yacht race malta

The Rolex Middle Sea Race 2023 – THE ESSENTIAL DETAILS

THE ESSENTIAL DETAILS

With the 44th Rolex Middle Sea Race starting on Saturday 21 October, it is little surprise that the Royal Malta Yacht Club is currently a hive of activity. Final registration is in full swing, as the local volunteer team welcomes entrants from home and abroad. Whether watching on in Malta or from further afield, here are some essential details to make sure the spectating experience is as close to the action as possible.

One of the ‘must do’  600 mile offshore classics, the annual Rolex Middle Sea Race is both challenging and spectacular. Its renown stems from an enthralling and technical course, in simple terms an anticlockwise loop around Sicily. Featuring numerous ‘corners’, competitors face a diverse range of conditions and a series of complex tactical decisions.

Stats and Facts First held: 1968 Organising Authority: Royal Malta Yacht Club 2023 Start: Saturday, 21 October, Grand Harbour, Valletta (11:00 CEST)

Entry (at 16 October) 112 yachts representing 25 countries Smallest boat: 9.76m Muttley BDM Audit – Migliacci Group, Figaro 3, Luca Bettiati, Italy Largest boat: 32.55m Spirit of Malouen, Wally 107, Stephane Neve, Franc

National representation: Italy – 22 entries France – 12 Malta – 11 United Kingdom – 11 Germany – 8 United States – 7 Austria – 6

Furthest travelled crews: El Oro, Whitbread 73, Kent King, Australia Lucky, Juan K 27m, Bryon Ehrhardt, USA Kiboku Tatu, Arcona 380, Olaf Granander, USA TestaCuore Race, Cookson 50, Bob Pethick, USA Red Ruby, Sun Fast 3300, Christine & Justine Wolfe, USA Pyewacket 70, VO70 Mod, Roy Disney, USA Warrior Won, TP52, Chris Sheehan, USA Finn, Banuls 53, Jacopo Bracco, USA

Other countries:  Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Kazakstan, Lithuania, Monaco, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, San Marino, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.

Total LOA of all boats end to end: 1,650m – six and a half times higher than the highest point in Malta  – Ta’Dmejrek 253m above sea level – or just under half the height of Etna (3,357m)

Set in the heart of the Mediterranean and considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Starts and finishes in Malta, passes two active volcanoes and takes in the deep azure waters surrounding Sicily, and the Aeolian and Egadi Islands, as well as lonelier outposts of Pantelleria and Lampedusa, both closer to the African continent than Europe.

Length: 606 nautical miles (1,122km)

Outright Race Record: 33h 29m 28s, Argo, United States, Jason Carroll

Monohull Race Record: 40h 17m 50s, Comanche, Cayman Is, Mitch Booth

Main Trophies Rolex Middle Sea Race Trophy – overall race winner under IRC Time Correction Boccale de Mediterraneo – winner of ORC category RLR Trophy – winner of monohull line honours Captain Morgan Trophy – winner of multihull division on corrected time (MOCRA)

How to follow www.rolexmiddlesearace.com The main information hub Grand Harbour, Valletta: seven separate starts, at 10 minute intervals, from 11:00 CEST Saturday, 21 October 2022

Start Line:  between the Saluting Battery, Upper Barrakka Gardens (Valletta) and Fort St Angelo (Birgu) Various vantage points all around the Grand Harbour, high up on the bastions or at water level. Harbour access for spectator boats is restricted during the period of the start

Live Start:  streaming on Facebook & YouTube starting at 10:30 CEST, and on TVM, Malta’s main broadcast channel, also from 10:30 CEST

Live Updates:  streamed on Facebook each morning at 09:00 CEST, from Sunday, 22 October to Thursday, 26 October

Tracking :  https://www.rolexmiddlesearace.com All yachts are fitted satellite trackers (from YB Tracking) which continually update the position and ranking throughout the race

Social Media Channels YouTube    www.youtube.com/rolexmiddlesearace Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RolexMiddleSeaRace/ Instagram @rolexmiddlesearace TikTok      @rolexmiddlesearace Twitter     @rolexmiddlesea

Official Race Hashtags : #rolexmiddlesearace & #rmsr2023

Race Partners

In addition to the incomparable partnership with title sponsor Rolex that exceeds 20 years, the Royal Malta Yacht Club (RMYC)  is proud to be supported by Yachting Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority, whose contribution to the international promotion of the race and hospitality for attending crews is invaluable.

The RMYC is pleased to support the work of the Biological Conservation Research Foundation (BICREF), which conducts research into biodiversity and the impacts of fishing/aquaculture in the Mediterranean around Malta. The BICREF Award is presented the crew recording the best dolphin or whole sighting during the race, to help raise awareness of the various cetacean monitoring and protection projects ongoing in the Central and Southern Mediterranean. In addition, for the first time, the RMYC has entered into a partnership with the Maltese eNGO, Zibel, which aims to reduce the waste on the Maltese islands and restore natural environments to their most natural state.

ROLEX AND YACHTING

Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand’s enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie. Today, Rolex is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events – from leading offshore races such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting SailGP global championship in which national teams race identical supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous harbours. Rolex’s partnerships  with the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Royal Ocean Racing Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Yacht Club Italiano, New York Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron, among others, are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.

Edwards Lowell, as an Official Rolex Retailer, are the only retailers allowed to sell Rolex watches. With the necessary skills and technical know-how, we will help you make the choice that will last a lifetime.

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Press Release: The Royal Malta Yacht Club .

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ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE: A BEAUTIFUL COURSE, A RELENTLESS CHALLENGE

Geneva, 10 October 2023 - The Rolex Middle Sea Race, which marks its 44th edition in 2023, is one of the world’s premier classic yacht races. Starting on Saturday, 21 October, the 606-nautical mile (1,122 kilometres) race is a stringent test of sailing prowess. Partnered by Rolex since 2002, the reputation and international profile of the contest has risen considerably over the course of its 55-year history, reaching heights quite unexpected when it was first held in 1968. For this year’s race, a fleet of more than 100 yachts is anticipated, representing 25 countries and crewed by some of the best and most passionate offshore sailors.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is one of several 600-mile races supported by Rolex as part of its near 70-year partnership with the sport of yachting. As with historic counterparts the Rolex Fastnet Race and the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, crews are drawn to its compelling challenge and unique characteristics.

For Rolex Testimonee Tom Slingsby, a two-time Rolex World Sailor of the Year and a helmsman on the overall winning yacht in 2021, his first Rolex Middle Sea Race appearance proved memorable:

“The racetrack is beautiful. Going around islands in changing conditions with a lot of geographical factors at play and then finishing where we started. I will definitely be back.”

Renowned US yachtsman Paul Cayard, another past competitor and Rolex Testimonee, rates the spectacular course as one of the key attractions:

“With all its history and rugged beauty, the Rolex Middle Sea Race is one of the most impressive in the world. You are at the crossroads of the Mediterranean. The race has everything – an amazing energy at the start in Valletta, regular contact with wildlife and an unfolding passage around breathtaking islands . ”

Five-time Olympic medallist Robert Scheidt, also a former participant and Rolex Testimonee, emphasizes the significant examination faced by the crews:

“A long race like this is a challenge and your accomplishment is as part of a team. There is so much work behind these races: getting the boat to the start, preparing the sails, the rigging and the crew, managing the shifts between day and night, keeping people rested and in good form to do their job well. It is a big project, and if you achieve your potential, it is a great feeling .”

It is a sense of achievement that competitors have felt since the race was founded by a group of Corinthian sailors eager to test their skills and resilience by racing offshore. This core spirit has remained central to the success of the race over the years.

Another aspect that has not changed is the race starting and finishing in the same place. The start from the Grand Harbour in Valletta, the capital of Malta, is one of the most eye-catching in sailing. Spectators line every vantage point as cannons positioned high above the water signal the departure of the yachts. Thereafter, the primarily anti-clockwise circumnavigation of Sicily breaks into several distinct sections, each with its own reputation and appeal. Two active volcanoes – Etna and Stromboli – feature high on the list. UNESCO protected, the volcanic Aeolian island of Stromboli is the undeniable symbol of the race and rounding it in daylight or darkness is a highlight for all crews. Other notable legs include the perennially fickle Messina Strait, the rugged and beautiful Egadi islands on the north-west corner of the course, and the isolated Italian islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa, closer to Africa than Sicily, that precede the open-water leg back to Malta.

The location of the race and its timing can pose significant weather challenges. Competitors frequently meet punishing winds and brutal seas, mixed with periods of benign calm. For the fastest boats, finishing within 48 hours is considered an impressive run, characterized by two intense days at sea with minimal chance for rest. For the majority of the fleet, the race can take between four and six days. Preparation, teamwork, knowledge and experience sailing out of sight of land for long periods are crucial. Human and physical resources need to be managed carefully, with the demands on both constant and draining.

The Royal Malta Yacht Club, which has organized the race since its inception, takes the task of curating the event with serious intent, as Commodore David Cremona explains:

“In recent years, the Rolex Middle Sea Race has firmly established a reputation as one of the must-do offshore classics. Its most passionate advocates are past competitors, many of whom return time and time again to participate. In partnership with Rolex, the club is resolute in putting both the competitors and the future of the sport first as we evolve and develop. Proof of our successful approach is the great diversity within the fleet in terms of nationalities, boat types and experience .”

For many, completing the Rolex Middle Sea Race is achievement enough, but for those who do well, the final prize-giving is an opportunity to be acknowledged by their peers. The most significant awards are the Rolex Middle Sea Race Trophy and Rolex timepiece presented to the overall winner on handicap. Reflecting the democratic nature of offshore sailing, during the period of the Rolex partnership, yachts from 35 to 100 feet (10.68–30.48 metres) have claimed this honour and a deserved place in the history of this exceptional contest.

ROLEX AND YACHTING Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand’s enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie. Today, Rolex is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events – from leading offshore races such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting SailGP global championship in which national teams race identical supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous harbours. Rolex’s partnerships  with the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Royal Ocean Racing Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Royal Malta Yacht Club, New York Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron, among others, are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.

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• 2023 | Day 3 – Unica
• 2023 | Day 3 – JYS Jan
• 2023 | Day 2 – Freya

Flat to the mat on the good ship Freya here boss. Trailer park hurled it round the outside early last night and slipped by the park up after portopalo. In very good company with Artie and Co much to the delight of our Maltese bowman Fabio Galea, having traded tacks up the Italian mainland beach’s.  Gradual left shift from here to the fire breathing island now.

Crew in strong spirits and working hard at every opportunity.

• 2023 | Day 2 – JYS Jan

“Our first 24hours of the 2023 Rolex Middle Sea Race, were as expected strong winds leading all the way to capo passero with  waves getting bigger as night fell. Once past Capo Passero  we had some fluky moments wind shifting from side to side, a  lot of sail changes and a strategic decision had to be taken as to whether stay on the inside  – took that decision and seems to be paying off as we joined other competitors as we are reaching the Messina straight. Wind is reaching around 15 knots. team is well rested and well fed as we continue on this journey. Thanks for your support -Claudio Bugeja, skipper – JYS Jan

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” Good afternoon! We are in good spirit, had a great downwind up to the transition and then spent the night working to limit our losses in conditions that don’t suit our boat. Few technical issues but we have managed just fine. Messina is as good as it can get, breeze all the way through and in daylight! Locking into the beat now up to Stromboli. Bit more work then would like to make the ground back but it’s not too far, especially if we can crack off for the rest of the race. I think we have plenty of opportunity to do damage we just need to be patient. Life on board is as you would imagine being 3.2 meters wide and 8 of us. It’s cramped” –  Sam Hall

2023 | Day 2 – Unica

Jamie Sammut, skipper of Unica and the crew give us a thumbs up, following in what were Jamie’s own words a tough night.

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2022 | day 4 – morpheus.

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Malta Rolex Middle Sea Race: A Classic Yacht Racing Epic

October 12, 2023.

In its 44th edition, the Malta Rolex Middle Sea Race promises to be an unforgettable classic yacht racing extravaganza. This iconic event, partnered with Rolex since 2002, is a testament to the skill and passion of sailors worldwide. Starting on the 21st of October, this challenging 606-nautical mile race will push participants to their limits.

A Gathering of Elite Sailors

Drawing elite sailors from across the globe, this classic yacht race anticipates over 100 yachts representing 25 countries. Crewed by dedicated offshore sailors, the race celebrates talent and tenacity.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race isn’t just any race; it’s a gathering of elite sailors from around the world. With a history spanning 44 years, this race has evolved into a prestigious event that attracts some of the best maritime talent on the planet. More than 100 yachts from 25 countries come together, crewed by dedicated offshore sailors who are eager to put their skills to the test.

A Tradition of Excellence

Part of Rolex’s enduring commitment to challenging 600-mile races, the Rolex Middle Sea Race, like its historic counterparts, the Rolex Fastnet Race, and the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, offers a unique challenge.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is part of a longstanding tradition of excellence, reflecting Rolex’s unwavering commitment to supporting challenging 600-mile races. It stands alongside legendary races such as the Rolex Fastnet Race and the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. These races are known for pushing sailors to their limits, offering a unique blend of competition and adventure.

Renowned by Sailors

Sailors like Paul Cayard and Robert Scheidt, both past competitors and Rolex Testimonees, praise the race’s impressive course, energetic start in Valletta, encounters with wildlife, and breathtaking island passages.

When renowned sailors like Paul Cayard and Robert Scheidt share their experiences, you know this race is something extraordinary. These sailing legends, who have both competed in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, commend the race’s remarkable course that combines history and rugged beauty. It starts with an energetic kick-off in Valletta, where the Mediterranean’s crossroads set the stage for an incredible journey filled with encounters with wildlife and breathtaking island passages.

A Heritage of Adventure

Founded by Corinthian sailors testing their skills and resilience in offshore racing, the race’s spirit of adventure remains intact.

The roots of the Rolex Middle Sea Race harken back to its Corinthian origins. It was founded by sailors eager to test their skills and resilience in offshore racing, a spirit that continues to define the race’s essence. This heritage of adventure is what keeps the event fresh and exciting year after year.

General Informations about the race:

An Iconic Start and Finish

The race begins and ends in the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta’s capital, offering a visually stunning start with cannons signaling the yachts’ departure.

One of the most iconic aspects of the Rolex Middle Sea Race is its start and finish location. The race commences from the Grand Harbour in Valletta, the capital of Malta, providing a visually stunning spectacle as cannons positioned high above the water signal the yachts’ departure. It’s a moment that captures the essence of this grand event and draws spectators from near and far.

Navigating Challenges

The race circumnavigates Sicily, featuring distinct sections with their own challenges, from active volcanoes to tricky straits and rugged islands.

Sailing around Sicily is no small feat, and the Rolex Middle Sea Race is up for the challenge. The race circumnavigates the Italian island, offering sailors a diverse set of challenges, from navigating tricky straits to passing rugged islands. And let’s not forget the active volcanoes—Etna and Stromboli—that add an extra layer of excitement to the course.

Conquering Weather Challenges

Unpredictable weather patterns add to the race’s complexity. Fast boats aim to finish within 48 hours, while others take between four to six days. Crews must manage physical and human resources meticulously.

Mother Nature plays a significant role in the race, with unpredictable weather patterns adding complexity to the already challenging course. Fast boats aim to cross the finish line within 48 hours, a feat that requires relentless effort and minimal rest. On the other hand, some crews may take between four to six days to complete the race, demanding meticulous management of physical and human resources throughout.

A Proud Legacy

The Royal Malta Yacht Club, the race’s organizer since its inception, emphasizes both competitors and the sport’s future. The event draws diverse participants in terms of nationality, boat type, and experience.

The Royal Malta Yacht Club has been the driving force behind this prestigious race since its inception. In recent years, the Rolex Middle Sea Race has gained recognition as one of the must-do offshore classics. Its appeal goes beyond just elite sailors, as past competitors, representing diverse nationalities, boat types, and experience levels, return to participate time and time again. The commitment to both competitors and the future of the sport is evident in the race’s success and inclusivity.

A Rewarding Finish

Competitors who excel have the chance to be recognized by their peers, with the most prestigious awards being the Rolex Middle Sea Race Trophy and a Rolex timepiece presented to the overall winner on handicap.

The race is more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity for competitors to gain recognition from their peers. The most prestigious awards are the Rolex Middle Sea Race Trophy and a Rolex timepiece, awarded to the overall winner on handicap. These prizes are a symbol of excellence in the world of yacht racing.

For Participants and Spectators Alike

The Rolex Middle Sea Race offers an unforgettable experience for both sailors and spectators, embodying the enduring spirit of yacht racing.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is more than just a race; it’s an experience that captures the enduring spirit of yacht racing. Whether you’re on board as a participant or cheering from the shore as a spectator, this event promises unforgettable moments that celebrate the essence of this remarkable sport.

How to Follow the Race

For those looking to track the race or receive updates, several resources are available:

• Race Tracker : All participating yachts are equipped with tracking units, allowing you to monitor their progress during the race.Want to keep a close eye on the action? The Rolex Middle Sea Race has you covered. Every participating yacht is equipped with tracking units, enabling enthusiasts like you to follow their progress during the race. You can watch as they navigate the challenging course, witness their triumphs, and share in their challenges.
• Race Updates: Stay informed through the official website and race social media channels. Regular press releases cover entries and race details. Updates are provided daily during the race, highlighting the day’s action and fleet progress.

Stay in the know with the latest updates on the Rolex Middle Sea Race. The official website and race social media channels provide a wealth of information. From entry details to daily race highlights, you’ll find it all. Regular press releases keep you updated on the latest developments, and during the race, daily updates ensure you’re in the loop regarding the day’s action and fleet progress.

Main course distances:

Grand Harbour, Valletta (start) – Capo Passero (Sicily) 55nm Capo Passero – Messina Strait (exit, Punta del Faro) 98nm Messina Strait – Strombolicchio 35nm Strombolicchio – Favignana (Egadi Islands)150nm Favignana – Pantelleria 74nm Pantelleria – Lampedusa 90nm Lampedusa – Comino 94nm Comino – Marsamxett Harbour (finish) 10nm

Current Race records:

The outright race record is 33 hours 29 minutes 28 seconds set by Jason Carroll’s MOD 70 Argo (USA) in 2021

The monohull race record is 40 hours 17 minutes 50 seconds set by the 100 foot / 30.5 metre Comanche (CAY) in 2021

A Race of Milestones

The Rolex Middle Sea Race offers a picturesque racecourse with numerous landmarks. It circumnavigates the Italian island of Sicily in a counter-clockwise direction, incorporating its outlying islands into the course.

The race is more than a mere competition; it’s a journey filled with milestones. As the yachts circumnavigate the Italian island of Sicily, you can expect to encounter numerous landmarks and breathtaking views. The course, following a counter-clockwise direction, incorporates Sicily’s outlying islands, each with its own unique charm and significance. It’s a voyage through history, from ancient Greek mythology and the Roman Empire to the Byzantine era, the rise of Islam, the reign of the Kings of Spain, the era of the Crusades, the Napoleonic Wars, and all the way through to World War II.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is not just a competition; it’s a voyage through history and a celebration of human achievement. It encapsulates the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of excellence, and the enduring passion for yacht racing.

As the excitement builds for the 44th edition of this iconic race, sailors and spectators alike eagerly anticipate the next chapter in its storied history. The Malta Rolex Middle Sea Race is a classic yacht racing extravaganza, representing the very essence of maritime excellence and the unrelenting pursuit of adventure on the high seas. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or an enthusiastic spectator, this race promises a thrilling experience like no other. So, mark your calendar for the 21st of October, when this exceptional event kicks off, and get ready to witness a remarkable display of skill, determination, and sheer love for the open water. The Malta Rolex Middle Sea Race is where legends are made, and history is etched on the waves. Don’t miss it!

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How to follow the Rolex Middle Sea Race

• Toby Heppell
• October 20, 2022

The 43rd Rolex Middle Sea Race starts this weekend from its spectacular start line in the middle of Valetta harbour, in Malta.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is one of the classic 600-mile offshores, but the only one that takes place in the Mediterranean. Despite its scenic backdrop, the Middle Sea Race is run over a genuinely challenging course – an anticlockwise loop around Sicily which usually provides varied conditions and requires complex tactical decisions.

The race often draws some of the biggest boats on the offshore racing scene chasing for the prestigious line honours win. However, the 2022 edition of the Middle Sea Race has a surprising lack of maxi monohulls making an appearance, with neither defending champions Comanche , nor Skorpios or Rambler 88 (also past challengers for line honours) taking part this year.

The largest yacht competing in the IRC monohull fleet this year is the 100ft Leopard 3 , a likely contender for monohull line honours. Their nearest challengers in size is the Wally/Judel Vrolijk-designed Bullit , at 93ft, followed by the Marten 72 Aragon .

Some of the closest racing is likely to be among the 60-70-footers, which includes Vismara , Botin and other custom designs racing against VO60, VO65 and VO70 ocean warhorses.

Rolex Middle Sea Race course

The start and finish of the 606-nautical mile Middle Sea Race take place in Grand Harbour, Malta. The course sees the boats sail counter-clockwise around Sicily and a number of surrounding islands.

Shortly after the start the fleet must sail along the eastern coast of Sicily and through the Straits of Messina, considered one of the most technically demanding parts of the course thanks to its challenging currents and funnelling winds: the whole event can often be won or lost in this early part of the course. Once through the Straits the course leads north to the Aeolian Islands and the active volcano of Stromboli where the yachts turn west to the Egadi Islands.

The fastest yachts will endeavour to complete the course in less than 48 hours. Last year ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ conditions resulted in the course record being broken for the first time in 14 years. The maxi trimaran Argo set a new outright benchmark of 33 hours, 29 minutes and 28 seconds, while the100-foot Comanche established a new monohull record of 40 hours, 17 minutes and 50 seconds.

Given the near-perfect conditions last year when these record were set and some of the worlds fastest monohulls taking a year away from the race, it seems unlikely this year will be a record breaking one for single hulled racers, but if the conditions play ball, the multihull record might well still be up for grabs.

Favourite for line honours among the MOCRA entries this year will be Giovanni Soldini’s heavily modified former Multi 70 (formerly a MOD70), Maserati . Maserati has been developing an experimental foiling programme for many years and is a regular competitor in the Middle Sea Race. They will face challenges from four other non-foiling MOD70s, who’ll be hoping for a fast and furious race forecast.

How to follow the Middle Sea Race

The Rolex Middle Sea Race start will be live streamed on Facebook & YouTube starting at 10:30 CEST Saturday 22 October 2022.

Live Updates: streamed on Facebook each morning at 09:00 CEST, from Sunday, 23 October to Friday, 28 October

You can also follow the race via the race tracker at: yb.tl/rmsr2022

Full list of Middle Sea Race entries.

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Home / Regattas and places / Malta / ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE 2024

ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE 2024

Activity level, event language.

About event

Start : Valletta, Malta

Finish : ix-Xatt Ta' Xbiex, Ta' Xbiex, Malta

Participate in the famous offshore Rolex Middle Sea Race in Malta! Yachts start from Valletta, and sail past Sicily and the islands of the autumn Mediterranean! Enjoy the Gulf of Messina, which connects the Ionian Sea with the Strait of Tyrrhenia, after which you will see the active volcano Stromboli and the pirate island of Lampedusa.

The next day, the teams will test their readiness in the Rolex Middle Sea Coastal Race, which will help to get to know the waters and organize the work of the team. After the awards ceremony, there will be the key event - the Rolex Middle Sea Race Crew Party! A great chance to relax before the main adventure of this year. 150 yachts will sail a circle of 600 miles in 7 days, coming back at the end again to the port of Malta, where there will be the award ceremony!

Have you already chosen a team to test your strength under the scorching sun and sea spray? Join the crew that suits you in spirit! Even if you are a beginner, we will help you find a team in which you will feel comfortable and learn the basics of yachting.

from €2,500 / 11 days / 1 pers.

Offers and pricing

This is my first time, is this ok.

Beginners without experience can participate in the regatta, since on the yacht there is always a professional skipper with extensive experience who will teach you everything you need for your role on the boat. In addition, as a rule, there are experienced yachtsmen in the crew who will help you get settled and feel comfortable.

What is included and not included in the price?

As a rule, the cost of participation in the regatta includes:.

— accommodation on a yacht for the duration of the regatta;

— bed linen and towels;

— organizational fee;

— skipper services;

— the cost of mooring in marinas;

— basic sailing training;

— a yacht polo or t-shirts from the organizers.

Additional expenses you will need to pay:

— airplane tickets and transfer to the marina;

— a visa. However, we will give you an invitation and confirmation of accommodation booking for the embassy. Visas for sporting events are easy to get;

— personal expenses.

You cannot choose a team?

Events schedule.

The schedule will be added later

The race begins in the medieval Malta and goes past Italy's largest island ─ Sicily. Through the Strait of Messina you will reach the islands of Stromboli, Pantelleria and Lampedusa, after which the regatta will finish in Malta. *Regatta dates are approximate. The exact dates will be published later.

No comments, be the first one!

Can i participate in a regatta if i don’t have yachting experience.

Yes, of course. There will be an experienced skipper and team members on the yacht. They will give you a role and teach you everything you need to know to be a useful team member and feel comfortable.

Will I be able to steer a yacht?

Yes, all team members will definitely try themselves in different roles to better understand each other. Standing at the helm is an integral part of training for beginners as well as setting sails, and helping the team during moorings.

Where will I live during the regatta?

As a rule, participants in the regatta live on the yacht. The boat has everything you need for a comfortable stay: nice beds, a kitchen, a shower with toilet. If you do not want to live on a yacht, then you can arrange to stay at the hotel onshore.

What will we eat?

The crew decides altogether what kind of food they prefer to eat and makes necessary purchases. Simple dishes can be cooked, usually taking turns. Some regattas offer daily meals and intensive evening program for all crews.

Do you help with a visa?

We can make an invitation for a visa, but you need to apply for a visa by yourself.

Will I have seasick? What should I do if I have sickness?

Most people tolerate some seasickness easily. If you feel that you are starting to feel sick, it is best to get at the steering wheel or tune the sails. Get yourself busy, show your body that you don’t have time to get sick, you have to fight for victory in the race. There are also many quite effective medicines from sickness. If you start taking them in advance, then the probability of seasickness is almost zero.

How and where will I meet the crew and the captain?

Before each trip, we organize an online meeting where participants get to know each other and the captain. The captain will answer all your questions. The crew will have a group chat so you can get to know each other before the start of the regatta. Then you will meet in the marina.

What clothes do I need?

The main rule is to dress comfortably and according to the weather. Clothing: • windbreaker and pants or shorts; • shirt/jacket with UV protection (thermal underwear and fleece); • adjustable hat/cap; • gloves. We recommend to purchase a long-sleeved jacket with UV protection in order to protect yourself from the sun and strong wind. Yachting shoes should be: • light, with non-slip white outsole; • with the fixed heel; • with a tightly closed nose. During the sailing without shoes, you can fall or injure your fingers and feet on the deck. There are many protruding parts on the boat that are easy to catch. Unfortunately, even experienced sailors are not protected from unpleasant injuries when they ignore this simple rule.

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in the beginning

In an inspired moment, Paul insisted that, if the Royal Malta Yacht Club was to be involved, the race should be centred on the Malta, both starting and finishing there. As a result, the racecourse became a circumnavigation of Sicily including Lampedusa, Pantelleria and the Egadi and Aeolian islands. The chosen course, at around 610nm, would be a similar distance to the RORC’s own famous offshore event, the (then, 608nm) Fastnet Race, sponsored by Rolex since 2001. The initial decision was to sail the route clockwise, heading from Malta to Lampedusa.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race was created as the result of sporting rivalry between two British yachtsmen residing in Malta, Alan Green and Jimmy White, and two Maltese sailors, Paul and John Ripard, both members of the Royal Malta Yacht Club.

Alan (who would go on to become Secretary of the Royal Ocean Racing Club) and Jimmy had proposed a racecourse that was longer than typical in the region, and one designed to offer an exciting competition in windier autumn conditions. The original suggestion was for a course that would start in Malta and finish in Syracuse, Sicily, in one year and then start in Syracuse and finish in Malta, the next.

The Ripards presented the idea to the main committee of the RMYC, who enthusiastically backed the concept despite only six months notice to the inaugural race. Alan agreed to run the event on two conditions: he was given complete authority over the arrangements and that he could compete.

Malta's commitment to the new race spread from the top to the bottom. The then Governor-General, H.E. Sir Maurice Dorman, just happened to be the RMYC Commodore and his early support helped to open doors.

For Alan the race’s success was unquestionable from the outset:

“ The qualities, challenge and attraction of sailing the seas of classical history with spectacular scenery including two active volcanoes, the only tidal strait in the Mediterranean, and the friendly island base of Malta with its British heritage - and not least the warmth of the water in autumn - contrasted sharply with [the] experience of offshore racing in northern waters. In matching the length of the Fastnet, Bermuda, and Sydney Hobart races, I was sure we had a winning formula. ”

Contributions came from all quarters. Vice-Commodore Colonel G. Z. (“Tabby”) Tabona secured a battery of howitzers from the Royal Malta Artillery to mark the start, Sir Hannibal Scicluna, Head of the Malta Museums Department, agreed to the use of Fort Manoel in Marsamxett Harbour to host both the start and Race Control. The British navy installed necessary telephone lines and close to the event laid a trot of temporary moorings in Sliema Creek. Meanwhile, the Malta Electricity Board hooked up a power supply and lighting. The Malta Tourism Board used its network to help distribute the Notice of Race and other promotional material, and also arranged free moorings for some international competitors. During the race, the British airforce flew a reconnaissance aircraft each day to take photographs, while both British and Italian navies engaged warships stationed in the course area to help with position reporting.

Emvin Cremona, one of the country’s leading artists whose postage stamps were eye-catching and original, was commissioned via the Malta Tourist Board to produce the main trophy for the race. Cast in bronze, the trophy design powerfully and uniquely confirms the ties between sailing and Malta.

The first race attracted eight entries. Alan Green and Jimmy White competed on Sandettie, John Ripard secured a Swan 36, named Josian with a young Arthur Podesta among the crew, and Paul Ripard raced aboard the legendary Dutch maxi yacht, Stormvogel, skippered by Cornelis Bruynzeel. The Italian navy entered its training yacht, Stella Polare, and other entries included the Nicholson 32 Barada, Pedlar, Yanda and Dream of Holland, which unfortunately retired at Pantelleria. While Stormvogel was first to finish, the eventual overall winner was the smallest entry, Josian, giving John Ripard and the Maltese nation a landmark opening victory. The final prize giving was a black-tie affair, and the guest of honour was Sir Francis Chichester, fresh from his ground-breaking solo circumnavigation of the world.

Most importantly of all, the race was on the map. Over the following decade or so, it attracted some of the biggest names in international yacht racing enhancing the reputation and appeal, and confirming Alan Green's estimation of the race's value to the sailing world.

The Modern Era

The 28th edition of the race in 2007, looked ready to continue the run of record breaking fleets, with 69 yachts registered and in Malta. However, the weather charts indicated a deep trough of low pressure heading south from northern Europe and reaching the middle of the Mediterranean within the 12 hours of the start and striking the fleet as it made its way around the course. So extreme was the threat, some 16 yachts decided to withdraw on the day before.

Conditions for the start could not have been more perfect, with a solidly north-westerly enabling crews to exit Marsamxett Harbour in good order. The big boats including George David's 90 foot Reichel/Pugh maxi, Rambler (ex. Alfa Romeo), the 75ft Titan 12 and the 60ft Loki powered off towards Sicily in the freshening breeze.  During the next 24 hours some 22 yachts retired including Titan 12 as the wind built to gale force. While Rambler scorched around the course, the destruction in her wake was emphasised by the eventual loss of Loki on the northern shore of Sicily after catastrophic gear failure that left the Australian yacht without steering and unable to jury-rig an alternative in the turbulent conditions. Thanks to the bravery of the Italian airforce and coastguard, the crew of Loki was rescued without injury.

Despite their own equipment problems, the crew of Rambler found a way to harness the frontal system and keep on trucking. Once the north-western corner of the course was turned, the downwind afterburners were switched on in 40-45 knots. Only 17 yachts would go on to complete the course, including remarkably one double-handed entry, Slingshot. Rambler would go on to set a new course record of 47 hours, 55 minutes and 3 seconds, bettering the previous one by some 16 hours. Despite bigger, faster, technically more advanced yachts challenging the benchmark time over the intervening period, it would take 14 years for it to be beaten.

In 2001, a revitalised Race Committee brought some fresh thinking to the Middle Sea Race. A more targeted and aggressive marketing strategy was introduced. Most importantly, the search for a new title sponsor was initiated. In 2002, Rolex SA came on board, following two years of involvement with the Malta Rolex Cup. In the years since, the race has witnessed a remarkable increase in entries, growth in the quality of crews and their boats, as well as near global appeal.  For many years, the record fleet had been 34 set back in 1974. In 2002 that number was finally broken, with 42 yachts crossing the start line. The number would steadily increase, virtually each year, doubling by 2012 and breaching the seemingly impossible barrier of 100 in 2014, when 122 yachts took part. Apart from 2020, when for Covid reasons only 50 yachts entered, the fleet has exceeded 100 entries, which a current record of 130 set by the 50th anniversary in 2018.

The 2009 race marked great change for the race and the RMYC. It almost witnessed a new record. For the first time the race started from  Grand Harbour - a significant alteration to past routine that required verve and nerve to pull off. More exceptional, though, was the change of clubhouse from Manoel Island to Ta'Xbiex, undertaken in a handful of months and including a complete renovation of the new premises. The 30th edition offered a hard and fast deadline that was met with enthusiasm, passion and success.

The 69-boat fleet set off to the sound of gunfire from the Saluting Battery, high above the water. Crowds filled every vantage point witnessing at first hand the dawn of a new era in the classic race. Mike Slade's 100 foot ICAP Leopard led the charge on the water from a posse of fast maxis including Beau Geste, Bella Mente and Rán. The weather was not as straight-forward as 2007, but the big boats could sense a record passage could be on, particularly with strong winds from the north-west predicted to arrive as the front runners were exiting the Strait of Messina.

Early conditions saw a mix of squalls and calms, that took a toll on the fleet. By the Sunday evening though, Leopard had rounded the north-west corner of the track and was only two hours off record pace with the fastest segment still to come. By Monday morning at Lampedusa, the gap had narrowed to just over an hour and on the leg to Comino  excitement built as it continued to narrow.  In the end, Leopard fell just short, losing out by just 34 minutes. Andres Soriano and Alegre claimed the overall win under IRC, following their line honours win in 2008. 

The 35th edition of Rolex Middle Sea Race in 2014 is most memorable for marking the first fleet to exceed 100 entries.  122 yachts started the Mediterranean classic, under blue skies and brilliant sunshine. The international fleet from 24 different countries set off in light winds, but a variety of conditions were forecast and experienced. The 100 ft Slovenian canting keel maxi Esimit Europa 2, owned by Igor Simcic, led the way around the course and secured line honours for a fourth time, although someway off the record. Meanwhile, a forecast frontal system struck the north-west corner of the course leading to the retirement of over 20 yachts as storm force winds exceeding 50 knots and big seas created havoc. The Maltese J/122 Artie, co-skippered by Lee Satariano and Cristian Ripard, endured one toughest 24 hours in the history of the race to prove its credentials for a second occasion (the first was in 2011) and win the race overall under IRC Time Correction.

2015 was notable for a number of reasons. Sadly, it marked the passing of Arthur Podesta who had competed in every race from 1968 to 2014, and still holds the record for the longest, unbroken participation streak and most number of races. Arthur's three children have continued the family tradition and have even won the race twice with their yacht, Elusive 2. The year also saw the first appearance of a racing multihull. Lloyd Thornburg’s MOD 70 Phaedo 3, co-skippered by Brian Thompson. Weighing a mere 7,000kg and sporting a rotating, canting mast, the trimaran enjoyed a spirited run to complete the course in 59 hours 29 minutes 41 seconds. Five hours later George David crossed the finish with his new maxi, the 88 ft Juan K designed, Rambler. This would be the first of five successive line honours wins for the boat. Frustratingly for George David and his all-star crew conditions were never good enough for a record attempt until their sixth go in 2021 when they were up against bigger, more powerful opposition. The overall win under IRC went to Michele Galli's TP52 B2 for a second time. B2 finished just before midnight on Tuesday 20 October just ahead of Vincenzo Onorato's Cookson 50 Mascalzone Latino, which lost out by 9 seconds on corrected time.

2016 proved to be Vincenzo Onorato's redemption year, as the Cookson 50 Mascalzone Latino secured the overall win by four hours from sistership, Cippa Lippa 8. George David's Rambler 88 took monohull Line Honours for the second year in a row. In the Multihull Class all eyes were on the contest between  Phaedo3 and Giovanni Soldini's Multi 70, Maserati. Maserati arrived in Malta with structural damage and could not use its full foiling package. Phaedo3 held an early advantage and appeared unassailable until a catastrophic error in navigation shortly after Pantelleria resulted in Phaedo3 finishing behind Maserati and failing to beat the race record, which has looked a possibility. As it was Maserati, lowered the Multihull time to 49 hours 25 minutes and 01 seconds.

The 50th anniversary race in 2018, amassed a new record fleet of 130 yachts representing 29 countries. The 115 ft Baltic, Nikata, became the largest entry to compete following the lifting of the 100 foot entry limit by the RMYC, something several other offshore races had done in recent years.  Entries included a good mix of maxi monohulls and multihulls, as well as a swelling pack of smaller yachts including a sizeable double-handed entry. The first 24 hours proved once again that race is as much a test of concentration and perseverance in light airs as it is seamanship in heavy conditions. By the time the big winds arrived the slower yachts had been at sea for over two days and were only half way round the course. The leaders by contrast had their sights firmly on the finish. Maserati secured a second multihull line honours,  Rambler racked up a fourth straight monohull line honours, while Géry Trentesaux's Courrier Recommandé from France eventually finished after three and a half days to etch its name on the Rolex Middle Sea Race trophy.

Maltese yacht Elusive 2, skippered by the Podesta siblings Aaron, Christoph and Maya, and George David's Rambler, took the main plaudits in 2019. Respectively winning overall and monohull line honours in a race that required persistence and patience in conditions that veered from the benign to the malign. 2020 was the year of the pandemic. Covid 19 brought much of the world to a halt let alone sporting contests. The 41st Rolex Middle Sea Race was one of handful of sailing events to be held, with the RMYC showing leadership, resilience, commitment and endeavour in pulling it off. Unsurprisingly, much reduced fleet of 50 yachts took part. It was still an impressive achievement in the circumstances. Conditions presented a contrasting examination to those of 12 months earlier. Light winds dominated making every mile mentally challenging. The Podesta siblings and Elusive 2 achieved the rare feat of back to back overall victories, last witnessed in 1980 by Nita IV. I Love Poland was an extremely popular line honours winner.

The 42nd edition of the Rolex Middle Middle Sea Race was one of the most spectacular and challenging races for many years, especially for the smaller boats. At times, during the 606 nautical mile expedition, gale force winds and tumultuous seas battered the fleet. Jason Carroll’s MOD70 Argo was first to finish, taking multihull line honours, posting a time that also secured a class win under MOCRA Time correction and lowered the outright race record by an impressive 14.5 hours, finishing in 33 hours, 29 minutes and 28 seconds.

Another course record was set by the 30.48m/100ft maxi Comanche (CAY). Comanche achieved the trifecta of overall winner, monohull line honours and a monohull race record. Comanche’s race record of 40 hours, 17 minutes and 50 seconds was based upon the full course distance of 606nm which it completed, while victory under IRC was over a shorter course distance following the RMYC's decision to finish yachts using the Alternative Finish Line at the South Comino Channel due to the threat of a severe north-easterly making the Marsamxett Harbour finish line untenable. Following considerable disquiet about the impact of the Alternative Finish line on the IRC results, a full review was undertaken and steps were taken to ensure the rules and regulations surrounding the race were fit for purpose. In the course of he review, the club sought feedback from competitors and guidance from the RMYC’s longstanding race partners, including RORC. The result of the painstaking process was a strengthening of the Race Committee through the integration of external, professional support.

2022, the 43rd in the long and illustrious history of the Mediterranean’s most demanding and renowned 600 mile offshore race, will be remembered for light winds, dogged determination and the remarkable imagery from the racecourse. Its character, so diametrically opposed to the previous year, it is hard to imagine the two races took place over the same track at the same time of year.   

The 43rd edition’s fleet ranged in size from 30 feet (9 plus metres) to 100 ft (30.5m) and included some of most powerful monohulls and multihulls competing on the international racing circuit. 

Riccardo Pavoncelli’s Italian MOD70 Mana was first to finish less than a minute ahead of French sister ship Zoulou and ten minutes before the Italian Multi70 Maserati. Joost Schultz’s Dutch entry, the 30.48m / 100ft maxi Leopard 3 secured monohull line honours, while Eric de Turckheim was a very popular overall winner under IRC with Teasing Machine, the French NMYD 54.

The 43rd edition, some of the class wars were intense affairs to the finish, while others have appeared walkovers as the competition missed catching the wind train or suffered other injustices in the fickle winds.

The 2023 edition of the Mediterranean’s most demanding and renowned 600 mile offshore race will be remembered for the mix of conditions and emotions experienced by the international fleet. Unusually, the weather favoured both mammoth and minnow, turtle and hare.

The 44th Rolex Middle Sea Race fleet was sent on its way on Saturday 21st October. 110 yachts representing 26 nations crossed the start line, their 1000 plus crew from close to 50 countries 

A powerful maxi will be remembered for an unexpected offshore success, while one of the smallest boats will be recalled for a breath-taking performance that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Overall winner the 93 foot Bullitt, and second placed 33ft double-hander Red Ruby, separated by only 24 seconds in corrected time, but forever joined in legend.

The 45th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race will start on Saturday, 19 October 2024.

2023 | BOV Gozo Weekend Regatta

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The buzz, excitement and adrenaline generated by the Rolex Middle Sea Race further whet sailors’ appetite for racing. A highly anticipated weekend of racing in Malta and Gozo , the BOV Gozo Weekend Regatta generally consists of two passage races as well as a series of round the cans races in the North Comino Channel.

Race Schedule 10th November – Passage Race to Mgarr 11th November – Round the Cans Races 12th November – Passage Race to Marsamxett

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8th November – 1800hrs – RMYC

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