For a country steeped in maritime history, the Maltese Archipelago naturally has plenty of facilities for sailing enthusiasts. Whether you?re a young sailor just starting out or an experienced, qualified sailor, the climate and Malta?s location at the centre of the Mediterranean make the Islands an excellent base for a sailing holiday.
The coastline is full of craggy inlets and bays, many wonderfully secluded as they are inaccessible from land. Sailors have the privilege of mooring for a swim and then lunch on board in total solitude.
Groups and experienced sailors may like to charter a yacht for an evening sail or longer trips. You could venture to the Italian islands of Sicily, Pantelleria or the Aeolian Islands.
Whatever your ambitions on the sea, the Islands have a flexible range of sailing options to suit your interests and level of experience.
If challenge and excitement are your thing, then Maltese Waters offer some of the best in competitive and long-distance sailing. The highlights of the sailing calendar are the two big races: the Rolex Middle Sea Race and the Malta ?Syracuse Race.
The best time for competitive sailing is autumn through to mid- summer. Apart from the odd three-day period of winter storms, the prevailing winds make for excellent sailing. The Mistral (north-easterly) wind and the more humid, southerly Sirocco provide the force you need to get under sail. There is a full programme of races between April and November, which are fun as competitor and spectator.
Sailing Schools
Sailing schools in Malta provide a range of courses from ?taster? weekends for first-timers to special courses for young sailors and families, as well as advanced yachtmaster qualifications and courses on navigation. Apart from sailing schools, many clubs on the Islands run courses open to non-members, usually in the summer. All school and club trainers are expert, qualified sailors.
If you are thinking of taking up sailing, or even just want to hire a dinghy for a day, there are a few basic safety concerns to bear in mind. Remember that the sea is unpredictable, even where the climate provides near perfect sailing conditions all year round. The Maltese sailing schools and charter companies will provide you with all you need to know to enjoy safe sailing.
Established sailing school offers a varied programme of activities to suit sailors of all ages. You will receive a warm welcome whatever your skill or experience. Dinghy sailing lessons are also provided to both children and adults. You can choose between fun day sailing that provide a taster and other activities arranged for both small groups and individuals. Personal instructors can also be hired and these work with each student at all levels from beginner to intermediate, as well as continuing practice sessions on appointed days. Sailing dinghies and Windsurfers are available for hire on a day to day basis for seasoned able sailors.
Some schools also offer sailing lessons on Laser Radials, Laser Standard, Laser 4.7, Optimists, Mirrors, Miracles, Topper Blaze, Topper Cruz Classic and other dinghies.
Rescue supervision is provided by most schools who employ qualified experienced personnel operating fully equipped new rescue boats that have outboard motors fitting with propeller guards.
Yacht Chartering
We work with a number of boat chartering companies that are simply passionate about boating and specialize in yacht chartering, providing both sail and motor yacht, with or without crew. You may choose to stay within the Maltese Islands or sail to other places like Sicily, Greece, Lampedusa or other islands lying within cruising distance from Malta. Yachtsmen, are given options to charter with or without a professional skipper for the duration of the charter. Yachts are fully insured and carry all the required safety equipment, ensuring also that boats are maintained and kept in immaculate condition.
Please fill in the enquiry form and let us send you a free quotation for a tailor made package to suit your requirements and budget.
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