2024 has been described as a remarkable year for Yachting Malta, defined by impactful events and initiatives that have reinforced its position as a key driver in promoting Malta as a prominent player on the international yachting stage.
International relations
Yachting Malta made its presence felt in three of the world’s premier boat shows. Participation in leading international boat shows such as Boot Düsseldorf, the Dubai International Boat Show, and the Cannes Yachting Festival is essential for Yachting Malta to promote the island as a premier yachting destination. Boot Düsseldorf, the world’s largest indoor boat show, attracts over 250,000 visitors and 1,500 exhibitors annually, showcasing the latest innovations in boats, yachts, and water sports equipment.
The Dubai International Boat Show highlights the Middle East's growing luxury maritime market, drawing 30,000 visitors and global industry leaders to its stunning waterfront location. Meanwhile, the Cannes Yachting Festival, Europe’s most prestigious in-water boat show, hosts over 600 boats and 50,000 visitors in the glamorous French Riviera.
“These events provide invaluable opportunities to connect with industry leaders, attract potential investors, and position Malta as a premier yachting destination in the Mediterranean,” shares Michael Mifsud, CEO Yachting Malta
Earlier in April, Yachting Malta facilitated a visit from the Yacht Club de Cannes. The delegation signed a reciprocal agreement with the Royal Malta Yacht Club and engaged with the Birżebbuġa Sailing Club during their Spring Regatta, enhancing collaboration between the two regions.
Celebrating yachting through key events
This year featured several major events, most notably the Malta Boat Show, held from 31st October to 3rd November, which brought together businesses and enthusiasts to showcase the maritime and yachting sectors. Earlier in the year, Yachting Malta Race Week united sailors from all local sailing clubs, offering a mix of competitive and social activities through a variety of keelboat and dinghy regattas. A Cruisers’ Rally, held as part of Race Week, engaged sailing enthusiasts who prefer leisurely sailing over racing. In May, Yachting Malta supported the Foiling 100 Challenge, an ambitious windsurfing initiative aimed at reviving windsurfing in Malta.
Foiling 100 - Round Malta
High-performance sailing
The growing interest in high-performance sailing was highlighted through events like the Foiling 100 Challenge in May. Preparations for this challenge began earlier in April when Karl Miggiani set a national record - 3 hours, 46 minutes and 5 seconds, during the Windsurfing Round Malta Race, showcased his skill and endurance.
Yachting Malta Coastal Race
Meanwhile, the Rolex Middle Sea Race remains Malta’s premier sailing event—a ‘must-do’ 606-nautical-mile challenge that starts and finishes in Malta. The race continues to attract a diverse range of participants, from Olympians and professional sailors to Corinthian crews aspiring to etch their names into its storied history. In the lead-up to the main event, Yachting Malta organises the annual Coastal Race, which this year featured one of the largest fleets in recent memory. Yachting Malta has played a pivotal role in bringing this iconic race to a global audience by supporting the live transmission of the race start, complete with expert commentary. This coverage captures the breathtaking sight of the Grand Harbour filled with colourful spinnakers as the fleet embarks on its epic journey.
Community
Yachting Malta Summer Party
In addition to competitive events, Yachting Malta strengthened its community ties through initiatives like its annual Summer Party in August,which aims to foster networking among stakeholders in a chilled and relaxed setting. Meanwhile, Yachting Malta celebrated the maritime heritage through ‘QALA’, an art exhibition by Patrick Scicluna in June, offering a creative perspective on Malta’s yachting culture.
As the world gets closer to 2025, management behind Yachting Malta share that the organisation is set for another busy but fruitful year.
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