Yacht rental in Malta Catamarans and monohull
A Small Archipelago – Big Experiences. Turquoise bays, the Knights of St. John’s stone walls, and a sun-soaked Mediterranean kitchen. Short distances mean more stops, more swims, and less engine time.
The Comino Lagoon defines the color “impossible blue.”
Marinas in the heart of Valletta and St. Julian’s offer urban comfort between crystal coves.
Expect world-class diving sites, and anchorages beneath centuries-old fortresses.
One week here—and you’ll still feel there’s more to discover.
The sea is clear, the history even clearer, and the smile unforgettable.
In Greek terms, Malta is like a “compact Saronic Gulf”—everything within short sailing range and line of sight, with no long crossings.
WHERE TO SAIL
Malta is a small island so it would be a bit strange to divide it into sailing areas. Most charters and commercial yachts depart from the central, eastern area of the island, around Valletta such as Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour.
Here are some places to visit, depending on the weather conditions.
Valletta–Grand Harbour & Marsamxett
Sailing between the medieval walls, entering one of the most beautiful ports in the Mediterranean.
Anchoring in neat marinas with plenty of amenities.
Evening stroll through the alleys of Valetta and Birgu.
Morning Shannon, refueling, shopping—and heading north.
Northern Malta
St. Julian’s – Portomaso, St. Paul’s Bay, Mellieha
A vibrant mix of clubbing, fine dining, and sandy beaches — the perfect blend of urban life and coastal escape.
Enjoy short, easy sails between sheltered bays under stable summer skies.
Excellent logistical access and marina facilities, though the area can get busy in July and August.
An ideal starting point for a quick hop to Comino and its turquoise lagoon.
Arrival: Malta International Airport (MLA)
Comino & The Blue Lagoon
These are the waters people come to Malta for — crystal-clear, luminous, and unforgettable.
Arrive early in the morning or at sunset to experience the magic without the crowds.
Respect the swimming zones and navigation corridors — anchoring or tying to marker buoys is not permitted.
Spend the day swimming, paddleboarding, and capturing stunning photos, then enjoy a quiet anchorage nearby as evening settles.
Arrival: Malta International Airport (MLA)
Gozo
A smooth arrival into Mġarr Harbour, with seaside restaurants right on the quay.
Discover small, tranquil bays and take short walks to charming hilltop villages.
The dramatic western coast (Dwejra) is stunning — best visited in calm weather.
It feels like an “island within an island” — the perfect choice for a relaxed week without missing out on adventure.
Arrival: Malta International Airport (MLA)
Gozo port in Malta. Taken by Rémi Stosskopf
Skipper's Information
Sailing License
In practice, most charter companies in Malta require an internationally recognized certificate such as ICC, RYA Day Skipper, or ASA 104, and sometimes a VHF radio operator license.
This is outlined in local charter and sailing-school regulations.
Some operators may accept an Israeli “Mishit 30” license based on proven sailing experience and a detailed logbook—but without an ICC/RYA/ASA qualification, there’s a risk of rejection.
Weather
Malta is a small rock in the middle of the Mediterranean, and any slight change in wind direction completely changes the rules of the game between the eastern and western sides. Here is the professional division of the “calm side” versus the “stormy side”:
1. The eastern and northeastern side (the “calm” side in general)
This is the area where most of the marinas (Velta, Mestia) and the famous bays are located.
Sea conditions: On most summer days, when the wind is Majjistral (northwesterly), this side is in the “shadow” of the island. The sea here will be relatively flat (Flat water), which is great for anchoring and swimming.
The danger: The Grigal (northeasterly) wind. This is Malta’s fearsome wind. When it blows, it pushes high waves directly into the eastern bays and marinas. If the forecast says “Grigal” – do not anchor on this side, it becomes a nightmare of shaking.
2. The West and South-West Side (the "wild" side)
Here you will find the high and dramatic cliffs (Dingli Cliffs).
Sea conditions: This is the side exposed to the open sea and the prevailing winds. The sea here is usually much more "choppy". Even on a beautiful sunny day, there can be a significant SWELL (shore waves) coming from afar.
Why come anyway? The view is simply breathtaking. There are bays like Fomm ir-Riħ that are real gems, but they are only safe for anchoring when the wind is very weak from the east – which does not happen every day.
Skipper tip: Always check the forecast in the morning. If the wind is strong northwest (over 15 knots), stay on the eastern side of the islands. If the wind is easterly – escape to the western side or to a well-protected bay like Mellieħa Bay.