The Rolex Middle Sea Race in Valletta

The Rolex Middle Sea Race Valletta is one of the world’s most respected offshore yacht races, attracting sailors from across the globe to Malta’s historic Grand Harbour. Combining elite competition, breathtaking scenery, and a dramatic Mediterranean setting, it is one of the highlights of Malta’s sporting calendar.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race Valletta is a world-renowned 606-nautical-mile offshore yacht race that starts and finishes in Malta. Widely regarded as one of the most scenic and challenging races in international sailing, it attracts professional and Corinthian crews from dozens of countries each year.

The race was born in 1968 from a friendly rivalry between British yachtsmen Alan Green and Jimmy White and Maltese sailing brothers Paul and John Ripard, all members of the Royal Malta Yacht Club. What began as a sporting challenge evolved into one of the most prestigious events in offshore sailing, placing Malta firmly on the global yachting map.

Today, the Rolex Middle Sea Race in Malta regularly attracts more than 100 yachts and crews from around the world. The spectacular start from Valletta’s Grand Harbour, surrounded by centuries of maritime history, provides one of the most iconic scenes in international sailing.

One of the reasons the Rolex Middle Sea Race Valletta is so highly regarded is the variety of conditions and scenery encountered along its course.

The start line is located in the heart of Grand Harbour, stretching between the Saluting Battery beneath Upper Barrakka Gardens and Fort St Angelo in Birgu. From there, the fleet heads north towards Sicily and Capo Passero before entering the famous Strait of Messina, one of the most technically demanding sections of the race.

The yachts then continue north towards Stromboli, passing one of Europe’s most active volcanoes before turning west along Sicily’s northern coastline. The route continues past the Egadi Islands, south towards Pantelleria and Lampedusa, before the fleet returns to Malta through the South Comino Channel and finishes at the entrance to Marsamxett Harbour.

The course is often described as one of the most beautiful in the world, combining open-sea sailing, volcanic landscapes, strong currents, changing weather systems, and some of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic coastal scenery.

The Rolex Yacht Race Malta is packed with history, tradition, and remarkable stories that make it much more than a sporting event.

• It started with a friendly rivalry: The race was conceived in 1968 following discussions between two British sailors and two Maltese brothers who wanted to create a more demanding offshore challenge. More than five decades later, their idea has become one of sailing’s most respected races.
• The course passes active volcanoes: Few races in the world take competitors past not one but two active volcanoes. Crews sail within sight of both Mount Etna and Stromboli, creating unforgettable views throughout the race.
• The whole island embraced the first race: For the inaugural edition, organisations across Malta helped bring the event to life. The Royal Malta Artillery supplied ceremonial guns, while local authorities and tourism organisations worked together to attract international competitors.
• The 2007 edition became legendary: One of the toughest races in the event’s history saw gale-force winds force numerous retirements. Only a small fraction of the fleet completed the course, cementing the race’s reputation as one of offshore sailing’s great challenges.
• The fleet has grown dramatically: The first race attracted just eight yachts. Today, the Rolex Sailing Race Malta regularly welcomes over 100 yachts and competitors from more than 30 countries.

Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply looking for a unique event during your stay, the Rolex Middle Sea Race Valletta offers plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Best places to watch the start

The most dramatic vantage points are located around Grand Harbour, where spectators can enjoy panoramic views of the fleet as it departs.

• Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery
• Valletta’s waterfront fortifications
• Fort St Angelo and the Birgu waterfront
• The Senglea and Cospicua waterfronts across the harbour

Arriving early is highly recommended, as the harbour fills with spectators and the atmosphere builds throughout the morning.

Follow the fleet throughout the race

Once the yachts leave Malta, visitors can continue following the action through the official race tracker and event updates. The organisers also provide race reports, videos, interviews, and daily highlights throughout the event.

Visit the race village

The Royal Malta Yacht Club in Ta’ Xbiex becomes the heart of the sailing community before and after the race. Visitors can see many of the yachts up close, soak up the atmosphere, and experience the international nature of the event.

Check official race information

Schedules, race dates, spectator guidance, tracking information, and event updates can change from year to year. Visitors should always refer to the official Rolex Middle Sea Race and Royal Malta Yacht Club websites for the latest information.

The start of the Rolex Middle Sea Race Valletta takes place directly in Grand Harbour, making Valletta one of the best places to stay for visitors hoping to experience the excitement of race week.

Located on Merchants Street within a beautifully restored 17th-century palazzo, Rosselli AX Privilege places guests within a short walk of Upper Barrakka Gardens and some of the best viewing locations for the race start.

Its boutique luxury atmosphere, Michelin-starred dining at Under Grain, and prime location make it an ideal base for visitors looking to combine the Rolex Cup Malta experience with culture, history, and fine dining. Guests can also easily reach the Three Cities via the Valletta ferry services, offering additional perspectives of Grand Harbour and the race itself.

AX The Saint John provides a stylish and contemporary base in the heart of Valletta. Located just minutes from the city’s historic landmarks, restaurants, and harbour viewpoints, it allows visitors to experience the atmosphere surrounding the Rolex Race Malta while enjoying easy access to the capital’s cultural attractions. Like Rosselli, it is only a short walk from Upper Barrakka Gardens and conveniently positioned for ferry connections to Birgu and the wider Grand Harbour area.