque harbors, rich history, and superb yachting infrastructure make it a popular stopover for yachts cruising through the Mediterranean. Boasting clear waters, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant marine life, Malta offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. For the private yacht owner, Malta’s pristine anchorages, comprehensive marine services, and welcoming maritime community provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable cruising experience.

Yachting Infrastructure and Services in Malta

Malta is well-equipped to handle the needs of yachts of all sizes, from small pleasure boats to superyachts. Its yachting industry is supported by high-quality marina facilities, reputable repair yards, and various service providers who cater to all aspects of yacht maintenance and management. The primary marinas, such as the Grand Harbour Marina, Marina di Valletta, and Portomaso Marina, offer modern amenities, secure moorings, and easy access to Malta’s capital, Valletta, as well as nearby attractions.

• Grand Harbour Marina: Located in Birgu, this marina offers state-of-the-art facilities and can accommodate superyachts up to 135 meters. With its scenic surroundings and close proximity to Valletta, Grand Harbour Marina is a preferred choice for larger yachts.
• Marina di Valletta: Just a short distance from Valletta’s historic sites, Marina di Valletta is a well-situated marina catering to yachts up to 30 meters. It offers essential services, making it ideal for yachts stopping over in Malta.
• Portomaso Marina: Known for its luxury setting in St. Julian’s, Portomaso Marina provides excellent amenities and is close to some of Malta’s best restaurants, beaches, and nightlife.

In addition to marinas, Malta offers specialized yacht services through reputable providers like Manoel Island Yacht Yard, which is famous for refits and repairs, as well as numerous agents and brokers that offer yacht management, crew services, and provisioning.

Popular Sailing Routes and Anchorages

Malta’s diverse coastline offers a variety of anchorages and bays that provide safe moorings, beautiful views, and ideal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. Here are some popular routes and anchorages to consider:

1. Valletta to the Blue Lagoon on Comino

• Route Highlights: Sailing north from Valletta toward the island of Comino, this route takes you past the rocky coastlines of Malta and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Comino’s Blue Lagoon, with its turquoise waters, is a must-visit spot for swimmers and snorkelers.
• Anchorages: The Blue Lagoon provides a safe anchorage with good holding, though it can be busy in peak season. Early morning or late evening arrivals can help avoid crowds.

2. Sliema to Marsaxlokk Bay

• Route Highlights: This southbound route from Sliema takes you along the eastern coast of Malta, past the historic Grand Harbour and the stunning cliffs near Marsascala. The fishing village of Marsaxlokk is known for its colorful traditional boats (luzzu) and Sunday fish market.
• Anchorages: Marsaxlokk Bay offers safe anchorage, and its calm waters make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the local cuisine.

3. Exploring Gozo

• Route Highlights: A visit to Malta is incomplete without exploring Gozo, the country’s second-largest island. Known for its rural charm and scenic beauty, Gozo offers numerous coves and bays that are perfect for anchoring.
• Anchorages: Popular anchorages include Mgarr Harbor, which provides good shelter and access to Gozo’s attractions, and Dwejra Bay, known for its dramatic cliffs and the Azure Window, a natural arch.

Cultural Attractions and Things to Do on Shore

Malta’s rich history and cultural attractions are a major draw for visiting yachtsmen. Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fascinating city with narrow streets, historic fortifications, and grand palaces. While exploring the Maltese islands, private yacht owners will find a mix of history, architecture, and traditional Maltese cuisine that reflects the island’s unique blend of European, North African, and Middle Eastern influences.

• Valletta: Known for its Baroque architecture, Valletta is home to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering stunning views over the Grand Harbour.
• Mdina: The ancient capital of Malta, Mdina, also known as the Silent City, is a medieval town that offers a glimpse into Malta’s history. Its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings are best explored on foot.
• Vittoriosa: Located in the Three Cities area, Vittoriosa (Birgu) is one of the oldest cities in Malta. It has a rich maritime history and is home to the Inquisitor’s Palace, the Maritime Museum, and Fort St. Angelo.

For dining and nightlife, St. Julian’s and Sliema offer a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes with stunning sea views. Local dishes to try include rabbit stew, pastizzi (pastries filled with ricotta or peas), and ftira (a traditional Maltese flatbread sandwich).

Practical Considerations for Yachting in Malta

Weather and Climate

Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The summer months (June to September) are ideal for yachting, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The sea is usually calm, with prevailing northwesterly winds that create favorable sailing conditions. Winter brings cooler temperatures, occasional strong winds, and more unpredictable seas, making it less ideal for cruising.

Entry Requirements and Customs

Malta is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, so yachts arriving from within the Schengen Zone face minimal formalities. Non-EU vessels, however, must clear customs and obtain a cruising permit. Upon arrival, yachts are required to contact “Valletta Port Control” on VHF Channel 12 or 16 and proceed to a designated port of entry, such as Valletta or Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. It’s advisable to have all necessary documentation, including passports, registration papers, and proof of insurance, readily available.

Marine Conservation and Protected Areas

Malta places a strong emphasis on marine conservation, and certain areas are designated as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). These include Comino’s Blue Lagoon, Gozo’s Dwejra Bay, and parts of the Maltese coast. Yachts are encouraged to respect the local regulations, which may include restrictions on anchoring to protect seagrass beds and coral reefs. In some protected areas, mooring buoys are provided to minimize the impact on the marine ecosystem.

Diving and Water Sports

Malta is a top diving destination with crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and fascinating underwater wrecks. Popular diving sites include:

• HMS Maori Wreck: Located near Valletta, this British destroyer was sunk during WWII and is now an accessible dive site.
• Blue Hole and Inland Sea in Gozo: Known for its stunning rock formations, the Blue Hole is a popular spot for divers, while the Inland Sea provides a unique diving experience.
• Cirkewwa: This northern dive site is known for its underwater arches, caves, and marine life, including barracudas and octopuses.

For those looking for other water sports, Malta offers excellent conditions for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The calm waters around Comino and Gozo provide ideal conditions for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore the island’s rugged coastline and sea caves.

Environmental Awareness and Sustainable Sailing

As a heavily frequented yachting destination, Malta encourages yacht owners to practice environmentally responsible behavior. Simple actions such as avoiding plastic waste, using eco-friendly products onboard, and respecting local conservation efforts can make a significant difference in preserving Malta’s natural beauty. Many marinas in Malta offer recycling facilities, and yacht services are increasingly adopting environmentally friendly practices.

Summary Malta

With its ideal sailing conditions, rich cultural heritage, and superb facilities, Malta is a perfect destination for private yacht owners seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. The diversity of anchorages, the vibrant maritime community, and the wealth of onshore attractions provide something for everyone, whether you’re looking for peaceful coves, lively marinas, or historic towns to explore.

Malta’s central location in the Mediterranean also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other Mediterranean destinations, such as Sicily, Tunisia, and the Greek Islands. For those who fall under the spell of Malta’s allure, it’s a destination that calls you back time and time again, offering new experiences and discoveries with each visit.