VisitMalta has announced its support for the Rolex Middle Sea Race 2025, reaffirming Malta’s position as a leading destination for world-class nautical events. The internationally acclaimed offshore yacht race will see over 120 yachts set sail from the Grand Harbour in Valletta on Saturday, 18 October 2025, embarking on an anticlockwise journey around Sicily in what has become one of the most spectacular races in global sailing.
The event, now recognised as one of the most prestigious fixtures on the international sailing calendar, will transform Valletta and the surrounding harbour area into a vibrant hub of maritime celebration. Visitors and locals alike are invited to witness the start of the race and take part in a weekend filled with tradition, sport, and Maltese hospitality.
A Spectacle on the Water
The Rolex Middle Sea Race is famed for its dramatic start, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Malta’s Grand Harbour. The 2025 edition will begin at 11:00 hours, with the sound of the cannons from the Saluting Battery signalling the start of each class. Seven separate starts will take place at ten-minute intervals, offering spectators a sequence of thrilling moments as yachts glide past the historic bastions of Valletta and Birgu.
The starting line, stretching between the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta and Fort St Angelo in Birgu, is considered one of the most iconic settings in world sailing.
The Best Views of the Action
Visitors can enjoy excellent vantage points around the Grand Harbour to experience the excitement of the race. Recommended locations include:
- Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta
- Great Siege Bell and Mediterranean Conference Centre Road
- Sea Level Ring Road of Valletta from Fort Lascaris along Quarry Wharf
- Fort St Angelo, Birgu
- Senglea Point Gardens (Vedette)
- Birgu Waterfront
These spots will offer panoramic views of the yachts as they navigate the narrow harbour channel before heading out to open sea.
A Celebration on Land
The day will also feature cultural performances and traditional displays across Valletta and Birgu. In Valletta, the In Guardia Reenactment Troupe will parade between the Grandmasters’ Palace and Upper Barrakka Gardens, bringing a touch of Maltese history to the proceedings. In Birgu, the Jackson Pipe Band will perform near Fort St Angelo in the morning, while the Bormla Scouts will march along the waterfront. The walls of Fort St Angelo will be adorned with the colours of the Knights of St John as part of a tribute to Malta’s maritime legacy.
Heritage Malta Opens Its Forts
To mark the occasion, Heritage Malta will offer special access to two historic sites on race day.
At Fort St Elmo in Valletta, visitors can enjoy half-price entry and panoramic views of the race start. The National War Museum, housed within the fort, will also be open, offering an exploration of Malta’s maritime history from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Meanwhile, Fort St Angelo in Birgu will host an exclusive VIP area for 100 guests from 10:00 to 12:00, providing unrivalled views of the race. Guests will be treated to refreshments, an open bar, and access to the fort’s exhibitions. Tickets, priced at €35 for adults and €30 for Heritage Malta members, are available online or at all Heritage Malta sites and museums.
Malta’s Maritime Spirit
The Rolex Middle Sea Race 2025 represents more than a sporting challenge. It is a celebration of Malta’s enduring connection to the sea and its centuries-old role as a maritime crossroads. From Valletta to the Three Cities, restaurants, shops, and bars will join in the festivities, creating a vibrant nautical atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Mediterranean.
With its combination of competitive sailing, historic settings, and cultural celebrations, the race offers both visitors and residents a unique opportunity to experience Malta at its most dynamic.
For the full programme and live race tracking, click here.
