SKIPPER ISSUE 26

ISSUE 26

AUTUMN 21

DRIVE THE SEA

SKIPPER REVIEWS THE STUNNING BRIG NAVIGATOR SERIES

LEARNING THE ROPES WILFRID BUTTIGIEG TELLS ALL ABOUT THE JARHEAD FOUNDATION

SMOOTH SAILING THOMAS RIPARD ON HIS 'NANNU', SAILING CAREER AND THE RMSR

ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE IT’S TIME FOR THE BIGGEST YACHTING EVENT OF THE YEAR

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ISSUE 26

PLAIN SAILING While the future of in-person yachting events is not yet certain, the Cannes Yachting Festival is one major yachting event that was not affected by the pandemic. Instead, it brought luxury yacht industry leaders together at the French Riviera. In this issue, we highlight what all boat enthusiasts wait year-round for.

Needless to state, however, that the COVID-19 pandemic was a

Editor - Anthony P. Bernard

deep blow to the Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation, a non-profit

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organisation. With many pre-booked sessions, which had to be cancelled until further notice on various occasions, albeit having the

Consulting Editor

boats serviced and skippers ready to go, Wilfrid Buttigieg speaks about

Georges Bonello Dupuis

how the foundation albeit rode the waves through the pandemic.

Yachting Editor Meanwhile, Thomas Ripard shares some insight about his grandfather, his sailing career and his

Peter Valentino

new race boat, which he’ll compete with in the Rolex Middle Sea Race. And while on the subject of the RMSR, the race promises to feature an international line-up like never before.

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The Malta Yachting firm is also featured in this issue under the title ‘The Yacht Docktors’ as the

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firm’s top brass share their thoughts on what’s being done to steer the yacht industry forward.

Print Ivan Sammut, registrar general of shipping and seamen at Transport Malta, explains to Skipper

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why Malta is the jurisdiction of choice for superyachts. Skipper also brings you updated information on VAT changes in the yachting charter industry.

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p. 6

CONTENTS AUTUMN | ISSUE 26

8

SMOOTH SAILING

22

32

LEAD-UP TO RACE

Thomas Ripard shares some insight with Peter

Peter Valentino shows us what it should

Valentino about his nannu, sailing career and

be like in the months leading up to the Rolex

his new race boat, which he’ll compete in the

Middle Sea Race.

Rolex Middle Sea Race with, the J99.

24

THE WINNERS ARE ...

Bringing together some of the biggest names in the luxury yacht industry at the beautiful French Riviera, the Cannes Yachting Festival 2021 is what all boat enthusiasts wait year-round for.

Duncan Barry interviews Christian O. Senciuc,

37

Wilfrid Buttigieg speaks to Peter Valentino about

founder and managing director, and his team at

Simplification measures for chartering activities

the excellent work of Jarhead Young Sailors

Malta Yachting on his thoughts on what's being

by yachting companies.

Foundation, a non-profit organisation, at educating

done to steer the yacht industry forward and how

Maltese youths 'through' the sport of sailing.

the firm is attending to yacht owners' needs.

LEARNING THE ROPES

THE YACHT DOCKTORS

38

NEW VAT CHANGES

SURFIN' MALTA

Duncan Barry interviews Italian-born surfing expert Valerio Cicconi who has been surfing since age eight. He speaks about his surf school and the many benefits of this high-octane water sport.

26 40

DIARIES AT SEA PART ONE: ACQUA-SITION

How far would you go to get the boat of your dreams, Dayna Camilleri Clarke asks? One such Maltese family, Michael and Liza Parlato

READY SET GO It’s almost time for the biggest

BOARD OF SURFING? Some of you may have

yachting event in the Mediterranean: the Rolex

noticed these fast boards flying across St Paul's

Middle Sea Race, kicking off this year on the

Bay, Peter Valentino got hold of one of our young,

22nd of October. Here are the five racers that

but not so young sailors, Karl Miggiani, to bring

we’re most excited about.

us up to date with this class and the local activity.

20

DRIVE THE SEA

The stunning Brig Navigator series now

30

MALTA: THE SUPERYACHTS HUB

Ivan Sammut, registrar general of shipping and

offers two new models, the Navigator 26 and

seamen at Transport Malta, explains to Skipper why

Navigator 24.

Malta is the jurisdiction of choice for superyachts.

Trigona and their then two young sons, Tom and Seb, embarked upon a once in a lifetime adventure to find out.

44

RESTORING TRADITIONS

Joe Morana talks to Peter Valentino about his recently acquired interest in Maltese traditional boats and his uncharted course to safeguard and keep this tradition alive, both through research and practical terms, in Malta and beyond.

p. 8

RACING

SMOOTH SAILING Thomas Ripard shares some insight with Peter Valentino about his nannu, sailing career and his new race boat, which he’ll compete in the Rolex Middle Sea Race with, the J99.

Photography by Alex Turnbull

I can’t not mention the legend you have the privilege of calling nannu,

My most recent memory of this was not long ago. I spent the day with

John Ripard Snr. However, I would like you to mention the happiest

nannu and his late friend Pierre Chamorin’s, who sadly passed away

moment you had with him while afloat?

last year, beautiful 115ft Wally Barong D. Of course, nannu took the helm under full sail nearing 20kts of actual wind speed. At the age of 89, he

I have so many fantastic memories from my childhood that involve

could steer this incredibly powerful yacht at high speeds and with the

nannu and boats. He has been an incredible role model to his 12 other

most youthful grin that not even a 21-year-old could manage. Nannu was

grandchildren, me, and now four great-grandchildren. I recall countless

as happy on a 21ft Drascombe Lugger as he was on a Wally 115, and that

sailing holidays where my grandparents would join us on my father’s

moment made me understand why I am too.

Swan 47 Lazy Duck. Or cruise in partnership on Anhinga or Illusion, just a few of the boats nannu has owned in his life. Nannu was always behind

At some time in June, many people say, ‘I’m back afloat’ – It’s not so

the wheel of any boat he happened to be on; whether it was his boat

with you because you’re always afloat. So, what’s your usual year like?

or not, it was always his privilege. His natural gift of boat handling and seamanship was infectious, and his presence captivating. We would sit in

I am sure you don’t need reminding; these last two years have not been

awe, focused on his every word as he told us stories of dangerous storms

usual for anyone. The pandemic has made it very difficult for sailors to

and America’s Cup controversies.

travel, and many international events have been cancelled. In the past, I

RACING

p. 9

have enjoyed racing in the RORC Caribbean 600 and other events in the

to keep a classic boat in such good condition, and what has this race

Caribbean. I recently spent the early spring months in the UK and Italian

mean to you?

highly competitive sports boat series racing a J70 with my brother and uncle. Races started in March in the UK, which required considerably

Getting involved with Stormvogel has been a fantastic experience.

more equipment than the Caribbean racing.

Stormvogel is 60 years old this year and made almost entirely out of wood. The work is never-ending. She has just undergone an extensive

Last year I started working with RLR full-time. I was very grateful for the

seven-year refit in Turkey under the expert guidance of her captains;

opportunity to focus on the business side of my sport and profession in

Graeme Henry and Ian Hullerman. The results are outstanding. She

a well-established company run by my uncle Christian Ripard and Darius

has been given an entirely new lease of life with every original detail

Goodwin. We have excellent sailing conditions in Malta, and it allowed me

preserved.

to focus on the local sailing opportunities that Jarhead Foundation and the SB20 Association are providing.

I was asked by Graeme and Ermanno (her owner) to prepare Stormvogel for an active race season and put together a race crew with a focus on

I heard that you recently took part in the Rolex Fastnet Race aboard

the Fastnet - a race in which Stormvogel won line honours and set a

one of the world’s finest classics, the Stormvogel. What does it take

course record in 1961. Knowing that this boat raced in the first Middle ›

p. 10

RACING

We went with Incidence sails for our sail package as they have been working closely with some other J99’s and seem to have the edge in this class. Our upwind sails are in a D4 laminate material, much like the old 3DL sails but a more robust laminate. This keeps the overall weight and costs down. Nothing too radical in the sail plan. Currently, I’m spending most of my time upgrading all the running rigging with some of the latest Marlow rope materials. It’s often an area overlooked by some teams, but the performance gains and weight reduction you can achieve using the correct rope is remarkable.

What are the strong points of this boat, and what advantages will you have by racing a newly built boat?

Sea Race in 1968 against my grandfather (and

I have a lot of experience with J boats and have

lost!) made it an impossible opportunity to

consistently rated them high as racing boats,

The J99 was designed to be an offshore

miss. We put together an excellent crew and

particularly in the IRC division. The J99 is light

speedster that could be raced shorthanded

pulled out all the stops to finish 7th IRC overall

and very quick in a moderate breeze. The tiller

and fully crewed, so everything on deck is clean

out of 350 odd boats in this year’s Fastnet. An

steering makes her a joy to drive. Unfortunately,

and run back to the cockpit for easy access,

incredible feat for an old racing legend in a race

we haven’t had the opportunity to test her in

which makes it simple to sail and allows you to

usually dominated by the newest and fastest

very windy conditions, but we’re excited to see

fine-tune everything for maximum performance.

boats.

what kind of speeds we can get her up to.

We’ve gone for the single rudder option in

Can you tell us some more about the race?

Sailing through the Hurst gap in the western Solent in 35 plus knots of wind against 4 knots of tide was the most exciting and frightening experience of my life. You must see some of Kurt Arrigo’s photos from that day to

... thanks to its classic lines, this could play to our advantage in a light wind race, allowing the J99 to slip through the water more efficiently than more slab-sided designs”

understand what it was like.

We’re at the time of year where owners are getting their boats ready for another

Can you give us a brief on the actual build,

Calypso as we felt this would give the best

challenging race – the Rolex Middle Sea

the rigging and your sail wardrobe?

feedback to the helm and will allow us to sail

Race (RMSR). Can you tell us about the boat you’ll be sailing this year?

better with increased feel/response from the Like all J’s, the 99 has been built using the

boat (about two-thirds of all J99s built so far

SCRIMP resin infusion technology. This, along

have done the same, although there is the

Having taken a short hiatus from the RMSR, I

with the use of new synthetic core materials,

option of a twin rudder set up offered by J

will be coming to the start line this year with

allows to produce incredibly light fibreglass

boats).

a brand new J99 Calypso. We launched the

hulls without compromising stiffness. Weighing

boat in March and have enjoyed sailing and

only 3,800kg, it does not take a lot of wind to

What will be interesting to see during the RMSR

optimising here for the RMSR ever since. The

get the J99 going.

is how the J99, with its smooth hull shape,

J99 has been gaining some traction over

compares to the JPKs and Sunfast teams.

the past few years. With ours being the #70

So, we opted for an extended fixed bowsprit

Admittedly, the J99 has a more traditional hull

hull, there are already some well sailed 99’s

configuration with large A-sails. Hoping for the

shape - no chines, unlike the other classes

out there making waves, with Space Jockey

usual windy reach home after Capo San Vito

mentioned. However, thanks to its classic lines,

winning the IRC 2 class this year.

and a chance to get Calypso on the plane.

this could play to our advantage in a light wind ›

RACING

p. 11

race, allowing the J99 to slip through the water

and choose crew members – who are aboard

more efficiently than more slab-sided designs.

this time around?

Bringing a new boat to the race has allowed us

On such a small boat, there is no room for

to spend the season fine-tuning her systems

passengers. However, we’re lucky that most

from their factory settings. Understanding the

of the crew have done at least one, if not

boat and knowing that the hull and equipment

several, RMSRs before, and we will be calling

are all in pristine condition and set up to our

on their experience during the race. We will be

specifications to get the best possible result

racing with six on board this year: my brother

from the boat.

Sebastian, my wife Lauren, my cousins Daniel Calascione and Sam Pizzuto, and myself.

Let’s pressure the crew – what proportion of the final placing do you attribute to the

Kristian Borg Nicolas Virtu has cut our sixth

crew?

crew this year. His father, Martin, is the owner of the well nannu J92 Jlance, and Kristian

Crew work is vital. We’ve worked hard since

caught my attention when I saw him sailing on

we delivered the boat to Malta to maximise

Jlance after school and often well into the night

our time on the water and to refine our boat

throughout winter. Kris is only 16, and this will

handling skills as a team. The J99 is sensitive to

be his second RMSR already.

Lauren and Thomas Ripard

When the family is involved, that is a given.

So many of us have done thousands of miles and crossed oceans together. That will stand us in good stead when the going gets tough.

Hopefully, we’ll still be married at the finish line.

Over the years, the participating boats have been placed in several divisions, resulting in numerous starts with fewer boats than the start line can handle. I prefer larger groups.

What’s your preference?

I feel that there are pros and cons to both formats. The more extensive start line add drama and create a fantastic spectacle for the crowds. Still, they can be chaotic for the sailors and increase the chances of start line collisions, which could end someone’s race before it’s even begun. The smaller fleet starts weight movement around the boat, particularly

Lauren was told (jokingly) earlier in the year

to put more pressure on the race officers

in the light air conditions we may encounter

that we would only be taking Ripards on board.

to quickly and smoothly deliver sequences,

during the RMSR, so we have focused on being

Suddenly our wedding was organised in record

offering a cleaner start line where you can start

in sync when moving around, emphasising

time, and we got married in August, so Lauren

battling with your competitors sooner. If you’re

this for roll tacks and gybes where it can have

now qualifies. Lauren started the race last

on a smaller boat in a larger start, you can

maximum impact. Aside from this, we have

year on Sean Borg’s Expresso but had to retire

sometimes end up waiting for the bigger yachts

also been discussing plans for watch rotations

before Messina due to a major equipment

to roll over and pass you before you get clean

and route planning. Crew preparation has

failure. Lauren has a wealth of offshore

air to start racing.

been intense, and we need to keep focused

experience in Hong Kong, where she grew up

throughout the race - it will play a critical part

and in the Solent, where her family now live,

That said, I prefer the atmosphere and flair of

in our result.

with the RORC offshore series.

more extensive start lines too. You feel you’re

You’re in the position where you can pick

I think it’s important to know your crew well.

starting something meaningful when you’re all lined up together.

p. 12

FOUNDATION

LEARNING THE ROPES Wilfrid Buttigieg speaks to Peter Valentino about the excellent work of Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation, a nonprofit organisation, at educating Maltese youths 'through' the sport of sailing.

The future of

attending sessions

sailing depends on

with the foundation

our youth, which

motivates students

ultimately depends

to make an academic

on clubs that develop

effort in other areas.

their tailor-made programmes to fit into

The project is also an

the club's character.

opportunity for the

However, there is a

education system

fine line between as

to have a priceless

the stereotyped club

resource. In practice,

would focus on, say,

no school would

an Optimist as a boat

afford the purchase

that will take children

or have the expertise

from the age of seven

to maintain or keep

to fifteen, or ideally

up with the running

less, in fact, with the

costs of such a boat

Laser being the next

with conventional

boat to sail on.

budgets.

There still is a missing gap, and that's for young

'Jarhead' to educate Maltese youths 'through'

Thanks to the Foundation, students have been

sailors who wish to embark on big boats and

the sport of sailing.

given the unique opportunity to experience

long-distance offshore racing. It's a missing

sailing boats, which most probably for many will

gap, particularly for those children who do not

This project is based on the belief that the

be a first in their lifetime and at zero cost for

hail from sailing oriented families and do not

sailing experience develops life skills such as

students or the schools.

have contacts in the local scene, let alone a

teamwork, discipline, communication, a sense

family boat. Dare I say that the issue in Malta

of adventure, maritime-related skills, and more.

What boats do the foundation own, and can

is in its majority resolved, with thanks to the

Hence the main aim is that participants can

you describe them?

Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation (JYSF).

obtain the necessary life skills and attitudes to become active citizens to succeed at work and

To date, the foundation administers 'Jarhead'

How, where and why did this originate?

in society.

and 'JYS-JAN', i.e. two 36-foot J-109 racing

This project is the brainchild of the founders

The program also serves as a source of

Axopar support boat that assists the sailing

of the JYSF, namely Gregory Nasmyth and

assistance to educators with challenging

boats when required.

Samantha Rowe-Beddoe, who had donated

students from a motivational point of view since

their 36-foot J-109 racing sailing boat named

experience has taught us that the prospect of

sailing boats and a 28-foot engine powered

What feedback can you give us concerning

FOUNDATION

p. 13

the way the various clubs look at this initiative?

From the outset, it is important to clarify that the foundation does not 'primarily' cater for youths in general but works closely with several NGO's and the national education authorities to pursue its specific statutory aims. For example, to reach out to disenfranchised youths with some form of social disadvantage.

Students from NGOs such as Youth.Inc (Malta's National Youth Agency), the Malta Trust Foundation, the Equal Partners Foundation, St Patricks Salesian School Sliema, Fondazzjoni Sebh, Dar Tal-Providenza, the national education systems' 'Learning Centres' and other voluntary organisations are given priority status since the aims of these organisations run in parallel with the scope established by the founders of the JYSF. stepping-stone for Maltese teenagers to

Maintenance and care are educational, in

Apart from the primary aim explained above, we

develop their existing dinghy experience whilst

their own right. But, do the young sailors

also have the intermediate level and advanced

stepping them up to participate in world-class

partake and lend a hand in this too?

teams who participate more competitively in

offshore racing.

local regattas, the Rolex Fastnet and the Rolex

Yes, indeed, as any seasoned sailor would Let's imagine that a parent of a fourteen-

acknowledge, a lot of the work is done 'pre and

year-old non-sailor is reading this, and let's

post-training sessions or races. In addition,

This aspect of the foundation's operations

say that the child wishes to 'have a go'. What

we involve participants in the preparation

caters for young sailors who are not necessarily

next?

of the boats and the regular cleaning and

Middle Sea Race.

disenfranchised and provides for the gap

maintenance when applicable, both for the

mentioned for dinghy sailors in the introduction

Without deviating from our main scope, as a

school's program and the intermediate and

to this interview. In addition, the same racing

matter of principle, we do our best to adopt

advanced teams.

boats are also available for a more competitive

a transparent 'open shop' approach in the

training and racing experience in local or

selection of the advanced teams whereby

Men sail most boats – but we do have a large

inshore Mediterranean region sailing regattas.

we do issue a public call for any interested

number of female sailors. Is your foundation

youths to send their sailing CV and cover letter

often approached by females who wish to

From a long-term perspective, the foundation's

explaining why they wish to join the foundation

learn the ropes?

aim is that beginners' groups will eventually

and be part of the RMSR participating teams.

join the intermediate and advanced teams.

Well, if there is an element that further

Therefore, we estimate that our first students

We get a solid response year after year,

identifies the foundation's ethos, it is precisely

from the beginner's program will join the

especially since RMSR participation often leads

this element, spearheaded by Samantha

intermediate or more advanced teams

to Fastnet participation. Once an applicant is

Rowe Beddoe and fully supported by Gregory

competing in the above mentioned events

selected for the RMSR training sessions, that

Nasmyth. Just a year after being founded, in

within one or two years.

young sailor would be deemed to form part of

December 2018, the foundation welcomed and

the advanced selection team from which a final

hosted the world cruising sailing yacht 'Maiden',

An equally important element to keep in mind

team is selected. Unfortunately, this year, albeit

composed of an all-female sailing crew on a

is that since 2017 various young sailors who

having secured an entry in the Rolex Fastnet -

global tour visiting over 23 destinations and

completed the Middle Sea race for the first

participation was not possible due to pandemic

13 countries. The sailing yacht was hosted as

time with the foundation have ventured into the

related reasons. Still, we are now looking

part of an around the globe mission to raise

teams of the larger, more competitive yachts.

forward and preparing two teams for the 2021

awareness and funds for girl education projects

Hence the foundation has become an essential

Rolex Middle Sea Race.

and women's empowerment. ›

p. 14

FOUNDATION

generally directed towards a mixed education

who is just now considering contacting the

model - this choice was a one-off storytelling

Jarhead Foundation?

opportunity with a clear message of girl empowerment, as testified in the official race

As explained, the foundation is not open for just

film clip of the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

anyone to 'tag along with sailing' since we have specific statutory goals, which we achieve by

Technical guidance such as navigation,

collaborating with NGO's. Having said so, those

safety, lifesaving, night sailing, physical

dinghy sailors who seek to progress to keelboat

training, sport psychology come to mind –

or offshore sailing are welcome to apply to join

are these part of your schedule?

the advanced team a few months before the annual RMSR.

All of the foundation's operations are held under the watch of experienced skippers

With the above sense of care for the

according to the level of challenge of the event.

environment, protecting our beautiful seas

Night sails do form part of the RMSR training

and shorelines lies at the heart of the JYSF.

and preparations together with sea survival

This gives a deep sense of meaning to the

courses. We might need to work further on

organisation. Apart from the sailing programs,

physical training and sports psychology as new

the foundation supports NGOs such as 'Zibel'

targets ahead of us.

in their environmental beach cleanups and Neil Agius in his world record epic swim to raise

Does the foundation pay for berthing, or

awareness about the state of our seas.

A key partner to the Jarhead Young Sailors

do the marinas offer this as a sort of social

Foundation is the 'Olwyn Foundation', which

inclusion programme?

Of course, unlike a business or a financial

is led by Samantha Rowe-Beddoe and raises

We have not yet found a main sponsor to

institution, the success of such projects is not

funds for charitable organisations that aim

support the foundation; hence, all marina,

that simple to quantify since we are investing in

to empower, educate, and protect women

maintenance, and skippers' costs are incurred

people. The benefits youths acquire following

and girls in the UK and around the world. The

in-house. The dedication and generosity of the

participation in our programs can only be

Olwyn foundation sought to raise awareness

founders are what it is and witnessed by all of

witnessed and understood via the testimony of

for Maiden's partner charities. One of them is

us involved in the running of this noble cause.

those who have joined us as the years unfold.

the Orchid Project, a pilot social media project

Another element to keep in mind is that over

that aims to stop female genital mutilation

If I'm not mistaken, your first degree in part

50% of those who join us for the first sessions

(FGM) worldwide. This practice frequently

covered educating youth. So what advice

do not feel that the sea is 'made for them'

results in girls not going to school due to health

can you give the non-sailing family or person

because of seasickness or a lack of interest ›

complications.

The empowerment and education of girls and young women are at the heart of the Jarhead Young Sailors and Olwyn Foundation, which aim to promote equality and empower women and girls who don't have a voice.

Over and above in October 2019, the foundation successfully prepared two teams of Maltese sailors for their participation in the 50th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

Thus, for the first time, the foundation had two J-109 boats participating in the event.

This event was particularly a success story because, for the first time in the 50-year history of the race, the race was completed with a 'girls only team,' i.e. the one set up by the foundation. Even though the foundation's aim is

FOUNDATION

p. 15

in the sport and thus decline any further

36 hours and then finding oneself in the middle

program, with many pre-booked sessions

participation. Hence we aim to retain 30% of

of a storm within hours.

which had to be cancelled until further notice

participants to commit to the programs offered by the foundation.

on various occasions, albeit having the boats The year 2020 was deemed another success

fully serviced and skippers ready to go. Having

story since the foundation's team of young

said so, we found a way to keep operating to

What's the best day you have had so far as

sailors won the first-ever RMSR prize in the

the best of our ability with full respect to the

the administrator of the Jarhead Foundation?

foundation's history. First in ORC Class 6, sixth

health authorities' guidelines, hygiene and

in IRC Class 6 and thirteenth in IRC overall.

safety protocols. The foundation is now looking

I would say that it's more about moments

This prestigious award was won by a team of

forward to the school re-opening and the

rather than days. Every time we go out with

seven ever so promising Maltese teenagers

'return to normal' with plans to include students

our support boat to welcome the young sailors

who battled through to win their class against

from the island of Gozo as part of the school's

upon crossing the finish line of every RMSR is

an experienced international fleet led by Lloyd

program outreach.

a moment to remember. The first-ever all-girls

Hamilton on the legendary J-109 'Jarhead'.

We are also developing an accredited curriculum program in conjunction with the Accreditation Unit (Ministry for Education and Employment) and the Centre for Sports Excellence. We believe that the experience garnered with us should be transformed into an accredited certificate which would be helpful for participants when entering the world of employment. We are aware that several students who have been introduced to sailing via the foundation have now found employment in the maritime sector. We aim to keep working in this direction and provide all participants who commit beyond the first sessions with accredited certification according to the levels

team to complete the RMSR, the first-ever

Wilfrid, as I often do, I'm going to leave this

Foundation RMSR class victory, expressions

last question totally in your good hands, so

of gratitude and appreciation by the students

please feel free to tell our readers anything

Finally, we are actively looking for prominent

who form part of the school's program are all

that we didn't cover, something that you

long-term sponsorships. Based on my

meaningful moments to remember.

wish us to know and consider.

experience as the administrator of this

In terms of achievements, the first success

The groundwork has been set; we know

that the individual or company which chooses

was the foundation's first participation in the

ourselves and what we have to offer. The next

to sponsor the foundation will get a strong ROI

2018 Rolex Middle Sea Race, whereby a team

step is to reach out to further NGO's more

(Return on Investment) apart from the CSR

of very young Maltese sailors completed the

effectively whilst remaining in line with the

(Corporate Social Responsibility) factor.

race under the guidance of the foundation lead

scope of the organisation according to the will

skipper Richard Nicholson. The fact that one

of its founders, i.e. education, social justice,

Anyone interested may view the

completes such an epic race is a feat, especially

the development of life skills through sailing

sponsorship proposal on our website,

when considering that even the most extensive

instilled into a deep sense of environmental

www.jarheadyoungsailorsmalta.org.

and most expensive participating boats/teams

awareness. At the moment, we are also

would have to retire due to the challenges

preparing to herald a process of collaboration

The foundation is open to collaborate and

posed during the RMSR.

with BICREF (Biological Conservation and

partner up with key organisations which share

Research Foundation) led by Profs Adriana

common aims with us.

of experience and training they achieve.

organisation over the last years, I am confident

For us, the Rolex Middle Sea Race will always

Vella, whereby the foundation will enrol

be a legendary and epic race whereby young

on BICREF's dolphin and turtles sightings

For more information regarding the Jarhead

sailors take on the force and beauty of nature.

reporting system.

Young Sailors Foundation, you can email

The RMSR provides for mixed emotions of

info@jarheadyoungsailorsmalta.org, call

comradeship, the extremes of frustration and

Needless to state that the COVID-19 pandemic

+356 9997 7778, or our social media pages,

exhilaration, such as when having no wind for

was a deep blow to the foundation's overall

Facebook or Instagram @jysmalta.

p. 16

RACING

READY SET GO It’s almost time for the biggest yachting event in the Mediterranean: the Rolex Middle Sea Race, kicking off this year on the 22nd of October. The lineup for the race already has some promising international boats to watch, and we’re excited to see who else will make the cut. But, for now, here are the five racers that we’re most excited about for the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

Comanche - Mitch Booth ↑ It goes without saying that any vessel in the hands of Mitch Booth, an Australian sailing legend, is one to keep an eye on. When that vessel is the award-winning superyacht Comanche, the combination is sure to be one that’ll make the history books.

Comanche has a long line of wins underneath her belt, with a 2019 win at the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, the Transpacific Yacht Race, and the world record for 24-hour sailing for monohulls. A stunning 100 Supermaxi monohull, Comanche’s trademark red hull is impossible to miss, but what we’re most excited about is seeing Mitch Booth repeat the nail-biting experience of the 2019 Rolex Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race, where Comanche blazed past the competition in 18 hours, 30 minutes, and 24 seconds.

RACING

p. 17

I Love Poland - Konrad Lipski → After winning monohull line honours at the 2020 edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race, we’re excited to see what the 2021 race will hold for Konrad Lipski’s promotional beast.

Created entirely to train young Polish sailing enthusiastic, I Love Poland holds her own in any race. She took second place in the Caribbean 600 in February 2020 and won the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta in March 2020.

Maserati Multi 70 - Giovanni Soldini ← Maserati Multi 70 has had a run of bad luck lately with a forced retirement during the Rolex Fastnet Race, and we’re eager to see if the Multi 70 is going to hold her own in the first race following her brief retirement.

A 21.2-metre behemoth, the Maserati Multi 70 has been designed head to toe for extreme performance and speed, built on the same premise as the Maserati cars the company is better known for.

The same designer as the Comanche Guillaume Verdier - has worked his magic on the Maserati Multi 70, making her incredibly hydrodynamic and prone to fast flights.

Skipper Giovanni Soldini is also one to watch; his over 25-years of skippering experience has led to six Ostars, over 40 ocean crossings, and several previous wins with the same vessel.

So it’ll be interesting to see if the Rolex Middle Sea Race marks another victory for Soldini with the Maserati Multi 70.

p. 18

RACING

Rambler - George David ← One of the premier names in yacht racing, George David, is joining the Rolex Middle Sea Race with his Rambler, the all-carbon boat that has stunned racers worldwide. Comanche and Rambler are head to head in terms of quality and speed, and it’ll be fascinating to watch the two compete for the Rolex Middle Sea Cup, especially considering the history between Comanche and Rambler. Previously, David has raced Comanche in the Rolex Fastnet Race and the Transatlantic Race in 2015, so this marks an exciting return to habit for the vessels.

Skorpios - Fernando Echavarri → Finally, our favourite of the international boats so far, Nautor’s Swan Skorpios, is one of the largest yachts in the world and the first large yacht built by Nautor’s Swan. With an overall length of 42.6 metres, a carbon fibre hull, and a speed of 15 knots upwind, the Skorpios is one of the newest yachts premiering in this race, and we’re waiting to see how it stacks up to veterans like Comanche.

Although the performance of Skorpios in the Rolex Middle Sea Race has yet to be seen, we have a good feeling about its performance the vessel was designed with a canting keel to keep the weight down, making it one of the largest, and fastest, superyachts around.

It’s still early days for the Rolex Middle Sea Race to fully come into its own, but it’s already promising to be a race that any enthusiast will regret missing.

p. 20

COVER

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Brig's established technology, premium materials and innovative design altogether make them a perfect choice for a surprisingly broad spectrum of demands. They

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COVER

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p. 22

RMSR

LEAD-UP TO RACE The timepiece just struck Rolex Middle Sea Race time again, the yearly appointment that adds colour to our marinas, as well as an abundance of life and happiness to the Royal Malta Yacht Club. It’s a busy time of year. It can be tense, the clubhouse will be full of fun and anxiety, and witnessing it at least once is a must, although I warn that you may very well get the bug and be there year in and year out.

Peter Valentino shows us what it should be like in the months leading up to the race.

Preparing for the Rolex Middle Sea Race 2016 edition

Building up a race of this calibre takes years. Its difficulty is pronounced

Then there’s one thing that had always intrigued me, something I’ve been

because I can easily say that only a minority of the staff and volunteers

advocating since long before it became compulsory, the checklist for Cat

have a significant experience of similar races held overseas. Moreover,

2 races. What’s compulsory in all this is to tick the boxes, but the work

it’s a task that starts during the race. While the boats are out at sea

behind that is nerve-racking. I know under whose remit this falls, and I’m

racing, some officials take advantage of the quiet days they dedicate to

pretty sure that for the better towards the sport, the sailors, and search

reviewing the first document for the forthcoming edition, better known

and rescue teams around the course, this exercise of risk assessment

as the Notice of Race. It’s the official invitation to the next edition, and in

and due diligence happens in earnest. Now at this point, I’d like to let you

many parts, it’s contractual since not all points can be amended from the

know that I served as the first race officer during the years before Rolex

day of publication.

lent their name to the race. We didn’t have an event checklist or require a permit to hold the event, but in those days and indeed up until a few

We’re in the Mediterranean, and we can’t help but take it easy, so fast

years ago, the club had an excellent ambassador; a former Admiral of the

forward to July, and that’s when some severe networking starts. It’s

Italian Fleet, Admiral Giovanni Iannucci. Starting from months before, he

usually the same person who contacts the owners he knows and indeed

liaised with all the various Italian Military Departments, the Navy, the Air

even those he doesn’t know by phone, fill them with enthusiasm and

Force, and the coastal VHF Radio Stations. We would not only have their

makes it sound like they’d be chickens not to turn up. His charisma in

constant support, but our minds were at rest because we knew that the

foreign seas, not local, precedes him; and it works. That’s where the

Italian Search & Rescue teams, together with anyone who counted, knew

majority of the entries come from.

that the race was on, and we knew that they were pleased and ready

RMSR

to assist in any way. Do we know how many helicopters can be deployed, how many search and rescue boats are available, and where their home port is? The answer ought to be ‘yes’.

Let’s face it. Everything was easier those days. We had nine boats on the start line, then

It takes years to build an event like this; it’s a matter of reputation, and not allowing yourself to

eventually we got eighteen and then twenty-

take the easy route is vital.

one. Once Edwards Lowell put their name to it,

The moment an organiser

the numbers shot to fifty, and when Rolex SA took over, the sponsorship numbers doubled.

So yes, it was easier those days, in every aspect.

Summer is the time when all this should be

is comfortable, then he’s in trouble. So, never ease off, not until the last prize is awarded.”

Peter Valentino with former Italian Admiral Giovanni Lannucci

happening because, after all, Mr Politeness dictates that certain entities ought to be informed in a timely fashion. After all, they, too, need to plan. It is also when Transport

In the meantime, the club begins to get its

Another logistical headache pivots around

Malta needs to be brought into the equation

yearly makeover, polishing here and there,

the containers that are lowered in the parking

when event permits need to be lodged. These

moving furniture around to accommodate

area. Each container is shared by four boats,

not only include specific requests, like that

registration desks, preparing the media room

and items not required during racing are stored

of closing the Grand Harbour to traffic for a

and the jury room – all this besides the catering.

there. Of course, these need to be manned.

whole morning but also include asking the

From previous experience, I can easily say that

Hats off to the group of scrutineers that board

Enforcement officers to ensure that only certain

the Registration process is one of the quickest

every participating boat with a long checklist in

boats, together with those about to sail the

I’ve seen; it’s done with a smile, albeit the same

hand. It’s all to do with wellbeing in the interest

race, can enter the harbour. Due diligence and

person who year in year out advertises her

of assuring that the boats are compliant,

risk assessment are such a big thing nowadays,

presence.

safety-wise. This improved yearly, and sailors

and in earnest, I’d applaud the club if they

worldwide know that entering this race comes

had to outsource that to another entity with

Of course, the usual nightmare and topic

with a rigorous pre-departure check. There’s

competence in this field as organisers.

of discussion is the weather in the ten days

all this and more, and I can assure you that

leading to the race. Racing is a discipline,

organising this race is not an easy task. I

It’s also the time of year when the club invites

therefore come what may, on Saturday morning,

have to sound a warning, and if what I heard

officials that are needed. As I stated above,

the boats that entered will be on the starting

is correct certain newcomers to the army of

I was the first Race Officer for this race.

line. But if the weather is inclement in the days

volunteers are side-lined, all because those

Nowadays, the position is stylishly referred to

preceding the event, then there’s a big chance

who need to be obeyed refuse to make space.

as Principal Race Officer, a rather pompous

that a good number of boats will not cross; the

Please do something about it because the

title because there’s only one course. The

fleet can quickly shrink by 20% or more.

younger generation is the future, and it’s such a

word ‘Principle’ is used mainly at Olympic

shame to disregard those ready to commit.

Class events when you get six courses with

But behind the scenes, people are working on

multiple classes sailing simultaneously. Hence,

ratings, placing boats in classes, and dealing

It takes years to build an event like this; it’s a

you end up having Six Race Officers and One

with owners who think they ought to be in a

matter of reputation, and not allowing yourself

Principal Race Officer, but let’s put this aside.

different starting group; and most of the time,

to take the easy route is vital. The moment an

I then served as a Jury member and eventually

these owners are correct, but of course, rarely

organiser is comfortable, then he’s in trouble.

Jury Chairman up until a few years ago. It’s a

are they given this. Instead, the phone lines

So, never ease off, not until the last prize is

long story, and it could be interesting, but it

don’t stop, couriers bringing last-minute items,

awarded.

just doesn’t fit into the context of this piece.

anything from frozen, dried food to sails—

Nevertheless, most importantly, and I’ll leave it

owners who wish to effect a last-minute change

I wish the Royal Malta Yacht Club all the very

at this; invitations should never be sent with the

to their boats. Sail wardrobe and ratings, not to

best with this year’s edition. May the volunteers

intent that the person you’ve invited will invite

mention when owners contest another boat’s

excel as they always have, and may the sailors

you to an event that their club is organising.

rating certificate.

be blessed with accompanying fair winds.

p. 24

PROMO

THE

YACHT DOCKTORS Duncan Barry interviews Christian O. Senciuc, founder and managing director, and his team at Malta Yachting on his thoughts on what's being done to steer the yacht industry forward and how the firm is attending to yacht owners' needs.

Can you give us a brief about yourself and your experience in the field of yachting? My professional background started as a merchant marine deck officer way back in 1990. Then, in 1992, I joined the yachting industry as a yacht broker under the mentorship of one of the most respected yachtsmen in Malta, the late Roland Darmanin Kissaun. For 22 years, he instilled a passion for yachting and the pursue of clients' satisfaction. It was the symbiosis of these two core values that Malta Yachting was born over six years ago and upon which it keeps going from strength to strength.

What needs to be done to improve the yachting industry in Malta? First, each player in the industry must continuously try to improve business standards to collectively show to the world that yachting in Malta is serious, professional and competitive. One other thought would be to create an all-inclusive professional body or association that would set professional standards for all sectors and become the voice of the local Christian O. Senciuc

industry, just like what the yachting section within the Chamber of Commerce is trying to do.

Founder & managing director Do we lag in certain areas? I know this has been said before, but yes, marina spaces. Unfortunately, the current market demand for berthing spaces is slowly pushing us out of reach for the ordinary yachting enthusiast's budget. It does not augur well for the local industry.

THE TEAM

What are your plans? Like with every business, we want to expand the company into different areas whilst strengthening the core activities. But, before doing that, we need to listen to the team and make sure we have the necessary resources so that every leap of faith is done consciously, correctly and respecting the 'Malta Yachting' ethos.

What is your role at Malta Yachting? My responsibility is to get new yacht listings, prepare our current listings, show prospective buyers the yachts they might be interested in, negotiate and eventually complete a sale-purchase deal. This season solidified our position as brokers since, and I'm sure many other brokers will agree, we have experienced a yacht sales boom that is still in full effect. In other words, now is the best time to list your boat for sale or to get an excellent deal for your first or next yacht.

Can you give us some background about your experience in yachting and your expertise? I have my father to thank for my sailing bug. When I was a young lad, most summers were spent locally sailing on a Hobie catamaran. Then, when I was eight years old, we enjoyed our first catamaran charter, and that was when I fell in love with the lifestyle. After a few years, my family decided to buy a catamaran, and from that Ted Elliott Sales broker

day on, it was the basis of all our family holidays.

PROMO

p. 25

Can you tell us about your brokerage and

Do you get a lot of requests for maintenance

This makes all the major functional parts

how does your firm stand out in all aspects?

works on boats? New requests come in daily.

a compromise. Everything technical is a

We are yachting enthusiasts first and foremost,

As we say, "there is never a dull moment".

challenge.

so I think this helps us identify our clients'

Unfortunately, as beautiful and majestic as

needs and wants effectively and helps us

they look, boats exist in an environment where

What was the single most challenging

focus on them until they are satisfied with the

things get broken very easily. In my opinion, one

technical task you have experienced so far?

boat they choose. In addition, we understand

of the reasons that they need such limitless

Finding the source of an intermittent freshwater

the importance of trust and reliability. This

attention is the big-budget cuts that the boat

leak turned out to be an ordinary failing

reflects our work ethic through constant

manufacturers take these days to make profits:

pressure valve on a water heater. It sounds

communication, out-of-hours commitments,

minimal investment and maximum profit. So

simple; wait until you deal with it!

and generally being there no matter what the

yes, we get plenty of requests!

problem is.

Are you the only yachting company that Why is Malta attractive for foreign boat

gives this kind of support to boat owners?

owners? I believe Malta stands out as a strong

I cannot say what other companies offer, but

contender as a base for any yacht owner. There

we are not the only ones. At Malta Yachting,

are no Mediterranean yachting destinations

we have a different work ethic and put clients'

(that I know of) where you can land at the

needs as a priority. It is a 24/7 job, my phone

airport, and within 1 hour, you're on your boat

never stops, and emails keep coming. We

sipping a nice cold Cisk. We are well set up

always try to deliver the best possible results.

as a yachting hub, and the proximity to other popular cruising destinations (Sicily, Balearics, Greece or Dalmatian Coast) makes us even Anniemay Ibrahim

more attractive.

Office manager Can you tell us about your expertise in the yachting industry and what your prime role is? My primary role and area of expertise within the company is Malta Flag registration. I ensure that no 'comma' is missing on our paperwork, and the registration is quick and as stress-free as possible.

J. David Brown Technical manager

Do you oversee the teams behind Malta Yachting? As office manager, all the

What is your role at Malta Yachting, and

departments within the company fall under my

what bought you into the yachting industry?

domain. Whether this is producing an invoice,

Ionut Barbieru

I assist in technical troubleshooting and advise

updating job sheets, or assisting the other

Service manager

the client and our service and operations

managers and directors with meetings, diaries,

managers over the more complex aspects of

and appointments, I ensure that the office is

Can you brief us about your work experience

boat care and maintenance. Then help make

a well-oiled machine that runs smoothly and

in the yachting industry? I am still fresh

sure that the solution is executed correctly.

effectively.

to the industry with just over three years of

I'm a latecomer to the industry, but I've always

experience. However, I find the whole marine

loved sailboats, in particular. So I finally just

What's the most challenging of tasks you

industry very fascinating. Most of the tasks

decided I was done playing it safe.

face? As the only female company member

given always push my colleagues and me to

in a male-dominated industry, it's always

the limit; however, it is rewarding and offers

What are the most common technical

challenging to organise a group of 'boys'.

opportunities to progress. To give you an idea,

challenges experienced by boat owners

However, I enjoy being the 'mum' of the team. In

I started as a simple assistant, washing boats

in general? A boat exists in an environment

addition, I can maintain good relationships with

etc., but now I am the service manager, dealing

that wants to destroy it. Pleasure craft design

all our contractors and colleagues by being an

with new challenges every day.

prioritises pleasure over technical convenience.

assertive female figure (the organised one!).

BOARD OF WINDSURFING? Some of you may have noticed these fast boards flying across St Paul's Bay, at times around Comino and as far as the Sliema seafront, today, Peter Valentino got hold of one of our young, but not so young sailors, Karl Miggiani, to bring us up to date with this class and the local activity.

Photography by Pav Ellul

BOARDSAILING

p. 27

As a brief introduction, Karl, now an electronics engineer, is a former Optimist and Laser sailor.

He also sails on big boats, mainly in offshore events. As the surname implies, he hails from a sailing background – as a child, he had no choice!

If I recall well, Paul Henderson, a former president of the International Sailing Federation, described the experience of being behind the start line of the boardsailing fleet as like being behind a Boeing 747 on take-off.

This was sometime between Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004, and the reason for this statement was that pumping in this class was permitted. Hence the sailors would move their sail energetically across the board. But, unfortunately, by doing so, the sail would row through the air, all in the interest of increasing speed, and of course, this produced an unbearable sound. Much has changed since as foiling boards have taken the limelight, and

and the wipeouts are still as brutal as day one.

even greater. When racing against another

this board is now an Olympic Class. So, let's all

Learning how to foil gybe was the hardest thing

board, the adrenaline is spiking, and as it

welcome the foiling Olympic Class, and they're

to learn, and it took several attempts to get it

becomes even more dangerous, you can never

super-fast and very trendy.

right.

know when the person next to you can wipe

When did this passion for boardsailing

You're on a fast board, but how fast is it, and

always equipped with helmets and impact vests

begin? What caught your eye?

for what duration of time can you keep the

to protect us from being hit by another foil or

speed?

any wipeouts. There's very little reaction time

out, especially during the mark rounding. We're

Since I was young, my father would always

at these speeds, and if you fall, chances are the

teach me new things about sailing and took

Foiling is quite fast; doing 20+ knots with

me with him every time he went. He once took

only 10 knots of breeze opened a new level

me windsurfing on his old Porsche Design

of windsurfing, and it has made windsurfing

So, the board lifts off. What's the feeling? Is

longboard when I was ten years old, and I

enjoyable in all conditions. Currently, on the IQ

it a silent affair?

was hooked ever since. This board came

Foil equipment, the new Olympic windsurfing

everywhere we went and was a hobby for

class, my top speed is at 26.4 knots on a flat

The feeling is so different to anything I've

my weekends spent on the family boat. To

outreach. However, what's crazy about these

experienced before. It almost feels like

me, windsurfing was one of my first steps

new foils is the upwind and downwind speed;

there is nothing in the water, the board feels

to realising there is more to sailing than just

doing 20 knots on tight angles upwind and

frictionless, the sail becomes so light, and all

Optimist and the racing and training we used to

20+ knots on a dead downwind makes course

you hear is a slight hum generated by the foil.

do. It made me love the sport even more.

racing so interesting, fast and exciting, like the

It's also very different sailing. Due to the speed,

new Americas Cup foil racing.

the apparent wind comes very far forward, both

The beginning is all about trial and error, and

person behind you will go straight into you.

upwind and downwind, so you end up with the

it's all about training. So how long did it take

Coming to an abrupt stop is a possibility, as

exact trim and stance for sailing both upwind

you to feel that you've got the grip for it?

is flying off the board. Foiling is classified as

and dead downwind. This feeling the board

a non-dangerous sport, but hitting the water

generates is just like no other boat I've ever

Due to the years of windsurfing, I found

at that speed isn't a walk in the park. What

sailed, and It's an addictive feeling!

my transition from fin to foil relatively

safety attire are you in?

The only physical part which is in the water

straightforward. The challenge was increasing my top speed, foil gybes, and the learning curve

The wipeouts are scary, much scarier than

is the foil itself. The equipment is still new,

in the different trim of the sail and the board.

regular windsurfing, that's for sure. The fact

and R&D is still underway, but how reliable

It has been six months since I transitioned,

that you are a meter in the air makes the fall

are these foils? ›

p. 28

BOARDSAILING

Since March, I've been on two different foiling setups; the difference between company designs is definitely felt, though they are pretty strong and can take a beating. The new IQ Foil is made from solid carbon for both the wings and the mast, while the fuselage is made from solid aluminium, creating a very stiff, stable, responsive foil. This allows for a gratifying and fast experience.

I do not doubt that your competitive streak is such that you will want to represent Malta in the next Olympic Games. At what stage are you right now?

It would be a dream of mine to do such a thing. However, realistically speaking, I haven't experienced an international level wind foil event, and I wish to experience that first and see how it goes before an Olympic campaign is even considered. Currently, I am considering targeting an event in Italy early next year to get

as a class, and in six months, the nation has

hope that the Malta Sailing Federation and

used to racing in a large fleet and the World

made some significant progress. I don't see us

the Malta Olympic Committee will back you

Championships or European Championships

slowing down anytime soon, as this change in

up on your long road to the next Olympic

next summer.

the Olympic class allows us to be on par with

Games, at least financially? What's the

the other nations since this is such a new sport,

status?

What's your training regime like, both afloat

and we wish to take advantage of this situation.

and ashore?

The class is still very new. Wind foiling has only Are you planning to go to any events

been around for three to four years globally,

Since windsurfing is such a technical sport,

overseas in the foreseeable future? Will you

making the techniques and trim new for

it requires lots of time on the water, trying

try to convince foreign teams to train here,

everyone. However, compared to a class like

manoeuvres in different conditions to the point

thus opening the possibility of other local

laser, which has been around for decades, we

of perfection. So, this summer, I've been on

sailors training alongside sailors of a certain

seem to be more at a chance for Olympic level

the water three times a week for three hours

reputation?

with this new class.

to perfect manoeuvres. Apart from time on the

As mentioned earlier in the interview, I am

The Malta Olympic Committee should take

water, I try to go to the gym whenever I have a

aiming for a training event and the World or

advantage of this change in our sport and try

chance to.

European Championships next year, but I don't

to financially back it up as much as possible. It

want to stop there. As the class here in Malta

is the future of board sailing, not only for us but

Has your club or the Malta Sailing Federation

develops, we will eventually try to compete

even for the kids moving up from the optimist

contacted nations that are strong in

abroad as a team, opening new possibilities

class. Until now, Malta Young Sailors Club has

boardsailing, hoping that you can train

and showing our determination to the rest of

made the most out of the situation and has

alongside them?

the world. We are also discussing international

accommodated us with all our requirements

training camps and large-scale international

and is pushing to improve the situation in the

Yes! Malta is a world sailing venue, a lot of

events being organised here in Malta; there are

local sailing scenes, for us and the up and

people from the board community have been

quite a few exciting things in the pipeline.

coming young sailors still learning the ropes.

are like. We have a Polish national champion

You and other Maltese sailors have joined

On behalf of our readers, Karl, I thank you for

moving to the island to train here whilst

this class in its very early stages, and this

the time you afforded and for giving us this

studying at university and another British sailor

means that effectively Malta could be at par

interview. I'm looking forward to following you

wanting to travel back and forth to train with

with other much stronger nations. Is this a

closely, and on behalf of Skipper, I wish you the

us. We only just started pushing boardsailing

valid argument that can be used with the

very best.

at a time, trying to practice as much as I can

asking about Malta and what the conditions

A & J Baldacchino Boat Yard Ltd.

THE BOATYARD WITH A YACHT REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE TRADITION!

PLUS renovation works on teak decks, laying of new teak decks (in solid teak), upholstery refurbishment, and laying of new upholstery.

p. 30

MALTA: THE SUPERYACHTS HUB

PROMO

Photos by Peter Paul Barbara

Ivan Sammut, registrar general of shipping and seamen at Transport Malta, explains to Skipper why Malta is the jurisdiction of choice for superyachts.

Malta's vision is to develop the island as a leading maritime and yachting hub in the Mediterranean. In the first nine months of 2021, the Malta flag registered a record increase of over 15% in the registration of superyachts over 24 metres – thus making the Malta flag the jurisdiction of choice and one of the leaders in this sector with almost 1,000 registered superyachts. This also means that over the past five years, Malta has doubled its registered superyacht fleet.

Malta's Ship Register has grown in number and reputation, and nowadays, the country is constantly adding high-class ships and yachts to its fleet. This is also a result of the excellent quality of service backed by various initiatives and strategies favouring the industry, offering a holistic package recognised by owners and industry stakeholders worldwide.

Being the most significant maritime flag in Europe gives Malta confidence and drive to replicate that success in the superyacht sector. In recent years, Malta has increased focus on further developing its yachting

Simple, transparent legislation and procedures and access to key decision-makers make Malta the embodiment of 'small is beautiful"

PROMO

p. 31

cluster, intending to attract and support the growth of several businesses in this vital sector. At the heart of this vision is the objective to develop further a jurisdiction that enjoys the operators' confidence and is respected by the industry.

Malta's geographical position has always given the island special strategic importance for trade, war, or pleasure. Today, the Mediterranean region is a popular global tourist destination and provides some of the

of the yachting cluster, providing technical services and ensuring that

world's most fascinating yachting experiences. Moreover, with the most

Malta becomes the clear choice for superyacht owners and managers for

appealing setting and a comprehensive range of facilities, Malta offers

their wintering, maintenance, and repairs. Malta is also a pick-up and end

many services: yards, marinas, surveying, maritime education, and multi-

destination for charters and a centre of maritime education and training.

service agencies. This creates the right environment for the island to

The latter is where Malta is working restlessly to develop innovative ways

become a resourceful service centre for every aspect of the superyacht

of addressing the gaps in this ever-evolving industry. It is indeed for this

service industry.

reason that in recent months several training courses explicitly catering for the yachting industry have been launched, together with a Yachting

A politically stable environment, a positive relationship with the other

Record Book.

EU Member States, a clear commitment to support the business development of high added value services, an attractive fiscal regime,

The 'can-do' approach is what makes Malta unique. Simple, transparent

a well-respected flag, and an efficient administration create the right

legislation and procedures and access to key decision-makers make

environment for this industry to consolidate further and prosper.

Malta the embodiment of 'small is beautiful'. The best testimony to this is the experience of the major players who have been in Malta for years.

The benefit of an increased market share and is one of the largest flag administrations in the world offers Malta visibility and confidence to

Further information may be obtained from www.transport.gov.mt/

venture into new territory. Malta's next challenge is to support the growth

maritime/ship-and-yacht-registry/superyacht-registration-146.

p. 32

EVENTS

AND THE WINNERS ARE ...

While the future of in-person yachting events might still be uncertain, there is one constant in the luxury yacht industry that even COVID-19 could not affect - the Cannes Yachting Festival. Bringing together some of the biggest names in the luxury yacht industry at the beautiful French Riviera, the Cannes Yachting Festival 2021 is what all boat enthusiasts wait year-round for.

This latest edition showed off what some of the most prominent builders in the industry are capable of. Since it was the closest thing to a big event that the yachting world has seen since the first lockdown meant an even more significant number of people attending. Over 450 motorboats were displayed over five days, and while narrowing it down to five was not easy, here are our ultimate favourites to keep an eye on.

EVENTS

p. 33

Absolute 60 Fly ↑ No article about Cannes 2021 is going to be complete without the 60 Fly motorboat that Italian yard Absolute has created: with a 50:50 split indoor/outdoor living space, a built-in infinity effect from the cockpit, and the flybridge, the Absolute 60 Fly is not only stunning to look at but one of the most spaciously-designed luxury motorboats that we’ve seen so far. Besides the room offered up by the Navetta-style bow, the 60 Fly also includes a double and a twin cabin with ensuite, and it’s serviced by a pair of 6-cylinder blocks that can reach a smooth speed of up to 30 knots. absoluteyachts.com

Swan Shadow ← Jarkko Jamsen, the genius behind the ClubSwan 50, has struck gold again with his design for the Swan Shadow, a large powerboat with a two-step V-hull and a triple outboard.

Motors are inlaid within the aft overhang to mimic the look of the deck furniture, and the sleek deck can seamlessly move from passerelle to swimming platform.

Best of all, the Swan Shadow opens customizability to the consumer by allowing for four different styles of hardtop and deck lengths and layouts. It includes a double ensuite beneath the foredeck, but if you ask us, the honey-gold deck looks good enough to sleep on. We’re also incredibly fond of the movable glass panels, which can turn the vessel from open to sheltered in a second. swanshadow.net

p. 34

EVENTS

Solaris Power 44 Open ← The Solaris Power 48 was one of our favourite boats from the previous year, so the much smaller Solaris Power 44 had a significant impact to surpass, and it’s sailed past our wildest expectations with flying colours pistachio green, to be correct, and a striking and unique shade that we predict will be coming up a lot more for sports cruisers.

But beyond the stunning appearance of the Solaris Power 44, it packs the same kind of punch that its predecessor did. It has retained the wide-open deck from the 48 but accentuated the space by including a wet-bar unit and a top that provides shade for the helm.

Pardo E60 Endurance ↓

In addition, an option to have folding terraces and a bathing platform is available. Still, the

Sailing specialists Pardo have elevated the

bare specifications of the Solaris alone are

game for day boats with their E60 Endurance,

enough to please any sports cruising enthusiast

an impeccably designed floating funhouse

- and that’s without going into the Volvo Penta

with an unmistakable hull. Svelte and sharp,

diesel engines included, propelling the Solaris

the E60 Endurance uses angled windows and

Power 44 up to a speed just under 40 knots.

high bulwarks to turn expedition cruising into a luxury experience. With a built-in terrace that can be lowered and raised depending on the owner’s wishes, the E60 Endurance might not be the smallest or the fastest. Still, it has one of the roomiest and most contemporary designs of any expedition boat seen at Cannes this year.

Featuring a kitchen built for entertaining and both an owner’s suite, VIP forward, and a twin room, the E60 Endurance is one of the boats that we’re most excited to see more about. pardoyachts.com

solarispower.com

EVENTS

Pershing 6X → Finally, you can’t end an article about Cannes 2021 without talking about the Pershing 6X, the latest speed-demon cruiser from Pershing. Built entirely to capitalise on speed, the v-shaped hull and the twin MAN V12 1550 engines push the top speed of the Pershing to 48 knots, with a cruising speed of a slightly lower 42.

But the Pershing 6X isn’t just about speed: it’s also a comfortable way to speed from port to port. With an expansive lounge area and a sun pad built into the profile of the Pershing, as well as three tucked-away guest cabins and bathrooms, the Pershing 6X is all about pleasure and speed and hot days spent in the sun. pershing-yacht.com

Cannes 2021 is always an exciting show to watch and a better one to attend, and while this year is met with many challenges, it’s gratifying to see that not much has changed for the Cannes Yacht Festival.

p. 35

bloom@bloomcreative.com.mt The design studio behind MONEY and some of Malta’s biggest brands.

bloomcreative.com.mt

New beginnings have never looked better.

PROMO

p. 37

NEW VAT CHANGES Simplification measures for chartering activities by yachting companies.

A short-term* chartering activity is deemed to occur in the country

How does this work?

where the vessel is placed at the customer's disposal. This means that if a vessel is being made available for chartering in a member state other

Example 1

than where the supplier has established their business, based on the rule mentioned above, the transaction would be subject to VAT at the rate of

A Maltese company owns a vessel chartered to a private individual who

that member state. Thus, the business entity making the vessel available

requests to onboard the vessel for chartering in Spain. Naturally, to the

for chartering would be required to either be identified for VAT in the

extent that the duration of the chartering is less than 90 days, the place

Member State where the vessel is placed at the disposal of the customer

of supply of the chartering activity is in Spain and VAT at the rate of 21%

or else appoint, if possible, a VAT representative in that jurisdiction to

should be charged to the customer. However, given that the Maltese

handle its VAT payment and VAT compliance obligations.

company is established in Malta (i.e. in the EU), it may only apply to the Malta VAT authorities to benefit from the OSS regime. Through this

However, as of 1 July 2021, a simplification measure has been introduced

regime, the Maltese company does not need to be identified for VAT in

to alleviate the administrative burden on businesses that transact in a

Spain. Still, it will have its VAT obligations in Spain, i.e. the Spanish VAT

Business-to-Consumer (B2C) context where the transaction is subject to

payment handled through submitting the OSS return to the Malta VAT

VAT in a member state other than where the supplier has established his

authorities.

business.

Example 2 Such simplification measure was introduced due to the enormous success of the VAT Mini-One Stop Shop (MOSS) applicable to

A Turkish company (not in the EU) owns a vessel that will be chartered

telecommunications suppliers, broadcasting and electronically supplied

on a short-term basis to a non-taxable person in Italy. The place of supply

services (TBEs) to private individuals established in a member state other

is Italy, and therefore VAT at the rate of 22% should be applied. Like the

than that of the supplier. Practically, this simplification regime allowed

previous example, the Turkish company may apply to a Member State of

suppliers involved in the TBEs to register for VAT in one member state

choice to register for the OSS regime. Through that member state, it will

and to pay VAT of the jurisdiction where the customers are established

submit the OSS return and pay the VAT due in Italy or any other European

through the MOSS return. This has been extended to all B2C services

member state.

supplies, intra-community distance sales of goods, and certain domestic supplies of goods and renamed the One-Stop-Shop (OSS).

*Less than 90 days in the case of vessels

Zampa Debattista is an advisory firm with strong values of integrity and excellence, which help us keep high levels of customer satisfaction. We have built our reputation by offering If you are interested in learning more about this simplification

specialised services in the Indirect Taxation and Financial

measure, please feel free to contact us by emailing Brandon

Reporting areas, but we offer services in Direct Taxation and

Gatt at bg@zampadebattista.com.

Assurance areas through dedicated teams.

p. 38

SURFING

SURFIN’ MALTA Duncan Barry interviews Italian-born surfing expert Valerio Cicconi who has been surfing since age eight. He speaks about his surf school and the many benefits of this high-octane water sport.

Photograph by Xav Neg

SURFING

p. 39

Can you give us a brief about yourself and

Surfing provides several health benefits,

We don’t provide SUP yoga service. Instead, we

your experience in surfing?

including cardiovascular fitness, shoulder

provide SUP tours of three hours for beginners

and back strength will strengthen from the

who want to discover Malta’s beautiful

I am the founder of Malta Surf School, the first

paddling. Also, your leg and core strength,

coastline. In addition, we provide SUP and surf

and only ISA-certified surf school in Malta. I

strong legs and a strong core will keep you up

lessons for beginners, SUP and surf rental, and

am from Rome, Italy, and I’ve been hooked to

once you’re standing up on the board.

surf skate lessons to improve the technique of

surfing since I hit my first wave at age eight.

My first real taste of surfing was back in 2009

surfing in flat seas.

Is it more difficult to balance without a sail?

Are Maltese waters safe to surf in, and does

when I visited Hawaii, my first destination

one get to ride high waves?

outside Europe, where I spent the best six

Windsurfing is a different sport altogether,

months of my life.

which you can’t compare with surfing.

After that, I continued my travels, gained a

Does it take many lessons to get a hold of

surf, such as Ghajn Tuffieha, where our school

wealth of experience, and surfed many spots

surfing?

is located, the bottom is sandy with great

Malta has the best beaches for learning how to

in the Canary Islands, Australia, Bali, France,

waves for beginners. However, there are other

Portugal, Morocco, Sri Lanka, and now Malta. I

Some people stand up during the first lesson,

spots for advanced surfers in winter that want

love to experience the country’s tradition and

and others will need a few more lessons to

to try higher waves and more performance,

food and not just the surf. My motto is water is

understand the technique.

such as in Bahar ic-Cahaq (in front of Marley’s

my element, the surf is my passion, my lifestyle,

restaurant) or St Thomas Bay.

my everything; learn to surf, and you will be

Do you start lessons on land to help students

happy!

maintain a balance first before hitting the

These bays have reefs at the bottom, so the

water?

waves are higher and more hollow.

windsurfer, not board only. SUP seems to

Yes, we start on the beach with a warm-up,

Is the service provided throughout the year?

have picked up as late. Can you tell us about

where we show all the students the steps on

the kind of surfing you teach students?

how to paddle and how to stand up correctly on

Yes, we operate all year round, but it all

the board using the proper technique. When in

depends on the weather. The best thing is to

I teach traditional surfing, like the one you

the water, step by step, we will help them ride

follow our social media pages for updates. We

see in the movies. Where all you’ve got is

their first wave, have fun, and be safe in the

always post a couple of days before to indicate

the surfboard, your wetsuit, the leash (super

water.

where the waves are heading.

I attended a SUP yoga lesson. Do you provide

Facebook or Instagram at MaltaSurfSchool or

this service to clients?

visit maltasurfschool.com

Surfing in Malta is associated with a

important), your energy, and the waves.

What are the benefits of surfing?

p. 40

FOUNDATION

DIARIES AT SEA PART ONE: ACQUA-SITION How far would you go to get the boat of your dreams, Dayna Camilleri Clarke asks? One such Maltese family, Michael and Liza Parlato Trigona and their then two young sons, Tom and Seb, embarked upon a once in a lifetime adventure to find out.

FOUNDATION

p. 41

“Michael’s the organised, meticulous one”, began Liza, “He’s the one who put in months of obsessive research, sourcing which boat would best suit our family’s needs (seaworthy and sufficiently spacious as a liveaboard yet within budget) and tracking it down. We explored a few potential boats and eventually narrowed our search down to a 1978 Formosa 51, docked in Osor, a tiny village with a population of around 60 persons, literally wedged between the Croatian islands of Cres and Lošinj. Despite it being a near love at first sight experience, the couple were not blind to the gargantuan task that lay before them. Two visits and a thorough marine survey later, they concluded their deliberations and started planning all that needed to be done to safely sail her to Malta themselves, ahead of an extensive restoration project.

The family’s odyssey was meticulously planned. “We would fly to Venice, spend a couple of days exploring the canals and historic bridges, then catch a ferry over to Croatia. Then, after an estimated week or so work in

the shipyard, to make our new acquisition more habitable and seaworthy, we would set sail southwards towards Malta, accompanied by both our fathers. Both are avid sailors and were to be instrumental during our journey. My father’s pragmatic problem-solving and Liza’s father’s nautical and navigation expertise were critical” ... Everything was mapped out wonderfully.

And was that precisely what happened? “Far from it”, chimed Liza and Michael. “Though don’t get me wrong, we don’t regret a minute of the experience. But, let’s say things didn’t go exactly to plan!” reminisced Michael.

The family arrived in Croatia’s most northerly island late at night and went straight to their rented apartment. They awoke excitedly to claim their yacht, named L’Aigle D’Or. Liza continued, “After a scenic bus trip, we descended in Nerezine, a fishing village on the island of Lošinj and started winding our way towards the modest yacht yard, whose main custom came from local fishermen and their trawlers, apart from the odd luxury yacht, such as the one allegedly owned by Dr Oetker’s family.

The scent of rosemary was exhilarating until finally, it started to fade and gave way to the more overpowering and easily recognisable smells that could only mean one thing - we had arrived at the yard. We found L’Aigle D’Or docked alongside the quay, long and beautiful but a mere shadow of the presence she once commanded. We sprung aboard in a mixture of excitement and awe, both at the thrill of the realisation of a long-awaited

p. 42

dream realising but also the fear that the reality of that dream presented - lots and lots of hard work!

However, this feeling immediately gave way to shock. We were horrified that we had to resign ourselves to the realisation that our plans were slowly disintegrating.

Apart from demasting both wooden spars, all the structural and mechanical work scheduled to get done before our arrival had not started.

On top of that, we were left plodding our way through the wettest July on record in Croatia.”

The entire first week was filled with rain and more rain, causing the family to delay further the work that needed to be done aboard L’Aigle D’Or. At the first chance, the roof of the aft cabin, upon which the mizzen mast is stepped, was peeled off to reveal a soft mushy core and rotten mast base, which were changed, though with more delay, due to the relentless rainstorms.

Michael continued, “By this point, our 20m mast was now restored and painted, following the removal of 5m of rot, which left us with more time and TLC to lavish on the very needy deck, trimmings and interior. Finally, with the interior taking shape nicely, we managed to check out of our apartment as scheduled and slept aboard in a flurry of excitement and raindrops!”

Liza explained, “Days later, the rain finally ceased. But for good measure, old Aeolus threw in a bora to test our determination to sit this whole dream thing out without quitting. Well, it was not a full-scale bora but a mere ‘borino’, as the locals referred to it. It was a refreshing breeze but nothing too impressive considering that we are well accustomed to a few grigallati every year. But, at least the sun was shining, and the decks were dry, so our morale had raised a few notches, together with the amount of work that needed to be done.

We also decided to give the deck a fresh coat of paint, which helped reduce the many leaks below. But this was a matter of pride as white decks look much better than the scratched greyness on our deck. The boys and I started painting somewhat unsuccessfully, as, by the

FOUNDATION

FOUNDATION

p. 43

end of that evening, we did not have a brilliant white deck. It became a very patchy marked surface unwittingly embossed with footprints, handprints and elbow prints.”

Approximately a week and a half later, and somewhat behind schedule, disaster struck.

Liza recounted painfully, “I was in the galley preparing some starters, as we had befriended a couple living aboard another yacht, who was popping by for dinner when Seb came to help me, but in his usual style, he opted not to walk down the companionway but rather to swing down. Unfortunately, his hands slipped from the hatch, and he fell into the cabin, landing on his back. Two and half hours of driving, one ferry ride, two ambulances, many winding turns and three islands later, we reached the paediatric hospital on mainland Croatia.”

Fortunately, Seb was unscathed from his fall.

However, upon a long trip back to the yacht, the family were met with yet another torrential

He continued, “Finally, yet another hour later, three very branded, fully kitted men donning Gill hats and gear started setting up the rigging of SV L’Aigle D’Or. Still, it was more than 24 hours later that the crane launched the mizzen into place unceremoniously. On the other hand, the mainmast presented more of a problem, damaging the wood and its newly finished surface, as it entered the deck at the wrong angle.

With the masts and rigging in place, the riggers vanished as quickly as they had appeared, once again in another swirling storm.

It turned out that the riggers were in too much storm. Another week passed by of atrocious weather and bad luck as the workmen due to fix up

of a rush to complete our rig, so we spent the

the yacht created more work for the family.

next two days after they left trying to complete the job and redo some of what they did. I

“We had been waiting for the day our ‘barge’ was to earn her masts back and return to the status of

believe that now, we got our first taste of the

a sailing vessel, and we were very excited. We woke up early and waited. And waited. And waited.

much-feared bora wind. It blew and howled and

At midday, the arrival of the much anticipated ‘riggers’ was announced.

bared its ugly teeth, and all the while, we made the necessary preparations to set sail!”

Unfortunately, they did not make it to the boat. Instead, Michael was summoned to the local bar up the road from the yard and was informed that the best way to kick start a day’s work was by having

Did the family make it out of the shipyard?

a beer.

Find out in the next issue of Skipper.

p. 44

RESTORING TRADITIONS He drives around on two wheels as an alternative to four, and he'll be aboard anything if it has a set of sails.

Joe Morana talks to Peter Valentino about his recently acquired interest in Maltese traditional boats and his uncharted course to safeguard and keep this tradition alive, both through research and practical terms, in Malta and beyond.

When did you meet the sport of sailing, how did it happen, and what attracted you?

I was lucky and grateful to be introduced to practical sailing by a childhood friend of mine (Mario Psaila, Mariner magazine) on his homebuilt wooden Corrib class sailing dinghy and who soon after introduced me to sailing dinghy racing on his late father's classic 'Swordfish' class sailing boat, at a Birzebbuga Sailing Club regatta in the early 70s. After

HISTORY

HISTORY

p. 45

that, I never stopped sailing on various boats,

You've been passionate about traditional

colourful seaworthy wooden sailing dinghies

including dinghies, traditional 'lateen' wooden

boats for a while now, and you often sail

stored in garages are perhaps waiting for the

boats and yachts in competitive and non-

a Mirror 10 or a Miracle, as opposed to an

right person to grace our waters once again.

competitive events. I have just returned from an

Olympic Class boat. These are classics in

exciting sailing experience helming a traditional

their way, and I'm sure that many still have

For instance, at the Birzebbuga Sailing Club,

Italian 'lateen' sailing boat at a regatta in

one of these stored away in their garage.

there is a cautious silent revival of wooden

Stintino and Alghero in Sardegna.

What's your appeal to these people?

sailing dinghies, which are also active in alternative non-competitive sailing.

I have done most dinghy sailing on wooden (marine plywood) boats, which were very

'Rih fil-Qala' is a lecture you gave a few years

popular in the 70s and 80s. This was a period

ago and if I'm not mistaken this was held at

when dinghy sailing flourished, thanks to

the Maritime Museum and was co-organised

Mr Anthony Baldacchino (boat builder),

by Heritage Malta. If you had to sum this up,

who made owning a 'class' wooden sailing

what were the main points?

dinghy affordable. I am confident that many of your readers remember the significantly

The 'Rih fil-Qala' (Wind in the Sail) lecture

large numbers (very well over 100 entries) of

at the Malta Maritime Museum was initially

wooden sailing dinghies at the Maltese National

proposed by the Maltese Language Department

Championships at Ghadira, made up of a

at the University of Malta, intended for mature

variety of dinghy classes, including the Mirror

Maltese language students to identify and

Ten Miracles Marauders, Streakers, Enterprises,

record Maltese language maritime terminology

GP 14, Moths, Swordfish, Albacore, the odd

heritage directly relating to sailing. However,

Fireball etc.

it was subsequently extended to the public as part of the famous 'Birgu by Candle Llght'

This generation of dinghy sailors has moved

event. Consequently, the presentation's content

on, many of whom, to the much bigger sailing

was also developed to include the addition of

yachts. I recall that some of our most esteemed

the compass rose, the development of a sea

sailors started in one of these small sailing

craft with a reference to traditional Maltese

dinghies back then. For example, I am confident

boats, on sail configurations, rigging, points of

that the little 'Desperate Dog' rings a bell and

sailing and manoeuvring, in Maltese language

triggers smiles to some. Regrettably, dinghy

maritime terminology.

sailing has passed through a rather prolonged rough 'squall' for several reasons, and many

I'm aware that certain traditional sailing

years our bays and waters were conspicuous by

boats are being restored. What's your appeal

their absence.

to the public?

Nevertheless, I am sure that hundreds of these

Unfortunately, the past decades have seen ›

p. 46

RULES

the numbers of traditional Maltese boats (luzzu, kajjik ferilla, frejgatina) steadily decrease as the more modern GRP/fibreglass boats are efficient and more accessible and less costly to maintain. Yet we still have substantial numbers of professional and amateur fishermen taking good care of their respective 'luzzu', 'kajjik' or 'frejgatina'. In addition, some entrapeneaus have even modified their traditional 'luzzu' or 'frejgatina' for tourism purposes. Younger fishermen, however, tend to prefer modern GRP sea crafts for their work and leisure.

The newly formed Malta Traditional Boats Association (MTBA) aims are to safeguard, preserve and promote the Maltese traditional maritime heritage and, therefore, such conventional Maltese boats. As a matter of fact, the MTBA has acquired a 100-year-old firilla to restore it to its former glory rigged with the

I noticed that you often travel to Sicily and

fishermen used and the 'lateen' sail, used by

traditional 'Tarkija' (spritsail) and put to sea

beyond to traditional boat events. How's it

the large Gozo boats (Dghajsa tal-Latini), which

(The Firilla Project). Classic boat enthusiasts

like there?

were used to carry cargo and passengers

may follow and interact with the Malta Traditional Boats Association via Facebook.

between Malta and Gozo. In addition, the little In recent years, I have established meaningful

racing 'frejgatina tal-Laltin' sailing boats are

connections with Sicilian and Italians who

specifically modified, rigged and equipped

We can agree that keeping the tradition alive

own and sail Italian traditional 'lateen' sailing

for such purpose. 'Frejgatini tal-latin' sailing

is essential. However, it's a costly affair.

boats and the colourful Venetian 'Vela al Terzo'

races (regattas) used to be held ages ago

Are there any schemes or funds that a boat

(balanced lug sails). On the kind invitations of

(1930 till early 1960), in various bays and

owner can apply for? If not, what advice

these traditional Italian boat owners who are

harbours, including outside the Grand Harbour,

would you give any government?

good friends, I travel to Sicily and other parts

Marsascala, Marsamxett Harbour, St Julian's,

of Italy every year to participate as a crew

with Birzebbuga being the most conspicuous

Through the Department of Fisheries, the

member. Regrettably, the reality here in Malta is

and renowned for this type of sailing but which

Maltese government does offer limited

entirely different.

regrettably eventually had ceased by the early

maintenance grants for the repair and

60s.

maintenance of traditional fishing boats.

Traditional Maltese wooden sailing boats

However, this is primarily intended to assist

are conspicuous by their total absence: the

What's your outlook, and are traditional

fishermen. Therefore, it is restricted to

reason being the cost of building one and the

boats seeing a comeback?

conventional Maltese fishing boats registered

commitment and expenses required to maintain

under 'MFA' and 'MFB' (professional and part-

such boats.

time fishermen licensed to sell their catch).

There is considerable interest in Maltese traditional boats, and hundreds of enthusiasts

Other traditional Maltese boats registered

What's the best memory you have of sailing a

follow the Malta Traditional Boats Association

under 'MFC' or 'S' do not qualify for

traditional boat?

on Facebook. Thus, the MTBA has embarked

maintenance grants. On record, the MTBA

on an uncharted and challenging journey

has submitted its proposal to the Department

Whenever I step onboard a traditional boat,

to work towards the goal of having several

of Fisheries to extend he maintenance grant

it is a positive experience. But, unfortunately,

Maltese traditional wooden boats on our waters

scheme to traditional Maltese boats registered

while I have had positive sailing experiences

carrying the traditional sailing rigs, namely the

under 'MFC' and 'S', arguing that all traditional

on various Italian boats, I have not yet had the

'tarkija' (spritsail) and the Lateen sail.

Maltese boats contribute to our national

opportunity to experience a traditional Maltese

maritime heritage identity. This proposal,

sailing boat rigged with traditional sails.

however, requires to be 'championed' by other

Joe, on behalf of our readers, I thank you immensely, and I'm looking forward to a

ministries, such as the ministries responsible

The commonly used Maltese standard

possible follow-up interview on a restoration

for culture, tourism and transport.

sailing rig was the 'tarkija' (spritsail) the local

project of yours.

BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE | DESIGN

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BE SEEN WHERE IT MATTERS.

OUT NOW! Read on bemags.com

p. 48

X-POWER 33C MEETS THE WORLD

REVIEW

p. 49

With over 40 years of experience in high-performance sailing boats, X-Yachts has launched a new and extraordinary initiative - a 33-foot open powerboat for quality-conscious boaters with the same well-proven X-Yacht ethos. Fast and safe on the water, pride of ownership, innovative development and design.

The X-Power 33C is designed and built with one overall strategy - to comply with what is expected

by X-Yachts - ease of use. The technical equipment provides a spontaneous experience, as you only need to push one button, and you are ready to drive! The first 15 X-Power 33C produced will be equipped with every conceivable extra equipment. The control panel is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive to allow the driver to focus on the right task - enjoying the boat in comfort and safety.

The navigation and operation system is operated via two integrated 16" screens from Simrad.

With only a few operating items at the control console, the boat is easy to pilot for the driver in charge. The built-in control units fit seamlessly into the panel, and thanks to the illuminated display, intuitive guidance and large buttons, the panel is quick and easy to operate.

The cockpit of X-Power 33C is spacious, with three pilot seats and eight sofa seats. Moreover, For more information, contact

the cockpit table is height-adjustable, and in conjunction with its surrounding space, it can be

Sailpower Ltd. on

transformed into a sunbed near the bathing platform. Furthermore, the X-Power 33C has an

(+356) 7949 4500 or email

optional T-Top, creating the perfect protection from both sun and wind along with the standard

info@sailpower.com.mt or visit

windscreen. In addition, a bimini and cockpit tent is optional. The pantry is easy accessible aft of

sailpower.com.mt.

the pilot seats; it is practically designed and houses as standard a gas cooker and a 30L drawer fridge, with an optional second drawer possible.

p. 50

REVIEW

X56 YOU'VE BEEN NOMINATED! The X56 is nominated for the European Yacht of the Year 2022. A 12-people strong jury has voted for the X56 to be among the finalists in the Luxury Cruiser category.

Superior. Sailing. Pleasure. The X56 is a fifty-six-foot performance beast designed for serious sailing - like crossing the Atlantic or exploring the beautiful Mediterranean Islands level of sailing.

The X56 joins the hugely successful and critically acclaimed Pure X Range. The design philosophy was very clear from the outset - like all their luxury yachts, they focus on giving the owner a superb and

This is itself an achievement and can only get better from here. The X56 is going through test

comfortable sailing experience on a yacht that is easy to handle by all the crew.

sails in Barcelona in October, and the result

Light, strong and stiff With the introduction of the X-65 in 2007,

of these tests will be revealed at the Boot in

X-Yachts started to infuse hulls for performance yachts utilising epoxy

Düsseldorf in 2022.

resin. Epoxy infusion construction offers excellent control over the laminate, optimising it to maximise strength and stiffness whilst saving

REVIEW

p. 51

For more information, contact Sailpower Ltd. on (+356) 7949 4500 or email info@sailpower.com.mt or visit sailpower.com.mt.

Length

Beam

17.25M

4 . 89M

Displacement

Engine (Diesel)

18 . 8T

110 H P

Fuel

Water

550 L

58 0 L

weight. In the X56, all weight saved is used to increase the yacht's

their clean, timeless style. The X56 oozes luxury and has a great sense of

stability enabling the crew to have a more relaxed time and to feel safer

light and space, whilst maintaining practicality and functionality, with a

and more comfortable.

design that works as well out on the open sea as moored in a harbour.

In addition, the hull is cured, baked at high temperatures for almost 24

The flush deck hatches and coachroof side windows allow a lot of light

hours, optimises the hull material properties and minimises the risk of

into the boat and offer excellent ventilation. Large hull windows provide

the darker coloured hull surfaces suddenly starting posturing, losing the

fantastic views from the spacious saloon.

surface finish.

High-quality materials The X56 is offered in a range of finishes: Nordic With over ten years of experience building epoxy infused yachts, X-Yachts

Oak veneer is standard on all furniture, or optional teak can be chosen.

decided in 2018 to build all models using this technology, one of the only

All veneers are hand-selected in Italy by their specialists from one of the

yacht builders to do so.

most exclusive suppliers for the marine market for high-quality yachts.

When combined with the top-quality craftsmanship X-Yachts is famous

Interior craftsmanship Danish design and architecture are famous for

for, this translates to affordable luxury.

MUCH MORE THAN A SAILING BOAT

When Dufour’s know-how re-invents itself to craft the sailing boat of tomorrow. This results in a 47-footer yacht that is both beautifully designed and high-performance for incredible thrills. The Dufour 470 combines both Dufour’s know-how and the Brand’s desire to innovate.

Thus, this model enjoys the yard’s DNA while offering an edge of modernity in line with its predecessor.

Its hull design and the fluidity of its deck layout already make it an iconic sailing boat. Its modernity, simplicity, and elegance already make it a new “classic”: three models in one - Easy Version, Ocean Version, and Performance Version. →

The Easy version, a straightforward layout intended primarily for charter, with sheeting and control lines, led to a singular aft winch at the back of the cockpit coaming.

→

The Ocean model is aimed at owners wanting a more traditional layout, with the halyards and control lines led to the coach roof and the sheets led to the helm station – in essence, the cruising model for most prospective owners.

→

Finally, a Performance version sports six winches for main, genoa and pit, enabling constant sail trimming.

This three-deck layout in one hull model concept follows the bigger sister, the Dufour 530, which offers the same. Though it may be easy to dismiss this move as a marketing guff to cover a preference for

REVIEW

p. 53

Length

Beam

14 . 85M

4 .74M

Displacement

Engine

providing the same hull to a broader market,

front or side galley. The layout choices can

developments in hull shapes in recent years

accommodate more significant or reduced crew

have made it easier to incorporate a wider

numbers, sailing styles and comfort options.

13 .2T

60 c v

Ample deck storage is available via cockpit

Fuel

Water

250 L

53 0 L

variety of options into the one hull shape.

An interior layout in three versions

lockers, additional forward and aft stowage.

She comes available with 3, 4 or 5 cabin

There’s plenty of seating and the option for

layout options, with up to four heads and a

adding a large sunbed on the aft deck.

For more info contact S&D Yachts on (+356) 9920 3444, (+356) 2133 1515 or email info@sdyachts.com or dave@sdyachts.com

p. 56

FASHION

THE SAILORS' WARDROBE Skipper sails the sea of fashion.

STONE ISLAND Logo-appliquéd quilted coated-shell down parka

€1,070

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER II Oyster, 44 mm, Oystersteel and Everose gold

€23,500 / elcol.com

ARC'TERYX Aerios 30 nylon-rip stop backpack €190

All items available at mrporter.com

SALOMON Rx Moc 3.0 advanced mesh, neoprene and rubber slip-on running sneakers €100

FASHION

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI Shawl-collar virgin wool, cashmere and silk-blend cardigan

€2,500 BRUNELLO CUCINE Aviator-style tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses €3,990

STONE ISLAND Logo-appliquéd shell-trimmed fleece hooded jacket €575

KAPITAL Quilted cotton bucket hat

€150

HERSCHEL SUPPLY CO Re-sail patchwork recycled shell and canvas tote bag

€65 BRUNELLO CUCINE Spread-collar denim shirt €670

BRUNELLO CUCINE Straight-leg herringbone cottonblend cargo trousers €830

p. 58

FOR SALE

SWAN 60 RACING Unmissable elegance and thorough-bred class blend with sheer sailing performance to bring together the renowned SWAN brand. This amazing Swan 60 Racing is one of the few hulls built specifically for regattas, with an optimized carbon mast and keel and a recent refit to its belt.

Minutiously looked after and constantly upgraded for blue-water cruising, this is a rare opportunity to take over an exclusive yacht at a great price!

Must be seen to be appreciated. For more information, contact Christian at Malta Yachting on (+356) 9969 1169.

NEWS

MLI ULTRA 1250 BATTERY JOINS MASTERVOLT’S LITHIUM-ION RANGE

Mastervolt, part of Advanced Systems Group

as exceptionally high efficiency, the almost

(ASG) by Brunswick, is delighted to announce

complete absence of self-discharge and the

the arrival of the new MLI Ultra 1250, the latest

minimal build-up of the infamous ‘memory

addition to their Lithium-Ion battery range.

effect’. As with the whole MLI Ultra range, the MLI Ultra 1250 can be recharged within 60

Available in both 12 V and 24 V models, the

minutes.

MLI Ultra 1250 is the most compact battery in Mastervolt’s range and is ideal for marine

The MLI Ultra 1250 battery is equipped with a

and mobile applications. This is due to the

sophisticated Mastervolt Battery Management

high energy density within the battery cells,

System (BMS) that ensures optimal use of each

which offers up to 70% space and weight

cell. As you would expect from Mastervolt,

savings compared to traditional lead-acid

the MLI Ultra 1250 is completed with

batteries. Weighing just 15kg and measuring

MasterBus, CZone and NMEA2000 compatible

330 x 173 x 210 mm, the MLI Ultra 1250 offers

communication, allowing for a broad range

a considerable benefit for vessels and vehicles

of monitoring and system integration options

where space is at a premium. In addition, it

while maximising the lifespan of the batteries.

has been designed as a drop-in replacement for size Group 31 and Group 49 (85-90Ah)

In addition, the MLI Ultra 1250 has an integrated

batteries.

thermal heat-pad and sophisticated lowtemperature control to ensure maximum

The MLI Ultra 1250 has a realistic lifespan of

charging performance at freezing temperatures.

over 2000 cycles at an impressive depth of discharge (DOD) of 80%. This deep cycling

For more information, contact

means five times more energy storage than

Strand Marine Ltd on +356 2147 2337 or

lead-acid batteries thanks to features such

info@strandmarinemalta.com

shop online

flipflopstoremalta.com Free shipping on all orders over €50 Enquiries: +356 9944 0816 |