The Rolex Middle Sea Race is a highly rated offshore classic and is a “must do” race. With the spectacular Marsamxett Harbour as its backdrop this year’s edition will start on the 17th October. The race is a true challenge to skippers and crews who have to be at their very best to cope with the often changeable and demanding conditions. Equally, the race is blessed with unsurpassed scenery with its course, taking competitors close to a number of islands, which form marks of the course. Ted Turner described the Middle Sea Race as “the most beautiful race course in the world.”
It is always best to book your accommodation ahead of time. Valletta Suites offer superb self catering apartments which will make your stay unforgettable.
Posts Tagged: grand harbour
6
Jul 09
Rolex Middle Sea Race in Malta – October 2009
10
Dec 07
Valletta Waterfront
Nineteen historical 250 year old sumptuous warehouses, built by Grand Master Pinto at the height of the baroque period in Malta … stretching along the water’s edge and the historical Quay Wall where the Knights of St John and European merchants used to unload their wares … the impregnable Old Power Station that serves as a testimony to the eclectic and heroic history of the Grand Harbour … the Forni Stores, dating back to 1626 and constructed by Grand Master de Vilhena … have now been majestically restored and provide a complete mix of retail, dining and leisure experiences. All this comes with an added bonus – the majestic setting within the Grand Harbour, a natural deep water port, for many thousand of years the epicentre of Malta’s maritime activity, a truly exceptional and outstanding backdrop. This harmonious blend between the past and present has made the Valletta Waterfront become one of the most sought out destinations for locals, tourists and visiting cruise passengers and crews. Whether you are looking for a dining experience, shopping or simply a relaxing walk along the promenade, the Valletta Waterfront has something for all your senses.
The Valletta Waterfront is situated close to Maison La Vallette. If you do not feel like walking there are small electric city cabs which operate a non stop seven days a week service (0700 – 2300). These can pick you up from your accommodation in Valletta and take you directly to the Waterfront for a small fee.
CT Cab – tel 21333321 mob 79333321
9
Sep 07
Rolex Middle Sea Race – Valletta Harbour
Date: 20 October 2007 – 20 October 2007
Time: 11.00hrs
The start of the Rolex Middle Sea Race is from the waters opposite the Royal Malta Yacht Club in Marsamxett Harbour and thousands of people gather on either side of this imposing harbour to enjoy this spectacle of sail.
The start line in the Harbour is arguably the most spectacular of any yacht race in the world, but it is narrow and so the race committee phase the fleet into various divisions, starting with the smallest and graduating up to the Maxis.
As you approach the Islands’ capital city of Valletta, your eyes will fix onto the Grand Harbour, with the reflection of the hearty sun bouncing off crisp breezy waves, while the majestic bastions glance into the depths below.
Grand Harbour’s reputation as one of the safest natural havens in the Mediterranean is not its only charm. This magnificent port is a living display of Malta’s rich heritage of archaeology, history, architecture, art and culture – all dating back to 7,000 years.
Nowadays, the Grand Harbour has become an irresistible scene for over 250 cruise ships, with almost 200,000 passengers onboard, which visit Malta every year on their Mediterranean itineraries.
The history of the Maltese Islands is intertwined with that of the Mediterranean Basin, with the major civilizations of the area having moored on Malta due to commercial interests with merchant galleys, or even in military operations with fully armed warships. From the times of the ancient Phoenicians to Malta’s role as home port for the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean fleet, Maltese ports have hosted a diverse range of sea craft from various countries. Now that Malta is an independent republic and a new member of the European Union, its harbours are known best to commercial ships, cruise liners, chartered and private yachts as well as nautical aficionados. The coastline’s craggy inlets and bays, most of which wonderfully secluded and inaccessible from land, provide the privilege of mooring for a swim or lunching on board in privacy. Malta boasts over 750 metres of quay space dedicated exclusively to the sailing leisure market.