Tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta’s unique geographical position has always been one of its greatest assets. From the days of ancient seafarers to today’s globe-trotting business elites, this little island nation has been a magnet for anyone seeking great sea and air connections. Fast forward to today, and Malta is buzzing with trade, tourism, and a growing yachting scene. With its fascinating mix of timeless history and modern facilities, it’s become a go-to spot not just for curious travellers, but for yacht owners and businesses eager to set sail into prosperous waters.
Ilma and Evrima’s Grand Entrance in Valletta's Majestic Harbour
Malta’s impressive ports have seen their fair share of jaw-dropping arrivals, but the recent visit of two mega yachts, Ilma and Evrima, truly stole the show. These floating masterpieces, part of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, cruised gracefully into the Grand Harbour, turning heads and leaving both locals and tourists starstruck. It was a grand entrance that felt almost like a reunion, with the harbour welcoming these giants like old friends.
Valletta’s Grand Harbour, one of the oldest and most picturesque in the world, is no stranger to luxury vessels. It’s played host to cruise liners like Celebrity, Marella, P&O, Oceania, and Princess, and even snagged a spot on Yahoo!Life’s ‘25 stunning cruise ports to inspire your next voyage’ list. With its stunning ancient fortifications as a backdrop, the harbour stands as a testament to Malta’s old lover-affair with the sea.
But it’s not just about the history—Valletta’s harbour is more than capable of rolling out the red carpet for the world’s most luxurious superyachts. From charming sailboats to these sleek Ritz-Carlton vessels, Malta’s mix of old-world charm and modern facilities makes it the go-to spot for yachts of all sizes. The arrival of Ilma and Evrima wasn’t just a show of sleek engineering; it was a reminder of Malta’s centuries-old love affair with the sea and its ever-growing reputation as a yachting haven.
The Ritz-Carlton Touch - Setting Sail in Style
Ilma and Evrima aren’t just any yachts—they’re the Ritz-Carlton of the seas. And like their five-star hotels, these yachts take luxury to a whole new level. With sleek designs, state-of-the-art amenities, and lavish interiors, these yachts redefine what it means to sail in style. Imagine lounging on deck, glass of champagne in hand, with the Mediterranean sun dipping below the horizon. Or perhaps you’re indulging in a gourmet dinner cooked by world-class chefs, all while the crystal-clear waters of Malta sparkle around you. The Ritz-Carlton’s yachts are a moving testament to the art of fine living. This blend of luxury and mobility appeals to high-end travellers seeking an extraordinary experience, one that combines the tranquillity of the sea with the refinement of a five-star hotel.
And where better to start your luxurious journey than Malta? With its central location between Europe and North Africa, Malta is the perfect jumping-off point for a Mediterranean cruise, and its rich maritime tradition makes it a paradise for yacht lovers. Whether you’re sailing to explore the coastlines or simply soaking up the sun, there’s no better place to enjoy the high life at sea.
Why Register Your Yacht in Malta?
The Mediterranean’s Best-Kept Secret
Beyond its aesthetic appeal and rich history, Malta holds another ace up its sleeve: it’s one of the top spots in the world for yacht registration. Whether you own a sleek superyacht or a mega yacht like Ilma or Evrima, Malta offers a host of perks for yacht owners. It’s not just about the scenery either; Malta’s yacht registry is one of the oldest and most respected out there. In fact, when it comes to superyachts over 24 metres, Malta’s ship register ranks first with the most registrations worldwide.
So, what makes Malta the place to be for yacht registration?
For starters, the process of registering a yacht is straightforward and efficient, backed by a strong legal system that’s designed to tick all the right boxes for yacht owners. Malta’s maritime laws are internationally recognised and highly regarded, making it a no-brainer for anyone wanting to register their yacht. Add in the appealing tax incentives, competitive registration fees, and a VAT setup that works in your favour, and owning a yacht in Malta isn’t just a luxury—it’s a smart move for your wallet, too.
But that’s not all. Malta’s strategic position gives you easy access to all the must-see Mediterranean ports. Fancy a trip to Sicily or the Greek islands? You’re perfectly positioned to explore the region. And thanks to Malta’s deep-rooted maritime tradition, you’ve got access to top-tier services like maintenance, repairs, and crew management. Whatever you need to keep your yacht in tip-top shape, Malta’s got it covered.
If you’re interested in taking advantage of all these perks, our team at DZ Advisory is here to help. Whether you’re buying, registering, or managing a yacht, we’ll guide you every step of the way, making sure you enjoy the best of what Malta has to offer.
Chartering in Malta - Where Adventure Meets Business
For those looking to turn their yacht into a revenue-generating asset, Malta offers a thriving chartering industry. As one of the Mediterranean’s top destinations for tourists, the demand for yacht charters continues to grow. Chartering a yacht in Malta opens up opportunities for business ventures, allowing owners to capitalise on the island’s popularity among high-net-worth individuals and luxury travellers.
Whether you’re sailing along Malta’s rugged coastline or heading out to explore neighbouring islands, Malta’s strategic location makes it a charterer’s paradise. Crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and a rich cultural landscape ensure that charter guests have an unforgettable experience. And with a registered yacht in Malta, owners can rest easy knowing that they’re operating within a jurisdiction that supports and encourages the maritime industry.
If you’re ready to charter your yacht in Malta, you can send us your specific requirements. Whether it’s holiday planning, private chefs, or any other special touches, we’ll make sure everything’s sorted and ready to go for an incredible experience at sea.
Have You Heard about the Rolex Middle Sea Race?
This year Malta’s love affair with the sea isn’t just about welcoming superyachts; it’s also home to one of the most exciting yachting events in the world—the Rolex Middle Sea Race organized by the Royal Malta Yacht Club. Every October, the island plays host to this prestigious 606-nautical-mile race, and this year’s edition is the 45th!
The race was born from a friendly rivalry between two British yachtsmen, Alan Green and Jimmy White, and two Maltese sailors, Paul and John Ripard. All members of the Royal Malta Yacht Club, they dreamed up a race that would push sailors to their limits. Fast forward to today, and the Rolex Middle Sea Race attracts competitors from all corners of the globe.
The race kicks off in style from Valletta’s stunning Grand Harbour, with the start signalled by the traditional saluting battery at the Lower Barrakka Gardens. From there, yachts sail anti-clockwise around Sicily, and with 606 nautical miles of open sea, there’s no shortage of high-seas drama and intense competition. Malta’s prime spot in the Mediterranean, combined with its rich maritime history, makes it the perfect stage for this epic race, cementing its place as a must-visit for yacht lovers and maritime fans alike.
Malta’s Maritime Legacy — A Tradition that Stands the Test of Time
Malta’s rise as a global yachting hub didn’t happen overnight. The island has been steeped in maritime tradition for centuries, and its yacht registry is a reflection of this proud history. Recognised as one of the best in the world, it’s been steadily growing each year, attracting yacht owners from far and wide. Whether you’re the proud owner of a small sailing boat or a majestic superyacht, Malta’s registry has you covered, offering the highest standards of service and support.
This long-standing tradition of excellence is what sets Malta apart from other yacht registries. The island’s deep-rooted connection to the sea, combined with modern infrastructure and a forward-thinking approach, ensures it’s always one step ahead in the yachting world. That’s why yacht owners keep coming back, knowing they’re in good hands with a registry that combines heritage with innovation.
Setting Sail for Success
In a world where the finer things in life are always in demand, Malta stands out as a destination that offers not just beauty, but opportunity. Its ports, such as Valletta’s Grand Harbour, welcome the world’s most prestigious yachts, while its yacht registry provides owners with unparalleled benefits. Add to this Malta’s rich history, strategic location, its gorgeous beaches, and luxurious offerings, and it’s clear why so many are choosing to drop anchor here.
Whether you’re looking to explore the Mediterranean in style, register your yacht, or tap into the island’s thriving charter market, Malta is the place where your yachting dreams can become a reality.
At DZ Advisory we’re here to help you navigate the waters and organise the best chartering experience or straightforward yacht registrations. Get in touch with us, and let’s set sail on your next adventure!
Photo credits: ILMA and EVRIMA Mega Yachts photos by Transport Malta and Rolex Middle Sea Race photos by the Royal Malta Yacht Club.hto is currently preparing a completely new programme that aims to attract third-country nationals who are start-up investors wishing to permanently reside here, subject to achieving the required and legal criteria to successfully establish a fruitful business for Malta. This new permit should entice entrepreneurs to invest and register their start-ups in Malta, bringing along their new and innovative ideas which will help shape the future of the Maltese industries and economy.
The Agency is currently preparing a completely new programme that aims to attract third-country nationals who are start-up investors wishing to permanently reside here, subject to achieving the required and legal criteria to successfully establish a fruitful business for Malta. This new permit should entice entrepreneurs to invest and register their start-ups in Malta, bringing along their new and innovative ideas which will help shape the future of the Maltese industries and econo
