As the Royal Malta Yacht Club is well into its preparations for the annual Rolex Middle Sea Race, the interest and response so far is very encouraging, suggesting that there will be another good fleet in 2016.
A highly rated offshore classic, the race has in previous years have seen over 120 boats, representing over 24 countries, some as far flung as Australia and New Zealand, grace the iconic Valletta Grand Harbour prior to the start of the 608 nautical mile race.
2015 saw an impressive mix of mono and multihulls take part, with Monohull Line Honours going to George David’s Rambler 88 which arrived soon after Lloyd Thornburg's MOD 70 Phaedo 3. The latter was the first Multihull home. Michele Galli's Italian TP52, B2 won the Rolex Middle Sea Race Trophy, whilst fellow Italian Vincenzo Onorato's Cookson 50, Mascalzone Latino won the Boccale Del Mediterraneo.
The Rolex Middle Sea Race is a widely anticipated race for both sailing crews and the general public, who mark their diaries well in advance to ensure they don’t miss the action in the Grand Harbour. Participants have come to expect a memorable offshore sailing event combined with the usual great hospitality at the Royal Malta Yacht Club.
The 37th Edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race is scheduled to start on Saturday 22nd October 2016. Entries for the race have been steadily coming in with a good mix of familiar names and new ones signing up for the 608 nautical mile race.
