SKIPPER SEP 2019 ISSUE 21

DARIUS GOODWIN Operating a chandlery for 50 years: challenges and nostalgia • JOVIN RAUSI Sailor, official and mentor who served the sport for decades AUSTIN CALLEJA How the Malta Cruising Club was formed • REVIEWS Skipper takes a peek at the latest models launching at the international boat shows

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ISSUE 21

PLAIN SAILING In the first of a two-part in-depth interview, Skipper’s Peter Valentino speaks to Jovin Rausi – an avid sailor and the man who steered a leading boat insurance policy provider to success, bearing in mind that boat owners sought much more than an insurance cover: advice on all things boating, since owning a boat isn’t always plain sailing.

Skipper also features an interview with French-born Jerome

Editor - Anthony P. Bernard

Millet, General Manager at the Manoel Island Yacht Yard, who

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has a great passion for boats and who pushes to instil a sense of warmness at the yard among workers and clients but at the

Yachting Editor

same time runs a tight ship in a bid to offer a much sought-

Georges Bonello Dupuis

after professional service to clients.

Features And if you want to broaden your horizons, read our exclusive with Austin Calleja, the

Peter Valentino

Honorary Secretary of the Malta Cruising Club. The club promotes sailing in a relaxed and informal way to bring together boat owners to widen their sailing knowledge, both for

Design

enjoyment and safety.

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Enemed’s Executive Chairman Kevin Chircop also speaks on Enemed’s initiative to enhance the motorsport industry and how the local fuel company is helping sport organisations

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identify the weakest links which are then strengthened through Enemed’s support.

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Being your number 1 source for all things boating, we also run a wide array of in-depth

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reviews, along with salient advice for you to digest before you head out to sea.

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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER | ISSUE 21

10

UNSINKABLE

28

FUELLING MOTORSPORT

Peter Valentino interviews Darius Goodwin,

Enemed’s executive chairman Kevin Chircop

managing director at RLR Ltd, on the nostalgic

explains how the local fuel company is helping

days of their chandlery that’s been operating

sport organisations identify their weakest links,

for some 50 years.

and which are then strengthened through Enemed’s backing.

36

BLUEBLOODED

Skipper sails through Malta’s thousands of years sailing history.

14

40

ALL ABOVE BOARD (PART 1)

BOAT REVIEWS

Peter Valentino interviews Jovin Rausi, a

Skipper reviews an exciting range of boats

sailor, an official, a friend to every club and a

including the Oceanis 51.1, Elan GT5, Atlantis

mentor to many individuals.

20

MUCH MORE TO SEA

Skipper features some unmissable sights only accessible by boat.

24

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS

Peter Valentino interviews Austin Calleja, Hon. Secretary of the Malta Cruising Club, on how the club was formed and the aim of the club itself.

30

45, Azimut 78, Azimut S10, Ferretti Yachts 720, KEEP ROWING

and finally the Prestige 420, 420S and 590s.

Skipper looks at Malta’s traditional regatta - a celebration of passion, ingenuity and fighting spirit that has pushed the Maltese to withstand numerous defeats, and still come out victorious.

32

RUNNING A TIGHT SHIP

at the Manoel Island Yacht Yard, who has a

56

great passion for boats and organising.

Skipper sails the sea of fashion.

Peter Valentino interviews newly appointed French-born Jerome Millet, general manager

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INTERVIEW

UNSINKABLE Peter Valentino interviews Darius Goodwin, managing director at RLR Ltd, on the nostalgic days of their chandlery that’s been operating for some 50 years and on the major challenges and changes that came about over the years.

INTERVIEW

p. 11

I’m sure it happens to all of us as we drive or

serious effort. It was a bit like out of a cartoon

walk past certain places that were part of our

and this certainly isn’t the case nowadays.

childhood. We tend to remember what places

Times changed and RLR moved with time and I

looked like, what particular shops used to sell,

now wish the rest of this to be tacked by Darius

odours of spaces, the faces of those we used

Goodwin who holds the position of Managing

to meet, characters per se and so much more.

Director at RLR. Now I know that many of you already know Darius; every sailor certainly

I recently wanted a Slam shirt and without

does but there’s something I wish to say. He’s

thinking much I drove to Gżira and walked into

straightforward, he’s a gentleman, he’s a keen

RLR; a chandlery that I’m sure is known to all.

sailor and he loves sport in general. He’s an

It’s a landmark, both in the industry of yachting

athlete who always aims higher and climbs with

and as a building; and who knows how many a

respect. I last saw Darius when I walked in to

time I used it to give directions to someone.

purchase my shirt and that’s when I hinted I wished to interview him.

So many memories came back to me as I walked in; mind you, they always do, and this

When did you join RLR and how did this come

time in particular it felt as though I was six years

about?

old again because I suddenly pictured the chandlery as it was then. A shop window and a

I was approached by Christian Ripard back in

long rectangular shop that was so interesting.

2003 to join RLR. My job at that time was not

It was full of boating equipment, and when I say

related to yachting and I felt it was time to make

full, I mean it. Buoys and tackle that hung from

a career change back to an industry which I feel

the ceiling; yes, I remember all these orange

passionate about.

and white buoys, oars, boat hooks and ropes that were all suspended from high above.

Where does RLR fit into the Maltese maritime history, both in sport and industry?

That whiff, that particular odour of rubber; the distinct smell of foul weather gear, that in those

As many of your readers will know, RLR has

days was most generally in yellow; and of the

been around since the early 1960s and was the

boots that were made out of thin rubber. I used

first Chandlery on the Maltese islands. John

to spend a lot of time in that shop with my dad

and Paul Ripard managed to secure some very

who always after a particular rope or fitting

important agencies of which many of them

and as he used to say ‘let’s go to RLR; let’s get

we still represent. They competed in the 1960

the proper thing’. I mentioned this because I

Rome Olympics against Keith Musto who until

remember it so very well. Yes, it was and still

today, each time we meet, reminds me of the

is a chandlery, but it had the club effect where

regatta. Today a company survives on a sound

anyone who had a boat could be found there,

business practice in a very competitive world.

rummaging through newly imported items; and

At the time of RLR’s inception, sailing was a

the dishevelled display in itself made it indeed

passion for John and Paul and they wanted to

even more interesting.

promote the sport in Malta. As time passed, so did the yachting scene and the business

I remember that in those days most of us wore

started to grow at quite a dramatic rate.

what was available; so, our dinghy sailing clothes consisted of a track suit, at best.

Today, when I visit shows and attend regattas

Not only did this mean that we froze during

overseas, the Ripard name still carries a lot

winter but getting back aboard a dinghy

of weight because of John and Paul and this

after a capsize meant you kissed your race

shows me how much respect there is within the

goodbye since the track suit would absorb so

industry. Several of the Ripard grandchildren

much water that getting back on was so time

are working in yacht-related activities around

consuming and the exercise in itself required

the globe so the name is still active. ›

Darius Goodwin with Sir Robin Knox-Johnston

p. 12

INTERVIEW

You’ve seen many changes; a new shop and

Sailors to constantly improve the garments. The

eventually new offices. Are your clients better

technical side of the development is extremely

served though this?

interesting and we are constantly seeing improvements and new product being made

RLR is very lucky to be able to operate from

available. So today we can offer a product for

the location we are in. For many years, the ‘old’

any type of activity that will keep you dry and

building served customers as a retail outlet,

safe.

work shop, spare parts shop and even a small grocer which I only found out about a few years

Your best day at RLR so far?

ago. Is change good? This is difficult to answer and, as you know yourself Peter, you remember

Wow, difficult question to answer. I honestly

the smells and layout of the old RLR which is

cannot pinpoint to one particular day in the last

reminiscent of that era. Every business needs to

16 years. However, there have been a number

move with the times and we have had to make

of highs and the Middle Sea Race always brings

some drastic changes over the years some of

a lot of exciting times. Its unfortunate Malta can

which were not ideal. The new outlet is smaller,

only host one big international yachting event

but we have tried to keep this a friendly and

a year but the RMYC do a fantastic job with

inviting place. A lot of the brands we represent

this race. We meet so many sailors in the shop

ask us to adhere to their own protocol with

during the few weeks they are here and they

regards to displaying their products, areas etc.

cannot praise the event enough. It brings the

In one way, we lose the old character but on the

local yachting community together and shows

other hand, the younger customer expects this

all the visiting crews what we have on offer. It

type of cleaner and more organised layout.

really is the highlight of the season for me.

You’ve also witnessed changes in equipment

We’ve gone through a few points, but I’d now

and I’d particularly like you to focus on foul

like you to tell our readers a bit more about

weather gear. I remember the days when

RLR; and I’ll leave this entirely in your hands.

foul weather gear was heavy, unsightly, and

(maybe you wish to mention power boat-

How long did it take you to fit in and nowadays

uncomfortable Moreover it wasn’t really

related items?)

what’s your typical day like?

waterproof. Where do we stand now?

My early days at RLR were varied and extremely

I have been sailing for the last 26 years and the

and as a company, it has passed through some

hectic. I was trying to learn the ropes, no pun

changes in design, fabrics and applications

challenging times and also seen major changes

intended, and I came into a business which

has been huge. Foul weather gear today is a

in the yachting industry. We have the pleasure

covered so many different aspects of yachting

massive area of the industry.

in representing market leaders such as Volvo

That whiff, that particular odour of rubber; the distinct smell of foul weather gear, that in those days was most generally in yellow; and of the boots that were made out of thin rubber.

RLR has been around for over 50 years now

so there really was so much to learn. I must

Penta, Raymarine, Musto, SLAM and many

admit that I always preferred to be out in the

We can split this into several different

others. It’s a very challenging business but

marinas talking with customers on their boats

applications being dinghy sailing, power

one which is also rewarding. Fixing a problem

but at the end of the day, one always needs

boating and keel boat sailing. Even then,

for a cruiser so he can head off to his next

to get down to the countless emails and

this can be further split into specialised

destination, guiding and advising a customer

administrative work there is.

applications. For example, on a Day Race Boat,

on his next foul weather purchase, installing

the Bowman cannot do his job in big heavy

new navigational equipment as an upgrade or

Today, our business has changed and moved

gear so he requires lighter flexible garments

just listening to the seasoned sailors and their

with the industry. Life is faster and the day can

that still need to keep him dry. However, crew

stories are all part of the job for us here.

start from Home as soon as I wake up. 2019

participating in an Off-Shore Race could often

no longer allows us to leave our computers at

be on deck for long periods of time and retire

All of this would not be possible without

work. Our phones and emails are with us all

into a wet and damp cabin so they need to

the team we have who, I must say, are the

time so it’s very hard not to start the working

be dry and warm. The products have come

backbone of our business.

day early. As is the case in any business, you

a long way in terms of technology and they

can plan the day ahead but things can change.

are now using top athletes and big races to

Darius, on behalf of our readers I thank you for

Priority issues often take over the daily grind

test and develop the products. Musto’s R&D

your time and for this interview that I’m sure

and we need to act accordingly.

department works hand in hand with real time

our readers will enjoy and appreciate.

p. 14

INTERVIEW

Jovin Rausi with Albert Fenech and Martin Meachin

ALL ABOVE BOARD Peter Valentino interviews Jovin Rausi, a sailor, an official, a friend to every club and a mentor to many individuals. He served the sport for decades, and the trade too, through an insurance firm he once owned.

This interview isn’t a straightforward one

in tal-Għażżenin, and chasing cockroaches on

the 70s, I bought my first sailing boat dinghy, I

because your involvement in the sailing and

the pavement in the evenings. What fun it was

knew then that there was no hope for me. I was

boating world is so vast, it has ‘a finger in

for us kids, but not for the cockroaches though.

seriously addicted to the sea and sailing.

My father was an avid fisherman always with

Let’s go to actual sailing and racing. What

a fishing rod over the weekend and hardly

memories do you hold closest to your heart?

every pie’. When and how did your adventure begin?

Ever since I can remember, my grandmother

ever catching anything. He just enjoyed the

(who brought me up) loved the sea, she never

tranquillity and solitude of the beach. But when

I got my first taste of sailing at Mellieħa bay.

owned a boat, but every year she used to rent

I could join him, I loved to go on the rocks at the

I had just bought a GP 14 and I parked it on

a place in St Paul’s Bay and we used to spend

Sirens Club chasing crabs. It was then that I

a trolley in tal-Għażżenin. The seller had

the summer there. Swimming every day, and

was first infected with the love for the sea and

promised to teach me how to sail but in that

occasionally joined by my cousins, sleeping on

remains a very serious and incurable disease

same weekend the dinghy championships

mattresses on the floor, fishing with our nets

right to this very day. When in my thirties, in

were taking place. In those days, it was run

INTERVIEW

p. 15

by the Royal Malta Yacht Club and at Mellieħa

The Yachting Federation was born out of a

true, but more of that later. I was asked by the

Bay. I did not want to miss that. So, on my

protest by dinghy sailors against the lack of

Malta Olympic Committee to run the sailing

own I launched the dinghy in a gregale, and I

adequately knowledgeable people on the

event of the Small Nation Games (GSSE) in

somehow managed to sail, single-handed, all

bridge on how to run within the then IYRU

1993. (There was no one else to do that at the

the way around Mellieħa. I learned how to sail

Rules, dinghy racing, and even more less when

time!) I was again approached in 2003 to do the

along the way, sailing for the first time ever.

it came to listening to our protests. True that

same for the GSSE 2003. Both were extremely

if it were not for these volunteers there would

successful events with Malta winning a record

Mellieħa Bay was home to the Għadira Sailing

not have been any serious dinghy racing. But

haul of medals, including Gold. Windsurfing

Club and countless regattas for both dinghies

sailors were becoming keen to race and their

joined the event for the 2003 event and here

and windsurfing. It was not at all unusual to

knowledge of the rules became endemic. Still,

too, medals were won with great satisfaction to

see 130 dinghies on the start line and an even

during a dinghy championship in Mellieha in the

the sailing community. I was an elected ›

bigger number of windsurfers. What a sight

late 1970s, several of us sailors met on the jetty

from the bridge. Every event was followed by

at the Tunny Net in Mellieha Bay and we agreed

a big party at the Mellieħa Bay Hotel. What

to approach all the dinghy clubs for us to set

pleasant memories.

up a Federation, later called the Malta Yachting Federation. In 1975 it was constituted through

You started officiating at a relatively young

an elected committee under Walter Camilleri

age. How come, and which part of this did you

who was its first president.

enjoy?

All the dinghy clubs at the time, including I was competing in a dinghy championship

the RMYC, joined the Federation and it has

in 1974 (run by the RMYC) and Benny Grech

since then done sailing a good service. It later

was on the bridge, mostly on his own, and

changed its name to Malta Sailing Federation

trying (unsuccessfully) to get the dinghies

and it is still here today. I was one of its elected

to start a race off to a clean start. He was on

members, its secretary, vice-president, and

his own and I asked how come he was alone.

president during my 21-year tenure on the

He said that everyone wants to sail instead

Committee during which time I was also

and no one wants to help. I stopped racing in

elected to represent sailing on the Malta

championships after that event and I went on

Olympic Committee. I was also a founder

the bridge to help him. I am an avid organiser in

member of the Għadira Sailing Club set up

everything I do. I am a Virgo you see.

with the active encouragement and practical

Middles Sea Race, 1996

logistical support of Chris Scott Taggart, That was 45 years ago, and I am still on that

the then manager at the Mellieħa Bay Hotel.

‘bridge’, be it dinghies, windsurfing, yachting,

The club was set up officially on the 4th of

or even in the Protest Room. Quite frankly, there

September 1980 and it was for many years a

were others who knew the rules and how to

great and successfully strong family dinghy

organise racing. I just happened to be the right

sailing club with wives joining in the racing

man at the right time and in the right place.

as crews, but not crewing for their husbands

Fewer today, but in the same situation, and their

to avoid the risk of divorce and separations!

absence will be a great setback to sailing if they

Word went around the sailing grape vine that

had to hang up their rule book. I enjoyed every

at the Għadira Sailing Club sailors were wife

event I organised, too many to count in the past

swapping. True, in a way, but it was not what

45 years, and was fortunate enough to find

you are thinking.

support throughout, similarly enthused, to do safety and help organise.

Here too, at the GSC, I went through the ranks, including commodore, serving as a member for

Can you please give us some insight

over two decades. The onset of windsurfing

regarding your involvement in the Malta

changed all that, and it happened at a time

Sailing Federation, The Għadira Sailing Club,

when dinghy racing was already on the wane,

The Games of the Small States and The Royal

and some, even today, still accuse me of killing

Malta Yacht Club?

off dinghy sailing for windsurfers, not at all

Middles Sea Race, 1996

p. 16

INTERVIEW

When the Royal Malta Yacht Club decided to restart the then Middle Sea Race, now the world-famous Rolex Middle Sea Race; the Commodore then called upon you to be the Chairman of the Organising Committee. Can you list some of the challenges you faced, some of the concerns and also the most pleasant moments and memories you hold?

That was indeed a great honour and an even greater pleasure to do for the two events, one in 1998 and again in 1999. The biggest challenge was to re-organise, and re-wire, the mentality and ingrained practices of committee members who (as ex-naval officers but still not

Presenting an award to Francesca Vincent, 1988

knowing the racing rules) were used to have a free hand based on their rank and status within the club, irrespective of the fact that a separate has since honoured me by inviting me to sit on

committee was running the MSR event. The

the Rolex Middle Sea Race International Protest

RMYC Committee members were invited to join

Committee and that was a great experience

our committee as long as they held an office

and which I shall always cherish as the icing

on the MSR committee. We had a job to do,

on the ‘sailing career’ cake. The RMYC has

and I alone (it seemed to me at the time) knew

changed its spots since when I first joined.

what needed to be done to have a successful

The main activity of the club seems to be yacht

event and I agreed to run the event on one

racing now, perhaps at the expense of the

condition. No one, not even the Commodore,

cruising section?

could reverse any decision taken by the autonomous Middle Sea Race Committee of

The Hon. Dr. Michael Refalo presenting the Middle Sea Race sponsorship to Mr. Jovin Rausi

But they know best I assume. Yes, it has

which I was Chairman, (the Commodore was

changed, positively perhaps, because at the

vice-Chairman) without an express agreement

time of joining it was run by many expats who

by me to such changes. In other words, no rank

seemed mainly concerned with their status on

pulling. One other struggle was to persuade

the committee more than with sailing. Some

people that committee members could no

were sailors and boat owners in their own time,

longer come in to the club at Couvre Porte with

but not always quite approachable or even

their friends and families and eat and drink

knowledgeable of the rules of sailing.

for free upon their signature at the bar. Food coupons were issued and drinks had to be

member of the MOC for 21 years and was

In one protest committee hearing I was asked

paid for. It was sometimes a struggle, a battle

selected to represent Malta at the Los Angeles

to give my version of events after I protested

with some, but eventually it worked, people

Olympic Games where I accompanied the

another boat following which statement I was

saw the sense in what we were trying to do and

Maltese teams participating in these Games,

asked to leave the room. I protested at this

everything was fine.

as well as in many other international events for

because the rules had since been changed

sailing where Malta was represented.

allowing both protestor and protestee to hear

Remember that in those days we did not have

each other’s statements of the facts as they

Martini to sponsor us and the days of milk

I became a member of the Royal Malta Yacht

saw them. The panel was not aware of this new

and honey were well over. In fact, John Ripard

Club so many years ago. I was an elected

rule and they insisted that I leave the room,

(Sr) and I begged three ministers asking for

member of the committee for many years and

with me not knowing what the other sailor (the

financial assistance every year the Middle

I helped out on the bridge where necessary,

protestee) had said. I won the protest anyway

Sea Race was approaching and it was not

and in the Protest Room. John Ripard (Sr) had

but it indicated the need for a federation to be

the time to just spend and drain that milk

invited me to sit on the International Martini

above all clubs, and indeed, this did happen in

cow dry! Happily, we got all the financial help

Middle Sea Race during the 1980s. The club

1975.

we needed, ironically from ministers from ›

THE NEW PRESTIGE 590S

p. 18

INTERVIEW

face some angry wives and mothers who were

office (I was the only man among many women

anxious to know where their loved ones were

then – and I greatly enjoyed those meetings!)

on the course. Well with transponders switched

- plotting the event and making sure that we

off and no reporting by the boats racing, there

had all the logistical support we needed. We

was no point in secrecy. Technology changed

did, and it was a great success, again thanks

all that.

to good leadership in every department by the volunteers and to the enthusiastic and

Ironically the action of non-reporting and the

dedicated helpers. Parents were of great help

switching off of transponders relieved us of any

too as they provided rubber dinghies for safety.

liability as boats racing then undertook to take upon themselves their safety, relieving us of

This culminated to the then-government

any responsibility of being able to assist them.

granting land to the MYSC and it today houses

Crazy thing!

one of the most successful dinghy clubs on the island. I am passionate about the club

The datatracking devices were important in

because like a son or daughter, and now I have

one particular year when just minutes before

grandchildren, I have seen it grow, provide

prize-giving, we received the results of the

good sailors, and yet, in spite of the age limits

tracking. One boat whose skipper was about to

imposed on the Optimist class, it still provided

step up to the podium for his prize was stopped

new sailors who in turn keep feeding the sport

the two main political parties as an election

in his tracks (no pun intended) as the tracking

with experienced sailors who later join the

popped up when the MSR was restarted. But

sheet of his boat revealed that he had missed

Laser fleet and even the crew on the bigger

both parties supported our pleas for help as

rounding Stromboli!

boats. My feeling is clubs like the RMYC should

they realised the enormous potential to the

play a bigger role in supporting such clubs

country and tourism. We were successful and

Happily, the tracking and the listing of ‘safe’

because these youngsters are their club’s own

the re-organisation worked so much so that

Sicilian stations has endured and is still done

future as well.

the MSR race grew, and we got more Italian

in today’s Rolex Race, improved greatly today

participation, we got maxis, we got Rolex, and

thanks to satellite technology.

the rest is history.

Greatly instrumental in this success was Anna Rossi and her team. Anna was the motor which

Pleasant memories? – Prize-giving! Not for

drove the success of the MYSC, and she is

There were no real worries, not after we

the canapés and the drinks but for the relief

there even today after a long stint as President

introduced Datatrack on each boat after we

of knowing that, mostly, boats were already,

of the Malta Sailing Federation.

first tested it on my own boat half way to Sicily

and by that time, either in the marina or in

with Tony Terreni, the Club Secretary and an

their home ports and that all were safe and

Italian technician who tested the equipment. In

sound. The contribution by the volunteers

my role as communications officer I arranged

of every section cannot be underestimated.

for each boat to have a full set of phone/

We all worked as one team. Us organisers in

contact numbers of all the maritime stations

knowing that we could rely on the dedication

run by the Sicilian authorities along the entire

and enthusiasm of the volunteers and the

600 miles long (quasi) Sicilian coast, for

volunteers happy on seeing that we meant

competitors to report their positions and which

business and that we knew what we organisers

station to call in case of an emergency.

were doing.

Of course, and perhaps typically, some (mostly

In a chronological order, we’re now

Maltese) boats did not report their position

somewhere at the time when the Malta Young

as requested and some even switched off

Sailors Club was formed. You were and still

their responders so that we, and the other

are so passionate about this club. What do

competitors, did not know where they were!

you see in it?

The second part of this interview will appear in Skipper's October

Incredible, when our main scope was to ensure that everyone was safe. There was a time when

I was honoured to be involved in this event from

at the Club we were not allowed to give out

day one of its birth. I remember meeting other

the position of the boats racing and we had to

volunteers at the Gillieru or at Sarah Grech’s

edition.

M & N A Trading Co Ltd 47 Villa Avallone Valley Road, Iklin IKL 1806, Malta (+356) 79492638 info@mnamarine.com www. mnamarine.com Visit us at the Cannes and Southampton boat shows this September.

p. 20

INSIGHT

Skipper features some unmissable sights only accessible by boat.

the island on modified rafts, and Malta’s central location has made it a diamond in the rough for most of the islands’ colonisers.

The surrounding waters are filled with shipwrecks and little nooks and crannies where the cliffs hollow out to cave systems.

Tour companies usually offer trips out to these locations for a package deal, however if you have access to a boat and a reasonable amount of experience sailing, there’s also the opportunity to access these places on your own.

Here are some unmissable sights only accessible by boat.

Malta’s in-a-day size and public transport make it easy to plan a holiday around accessing

BLUE LAGOON

places of historical and cultural interests. With UNESCO world heritage temples, fortified

Although sharing part of a name with the

cities, and thousands of years of history

Blue Grotto, the Blue Lagoon is completely

crammed into every nook and cranny, it might

different to the Żurrieq sea caves. The Blue

take a while to see everything that Malta has to

Lagoon is far more popular in the summer

offer.

than in the winter, however you will always find people sunning themselves on the sand

However, while the opportunities for touristic

and admiring the crystalline blue waters of the

locations on land are plentiful, Malta’s

lagoon. Furthermore, if you’re spending a day

surrounding shores and sea also offer a lot to

at the Blue Lagoon anyway, you might as well

see. Malta’s history has been intrinsically tied to

take the opportunity and explore Comino, an

the water ever since the Phoenicians arrived on

uninhabited rocky island that acts as a wildlife

INSIGHT

p. 21

sanctuary. Visiting during off-peak season, when swimming is not as popular as it is in summer, is recommended to get the most out of the island.

BLUE GROTTO The Blue Grotto isn’t one sea cavern - it’s a whole line of them, linking each other together with shadowy, angled turns, and unmistakably blue water. Tour operators frequently take people around the Blue Grotto, and while there’s a chance that you won’t be alone if you’re visiting the caverns, there’s enough natural beauty to go around. On an especially clear day, the water will show off underwater flora and fauna in a rainbow of colours, such as red, yellow, and green.

DWEJRA BAY IL-QARRABA

relatively unknown location for a lot of people, which also limits the number of people that are

While Dwejra’s promontory has diminished a little in majesty after the fall of the Azure

Tucked between Riviera Beach and Ġnejna,

aware of it, and can access it, as there are only

Window, Dwejra Bay is perfect for underwater

il-Qarraba is a sandy beach compounded

two ways to get to it: a long trek on foot, or by

dives and snorkelling. The water runs deep

by shallow water and rolling, blue-clay hills.

boat.

and clear blue, but the relatively out-of-reach

Visiting during springtime, when swimming

location means that it’s often a quiet place for

season is at its earliest, almost guarantees that

an afternoon spent by the water. Anchoring

there will be no people at the same location,

down and spending some time here would be

and that the rolling hills that slope down to the

The second-largest uninhabited landmass in

ideal for a relaxed day.

water are festooned in colour. Qarraba is a

the Maltese islands, St Paul’s Islands are one ›

ST PAUL’S ISLANDS

p. 22

INSIGHT

of the most-visited options in Malta, but only by

to spend an afternoon in. Best of all, even at

boat. There’s no way on or off the island without

the peak of summer, it’s unknown enough

a vessel, and while tours do frequently ferry

that there will be very few people taking over

people across to enjoy a day of sunbathing and

the beach, leaving you free to explore to your

exploration, it largely depends on the year.

leisure and relax when other beaches and boating spots are taken over.

Swimming season will always bring more people to St Paul’s Islands than winter,

Malta’s seas are a treasure trove of things

which may make it difficult to feel completely

waiting to be discovered. The sea caverns and

secluded if you’re looking for a peaceful island.

the angled, jutting rocks alone make up for a

Early April or early May will also see the flowers

large proponent of adventuring in the water,

blooming, so if you want the best of both, wait

however with a good experience in snorkelling,

until later in the year to visit the islands.

the limitations are endless.

ĠEBEL TAL-ĦALFA

Malta has several shipwrecks beneath the surface that are popular diving spots, and the

Very few locations are unknown in Malta,

minimal threat offered by the water, and lack

however this one appears to be a best-kept

of large natural predators such as sharks,

local secret. Boaters familiar to the area call

make boating and snorkelling in even the most

it ‘behind the rock’, and this tiny cove and its

remote locations a relatively safe experience

little pebble beach are a pretty little location

provided that you are not alone.

p. 24

INTERVIEW

BROADEN your HORIZONS Peter Valentino interviews Austin Calleja, Hon. Secretary of the Malta Cruising Club, on how the club was formed and the aim of the club itself.

I had only just finished interviewing Michael

Austin, can you give us a brief of the club’s

and the first committee included Prof Edward

Mifsud, the new President of the Malta

history and formation?

Scicluna (currently Minister of Finance), Prof

Sailing Federation and instead of stopping

Daniel Darmanin, the late Roland Darmanin

just there I carried on chatting about the

The club was formed by a group of gentlemen

sea, boats, international affairs as well as

in 2005 who thought it would be a great idea to

Kissaun and Shawn Spiteri Duca.

the local scene. At some point, Michael

form a club exclusively for people who wanted

The club’s character is ‘strictly cruising’;

thought that it would be a good idea to

to cruise around the Maltese Islands and

but then there’s a nautical saying and I’ll

interview Austin Calleja who happens to

beyond rather than participate in competitive

state: ‘two or more boats moving in the

be the Hon. Secretary of the Malta Cruising

racing. The first Commodore of the Club and

same direction are racing’. What’s the club’s

Club. I jumped to the occasion.

the key promoter was Prof Antony de Bono

approach to this?

INTERVIEW

p. 25

Most of our members have at some point in

between May and October and our social and

or up the Adriatic coasts. We support them as

time been involved in racing. Some still enjoy

technical talks during the rest of the year.

much as possible and after they return to Malta

it. However, the aim of the club is to bring

we ask them to give us a presentation on their

together people who are more interested

There are fixed annual social events like a Hog

in cruising alone or in the company of other

Roast Night and an end-of-year Sunday lunch

boats to interesting local anchorages, coast

as well as a quiz night in spring. In summer we

towns in Sicily or even as far away as Greece or

organise the Sette Giugno Pozzallo Cruise and

Sardinia, rather than participate in competitive

three or four organised crossings to the nearby

All our events are very well-attended. The

racing. Getting more boat speed from a pair

Sicilian ports of Siracusa, Marzamemi and

recent technical talks held at the beginning of

of new sails would of course be a subject for

Scoglitti and further afield to both the Lipari

this year on ‘Maintenance of Diesel Engines’

discussion between members, how a windlass

Islands and Calabria or to the Egadi Islands and

and on ‘Anti-fouling Paints’ were a great

problem has been solved, or where they have

Trapani. There are of course the adventurous

success. This indicates that there is a growing

been last summer. But ultimately the typical

members who venture to Greece or Sardinia

interest from boat owners to learn more on

adventure.

Which is the best-attended event? And why?

members’ objective is how well-maintained

how to maintain and operate their boat safely

his boat is and how to enjoy themselves on the

and efficiently. Last year we had similar talks on

water away from it all.

navigational equipment which attracted a lot of interest from local boat owners.

How many members do you have and how best can you describe them?

As for our sailing events, our prime event of the year is the Sette Giugno Pozzallo Cruise

The number of members in the early years of

which is held every year on and around the 7th

the club was modest but to date the club has

June (public holiday). This year it was our 7th

over 100 paid-up members, almost all sailing

edition and we had 33 sailing boats and over

boat owners and who together with their family

120 members, family and friends leaving for

and friends regularly attend club activities.

Pozzallo to take part in a three-day event which included interesting shore excursions in Sicily,

How many events do you organise every year

a friendly cruise with our friends at the Lega

and what kind of events?

Navale Pozzallo along the Pozzallo coast and fine dining in the evening. This year the event

We classify our events into sailing events, social

was sponsored by Falken Tyres and their local

events and technical talks. Our aim is to have

agent in Malta, Standard Group. The event is

at least one event every month throughout the

coordinated by the club with the cooperation of

year. Obviously, the sailing events mainly happen

the Lega Navale Pozzallo under the patronage ›

p. 26

INTERVIEW

of the Comune di Pozzallo and is very popular with our members.

Power or sail? Can you please give our readers your opinion and can you tell us the percentage of members who own power or sailing boats?

When the club was first set up, membership was open for both sailing and power boat owners. It still is, however we never managed to attract power boat owners and today, the members are exclusively sailing boat owners.

Power and sailing boat owners do not speak the same language mainly because of the different boat operating and maintenance skills required by the owners. There is also a huge diversity in the pleasure derived by skippers owning a sailing boat compared to those

Any future plans?

owning a power boat.

As I said earlier, one of our future targets is to All clubs that organise racing are obliged

have a club house where we could meet regularly

to seek membership of the Malta Sailing

and conduct talks and lectures to our members.

Federation. The Malta Cruising Club hasn’t,

We are working on this and hopefully we will

fair enough, since you do not organise

succeed in the not too distant future. We would

races. However, would you consider joining

like to grow our membership base too and

if your club will have a wider reach, more

reach out to the many boat owners who are not

contacts and can be the recipient of further

members of a local club, some of whom venture

information?

out at sea with little more than basic boathandling skills. We see ourselves as the club that

It is true that the Malta Cruising Club is not

can promote sailing and in a relaxed and informal

a member of the Malta Sailing Federation.

way bring together boat owners, encouraging

Primarily because the Federation is more

them to enjoy their boats in a safe manner and at

racing oriented. We do not however exclude

the same time widen their sailing horizons.

the possibility of joining the Federation soon especially if we are convinced that the club can

What’s the drill to become a member of your

contribute towards the local sailing community.

club?

Where do members meet?

Becoming a member of the club is

and his/her friends without them necessarily

downright easy. The best way is to visit

becoming members of the club.

Unfortunately, the club does not have its own

www.maltacruisingclub.org and go to the

premises. Efforts are ongoing to try to establish

membership section and fill in the details.

a club house where the committee and the

You can also write to me, club secretary, on

members can meet on a regular basis. So far

maltacruisingclub@gmail.com and I will

Last year we found out that there is a sailing

this project has eluded us but we are hopeful

guide you accordingly. We usually process

Club in Gozo called the Gozo Cruise and Crews

that eventually we will succeed in renting/

the membership procedure within a couple of

Club made up predominantly of expats living in

owning a suitable premise. Club events, such as

days. No referrals are necessary except for a

Gozo who has similar aims as those of the Malta

technical talks, are held in local hotels that offer

genuine love for anything related to boating.

Cruising Club. We have established contact

conference facilities. Committee meetings are

You do not necessarily have to be a boat owner.

with them and we have decided to forge an

usually held at one of the committee member’s

Membership is tied to one person, usually the

‘alliance’ with them and hold occasional joint

own office and sometimes even in the saloon of

skipper/owner of the boat but most events

events, albeit of a social nature, which benefits

one of our own boats.

of the club are open for the skipper’s family

the members of both clubs.

Anything else you may wish to add?

p. 28

PROMO

FUELLING MOTORSPORT Enemed’s executive chairman Kevin Chircop explains how the local fuel company is helping sport organisations identify their weakest links, and which are then strengthened through Enemed’s backing.

Enemed has implemented a system that allows the sponsored parties to develop a strategic and holistic approach to the point where the association will one day become self-sustainable.

In a time when awareness about climate

where the interest in sport stems from, Enemed

can never become sustainable if you do not

change and environmental issues are at an

Executive Chairman Kevin Chircop shares

have professional input to push you forward.

all-time high, local fuel company Enemed has

his personal frustration about an untapped

Unfortunately, passion is not enough,” the

its work cut out for itself. Malta’s leading fuel

potential in the local sport scene. “Malta tends

executive chairman said.

supplier, Enemed, was formed in 2014. Since

to fall behind when it comes to sport – and it’s

opening, Enemed’s team has strived to provide

not like we don’t have talented and committed

Instead of focusing solely on providing

cleaner, safer, and superior quality fuels for the

people to push the sport forward,” he said.

monetary support, Enemed works closely with

domestic, leisure, commercial, industry and

its sport partners to identify the weakest links

the aviation sectors. Having launched the new

Due to a shortage of funding for local sport

in their system where they would benefit most

ePower range for petrol and diesel, Enemed is

associations, many of the leaders within are

from Enemed’s backing. Prior to sealing an

hard at work to develop higher quality fuels that

volunteers, and are incredibly committed

agreement, expenses and costs are planned

are more efficient fuels and to help decrease

to their cause, however they often lack

ahead and key performance indicators are put

pollution.

professional knowledge and experience,

in place to measure the return on the invested

unable to escape the funding-related problems

funds.

Beyond ensuring a more environmentally

they’re faced with. This is where Enemed steps

friendly product, Enemed is taking steps to

in. “We feel that it’s our responsibility to reach

Through this approach, associations are not

give back something to the local community,

out to local sport associations because we

only held accountable, but they’re also able to

particularly in relation to sport. When asked

are aware of the support they require. “You

sensibly allocate funds where they are needed

PROMO

p. 29

most - be it for strategic consultancy, human resources or event planning. Instead of setting an impossible standard on getting a return for their support, Enemed has implemented a system that allows the sponsored parties to develop a strategic and holistic approach to the point where the association will one day become self-sustainable.

Malta’s first powerboat racing event, VOOMQUEST is a clear example of Enemed’s sponsorship strategy. Enemed’s collaboration with five-time world champion, Aaron Ciantar, has led to the organisation to a quarterly event that has not only attracted racers from all over Europe, but also the recognition of the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM), the international governing body of powerboating championships. In its second year of contract with Enemed, VOOMQUEST has exceeded expectations, and is well on track. Next year will see the closure of this partnership, and the team behind the race will have to seek out new partnerships, allowing itself to flourish in new ways, while Enemed moves on and tackles a new discipline.

“Our goal is to help these associations go beyond mediocrity and to shed the halfbaked approach which plagues our islands,” Mr Chircop highlighted. “With a focus on encouraging sponsorship partners to be professional, resourceful and proactive, Enemed is working to help associations tap into their potential wisely, without the risk of losing money or time,” he added.

p. 30

TRADITION

KEEP ROWING Skipper looks at Malta’s traditional regatta - a celebration of passion, ingenuity and fighting spirit that has pushed the Maltese to withstand numerous defeats, and still come out victorious.

1800s

Twice yearly, Maltese sailors and sailor-

into two categories, using traditional boats

enthusiasts flock to the Grand Harbour in

such as the frejgatini, kajjikki and dgħajjes

Malta to watch the Regatta, a 10 head-race

tal-pass and tal-midalji, which are now used as

In 1822, when Malta was under the

competition that pits seven participants

racing craft and rowing craft rather than their

governance of the British Isles, the Regatta

against each other in timed trials to declare a

traditional use of fishing, freight, and leisure

was implemented to celebrate Our Lady of

new victor.

boats. Boats are weighed and examined before

Victories, and the prizes offered to the winners

and after starting each race. Competitors who

were ‘palju’ linen flags and cash prizes to the

The Regatta is now used to commemorate both

place in the first three positions are awarded

first three victors, though often it was the ‘palju’

the withdrawal of British troops and the Royal

points depending on a variety of factors, and

that was treasured above the cash.

Navy from Malta’s shores, and Victory Day,

at the end, the one who has the most points is

however the Regatta’s implementation on the

awarded the Aggregate Shield, and declared

Maltese rowers were known for their namesake

island has been in place since the Middle Ages.

the ultimate victors.

style, which combined the powerful English

It was only until 1995 that the Regatta offered prizes to its winners,and became a nationally-

rowing style, and the Italian style. Considering PRE-1800s

renowned rowing competition. Prior to that, the

that this was also the time when the British navy had taken over the ports, and British influence

Regatta was used primarily as a celebration, for

When the Knights of St John were using

was everywhere around the island, it’s easy

various reasons.

Malta as its homebase, frequent historic

to see where the Maltese style achieved its

records make reference to requests made for

particular flair.

HOW IT WORKS

professional rowing competitions to celebrate religious feast days; this is considered to be

1900s

The Malta National Regatta is a four- to five-

the first ever instance of the Regatta, though

hour display of the best that seven rowing

there is little information beyond the Knights’

At the turn of the century, Regattas were

clubs can offer, delivered in two phases.

requests to the grandmasters to shed light on

common festival celebrations, and multiple

Competing clubs take part in 10 races split

how these festivals progressed.

ones were held a year to commemorate

TRADITION

p. 31

particular village feasts, especially around the

Marsamxett (yellow), Senglea (red and yellow)

including undergoing strict training regimens

Grand Harbour areas. The Maltese rowing style,

and Vittoriosa (red). Competitive spirit runs

both on the water and in the gym to ensure that

already noticeable for its intermeshing of two

fierce through the Regatta, particularly

they are in peak condition for the Regatta.

rowing styles, became far more pronounced in

between Cospicua, a reigning champion who

this area with the increase of localised regattas.

has clinched the Regatta championship a

As an experience, the September Regatta is an

record 18 times, and other competitors.

unparalleled display of passion and tradition,

While boats are still identified by their

and the festivities are infectious for whoever

considerably different colours, the colours that

While, traditionally, small flags were tied to

goes to watch. Visitors crowd the Harbour

depicted a team at that time was drastically

the vessels to denote which team they sailed

hours before the Regatta begins, and when

changed from colours before or after.

on, today the boats are painted in the team’s

the boats shoot across the water, the noise is

colours and easier to recognise from the water,

unrivalled, louder than any festa.

MODERN DAY

while also creating a beautiful display on the blue water. Similarly, while the boats have

For Malta, the Regatta is more than a

Very few regattas in Malta are held now, but

retained a lot of their similarities with their older

celebration of their victories: defeating the

boating still remains an important part of

counterparts, they are no longer traditional

Turks in 1565, gaining freedom from the

many village festivals around the harbour.

water vessels that were also used for fishing

English, withstanding the bombing of World

The modern Regatta typically sets off from

and freight; today, the boats are specifically

War II.

the Grand Harbour, and the boats can be

racing boats, modified to retain their shape

recognised from the shirts that the rowers

while also making it easier and quicker to race

For the Maltese who compete in the Regatta,

wear.

through the water.

the competition is more than that: it’s a

The seven teams usually include Cospicua

The Regatta tradition is particularly strong in

and the fighting spirit that has pushed the

(light blue), Kalkara (green), Birżebbuġa

Bormla, where the regatta club works year-

Maltese to withstand numerous defeats, and

(red, white, and blue), Marsa (red and blue),

round to prepare their rowers for the regatta,

still come out victorious in the end.

celebration of the passion and the ingenuity

p. 32

INTERVIEW

RUNNING A TIGHT SHIP Peter Valentino interviews newly appointed French-born Jerome Millet, general manager at the Manoel Island Yacht Yard, who has a great passion for boats and organising.

It’s the time of the year when boat and yacht

a service station to service life rafts and

owners begin to take decisions and to plan

life-saving equipment. For that purpose, we

the maintenance schedule for 2020; hence I

are certified for most parts of the brands

thought that this interview is timely.

and skilled to service 17 brands. The most prestigious ones are Viking and Survitec. We

Jerome, what best prepared you for this

also service life-rafts that can take up to 250

responsible role?

persons or less.

I strongly believe my first career in the French

What’s your typical day like?

Navy, especially the French Naval Academy, is a significant element that led me to assume

It normally starts at around 7.15am with a

certain responsibilities. Changing my position,

30-minute round of the yard in a bid to review

environment and team every two or three years

the situation, followed by a briefing. During

contributed to enhancing my experience and

the day, I meet the section managers to review

adaptation capabilities. I held various positions,

any new challenges and key performance

including as an engineer on French Navy

indicators. These reviews are also conducted in

ships, as well as a workshop manager and fleet

a bid to follow up on actions.

technical manager. I also served as head of projects at a yard that provided maintenance,

Part of the day, generally towards the end of

repair and refit works for superyachts.

the morning or beginning of the afternoon, is dedicated to our clients to understand their

How big is the yard? How many people does

needs and what they think about our services.

the yard employ? What boat sizes do you

Their feedback is used to improve our service

work on?

and we appreciate all their feedback.

Our fully secured yard is around 40,000 m2 and

Some time is also spent discussing salient

employs 39 people in four main areas. Slipway

to 20 metres for basic maintenance such as

issues with our contractors regarding our yard.

to maintain service boats and yachts weighing

antifouling application and polishing, as well

Contractors represent us directly so quality

up to 500 tons with seven slots. We handle

as more sophisticated ones, like painting and

and client satisfaction are a priority and we

project management and perform welding,

varnishing for instance.

request them to share our policy from start

carpentry, painting, mechanical engineering,

to finish. Furthermore, they participate in the

handling and electricity. Hard Standing

Maintenance and repairs for boats that are

day-to-day activities of the yard and we seek

activity to welcome and maintain yachts up

afloat in harbours and marinas. We have

to maintain a friendly atmosphere at the yard.

INTERVIEW

p. 33

Many clients have expressed their satisfaction

Promote the idea of well-accomplished

moving to and how does it impact the work

over the fact that there is a friendly atmosphere.

projects. Malta, as an Island, has a well-known

that needs to be done and most importantly

maritime history. The maritime industry should

your long-term planning?

Does the amount of work change according

be better promoted than it is now. We will

to season?

contribute to that soon by organising an open

The diversity of our installations (we have two

day for Maltese people and help to reconnect

travel lifts that weigh 80 tons, seven slipway

Our activity is very seasonal as all yacht and

to our traditions. We will reinforce our

winches, a crane for handling small boats and

boat owners want to be out at sea when the

collaboration with maritime training schools

all this enables us to work on different designs,

weather is nice. Regarding yachts, we are

like MCAST and links with the AFM Maritime

sizes and types of boats. We are very happy

available to help them in case of emergency.

Squadron. We already have a partnership to

that we can do this. It makes our job even the

The life-raft sector is far more active but also

train a technician and we will increase our

more exciting and it sustains and enhances our

influenced by the summer season. We are

collaboration further.

skills.

whole week if need be, depending on project

Can you tell our readers about your best day

Moreover, we benefit from different client

and client requirements. Furthermore, we offer

in office so far?

experiences as well. For instance, a fisherman

working six days a week and sometimes for a

services at the yard as well afloat or overseas if necessary.

who spends much of his time out at sea needs It was a Sunday morning and I had just

reliable and solid installations for his fishing

started my managerial position and found

boat. Luxury yacht owners for instance will

my team working in a very organised and

require high quality products and services and

professional way, with the sole purpose of

sailing boat owners would require other types

Our strong point is our client approach. We

satisfying our boat owners and the needs of our

of installations.

position our clients in the heart of all our

representatives. I also found our administration

actions. We feel that listening to our clients

and staff managers working hard to welcome

Currently, there is a trend in purchasing

and the permanent research of quality and

clients, answer any requests and finalising their

catamaran motor yachts. They are appreciated

satisfaction, are our main strengths.

projects in time for our clients to make the most

for their comfort, stability and space. Normally,

of the fine weather. All our operations were

future owners seek a yacht to entertain

What should Malta do to ensure we will

performed in a friendly atmosphere. That day

their family and friends. They’d look for a

always have skilled workmen?

I was made aware of our strengths, a strong

comfortable and easy to sail boat. Price is of

desire to satisfy our clients’ needs. I really

course a major issue for boat builders, and

appreciated it.

they are proposing products which sport nice

What are the strengths of the yard?

My answer will not be politically correct but I feel the same for France. We need to return to

designs but at times are built in way that is not

basic and fundamental values. Promote manual

You come across different boats in terms

easy to maintain due to a lack of accessibility.

work of course rather than online gaming.

of size and design; which direction is this

For example, even if quality on a composite ›

p. 34

INTERVIEW

hull improved over the years, that impacts, to an

Should and can the yard be closer to the

extent, the running and maintenances costs.

boating community in Malta? Do you have any plans to achieve this?

How do you cope with boats that are built out of exotic materials like carbon? Do you have

We intend to increase our contribution when

the necessary skilled workforce to do it?

it comes to major yachting events in Malta and abroad with the Cannes and Monaco boat

Top work on carbon boats is no easy feat and

shows. Considering the history of the yard,

you need high skilled workers to do so and

I feel the need to be more connected to the

ones who are savvy of the very specific process

Maltese sailing yacht world more than the past.

needed to repair hulls that must be done under

I will do my best to contribute to open the yard

certain temperatures and in a hygrometry-

to all who love the sea and boats. I know there

controlled ambiance. For that kind of job, we

are many people out there who do.

are working with an expert contractor; only a few are available in Malta and who have proved their efficiency.

For large repairing works we are working through my contacts with French experts. It is important to take into consideration that the work process is essential. This kind of repair work is followed up by our project management team to guarantee that those involved are adhering to carbon repair rules in place.

Anything else you’d like our readers to know? (e.g. Slipway, paint shop, joinery etc.)

Manoel Island Yacht Yard is an after-sales refit and repair centre for Sanremo Yachts that demonstrates superyachts; boatbuilders trust our skill and experience.

p. 36

BLUE BLOODED Skipper sails through Malta's thousands of years of sailing history.

There’s no way onto or off the island of Malta without boats. Isolated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, with no access to the greater landmasses of Europe or the Middle East, it’s no wonder that the blood of the Maltese is intrinsically tied to sailing, and that the history of the Maltese people started with a raft and a wish to be somewhere other than Sicily.

Throughout the years, that history has only grown, with fishermen statues erected in the middle of fishing villages, and old fishermen taking over the mantle to show foreigners the island from the sea-side, and while a portion of food does get imported into the island, it’s hard to imagine a Malta without the Sunday fish markets that crowd piers and promenades, glossy, slick, fish bodies fresh from the water steaming gently in the sun.

While there is a lot of Maltese history left to uncover, the traces left behind and on display around the temples say a lot already about how deeply connected the Maltese were to the sea.

At Tarxien Temples, a monolith built around 3,000 BC, shows ship graffiti and fish reliefs on the walls. Similarly, archaeologists unearthed a necklace made of fish bones, which could have been used as some kind of spiritual amulet. Considering that two of the most significant temples, Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, are built overlooking the sea, the spiritual

HISTORY

HISTORY

p. 37

connection to the seaside is considerable.

and left grain and foreign produce in return...

Later, as the Bronze Age crept slowly into

As the knights took over, a newer element of

the islands and people discovered tools, and

Maltese sailing history took shape: Corsairing.

weapons, and ways to make their life easier,

Corsairs were Maltese pirates, put in place to

they discovered also sea trade. Numerous

protect the island from the Barbary Corsairs, a

vessels would visit Malta to purchase

Muslim slaver operation that had built galleys

handcrafts, such as linen, and to sell their

to specifically raid Mediterranean shipping

wares - earthenware, jewellery, different

ports. While piracy in the Mediterranean islands

fabrics. These items have been recovered

was not unknown, this was the first time that

from tombstones, despite the commonly-

the Maltese were the pirates rather than the

held notion that Malta was an isolated island

victims.

that very few people knew about until it was coveted for its harbours and its ports, which

Prior to implementing Maltese Corsairs,

came a few scant years afterwards.

the Knights of St. John sunk a lot of money into perfecting and building up a formidable

As the Phoenicians took over the island and

naval force. Their fleet, which initially was

made it their home, evidence of Malta as a

just three vessels, expanded to eight in total,

heavily-used trading port emerged. Malta’s

not including the smaller vessels, and the

central location has made it the jewel in the

Knights’ vessels were lauded for their speed

crown of multiple navies and nations over the

and flexibility. Later, some vessels were

years - the English wanted it for its easy access

ornamented in gold and jewels to show off the

trade routes to both Europe and Africa, the

Knights’ power, and when the naval force was

Spanish wanted it for the same thing, and so,

complete, the Knights of St. John turned their

as it turns out, did the Phoenicians. The people

attention to the Corsairs.

who controlled Malta could name their price for passage, as no ship could pass through

There were a few Corsairs in Malta before the

the Mediterranean without coming into the

Knights arrived; the island had always been a

influence of the island. When the Phoenicians

preferred port for privateers and pirates, and

were in power, that influence was primarily as

Corsairs had initially been licensed by Sicily.

a trading port and a stop-over between North Africa, Italy, and the Eastern Mediterranean.

As the Knights took over, they not only allowed them to continue their raids, but helped them

The Punic Wars ended with the Romans taking

grow through money and power. Later, in

control of the island, who implemented many

1605, the Tribunale degli Armamenti was

of the early infrastructures on the island.

implemented, to control corsairing activity

Sea-trade didn’t diminish during this period,

while sailing on the high seas by introducing

although agriculture was also climbing steadily

rules: Corsairs whose home base was Malta

in popularity at the time, but increased it:

had to indicate themselves by flying the flag

as Malta and Gozo traded their textiles and

of the order, they could only attack Muslim

welcomed trading ships from all over the world.

shipping, and they had to respect safe-

Shipwrecks around the island confirm that

conduct passes that were issued by Christian

the island was popular, at least during Roman

monarchs. Corsairs who broke the rules were

times, where wrecked vessels indicated a

taken to court and fined.

little of what was being traded in Malta: grass frit from Aquilea, amphorae from Greece, and

By 1660, there were 30 heavily-armed corsair

mortaria from Syria. In return, traders could

vessels working in Malta, employing roughly

pick up Maltese honey and Roman-planted

one-fifth of the Maltese adult male population.

olive oil, and take home Maltese cloth and linen.

However, due to the rapid-fire expansion, very few Corsairs kept to the rules when journeys

In the Middle Ages, the popularity of Malta’s

out did not offer much in the way of shipping

ports continued unaided. Vessels who visited

to raid. Venetians ships, in particular, were

Malta picked up salves, locally-grown cotton,

susceptible to Maltese Corsairs; in retort, the ›

p. 38

HISTORY

bore fruit in larger fishing villages - Marsaxlokk, Wied Iż-Żurrieq, Marsascala. Though there are no written records to provide a detailed account of the tradition itself - as most of the Maltese islands at the time were illiterate contemporary accounts identified that the fish population within the islands was substantial enough to feed a good portion of the island.

Stories about large catches that fed entire villages are still retold in these Maltese villages, such as Marsamxett.

Traditional fishing, however, was hindered by cost. People couldn’t afford to upkeep 'luzzu' and 'kajjik', the locally-built vessels, and other equipment beyond nets and traps were impossible for most low-income families.

Catches were therefore limited to what a family could eat, usually hauled up by a fisher on a small sailing boat. Furthermore, traditional fishing was affected by seasons - different fish Venetians took land belonging to the Knights

required differing levels of preparation.

as recompense. Greek ships were also unfairly targeted, and the additional Turkish cargo that

Today, Malta does not rely on traditional

they sometimes carried made them attractive

fishing as much; it has instead gone the way of

to Maltese Corsairs, who could attempt to

modernisation, where 'pixkeriji', or fish markets,

circumvent getting taken to church by pointing

set up house on the piers and give fishermen

out that the Greeks weren’t ‘true Christians’ as

a portion of their income through their sales.

they belonged to the Eastern Orthodox church.

Sometimes, these fishermen set up stalls themselves, and sell their wares themselves,

Historical friction between countries also

or drive around the country in air-conditioned

made it difficult for Corsairs to keep up their

vans, setting up in street after street.

activities. French shipping, although it carried a Muslim trade, was off-limits as they held a large

'Luzzu', the traditional and luxury vessels that

proportion of the Knights’ income; English

have been on the water since the time of the

and Dutch ships were superiorly armed to the

Phoenicians, are still rocking on the waves; a

Maltese Corsairs, and Greek vessels appealed

large proponent of them are now motorised,

to the Vatican to stop the Maltese Corsairs from

and devoted to showing tourists the island

raiding their vessels. The Corsairs were over

from the water. Fishing villages have erected

by 1740, and the last time a Maltese galley was

they could expand their reach to other services:

statues to their fishermen, such as the one in

used on the island was to ferry relief supplies to

merchant ships, naval men of war, fishermen,

Marsaxlokk that greets visitors every day.

Messina after a devastating earthquake.

and gondola men, ferrying people from harbour to harbour.

Modern Day

Maltese history has always been intrinsically and unavoidably tied to the sea. As history rolls

This same tradition is retained in the handing

on, this is one aspect that only keeps adapting

In the 1800s, the British authorities took over

down of 'luzzu', vessels that hold a lot of

and changing and keeping up with the times.

Malta, and sailing as a tradition continued

importance to the families that own them: a

unaided from the English. Both during the

'luzzu' is given from a father to a son, to a son,

The Roman takeover didn’t destroy the luzzu,

time of the Knights and British rule, the

to a son, and maintained in the same way that it

and the Knights of St John couldn’t keep the

Maltese learned how to pilot vessels through

was created, otherwise bad luck will follow.

Corsairs off the water; in 2019, Malta’s only

apprenticeship, usually to their own father or an older relative. Once they learned the basics,

certainty is that where there is water, there will Ironically, the Maltese fishing tradition only

always be Maltese people ready to set sail.

p. 40

REVIEW

OCEANIS 51.1 The power of a new generation

Incredibly comfortable and much faster than any of her forerunners, the Oceanis 51.1 promises to be bang on trend and the most customisable and cruising yacht on the market. The first cruiser developed under the supervision of Beneteau’s marketing director, Gianguido Girotti, epitomises the exuberant energy of a new generation. Although the

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the range, Beneteau will shortly reveal the first of a new generation of Oceanis sailing yachts to the international arena.

high level of sea-keeping and comfort that forged the reputation of this leading range is still present, Beneteau has turned their racing performances to their advantage, enhancing the Oceanis 51.1. “We capitalised on our experiences with the First and the Figaro, which are more focused on racing, by bringing their values into the heart of a cruising yacht,” Girotti explains.

From bow to stem, indoors and on deck, at anchor and at sail, the Oceanis 51.1 is elegant, smart, comfortable and performs majestically.

Innovative architecture The architectural choice, by Olivier Racoupeau, of a stepped hull, extending over a third of the hull, is a major element in the development of the range. In addition to the interesting aesthetics of this flared shape, the new hull creates additional interior space without changing the shape of the bottom, essential for a good performance under sail. This allows for exciting new layouts on a boat this size. The variety of colours available for the hull is the first of the many attractive customisable features.

Smartly elegant With clean lines characteristic of Nauta Design, the Oceanis 51.1 emphasis on taut cruiser lines and she is a joy to move around and reassuringly safe. The furling mast, self-tailing jib and all the halyards and sheets on the standard model are all brought back to a single winch at each of the helm stations, making her simple and easy to sail. As for harbour manoeuvring, Dock & Go technology simplifies everything.

She is an ingenious sailing yacht, with no less than four different interior layouts, five rigging plans, three different keel types, and a choice of 150 available options out of 700 possible combinations – promising an individually unique Oceanis 51.1 to any future buyer.

REVIEW

p. 41

Comfort and atmosphere

relaxation and plenty of sun-loungers. The

The boat has a 2.8-metre lead bulb keel in this

Inside, the owner cabin has an en-suite shower

large modular cockpit table, top quality covers

high-performance configuration. This reduces

room and toilet, and a 1.6 m wide island bed,

and Bimini, plancha grill built-in to the aft

weight and hydrodynamic drag. To complete

worthy of a 55-foot sailing yacht. Particularly

bench, spacious open swim platform are all

this version, a composite steering wheel, top-

ingenious, the aft shower cabins rotate to

features that go towards making the Oceanis

of-the-range deck fittings and boomsprit joins

protect the room from water spray. Spacious

51.1 an outstanding cruising yacht.

speed with cruising that promises exciting new

and remarkably well-fitted, the U-shaped

sailing experiences.

galley is as pleasant to use under sail as it is at

High performance for the first line version

anchor. The large hull portholes bathe the boat

To satisfy sailors seeking excellent

More than just a cruising yacht, the Oceanis

with light and elegantly emphasise the interior

performance, the designers of the Oceanis

51.1 launches a superb new generation. Loyal

design by Nauta Design creating a wonderful

51.1 have created a particularly well-fitted out

to the goal of providing real cruising pleasures

atmosphere. A choice of brushed oak or

version, whose name recalls the well-known

at an affordable price, she now has added

mahogany woodwork ambiances increases the

Beneteau racing yacht.

performance and a completely new style.

opportunities for customisation.

Fitted with an extra-long carbon or aluminium

She is ready to reshape the market – see

The outdoor fittings are as generous and

mast, the Oceanis 51.1 First Line has up to

her at the autumn boats shows in Cannes,

practical as those indoors, with areas for

35% additional sail area in high-tech materials.

Southampton and Annapolis.

For more information on the Oceanis 51.1 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes boat show, contact Med Yacht Sales Ltd. on (+356) 2134 6461 or visit www.medyachtsales.com

Length

Beam

15.9M

4.8M

Displacement

Engine

13 .9 T

80HP

Fuel

Water

200L

440 L

REVIEW

p. 43

THE

ELAN GT5

BETWEEN COMFORT AND POWER Aboard many modern yachts, it can be hard to remember exactly what boat you’re on until your eye happens to light upon a logo. However, this is most definitely not the case with the Elan GT5, a performance cruiser with a look all of its own and style to burn.

With the swim platform, options of a cockpit galley featuring a fridge, grill and other amenities common on much larger yachts, the GT5 cockpit is designed for enjoying time with family and friends, offering ample seating area and different innovative cockpit table options converting the seating into a sunbathing lounge. A clean deck design ensures fast and safe passage forward, and enables plenty of sunbathing area with dedicated cushions on

Length

Beam

13 .2 M

3 .9M

Draft

Displacement

2 . 45M

8 . 6T

Fuel

Water

146L

22 0 L

the foredeck.

utilisation of the yacht’s volume for the most comfortable and innovative saloon in her

All lines (except for the furling lines for the

size range. The galley forward offers ample

headsail) are led into ducting that exits just

storage space with a customisable corner

forward of the twin wheels: the genoa sheets

to be equipped individually for each owner.

to a winch slightly forward; halyards and a

The 180-degree panoramic skylight with the

German-style mainsheet to a winch aft right

window in window feature, two hatches and

next to the helm. Underneath each helm seat

one large central hatch allows the saloon to

is a sizable rope locker. The space below deck

be ventilated always. The new GT5 is also the

is unique in her class. The Elan Design Team

only yacht this size to offer a separate shower

has implemented an inverted saloon layout

compartment with a 3-cabin, 2-heads interior

featuring the galley forward, ensuring optimal

layout.

For more information on the new Elan GT5 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes and Southampton boat shows, contact Ray Avallone at M&NA Marine, (+356) 7949 2638, info@mnamarine.com

REVIEW

p. 45

Big expectations for the

Atlantis 45

We only have a few images to preview the new Atlantis 45, successor to Atlantis 43, which can be deemed extremely successful given that over 140 units were delivered in four years.

Characterised by Volvo Penta IPS propulsion, Atlantis 45 takes the stylistic solutions introduced by Atlantis 51: the stem is partially vertical for space, but keeps a streamlined part Length

Beam

14 . 6M

4 .25M

to underline the sporting vocation of the model, while the hull windows run along the entire sides. amidships has twin beds that can be joined

Displacement

Engine (twin)

15.5T

435H P

Fuel

Water

98 0 L

350 L

On the main deck, Atlantis 45 features an

if necessary to turn into a double; it is even

excellent visibility thanks to the thin pillars,

possible to add a third bunk. Two heads both

even missing the one in the middle of the

feature separate shower stalls. The spaces are

windscreen. The flooring is unencumbered

large and welcoming, thanks to a total beam of

by steps, and aft and bow sundecks are

4.25 meters. The Atlantis 45 also has a relevant

generous in size. The spacious layout, given the

storage capacity: almost 8,000 litres available

designer’s wish to keep the galley and dinette

for stowing luggage and gear, while the stern

in front, inherits the excellent functionality

garage can accommodate a tender up to 2.5

of the 43. It sports two cabins: the second

metres.

For more information on the Atlantis 45 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes or Monaco boat shows, contact the Azimut Yachts Malta team by email at niki@esprityachting.com or on (+356) 7944 2122.

p. 46

REVIEW

New

AZIMUT 78

Flybridge flagship arrives with Smart Carbon Tech

The Azimut Yachts Flybridge range is now joined by the new Azimut 78 flagship, the latest example of Azimut Yachts’ Carbon-Tech generation sports yachts and the first Flybridge to be fitted with three Volvo IPS propulsion units.

The exterior lines are by Alberto Mancini, while

This is the first boat in the Flybridge Collection

division between dining and living areas

the interior design is a product of the skilled

to be fitted with three Volvo IPS propulsion

and results in the freedom of use of a highly

hands of Achille Salvagni. Marco Valle, Azimut

units, which offer benefits that can be seen

versatile day area.

Yachts CEO, defined the project like this:

clearly in the recent S range models, including

“The 78 Fly is an ultra-innovative boat with a

maximum consumption efficiency, excellent

This is in part thanks to the dining table, which

strategic positioning in the segment midway

quietness and handling, and an installation

can be transformed if needed into a low coffee

between Azimut 72 and Azimut Grande

arrangement that frees up more living space

table, freeing up much more space when not

25METRI, providing an effective response to

on board. Azimut 78 Fly also stands out for a

dining inside and allowing easy movement

our customers’ growing expectations.”

unique layout and spaces generally found on

between the two different living areas.

much larger yachts.

At 23.6 metres long and with a beam of 5.75

In addition to the owner’s suite, the night area

metres, the 78 Fly features the Carbon-Tech

A concerted effort has been made to protect

has two VIP cabins and a fourth guest cabin

design attributes, which has become a

guests’ privacy while on board, positioning the

with twin beds. All the cabins have en-suite

hallmark of Azimut Yachts. The superstructure,

crew accommodation forward and with access

bathrooms. The exteriors are by Alberto

flybridge, hard-top and cockpit are made

to the helm station and galley, both of which

Mancini, for whom this was his first work on the

from carbon fibre, while the deck is hybrid

can be completely separated from the living/

Flybridge Collection: Mancini’s signature sleek

glass/carbon fibre. The work involved has

dining area and from the stairways to the lower

lines are interpreted here in an unprecedented

significantly advanced research into the use

deck cabins.

way, giving the yacht design a new sense of

of Carbon-Tech in construction processes, a

expressiveness. The yacht is powered by three

field that Azimut Yachts has pioneered from

The interiors are by Achille Salvagni, who

Volvo IPS units available with two different

the outset and one in which it continues to have

created two versions. The first to be presented

power ratings (3 × IPS 1.200 and 3 × IPS 1.350)

confidence and invest considerable resources.

is Lounge, which does away with the traditional

and has a top speed up to 30 knots.

REVIEW

p. 47

Length

Beam

23 . 6M

5.75M

Displacement

Engine (x3)

62T

10 0 0 H P

Fuel

Water

50 0 0 L

110 0 L

For more information on the Azimut 78 Flybridge or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes or Monaco boat shows, contact the Azimut Yachts Malta team by email at niki@esprityachting.com or on (+356) 7944 2122.

p. 48

REVIEW

A sense of occasion on the

AZIMUT S10 The Azimut S10, the new S Collection flagship, is the result of collaboration with designer Alberto Mancini, working for the first time with the Avigliana-based shipyard.

REVIEW

p. 49

A unique yacht, it is sporty but has impeccable

side fins that tilt towards the bow, conveying an

class, skilfully bringing together 28 metres

intense sensation of dynamism.

of length the elegance of a sports yacht, the architecture of a modern villa on the sea

We can think of the bodywork expanding

and, not least, the charismatic personality of

and playing an increasingly important role

automotive design. The WSB team take the

on the S10. The term bodywork introduces

chance to get up and personal with the S10

the concept of car design, the final source of

flagship.

stylistic inspiration. Underpinning this idea was a meticulous study of how the sunlight

Highly regarded for his purist approach,

and its reflections play off the water onto the

Mancini habitually draws inspiration from the

yacht’s surfaces and sections, sculpting and

aerospace and automotive worlds, which he

emphasising its beautiful lines.

knows very well because of his training as a car designer. Azimut S10 has a sporty yet

Finally, the superstructure stands out for the

gentlemanly demeanour, featuring flowing lines

horizontal development of its surfaces, which

combined with exceptional performance. The

are designed with clean cuts and contrasting

design philosophy behind the S10 is tied to the

colours so as not to penalise the sporty lines

concept of live on-board, complemented with

and to accommodate a generously-sized

clever design and innovation.

flybridge. This union of extraordinary inputs produces a powerful result.

It carries the pretence of a well refined modern villa on the sea, with multi-level terraces

With this project, Azimut Yachts charts a new

leading gradually down to the water: the same

course: a boat with sports features but that

approach underpins the design of the S10, on

also has a fly-deck and the on-board space

which a flush deck left completely free, offering

typical of a big motor yacht. It means offering

a raised vantage point over the sea. It is also a

something that wasn’t there before, through

space that the owner can furnish and use as a

the expression of total innovative, creative flair

personal area if required. With sun loungers, for

and compelling design.

example, which can then be removed when the sun goes down to create the ideal space for an evening party.

The stern railing is a glazed surface designed to be almost invisible, establishing discrete and elegant contact between two settings on two different levels. Access to the full-beam beach

Length

Beam

28 .7M

6 . 34M

Draft

Engine (Twin)

2 .03 M

260 0 H P

Fuel

Water

950 0 L

1750 L

club at water level is down hidden steps, in an innovative solution that leaves the transom with even cleaner lines.

The sporty feel of this model is expressed by the shapes used and the choice of materials.

The carbon that began as a technical decision is now a style feature too: with its powerful black fibre in full view, it defines the edges of

For more information on the Azimut S10 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes or Monaco boat shows, contact the Azimut Yachts Malta team by email at niki@esprityachting.com or on (+356) 7944 2122.

p. 50

REVIEW

Ferretti Yachts 720 THE COMFORT OF A VILLA AT SEA Being on-board is like being at home, or in a villa: Ferretti Yachts 720 gives birth to high-end yachting, an unprecedented experience of luxury, comfort, and well-being, the result of meticulous attention to the quality of the design, furnishings, and details.

Aesthetics and emotion, innovative and spatial, sumptuous

designed by architect Filippo Salvetti in collaboration with

versatility in the stylistic choices, all under the banner of

Ferretti Group.

the seafaring elegance that has always been the brand’s exclusive and refined heritage.

The interior design, on the other hand, was created by the Group’s own architects and designers. Numerous

The new project, an eclectic and successful combination

elements immediately grab your attention, starting from

of inspirations, already made a huge splash at the 2018

the eye-catching aerodynamic design with its sporty and

Cannes Yachting Festival, and in fact, the first unit was sold

harmonious lines that have become a signature of the

during the event. Created in tandem by Ferretti Group’s

Ferretti brand. The 720 offers several functional and styling

Product Strategy Committee and Engineering Department,

solutions that are exceptionally innovative for a vessel of this

Ferretti Yachts 720 is the second project to sport an exterior

size.

REVIEW

p. 51

Exteriors

degree of comfort for a yacht this size. Located

addition of a dining room with a round table on

In keeping with the innovation process

on the foredeck are the helm station integrated

the main deck.

implemented on recent models, the external

with the Naviop-Simrad LOOP systems and the

forward area stands out for its spacious,

electro-hydraulic steering system, developed in

Engines

interchangeable living areas. The generous

partnership with XENTA.

The first unit of Ferretti Yachts 720 is equipped

30m2 flybridge, in carbon fibre and composite

with twin MAN V12 engines capable of

materials, is surmounted by a hard top available

The lower deck features a four-cabin layout.

producing 1400 hp, reaching a top speed of 32

in 3 different versions: fixed window, built-in

Amidships is the full-beam owner’s suite

knots with a cruising speed of 28 knots. In its

bimini, or adjustable louvres. The aft swimming

occupying a generous 20 square metres, while

standard configuration, the yacht installs twin

platform, a true terrace on the sea with a

the starboard side houses two double cabins

MAN V8s with an output of 1200 hp. The latest

convertible chaise longue and ample storage,

with separate beds, which share a bathroom

creation from the ForlĂŹ Shipyard debuts this

can house a tender up to 3.95 metres in length.

that can also double as a day head. A VIP

summer.

cabin with en-suite bathroom and separate Interiors

shower is located forward. As is the case with

The interiors of the 720 perfectly embody

the Ferretti Yachts 670, owners can choose

those concepts of well-being and home-like

between two styles for the interior design, with

comfort that have become a hallmark of the

very different furnishing solutions and colour

brand. A large open-plan space is organised

palettes. Ferretti Yachts 720 is also available

into three zones: the living area features two

in the exclusive Tai He Ban version, conceived

ample facing sofas and is separated from the

specifically for the Asia Pacific market, which

raised dining area, which offers a remarkable

includes a service galley below decks and the

Length

Beam

22 . 3 M

5. 6M

Draft

Engine

1. 8 M

12 0 0 H P

Fuel

Water

470 0 L

10 0 0 L

For more information on the Ferretti Yachts 720 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes and Monaco boat shows, contact FL Yachting Ltd, on (+356) 2132 0742 or (+356) 9942 3334, www.flyachting.com

p. 52

REVIEW

New

PRESTIGE 420 & 420S All the luxury of a Prestige in 42 feet!

The Prestige experience is now available as a 42-footer with the all-new 420 and 420S models. These new models make the expertise of Prestige more accessible to the new generation of owners.

Spacious and bright, enjoyable and high-

The large flybridge offers a unique outdoor

comfortable sofa and the helm station features

performance, the 420 and 420S models reflect

lifestyle, with dedicated zones for specific

the very latest technology. Every detail has

the core values of the brand and offer an

uses. Including, a full helm station, a galley, a

been designed to create a bright, harmonious,

incredible quality of life aboard a yacht of this

large sundeck, as well as a dining area with a

warm and welcoming environment.

size.

table and a U-shaped sofa. True to the Prestige spirit, the models offer a very large forward

The new models feature large windows in the

Thanks to the signature bold and elegant

sundeck, a hydraulic platform, and generous

hull, and the shaft-drive propulsion enables

lines of Garroni Design. This model boasts a

L-shaped cockpit seating with a table aft.

her to feature a layout with more spacious

V-Drive propulsion system that ensures perfect

cabins.
The owner’s cabin, located aft,

balance due to the centralisation of weight.

The interior of the new models reveal their

features a warm atmosphere and high-quality

This effective, high-performance solution

ingenuity and refinement. High-end finishes

furnishings, with a large, central double berth

enables unparalleled cruising!

and materials create a harmonious and

and a private bathroom. The guest cabin also

inviting atmosphere. Their layout includes all

features a large central double berth.

The models are available with multiple engine

the features of a larger model. Like, the galley

possibilities (2 x 380HP or 2 x 425HP) to

which opens onto the aft cockpit for ease of

Depending on your preference, the Prestige

adapt its power to suit your cruising style. This

movement around the boat.

420 and 420S can be configured to include a

innovation combines the joystick and a variable

2nd bathroom for the VIP cabin or a large walk-

bow thruster to ensure easy handling and

The U-shaped cockpit saloon, which

in closet, with hanging space, shelving and a

precise control.

transforms into a double berth, faces a

washing machine.

REVIEW

p. 53

Length

Beam

13 M

4 .1M

Draft

Engine (twin)

1.1M

425H P

Fuel

Water

1170 L

33 0 L

For more information on the Ferretti Yachts 720 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes and Southampton boat shows, contact FL Yachting Ltd, on (+356) 2132 0742 or (+356) 9942 3334, www.flyachting.com

REVIEW

p. 55

PRESTIGE 590S

New

On the heels of the successful Prestige 590 Flybridge, for the 2020 season, Prestige will be offering a new model in the S-line, the Prestige 590S. Designed by Garroni Design, the 590S stands

The aft cockpit opens entirely to the interior

two bathrooms. The walk-in closet in the VIP

out with her dynamic and refined design. Her

living space. The absence of steps, the sliding

cabin can also be configured as a 3rd private

powerful hull ensures reliable handling at sea

door and the central galley constitute a new

bathroom, according to preferences.

and her immense windows feature prominently

vision of life on board with complete freedom of

in the wide, elongated hull.

movement. An L-shaped sofa features rounded forms for contemporary style and comfort and

The 590S benefits from an optimised engine

a generously sized bench seat for relaxation

and control system with Cummins 600HP

is also available as an option. The hydraulic

twin engines equipped with Zeus Pods.

platform and integrated passerelle perfectly

This configuration inherent to the tapered

complement the refined and thoughtful design

V-shaped hull enables easy handling with the

of this remarkable motor yacht.

Length

Beam

18 .7M

4 . 84M

Draft

Engine (twin)

1. 35M

60 0 H P

Fuel

Water

22 0 0 L

760 L

joystick. This ideal pairing of the hull shape and propulsion system reduces noise and

On the interior, the impression is amplified with

vibrations, as well as the fuel consumption. The

over-sized windows and direct access to the

Prestige 590S is also equipped with the Ship

wrap-around cockpit bar. The side door near

Control system.

the helm station provides ventilation and easy access to the exterior. With her wide-bodied

The 590S integrates the SportFly concept,

hull, the sleeping quarters aboard the 590S

which features a large, electrically controlled

enjoy plentiful headroom and long windows in

sunroof over the saloon, as well as a very

the hull.

generous flybridge. This sunroof system combined with the long windows in the hull

The owner’s cabin, directly accessible by an

flood the 590S’s interior with light. The SportFly

independent staircase, is worthy of the Prestige

also features a complete helm station and a

name. Brightly lit, the master suite features

vast sundeck. An optional bimini allows to

a private bathroom over the entire width of

relax completely and the helm station includes

the cabin, as well as a spacious adjoining

seating for two, and flows seamlessly to the

walk-in closet. The 590S cleverly plays with

sundeck.

interior volumes, offering three cabins with

For more information on the Ferretti Yachts 720 or to gain exclusive access to the Cannes and Southampton boat shows, contact FL Yachting Ltd, on (+356) 2132 0742 or (+356) 9942 3334, www.flyachting.com

p. 56

FASHION

THE SAILORS WARDROBE Skipper sails the sea of fashion.

TURNBULL & ASSER 8cm Ribbed Silk Tie €145 / mrporter.com BREITLING Superocean Stainless Steel €5,010 / elcol.com

LULULEMON Robert Geller Take The Moment Glyde Hooded Jacket €250 / mrporter.com NIKE GOLF Air Max 1 Golf Realtree Camouflage Faux Leather-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers €125 / mrporter.com

FASHION

p. 57

GUCCI Roos Horsebit Burnished-Leather Loafers €550 / mrporter.com

POLO RALPH LAUREN Slim-Fit Stretch-Cotton

POLO RALPH LAUREN

Twill Chinos

Slim-Fit Mélange

€145 / mrporter.com

Cotton-Piqué Polo Shirt €95 / mrporter.com

MASSIMO ALBA Slim-Fit Linen and Cotton-Blend Shorts €185 / mrporter.com

HARTFORD Linen Shirt €120 / mrporter.com

MONTBLANC Meisterstück Full-Grain Leather Billfold Wallet €245 / mrporter.com

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NEWS

Candock floating docks now represented in Malta by Strand Marine Candock - a leading manufacturer of floating

be configured in either single of multiple jet-

docks from Canada with over 40 years of

ski configurations, or to dry dock boats up to

experience in the business - manufactures a

nine metres in size with a maximum weight of

range of pontoons, accessories and jet-ski

2500kgs. Examples of their installations can

docks. Their patented cube design is made of

be seen at leading marinas around Malta. For

the highest quality resin, ensuring a long-life

more information or a proposal, please contact

span, this backed up by a 20-year warranty

Matthew Travers Tauss at Strand Marine Ltd.

and is also 100% recyclable. Their jet-ski dock

on sales@strandmarinemalta.com or

known as 'Jetslide' is a modular dock that can

(+356) 2147 2337, (+356) 9920 9690.

THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION The new Nuova Jolly Prince 50 flagship measuring 15m is a highpowered rib capable of handling 1,700hp with both outboard and inboard engine options. Standard with two berths, she is the first in the range to sleep 4 comfortably, and also features very generous outdoor lounging/seating area, with an optional T-Top. She is fully customisable, as is the rest of the Prince range, and features the deep-v hull Nuova Jolly have become known for.

For more information, contact Matthew Travers Tauss at Strand Marine Ltd. on sales@strandmarinemalta.com or (+356) 2147 2337, (+356) 9920 9690.

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