Sailing in Malta: Mediterranean Island Sailing Guide (2026)

Best season

Apr–Oct

Difficulty

Beginner–Int

Avg. charter

$1,700–$4,400/wk

Main base

Valletta, Msida

In this guide

Overview
Valletta & the Grand Harbour
Gozo
Comino's Blue Lagoon
Day sailing & passages
Best time to go
FAQ

Overview

Malta's position at the center of the Mediterranean — equidistant between Gibraltar and the Suez Canal — has made it a strategic naval base for every Mediterranean power since the Phoenicians. For sailors, this history translates into extraordinary harbours: the Grand Harbour of Valletta is one of the great sailing arrivals in Europe, and the island's limestone fortifications are visible from sea for miles. Malta itself is tiny (316km²) but its archipelago of Malta, Gozo, and Comino offers surprisingly varied sailing.

Approaching Valletta from the sea — one of the most spectacular harbour arrivals in the Mediterranean

Valletta & the Grand Harbour

Arriving in Valletta's Grand Harbour under sail is an unforgettable experience. The honey-coloured limestone fortifications of the Knights of St John, the Baroque architecture of the capital (Europe's smallest, a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the working harbor all create a scene unlike any other Mediterranean port. The Msida Marina and Ta' Xbiex Marina are the main charter bases — walking distance from Valletta's old city.

Gozo

Gozo, Malta's smaller, greener sister island, is a 30-minute ferry or 45-minute sail from Malta. Mgarr Harbour is the main anchorage — a small, picturesque bay with a medieval fort on the headland. Gozo's famous Azure Window sea arch collapsed in 2017, but Dwejra Bay (where it stood) remains a spectacular anchorage with a dramatic underwater cave accessible by dinghy.

Comino's Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon between Comino and the tiny island of Cominotto is Malta's most photographed spot — shallow, brilliant-turquoise water over white sand, enclosed by limestone cliffs. It's spectacular from the water and extremely popular with day-tripper ferries in summer. Arrive before 0800 to anchor before the crowds; or visit in September/October for a completely different experience.

Day sailing & passages

Malta's compact size makes it perfect for day sails — circumnavigate Malta in a day (25nm), do the Comino circuit in an afternoon. For longer passages, Sicily is just 90km north (an easy overnight or long day sail), and Tunisia is 290km south. Malta is a popular stop on the ARC Europe rally and the Rolex Middle Sea Race route.

Best time to go

April through October. May and June are ideal — warm, reliable winds (typically the gregale NE or xlokk SE), and manageable crowds. July and August are peak season. Malta's position makes it susceptible to sudden strong winds from several directions — the gregale in particular can reach force 7–8 in winter.

Frequently asked questions

Is English spoken in Malta?

Yes — English is co-official with Maltese. Malta was a British naval base until 1979 and English is widely spoken, making it one of the most accessible destinations for English-speaking sailors.

Are there any sailing hazards around Malta?

The main hazards are the ferry traffic entering Valletta's Grand Harbour, fishing nets along the northern coast, and the occasionally violent gregale (NE wind). The waters are well-charted and the coastline well-lit.

Can I sail from Malta to Sicily?

Yes — the crossing is approximately 90km (48nm), usually an overnight passage or long day sail. Mazara del Vallo or Marsala on Sicily's western tip are the most convenient arrival ports.

Is Malta a good sailing destination for beginners?

Yes — the enclosed waters around Malta, Gozo, and Comino offer sheltered sailing, the Grand Harbour is easy to enter, and the day-sail distances are manageable. Avoid winter (November–March) when the gregale can be hazardous.