2024 – A Dynamic Year for Yachting Malta
2024 has been 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 four of the world’s premier boat shows. Participation in leading international boat shows such as Boot Düsseldorf, the Dubai International Boat Show, Palma 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.
Yachting Malta was proud to make its debut at the Palma International Boat Show, joining 295 participating companies and showcasing alongside 260 boats on display at sea.
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. Yachting Malta hosted a networking evening here which proved to be an invaluable opportunity to bring Malta to the fore amongst some of the strongest international industry players.
“These events provide invaluable opportunities to connect with industry leaders, attract potential investors, and position Malta as a premier yachting destination in the Mediterranean” – 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.
The visit of World Sailing President Quanhai Li in October underscored Malta’s growing prominence as an international sailing destination. His presence at the prize-giving ceremony of the Yachting Malta Coastal Race, the precursor to the Rolex Middle Sea Race, highlighted the island’s pivotal role in global sailing events.
Celebrating Yachting Through Key Events
This year featured several notable events, including the Malta Boat Show, held from 31st October to 3rd November, which attracted over 8,000 visitors and brought together businesses and enthusiasts to celebrate Malta’s vibrant maritime and yachting sectors.
Earlier in the year, Yachting Malta Race Week united sailors from across local sailing clubs, offering a dynamic mix of competitive and social activities through various keelboat and dinghy regattas.
As part of Race Week, a Cruisers’ Rally engaged sailing enthusiasts who prefer leisurely sailing over racing, while an Inclusive Sailing event featured the Hansa 303 fleet, promoting accessibility and inclusivity within the sport. In May, Yachting Malta supported the Foiling 100 Challenge, an ambitious windsurfing initiative designed to continue the increased interest in windsurfing across the Maltese islands.
One must not forget to mention regular international Regattas such as the fourth edition of the Birzebbugia International Regatta in February which hosted participants from Slovenia, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Japan, Germany, Tajikistan, Lithuania, Turkey, and Malta.
The 24th Edition of the Euromed International Regatta held in December which welcomed 170 sailors from 27 countries competing in the Optimist Class as well as ILCA Classes which were competing for the EurILCA Europa Cup.
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.
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 supports 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
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 maritime heritage through ‘QALA’, an art exhibition by Patrick Scicluna in June, offering a creative perspective on Malta’s yachting culture.
Looking Ahead
2024 has been a landmark year for Yachting Malta, marked by impactful events, international collaborations, and community initiatives which have enabled Yachting Malta to successfully highlight the island’s maritime strengths. By blending tradition, innovation, and community engagement, Yachting Malta continues to position the island as a leading yachting destination in the Mediterranean, laying a strong foundation for future growth and international recognition. As we get closer to 2025, Yachting Malta is set for another busy but fruitful year.
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