mainsail >> Superyacht Regatta: Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta p.14 >> Sailing Narrative: Sailing Around the Sicilian Coast p.16 >> Exclusive Interview: Weddings at Sea p.18 >> SUPERYACHT AWARDS: The 24 Winners of The World Superyacht Awards p.20
may 2016
issue 3
GRAND HARBOUR MARINA Grand Harbour Marina’s super yachts visits p.06 Malta’s premier Boats & Yachting magazine www.mbrpublications.net
Newspaper Post
Issue 3 >> 02
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 03
mainsail
may 2016
issue 3
Contents 06
Cover Story
Grand Harbour Marina Records 159 Super Yacht Visits in 2015
MAINSAIL reports on Grand Harbour Marina’s slight improvement with 159 super yachts visits
Marina Focus
10
The Most Popular Marina in Malta
Sarah Carlton tells us why the Msida & Ta’ Xbiex Marina, operated by Creek Developments plc, is Malta’s No 1 Marina
14
Superyacht Regatta Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta
MAINSAIL covers the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, which opens the Mediterranean superyacht calendar on June 7 - 11 2016
Sailing Narrative
16
Sailing Around the Sicilian Coast
Therese Bonnici’s journey of adventure along the Sicilian Coast
18
Exclusive Interview Weddings at Sea
MAINSAIL finds out why Vera Sant Fournier provides the on-board magical fairy tale wedding of a life-time
Superyacht Awards 2016
Revealed: The 24 Winners of The World Superyacht Awards
A follow-up on The World Superyacht Awards 2016 hosted by Florence, Italy, on Saturday May 14
Issue 3 >> 04
20
Features
Editor’s Note MAINSAIL’s rich heritage makes it one of the most respected and enduring brands in the marine publications industry. Since 2015, MAINSAIL has been at the forefront of the sport with intelligently written columns and features designed to fuel the passions of the active boater. Yachting’s editorial team consistently delivers select content that enlightens and educates boaters of all experience levels and ultimately enhances the boating experience. Through all of our channels, engaged audiences enjoy awardwinning, visually-exciting coverage of premium yachts, technology, design, seamanship, destinations, electronics, equipment, exotic charters, current events and the history of the sport.
22 The Art of Swimming
Kate Wills account on good swimming according to master teacher Steven Shaw, founder of The Art of Swimming
32 Steady Flow of Entries for 37th Rolex Middles Sea Race
The Royal Malta Yacht Club provides an analysis of the entries for the 37th Edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race
38 Azure Ultra Launches the 2016 Luxury Season in Chic Style
A hint of what’s in store from Azure Ultra for 2016 Luxury Charters
42 DNA Barcoding of Life:
Undoubtedly, MAINSAIL has become Malta’s best yachting and motor-boating magazine. Our experience in publishing means our features are acknowledged as the most authoritative in the business, while our technical coverage is without equal. Each month we detail the best new boats on the market, and cover cruising areas that are both practical and inspirational. Our magazine is the most informative publication full with information of marine related companies and items in Malta and beyond. Who’s Who, Maritime History, Cruising guide and interviews is full of information about people, yachting, shipping, charter, brokerage, cargo, shipyards, yacht-yards, repair, maintenance, equipment, events, regattas, diving, and any other service a sailor, yachtsman or boater will need.
Roz Savage writes for MBR about the first ever rowing race to take place across the Pacific Ocean
MAINSAIL blends the best controlled circulation in boats and yachting publications in Malta reaching across the widest spectrum of delivery platforms. Its first-class editorials, talented writers and award-winning photographers and designers set the standard for marine journalism. Each issue of MAINSAIL delivers the definitive stories on the remarkable boats, people, destinations and products that drive this thriving adventurous industry. Written for boating enthusiasts of all experience levels, MAINSAIL reaches the heart of the active boating population with the best in human interest and real-life experience stories, insightful reviews, and expert advice and techniques.
44 New Global Mandatories
MAINSAIL is here to stay at the forefront of the boats and yachting scene, and will feature in main boats and yachting events, with intelligently written columns and features designed to fuel the passions of the active boater, who enlightens and educates boaters of all experience levels and ultimately enhances the boating experience.
Discovering The Generic Identity And Diversity Of Marine Life Forms
Transport Malta welcomes important new global mandatory requirements for ships to mitigate climate change
Quote of the Month “To reach a port we must set sail – Sail, not tie at anchor Sail, not drift.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
MAINSAIL is distributed to all major banks, car hire, port authorities, maritime agencies, financial and maritime law companies, foreign diplomatic representations, transport and logistics agencies, shipping agents, ship and yacht registration, ship repair and suppliers, including Creek Developments Ltd, Grand Harbour Marina, Harbour Marina, Kalkara Boat Yard, La Valletta Club, Malta Maritime Authority, Malta International Airport, Manoel Island, Mgarr Marina Gozo, Msida & Ta’ Xix Waterfront, Passenger Terminals, Portomaso, Valetta Waterfront, and four/five star hotels.
MAINSAIL is a digest of boating and sailing news and opinions, regatta results, new boat and gear information and letters from sailors and marine enthusiasts, with a Maltese emphasis. This month we went to great lengths to bring you the latest news stories, reports from the world’s biggest racing events, personal journeys of discovery and some of the most inspirational cruising narratives from around the Mediterranean and the globe. Enjoy the read.
Martin Vella Publisher - MBR Publications Limited Editor - Martin Vella Technical Advisor - Wilfred Sultana Sales Director - Margaret Brincat Sales Executive - Steve Garrett Art & Design - Evgeni Anastasov Front Cover Photo - REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Advertising - 9940 6743 / 9926 0163
Email: margaret@mbrpublications.net; admin@mbrpublications.net;
Disclaimer All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by copyright may be reproduced or copied and reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited without written permission of the publisher. All content material available on this publication is duly protected by Maltese and International Law. No person, organisation, other publisher or online web content manager should rely, or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this publication, whether that information is sourced from the website, magazine or related product without first obtaining the publisher’s consent. The opinions expressed in Mainsail are those of the authors or contributors, and are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher.
Contributors - Therese Bonnici; Annabel Camilleri; George Carol; Sarah Carlton; Mariella Galea;
David Sewell; Wilfred Sultana; Kate Wills; Adriana Vella; Andre Wismayer.
Special Thanks - Boatcare Ltd; Vera Sant Fournier Grand Harbour Marina; Middle Sea Insurance plc; Royal Malta Yacht Club; Transport Malta; The Interview People; The Independent. Print Production - Printit Offices - Highland Apartment - Level 1, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara, BKR 9042 Telephone - +356 2149 7814
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 05
>> Cover Story: SuperyachtVisits
Grand Harbour Marina 159 Superyacht Visits In 2015 By Martin Vella
G
rand Harbour Marina remains one of the most popular marinas in the Mediterranean especially for superyachts due to the fact that the marina offers some of the biggest berthing spaces for such yachts. In fact, in 2015 alone, Grand Harbour Marina hosted 159 super yachts, a slight improvement on the 154 superyachts hosted at GHM in 2014.
I was impressed by the imposing ancient fort and the city of Valletta itself welcome everyone to an island with a rich history and a welcoming, friendly culture. Once we had arrived, the helpfulness of all the marina staff, as well as locals, was the enduring first impression,” explains Jay Deakin in his interview.
“Undoubtedly, the location of Grand Harbour Marina set against the timeless backdrop of historical fortifications of Fort St Angelo and Valletta make our marina, one of the most spectacular in the region. This is further strengthened by the fact that our marina services are always top notch and we’re located close to all the important amenities sought after by berth holders. Our location in Vittoriosa which is now a very sought after location both as a residential area and for cultural entertainment, is a big plus,” notes Lawrence Zammit, Chairman of Grand Harbour Marina.
“Our decision to come to bring FUSION to Grand Harbour Marina however, was also based on price and the quality of the workmanship that we had experienced on our previous visits. Obviously the protection afforded from prevailing weather conditions by the impressive natural harbour was also a factor in our decision.”
These views were echoes recently by Jay Deakin, First Officer of M/Y Fusion, a superyacht which started calling to Malta recently. In an interview featured on www.crewport.com published by The Superyacht Group and followed-up by MBR Publications Limited, about captains’ favourite marinas and ports of call, Jay Deakin listed the Grand Harbour Marina in Vittoriosa as his most favourite marina. “I had already visited the marina on a different yacht a few years back and my first impressions of GHM and Valletta were extremely positive.
Issue 3 >> 06
Once we had arrived, the helpfulness of all the marina staff, as well as locals, was the enduring first impression
“From a competitive point of view, Grand Harbour Marina ranked very well too. We had in fact solicited quotes from numerous other marinas around the western Mediterranean which were within a reasonable distance from Naples, where we finished up our 2015 summer season. GHM’s competitive rates contributed to our decision,” added Deakin.
Cover Story: SuperyachtVisits << The complete experience offered by the marina was another important aspect mentioned in the interview. “The facilities and the staff without a doubt contribute a lot to our positive experience. Services and amenities are very efficient – water, electricity and super-fast Wi-Fi not to mention the knowledgeable docking masters who made valuable suggestions regarding what weather to expect, and the space between each berth, all contribute to a seamless experience. We feel totally part of the family at GHM who make each yacht feel important and like there’s not enough they can do for you. I find this a rare quality in my experience.” In his concluding remarkas, Officer Deakin stressed that he will absolutely visit again. “It really has started to feel like home and we cannot ask more of a marina or the staff because everyone is always so very helpful. Access to local facilities is easy and Malta’s size makes it super easy to get around. We’ll keep coming back!” http://www.thecrewreport.com/reviews/24859/your-favourite-grand-harbour-marina Creditline: Corproate Identities
“Maltese Falcon” and the MY “Anastasia Berthed” near St Angelo
Records Grand Harbour Marina
MY “Lady Christine” at The Grand Harbour Marina during the night
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 07
>> Dutch Youth Regatta
MYSC
sailors excel in Dutch Youth Regatta By Wilfred Sultana
11-year-old Richard Schultheis (MLT 205) sailing to a prestigious victory at the Dutch Youth Regatta 2016. The Dutch Youth Regatta 2016 held over five days - 4th to 8th May - saw 704 youth sailors, 632 boats and 22 nations competing in its 12th Edition held in Workum. In all there were six different classes sparking a high competitive level of play. In the 29-er Class, there were 38 entries from 8 countries, namely 38-8, Cadet Class 34-4, Laser 4.7 Class 43-5, Laser Radial Class 44-6, Optimist Class 401-20, and Splash Blue Class 72-1. In this grand spectacle of sailing a team from the Malta Young Sailors Club (MYSC) proudly flew the Malta flag with most positive and honourable results. Our young heroes were Craig Farrugia Vella (MLT 86) aged 15, Victoria Schultheis (MLT 201) aged 15, Antonia Schultheis (MLT 202) aged 13 and Richard Schultheis (MLT 205) aged 11. The Malta team competed in the Optimist Class, the biggest of the six competing classes - 401 sailors from 20 countries. In fact the Optimist Sailing Dinghy, the largest junior class in the World, is an internationally recognised one design single handed sailing craft, where only sailors under the age of 16 years are eligible to contest in this class racing. “The Dutch Youth Regatta is one of the biggest Youth sailing events in Europe since many years. Usually it’s well known for strong winds and cold weather. This year was an exception with light winds and sunny, warm weather” remarked Maurizio Bencic, the Slovenian professional coach assisting the Malta Young Sailors Club. In all 13 races were sailed in the Optimist Class, 10 of which were battled in light wind conditions, with 22 knots and plus characterizing the other three races. Results based on 13 races and 2 discards gave an outstanding portrayal of the fantastic performance of the Maltese youngsters. Youngest member of the Maltese team, 11-year-old Richard Schultheis (MLT 205) who in the first 8 races was even leading, won second place 8 points behind Swiss Max Wallenberg (SUI 1749). In the Benjamin Class (equivalent to the Cadet Class in Malta) Richard won with a comfortable distance in points from the second placed, Slovenian Daniel Cante (SLO 211). Magnificently the Malta flag shone all the way with a 4th placing overall to Victoria
Issue 3 >> 08
Schultheis (MLT 201), a 9th placing overall to Antonia Schultheis (MLT 202) and a 13th placing overall to Craig Farrugia Vella (MLT 86). Indeed a moment of pride to Maltese sailing in general and the Maltese Young Sailing Club in particular when having in the Top 13 placings - Malta with 4 wins, Germany 2, and Switzerland, Slovenia, Turkey, Poland, France, Sweden, and the Netherlands all with 1 win. The Schultheis family of German nationality have moved to Malta in 2011. Just a year later Victoria, Antonia and Richard yet unfamiliar with sailing joined the Malta Young Sailors Club for their first taste of the water sport. In a short spell of time besides this success in the Dutch Youth Regatta the Schultheis experienced other notable sailing achievements. In 2014 at the Optimist European Championship in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland: Victoria finished in Silver fleet with Richard in Gold fleet. In 2015 at the Optimist European Championship in Pwllheli, UK: Victoria won the Bronze medal with a 3rd in the Gold fleet, Richard came 3rd in the Silver fleet, and Antonia finished 25th in Silver fleet. Richard is currently leading the national rankings in the Optimist Class. “The Club feels proud of being behind the success of the three young Schultheis sailors who joined us 4 years ago and MYSC taught them sailing from scratch. Craig Farrugia Vella who started sailing with Birzebbugia Sailing Club joined the MYSC 2 years ago”, remarked Jean Paul Fleri Soler the MYSC Coach. “Over the past two years we have been working hand in hand with one of the best coaches for Optimists in the world, Maurizio Bencic from Slovenia, who is a professional coach and also designs Optimist sails for ’1 sails’. Mauro has been traveling to Malta almost on a monthly basis to monitor the sailors’ progress and to assist me with improving their sailing techniques . Mauro and I will be working together at the World Championships which will be held at the end of June in Portugal. He will also be the coach for the Malta team during the European Championships which will be held in Italy later this summer”, revealed Fleri Soler.
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 09
>> Yacht Marina
The Most Popular Marina In Malta By Sarah Carlton
Creek Developments Plc has been managing and operating the Msida & Ta’ Xbiex Marina since January 2011. From the first day of operation, the focus has been on providing quality service, investing over 9 million Euro to ensure first-class facilities match the excellent, safe, central location.
There is a strong emphasis on environmental awareness, from provision of bunded tanks for the disposal of waste oil, access-controlled waste disposal cabinets, to encouraging and enforcing good practice when bunkering.
Situated behind a breakwater in the heart of Msida Creek, in the centre of Malta’s longest established yachting district, the Msida & Ta’ Xbiex Marina is perfectly located for visitors and Maltese residents alike. With the majestic backdrop of Valletta’s bastions on one side, embassies and high end apartments and offices on the other, 15 minutes’ from an international airport and all the necessary yachting service providers on site or close by, the Marina makes an ideal base for combining a winter maintenance program with off season sailing, while the proximity to the attractions of Sliema, St Julians and Valletta is appreciated by visitors year round.
The real measure of success is not attracting visiting yachts, but ensuring they return the following year, with friends, for a longer visit. Always busy in Summer, the Msida & Ta’ Xbiex Marina has also become a winter port of choice, the initial handful of over-wintering boats growing into a sizable community, to form an important second market. Creek Developments Plc has nurtured strong working partnerships with reputable service providers to ensure that when a yacht owner selects the Msida & Ta’ Xbiex Marina, he not only enjoys a secure and sheltered berth, but also the knowledge that any work needed will be carried out by skilled professionals who take pride in high standards.
As well as the uniquely sheltered position, protected from all wind and swell direction, the Msida & Ta’ Xbiex Marina offers easy berthing and exceptionally comfortable land-side facilities. Security is provided by 24 hour patrols and full CCTV camera coverage of the marina, together with access-controlled entry to pontoons and washrooms. With a policy of continuous improvement in place, new facilities are added regularly, in anticipation of customer requirements. Recent innovations have been the option for yacht owners to monitor and top-up water and electricity credit online, as well as the installation of door openers in the middle of the pontoons, useful to boat owners expecting guests.
Issue 3 >> 10
In recent years there has been significant growth in the yacht registration industry for both superyachts and the smaller leisure yacht market. Creek Developments Plc has established relationships with many of the companies specialising in yacht registration, providing a seamless link in the process for yacht owners seeking a reputable yacht registry. For further information on long and short-term berthing, contact Creek Developments Plc, Office No. 1, Crown Marina Apartments, Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, Ta’ Xbiex, XBX 1027. Tel +356 2133 7049, Marina 24 Hours + 356 7933 7049, email: info@creekdevelopments.com, www.marinamalta.com.
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 11
>> Luxury Charter
Issue 3 >> 12
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 13
LoroPiana
>> Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta
SUPERYACHT REGATTA By George Carol
The Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta opens the Mediterranean superyacht calendar on June 7 - 11 2016. Organised by the YCCS and Boat International Media, this four-day sailing regatta attracts an ever-increasing fleet of sailing yachts. This year’s event will see the Wally Class fleet return to the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta. The 2016 Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta will be held in Porto Cervo, Sardina. The Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta is organised by Boat International Media and the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS).The racing programme will be organised by the highly experienced international race committee at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. Organized by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in collaboration with Boat International Media, the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta hosts a maximum of thirty of the world’s largest and most beautiful sailing yachts on breathtaking courses winding through the islands of Sardinia’s La Maddalena archipelago. The regatta has been held annually since 2008 and is renowned as much for the elegance and prowess of the participating yachts as for the rich and varied shoreside social programme offered by the organizers and the title sponsor. Amongst the sailing superyachts that have registered are the well-known veteran participants such as the 34-metre NILAYA, winder of the 2014 edition, fast sloop P2, division winner in 2015, the 46m GANESHA, two-time winner of the Porto Cervo edition of the event, the 33m INOUI or the 66,7m HETAIROS. Newcomers include the 45m CLAN VIII, Swan 90 ODIN, 46m UNFURLED or the 38,8 m ATALANTE.
Issue 3 >> 14
Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous 2015. Photo Carlo Borlenghi/YCCS/BIM
The motoryacht Rendezvous will by sponsored by Westport and will feature a number of luxury yachts cruising in company each day to watch racing and sample the beautiful coves and opulent hideaways of the British Virgin Islands. All participating owners and guests will be entertained by a rich programme of elegant social happenings with welcome cocktails, the exclusive Loro Piana Owners’ Dinner and the final prize giving held at the YCCS Clubhouse overlooking the North Sound, while a beach party will take place at the nearby Oil Nut Bay resort.
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 15
>> SailingVoyage
Sailing around the Sicilian coast By Therese Bonnici
Sailing from Castellamare del Golfo to Mondello with San Vito and Isola delle femmine in the background The most popular summer destination for Malta’s boat community is the stretch of coast from Marina de Ragusa to Siracusa. But for those who want to venture further, the Sicilian’s coastline can offer some stunning, lesspopulated areas. In August 2012, sailing enthusiast Mark Vassallo ventured on quite a unique trip, circumnavigating the island of Sicily together with his wife and two young children. On board their 31-foot boat the trip started westbound to the South West coast (Licata then Sciacca) then onwards to the gems of Capo San Vito, Castellammare del Golfo and Mondello. At almost half way, they sailed to Cefalu and Capo d’Orlando and then further east to Milazzo and to round Messina for Taormina and Syracuse finishing in Malta after having covered 500 miles in 18 days. The highlight of the trip was definitely Capo San Vito, with its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches “The longest stretch is the crossing between Malta Sicily, which even the less experienced sailors can handle....other than that it’s about comfortable coastal sailing with a nice stopping every 20/30 miles,” Mark says. Licata, their first pit stop, is most popular for its churches, which are home to some interesting works of art, not to mention the quaint typically Sicilian tavernas! The next morning they took off early towards Sciacca, about 50 miles up the coast, where Scala dei Turchi made for great midday dip. Historically a fishing port, Sciacca is most popular for its ceramics and thermal baths, but take note, the walk up to town is not for the faint hearted! “The highlight of the trip was definitely Capo San Vito, with its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches just at the foot of quite an imposing landscape,” Mark says. “We spent a couple of days here, before moving on to Castellamare del Golfo and Mondello - both popular and charming for different reason - Mondello still looks like something out of a 1980s Italian comedy.”
Mark’s youngest son Timmy during the trip Issue 3 >> 16
A few days later, with a nice southerly breeze forecast, Mark sailed east towards Cefalu, a comfortable mid-stop between the West and East Sicilian corners. Popular mostly for its beach resorts, the old town square is well worth a visit. Capo d’Orlando was the next stop, from where they beautiful Aeolian Islands, only 10 miles away, can be admired in full glory. At the time, most of the entrance to the harbour was restricted by sandbanks and therefore can be a bit tricky. It would be best to get local guidance before entering. From this point, they sailed back into familiar territory, stopping for a swim on the west side of Capo di. and onwards to the Straits of Messina, Taormina and Syracuse,. “There a couple of things one needs to keep in mind”, Mark says. “Given the prevailing winds on the South West coast, it is best to starts travelling early in the morning. Fog is also common around Capo San Marco when the winds are light south and south east. The passage of water between Marsala and Trapani (passing between Favignana and the mainland) needs constant attention due to a number of reefs and shallows.” Before embarking on such a trip, one needs to make sure to have a fullyfunctional boat and all the consumable spares for your engine, water and toilet pumps. Especially for those motor boat enthusiasts fuel prices at Cefalu and Capo San Vito tend to be on the higher side. And of course for such a trip we cannot but recommend MAPFRE Middlesea’s Comprehensive Hull policy which covers your boat against accidental loss or damage – including damage to engines, machinery and equipment. Be sure to select our Italian waters extension which will also provide you with the certificates you will need to present to the port authorities, and to plan this trip inside your in commission dates!!. Before taking on such a trip, Italian waters cover is compulsory and you are also obliged to carry with you an Italian Waters insurance certificate which we provide with the Italian Waters extension. For more information visit www.middlesea.com
Crystal Clear waters at Mondello
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 17
>> Weddings at Sea
Weddings
Sea at
By Martin Vella
Imagine the wedding of your dreams aboard one of the most romantic yachts.Having your wedding or renewal of vows ceremony at sea can make the event even more special and memorable, and it means you start married life together in the most magical way possible; The most romantic way to say “I love you and I always will”. Vera Sant Fournier takes pride in providing for all of your onboard wedding event needs, from catering to entertainment, particularly design and décor. In this interview Vera tells why she is offering one of the best selection of unparalleled wedding service at sea.
Issue 3 >> 18
MBR: You are offering a new service designing the decor for weddings at sea, what prompted you to take up this particular niche?
MBR: Which are the trends which you envisage to follow in your design of your ‘weddings at sea’ portfolio?
VSF: I can still remember making my own birthday party invitation as a little girl, the invites where made from paper in the shape of shells, the paper was printed with an effect created by using bubbles and watercolours, the results where adorable, the party was great. As a creative I love using my hands to create objects, paintings and decorations, so the studio has now extended it’s services in this sector, events décor. The decision was taken due to the immense joy we get from decorating venues, designing invitations and keeping to themes we create for our own events. Let’s decorate beautiful venues for weddings we thought, we can extend the joy of this and transmit it to people. Weddings at sea are truly a memorable and unique way to celebrate your wedding, and how magical would such a vessel become if the decor was created in line with the theme, by a professional team. Vera Sant Fournier - Events Decor was created in 2016.
VSF: We do not want to give the usual ‘cookie cutter’ type of wedding, each one should be absolutely different which reflects the taste of the bride and groom, the trends will be created rather then copied. But this year sees metallics come in, sun kissed gold, shimmering silver and pewter, sunset kissed bronze and copper, all wrapped together with pastels. We believe less is more, we create decor which is not over the top, a few wow factor pieces brought together with flowers, flowing chiffon and ambient lighting, these are simply some ideas, the end result is created around the desire of the clients.
MBR: What are the main differences to be addressed in planning and designing for a successful wedding at sea rather than on land? VSF: Besides the fact that now we have taken the celebration at sea, the same factors apply, with added well thought out professional planning, ambience lighting, safety. The feeling we need to give wedding guests is a magical one, one which does not overcome the beauty of the sea, the weather and the energy, decorating will need to highlight all the beauty at sea with added elegance to the event, the bride and the groom. We take the same approach as designing interiors, we will discuss themes, colour schemes any particular wishes & desires the client may have. We shall produce sketches, mood boards, visuals, plans and consult with all the professionals we require to guarantee a fabulous end result.
MBR: Weddings at sea may offer the chance of a more intimate event, which is the design challenge in your opinion? VSF: The size of the vessel may restrict the decor, hence we are preferable involved and booked much prior to the actual vessel being chosen, together with the captain we will guide the client with the amount of guests they should have, this will give better comfort and safety. We will take the change of weather as a possibility an thus always suggest plan B. MBR: What are the limitations and the opportunities of a designer wedding at sea? VSF: Depending on the client’s budget the restrictions may vary, but mostly it’s the number of guests. Having said this, intimate weddings have that extra special spark & one may still organise an after party for further guests to join them. We can be limited with furniture pieces or bases for floral decorations, since there will be movement in the vessel, but let’s face it weddings at sea are so romantic, our weather is fantastic, the locations one may go to by boat are endless, the photos od this special day will have a stunning background, in my opinion there are more opportunities then obstacles.
Weddings at Sea <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 19
>> Superyacht Awards 2016
Revealed: The 24 winners
of the World Superyacht Awards 2016
Motor Yacht of the Year 2016 The World Superyacht Awards 2016 was hosted by Florence, Italy, on Saturday May 14. These awards recognise the remarkable ingenuity and innovation demanded by the design, engineering and construction of the world’s finest luxury yachts. Attended by the elite of the superyacht world, owners and industry leaders will come together to recognise the finest superyachts launched throughout 2015. The judges select the Motor Yacht of the Year from among the winners of all nine motor yacht classes, but despite this wide choice they had little difficulty choosing the 83.5-metre Feadship, Savannah for this accolade. Not only is this an inspirationally elegant yacht, but its quality of design and construction - right down to the last detail – demonstrated the level of craftsmanship to which many aspire but few achieve. Beyond these attributes was its pioneering propulsion package - the first of its type blending a single diesel engine driving an oversized propeller, while three gensets power an azimuthing thruster positioned just aft of the dieseldriven propeller. In normal drive mode, the azimuthing thruster faces
Issue 3 >> 20
“Savannah”
forward, contra-rotating with the aft-facing propeller to attain a high level of efficiency, while when manoeuvring or in DPS mode the thrusters can be rotated to provide the necessary thrust in whatever direction. This incredible yacht that excels in all aspects is a worthy winner of the Motor Yacht of the Year Award. For more information of the winers list go to: http://www.boatinternational.com/yachts/ luxury-yacht-design-interiors/of-the-best-feadship-superyachts-of-all-time--27849
Savannah Length: 83.5m Builder: Feadship Naval Architect: Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects Exterior Design: CG Design/Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects Interior Design: CG Design
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 21
>> Swimming
The Art of Swimming
The way many people swim might be doing them more harm than good, says a man bringing posture to the pool The breaststroke of Kate Wills is less Rebecca Adlington, more granny-who-doesn’twant-to-get-her-hair-wet. And according to Steven Shaw, founder of The Art
F
By Kate Wills first things first: I can swim – in answer to
about to go welding – Shaw tells me that triathletes
the question that everyone asks when I tell
use them, for their range of vision – while wading
them I’m going for a swimming lesson. (It
sideways like a crab. This move is called The
occurs to me that no one would do the same if you
Bellows and is designed to co-ordinate breathing
said you were off to perfect your tennis or golf skills.)
and movement. Memories of swimming lessons
But my breaststroke is less Rebecca Adlington, more
at school (splashing around feeling cold while a
granny-who-doesn’t-want-to-get-
her-hair-wet.
teacher shouted instructions from the side) dissipate
lengths with her head
And according to Steven Shaw, founder of The Art
as Shaw gets into the pool beside me and uses his
sticking out the water aren’t
of Swimming, my strained lengths with my head
hands to pull me along the water, carefully adjusting
sticking out the water aren’t doing me any favours.
my head, neck and back while I glide.
of Swimming, her strained
doing her any favours.
Keeping the rhythm and breathing in sync is actually very meditative
Shaw developed his method 25 years ago, after
We all know how good for us swimming can
years of competitive swimming left him with neck
be: it tones the core, arms and legs, helps you relax
and back problems, leading him to train as an
and, when done regularly, can reduce the risk of
Alexander Technique teacher. During his training,
heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and stroke. But for
Shaw worked as a lifeguard, and it was while
whatever reason – whether it’s the closure of public
observing people’s bad posture in the pool that he
pools or that getting wet seems too much hassle
realised Alexander’s principles of alignment could
– nobody’s swimming any more. Around 245,000
be applied to the water, too. The Art of Swimming
people binned their goggles last year and one in five
was born and Shaw has become something of a guru
adults in England can’t swim. And, according to
to the thousands of people he’s taught around the
Shaw, those that can aren’t swimming properly.
world. With his bald head and cult-like following, he has been called “The Buddha of Breaststroke”. One devotee of his style tells me that after a class with Shaw you feel like “you’re not swimming in the water, the water’s swimming you”.
Issue 3 >> 22
“The majority of people are doing more harm than good to their bodies when they’re swimming,” he explains. “I often watch people battling the water, gasping for breath. They don’t get very much pleasure from it.
Breaststroke is most people’s
Which is why I’m now in a pool in Paddington,
default stroke, but having your head up, as a lot of
wearing giant goggles that make me look like I’m
people do, acts like a brake, so your arms and legs
Swimming << need to work harder to defeat that resistance.” All of which means I’ll have to put my face in the water. And since I hold my nose if I’m even thinking about going under, this could prove to be a problem. But Steven’s speciality is adults who can’t swim – whether that’s because they’re disabled, have a phobia of water or just never learned. “I’m teaching a woman at the moment who had such a severe anxiety of water that she couldn’t even have a bath,” he says. “She was shaking just looking at the pool, but after a few sessions she’s now comfortable getting in.” I can remember as a child the horrible sensation of water gushing up my nose and not being able to breathe for what felt like several minutes (but was probably seconds). “People who have anxiety about putting their face in the water think that it will take a few months, but
About finally putting my face in the deep end that I get carried away with breathing out bubbles. “Try to sound like a Jacuzzi,” he laughs. Shaw now spends most of his time training other people how to teach his method, and there are 250 Art of Swimming instructors worldwide, mostly in the UK and Portugal. “Some of them are physiotherapists, some are swimming teachers, some are Alexander Technique teachers,” he explains. “We have people training in their early twenties right through to their late sixties, and now we’re starting to train teachers in Greece, Germany, Holland and the US. Swimming is the only sport that you can do for your whole life, from a baby to 70-plus. You can just keep going. My mother is in her eighties and she’s still doing a kilometre of crawl everyday.”
within one or two sessions they can enjoy it,” promises Shaw. “If you
Ah yes, the crawl. The stroke that separates the part-time pool goers
have had this fear for a number of years, and you move through it, it’s
from the pros. When Shaw demonstrates it, it bears no resemblance to
a real liberation.”
the thrashing, aggressive wind-milling down the lane that you usually see.
We spend some time collecting water in our palms and pouring it
He turns his body almost totally to the side with every arm movement,
over our heads to combat the natural reflex we all have to pull our face
there’s barely any splash- it looks graceful and effortless. I’m really keen
away from a splash. At first it’s uncomfortable, then I just feel stupid, but eventually it feels calming. Well, as calming as it’s possible to feel with chlorine-y liquid running down your face. Shaw demonstrates
to have a go, so we break down the crawl into poses that feel like a cross between fencing and Tai Chi.
that the correct angle of my head guarantees no water can go up my
All that breathing has left me feeling light-headed and a bit euphoric,
nose, as does breathing out. Soon, I’m swimming on my own, with
xo I can see why Shaw makes people evangelical. “Every person has
my head down (no nose-holding!), coming up for air in time with the
an inner mermaid or merman,” he says. “If they say they don’t like
movements of my arms and legs. The moment when I finally “get it”
swimming, it’s just because they have had a bad experience at some point.
feels less like swimming, more like gliding weightlessly through my own
Unless something traumatises us, being in the water is a very natural
underwater world. Keeping the rhythm and breathing in sync is actually very meditative. Or as Shaw poetically puts it: “Swimming is like writing a sentence, and the breathing is the punctuation.” I feel as streamlined as an otter, but then he films me on an iPad and shows me exactly what I’m doing wrong – head out higher than it needs to be when I come up for air, legs not quite in sync. Still, once I’ve
activity. That’s my vision – to give people the right tools so that they can fulfil their potential in the water.” It’s amazing that something I’ve struggled all my life with – putting my face underwater – can be overcome in one session. I could be an Art of Swimming convert, too. In fact, if you see someone in the pool who
perfected the stroke, it may feel slow, but I’m actually going much faster
looks like an otter doing a Jacuzzi impression – that’s probably me.
than I did “old lady” style. I’m so happy
Creditline: Kate Wills / The Independent / The Interview People
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 23
>> Wiztronic
The BLOWY fire extinguisher By AndrĂŠ Wismayer
The BLOWY fire extinguisher has been on the local market for two years
The same Italian brand Firecom, also specialize in fixed systems for any
now, selling very well in various sectors such as leasing & commercial auto,
application, such as commercial establishments, warehouses, archives, pump
marine, home rental properties, private homes and many others. The main
rooms, engine rooms, server rooms, cabinets and basically any other enclosed
advantage of the BLOWY is that the device is 100% maintenance free with a
hazardous area. With various models available specially designed for specific
20 year shelf life. Although compact and lightweight weighing only 200g, the
sectors, Firecomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fixed systems share the same advantages as the BLOWY,
BLOWY guarantees a 25 second discharge time, certified to extinguish class
maintenance free, a clean extinguishing agent, non-toxic and non-harmful to
A, B & C fires. This extinguishing time is equivalent to a 6Kg Co2 and a 9Kg
machinery & electronics, compact and also hassle free making these systems
dry powder pressured device. BLOWY is made out of aluminium and contains
very cost effective contributing immensily to your cost cutting.
a condensed compound containing mainly Potassium Nitrate, making the extinguishing gas 100% non-toxic and non-corrosive, leaving minimal or no residue. Where BS EN3 standards are not compulsary, the BLOWY is the ideal extinguisher for any protection, offering the user three times more extinguishing power than the 1-2Kg ordinary units found in our cars, homes and boats.
Issue 3 >> 24
The BLOWY is available from all leading marine outlets and also many leading ironmongeries around Malta & Gozo. For a list of these outlets, please do contact us so we are able to guide you to the nearest retailer in your area. For a free onsite visit and quote on our fixed systems, please contact us on the below contact details: Wiztronic Safety & Warning Sytems, e. Info@wiztronic.com.mt, w. www.wiztronic.com.mt
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 25
Great time
Malta in
on board the yacht “Ashley St. Mary”
• to celebrate birthday and surprise parties • wedding and honeymoon • diving • cruises around the Maltese islands, Sicily and Italy may vary from one week to a month, during any time of the year
Issue 3 >> 26
Captain Vladimir Agents: MBR Publications Ltd call: + 356 9926 0162 or email: martin@mbrpublicationcs.net
MBR Publications Limited
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 27
>> Malta Maritime Summit
MALTA MARITIME SUMMIT 3rd to 6th October 2016
The Press Conference addressed by the Minister of Transport – the Hon. Joe Mizzi and by John A. Gauci-Maistre K.M. CEO – GM Conferences and Exhibitions Ltd promotor of the conference Photo - DOI - Jeremy Wonnacott
The Malta Maritime Summit was officially launched this morning, Tuesday 9th February, 2016, by the Minister of Transport, the Hon. Joe Mizzi, during a press conference held this morning at the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, in Floriana, Malta. The press conference was attended by the Chairman of Transport Malta Mr. James Piscopo, Mr. Ivan Sammut, Registrar General of Shipping and Seamen, Mr. John A. Gauci-Maistre, CEO of GM Conferences & Exhibitions Ltd and Dr. Jean-Pie Gauci-Maistre, Legal Advisor to the Malta Maritime Summit.
Issue 3 >> 28
Malta has always been a maritime nation as its location has made it historically the most sought after island in the Mediterranean, by traders and world leaders alike. As the maritime world evolved, Malta’s maritime importance came to the fore. As it ranks as one of the leading Ship Registers in the world, Malta has asserted itself as a major player not only in flag State Administration matters but also in other maritime related affairs. It is nowadays a major player in a highly competitive industry and therefore its responsibilities and obligations have increased tremendously. For this reason the need had long been felt for an International conference to be held, where International and Maltese stakeholders would have the opportunity to raise and discuss common interests. It would also place Malta on an equal footing with other maritime nations and serve as platform to make its position more visible in an industry that is responsible for the carriage of more than 90% of the world trade. It is also very much in line with the Government’s objective to further consolidate Malta’s position as a centre of maritime excellence in the Mediterranean, and it is very encouraging that the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure and Transport Malta
are supporting this first Malta Maritime Summit to be held in October later on this year. This conference, which will be themed “The Voice of the Industry”, is intended to be different as its aim is to stimulate heated but constructive debates among speakers, panellists and delegates. Spread over three and half days the conference would seek to raise regulatory, operative, safety, ecological, energy and financial matters among others. High level speakers are expected to be present, including some of the leading maritime executives. This is yet another initiative for Malta to continue consolidating its leading role within the maritime industry not only in a proactive approach but also by creating more consciousness of crucial topics, in an industry that is continuously under threat by external forces and vulnerable to unstable economic dynamics. A highly important point is that this summit will also be another good opportunity for Government to listen to the maritime industry’s views on pertinent issues having a direct impact on the industry since it will be held just before the start of Malta’s Presidency of the EU Council in January 2017. Courtesy: GM Conference & Exhibition Ltd.
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 29
>> Sailing
Dedicated to Sailing By Mariella Galea
Malta Yacht Charters, managed by Capt. Michael Gauci, a veteran sailor who has been in the maritime business since he completed his nautical training at the Maritime College of Vigo Alicante & Cadiz (Spain) in 1979, is able to offer a complete range of high quality and affordable Yacht Charter Services given its varied range of fleet including a Beaneteau Cyclades 50.5 Bavaria 36. All of our boats are commercially certificated and fully fitted with all required safety equipment. Charters can include everything from day charters around the wonderful and enchanting islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino up to one week charters. Most importantly, all skippered charters are handled by RYA-certified instructors. Besides private charters, Corporate Sailing is ideal for those who may be interested in holding a differentiated executive function, treat clients or encourage staff team building or reward their diligence. Whether you are an experienced sailor, would like to start learning how to sail or are already a sailor but would like to sharpen those skills, Malta Sailing Academy (MSA) offers the provision of various courses that cover different sailing interests. MSA is certified by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), a reputable UK-based certifying training center operating in over 20 countries worldwide, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA ) and locally recognized by the competent authorities Transport Malta (TM). The course choices are endless. The Academy takes you through all the ropes to learn the skills necessary to manoeuvre a boat with ascertation. Courses start from total beginners through Day Skipper courses to the full
Issue 3 >> 30
Yachtmaster Offshore and Ocean certificate of competence. All certificates are recognized worldwide by Maritime authorities, Charter Operators and Insurance Companies. It meets any sailor’s level of experience and aspirations. While students enjoy the satisfaction of growing their skills, they also move towards achieving recognised certification proving a skipper’s experience and competence. The Academy also offers exclusive training with one-on-one tuition tailored to your needs, and is open to sailors from other parts of the world who can come to Malta to complete their training. Malta’s all year round sailing grounds enhance the tourism aspect of such initiative. Not to mention that yachting is becoming more popular for its sportive principles with locals. Malta Sailing Academy is also able to offer the VHF/DSC Short Range Radio Operators Certificate, which is valid not only in Malta but throughout Europe and beyond. In addition, it has now been certified to conduct the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) sea survival courses. Let us not forget that “it is not the ship so much as the skilful sailing that assures the prosperous voyage” – George William Curtis.
Deep Sea Exploration <<
The Nautilus is exploring the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean looking for hydrothermal vents and the animal and microbial communities that spring up around them, as well as seeking underwater volcanoes and ancient shipwrecks. The ship is equipped with two remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) along with telepresence technology that beams real-time video feeds from the ROVs to scientists on shore. Follow along with expedition leader Bob Ballard and his crew as they investigate parts of the deep sea that have never been seen before. The Nautilus has discovered several wellpreserved shipwrecks on their mission, from ancient Greek trading vessels to modern sailboats. Join us as we talk with chief scientist Katy Croff Bell aboard the Nautilus and see the latest of their discoveries.
Robert Ballard Director of the Center for Director of the Center for Ocean Exploration, Graduate School of Oceanography URI President of the Ocean Exploration Trust Among the most accomplished and well known of the world’s deep-sea explorers, Dr. Robert Ballard is best known for his historic discoveries of hydrothermal vents, the sunken R.M.S. Titanic, the German battleship Bismarck, and numerous other contemporary and ancient shipwrecks around the world. During his long career he has conducted more than 150 deep-sea expeditions using the latest in exploration technology. Dr. Ballard has been a pioneer in the development of advanced deep submergence and telepresence technology. Although his Ph.D. is in Marine Geology and Geophysics, his scientific interests run the gamut from the volcanic, tectonic, and hydrothermal processes of the mid-ocean ridge to deep-sea archaeology and maritime history. Dr. Ballard also spends a great deal of his time involved in various educational outreach programs. In 2008, Dr. Ballard secured the E/V Nautilus, which has become his flag-ship for exploration, operated by the Ocean Exploration Trust and funded in part by NOAA’s Office of Ocean Exploration. Nautilus is connected by way of a high bandwidth satellite link to the University of Rhode Island’s Inner Space Center and from there to the world. He has received prestigious awards from the Explorers Club and the National Geographic Society—the Explorers Medal and the Hubbard Medal, respectively—as well as the Lindbergh Award. In 2003 President George W. Bush presented him with the National Endowment for the Humanities Medal in the Oval Office of the White House. He is currently a National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence.
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 31
>> Rolex Middle Sea
Steady flow of entries for th Rolex Middle Sea Race 37 The 37th Edition of the Rolex
Middle Sea Race is scheduled to start on Saturday 22nd October 2016. Entries for the race have been steadily coming in with a good mix of familiar names and new ones signing up for the 608 nautical mile race.
Since its inception in 1968, the Middle Sea Race has developed into a highly rated offshore classic, popular among both professional and Corinthian crews, putting Malta firmly on the sailing map. The scenic course around many islands provides changeable and demanding conditions that require crews to be constantly at their best. The event attracts a varied fleet which is divided into numerous classes giving every boat a fair chance for a good result.
2015 welcomed an interesting fleet which included some high profile boats making up a total of 111 yachts, representing 22 countries to make yet another successful event. Monohull Line Honours went to George David’s Rambler 88 which arrived soon after Lloyd Thornburg’s MOD 70 Phaedo 3, which was the first Multihull home. Michele Galli’s Italian TP52, B2 won the Rolex Middle Sea Race Trophy, whilst fellow Italian Vincenzo Onorato’s Cookson 50, Mascalzone Latino won the Boccale Del Mediterraneao.
Although still early in the year, the interest and response so far is very encouraging, suggesting that there will be another good fleet in 2016. Participants should expect another memorable offshore sailing event combined with the usual great hospitality at the RMYC. The 2016 Rolex Middle Sea Race Notice of Race will be published soon. General information on this year’s edition is available on the event website www. rolexmiddlesearace.com. Entrants are encouraged to make their entry early which should be submitted on line at www. rolexmiddlesearace.com. For further information please contact the club through the event website or send an email to: info@rolexmiddlesearace.com or info@rmyc.org Watch the Rolex Middle Sea Race 2015 video at: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=PHI1j47qQOc Creditline: Royal Malta Yacht Club
Photo Credit: Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi
Issue 3 >> 32
Profile << Wilfred Sultana of Maltese nationality is a well-known personality enjoying both local and foreign esteemed recognition. Wilfred Sultana enjoying an illustrious career with a forty six years span he is well known to promote and be involved in the organisation of a variety of high profile events, the like of the Malta-Pozzallo Windsurf Race, the ‘off-road’ Camel Rally Malta, the Malta-Tunisia Yachting Rally, Faces of Africa Art Exhibition and World Ranking snooker tournaments. He is the founder editor and publisher of ‘Yachting in Malta’, a Directory to the services and facilities Malta offers, in the yachting industry, first published in 1976. The 11th Edition (2015-2016) was published in 2015. Wilfred Sultana, chosen Malta’s Sports Official of the Year in 1986, is the author of several editorials on Malta’s potential as a yachting haven which were featured in noteworthy international publications. These include ‘The Super Yacht Ports & Marinas Guide’, ‘The Mediterranean Yachts Planners Guide’, ‘Mediterranean Yachting’, ‘Boat International’, ‘Mediterranean Yachting & Cruising’ and ‘The International Yacht Planners Guide’. He is a well versed freelance journalist with frequent editorials in the Maltese media re the yachting industry and sailing in general. Wilfred Sultana is the founder editor and publisher of ‘Yachting in Malta’, a Directory to the yachting industry services and facilities Malta offers, first published in 1976. The 11th Edition (2015-2016) is currently in circulation. In 1994 Sultana was Co-Coordinator of the Malta International Boat Show organized then by the Yacht Traders Association.
Wilfred Sultana Journalist, Publisher and Events Organiser
In 2003 he was invited by the Tunisian National Tourism Office to visit the various yachting facilities in Tunisia following which a general perception of the Tunisian yachting industry was outlined in a report entitled ‘Tunisia – Land of Contrasts’. In May 2007 Wilfred Sultana took the initiative to set-up The Yachting Services Trade Section (YSTS), to operate under the Leisure and Tourism Economic Group of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, with the aim of representing the interests of all those businesses operating within the yachting industry. In the summer of 2008 he was commissioned to produce and publish for the City Council of Pozzallo in Sicily a publication entitled ‘Pozzallo For The Yachtsmen’. In 2009, 2011 and in 2013, Wilfred Sultana, as Editor-Publisher of the maritime Directory Yachting in Malta (YIM), hosted three Superyacht Industry Seminars in association with Transport Malta and the International Superyacht Society (ISS). With their involvement in these seminars ISS not only provided speakers of standing but also gave Malta a prestigious global exposure through their commendable marketing network. Another exciting Event hosted by Wilfred’s Yachting in Malta was the Malta Maritime Careers Day in 2014 where the Maltese Organiser secured the relevant involvement of ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations), IMO (International Maritime Law Institute), and SNAME (Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers). Wilfred and YIM were also behind the organisation of a Pre-Election (2013) Forum where the main three political parties presented their perspectives and projections for the coming years with regards to the Yachting Industry in Malta. Wilfred Sultana is also involved in sports-tourism journalism, public relations as well as launch and promotion events. In 1996 Wilfred Sultana was struck by a mysterious neurological disorder which, in fact, has remained a mystery to this day. Creditline: info@superyachtsociety.org; Wilfred Sultana; Malta Maritime Directory www.mbrpublications.net
>> 33
>> International Maritime Law Institute
IMO International Maritime Law Institute The IMO International Maritime Law Institute was established under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization, a specialised agency of the United Nations with 25 years dedicated service By Special Correspondent The Institute is an international centre for the training of specialists in maritime law. It also contributes to the development and dissemination of knowledge and expertise in international maritime law, with special reference to the international regulations and procedures for safety and efficiency of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution. The IMO International Maritime Law Institute is a world recognized centre for the training of law graduates in international maritime law. Special emphasis is given to international regulations adopted by the International Maritime Organization. The Institute provides suitably qualified candidates, particularly from developing countries, with high-level facilities for advanced training, study and research in international maritime law. It also focuses on legislative drafting techniques designed to assist participants in the process of incorporating international treaty rules into domestic law. One of the essential requirements for operating a shipping or maritime programme is the ability to implement international conventions and instruments adopted by IMO and other relevant international organizations. For this purpose, States need to have appropriate legal infrastructure which incorporates the provisions of the respective conventions and instruments into national law and which has wellestablished procedures for applying and enforcing the requirements of the applicable law in all relevant situations. The appropriate legal infrastructure in each State should consist of an up-to-date legislative regime, with a suitable machinery for the review, revision and modification of that legislation, to keep it in line with changes in international maritime law and the latest developments in marine technology and shipping practices. For this purpose the State, as well as the shipping industry, requires the services of well-trained legal personnel with
Archive photos of Agreement signing
Issue 3 >> 34
Institute`s entrance specialization in maritime and shipping law. There is also need for persons with expertise and skills in the preparation and drafting of legislative instruments, including the preparation of primary legislation (codes, statutes, etc.) as well as the necessary subsidiary legislation (regulations and rules) for implementing the principal instruments at State and industry levels. Although many developing countries have reasonable numbers of legally trained persons, they do not always have the required numbers of persons with the necessary specialization or expertise in maritime law. To meet these needs, IMO has included, as a vital part of its technical cooperation programme, projects for the provision of technical advice and assistance in maritime law and legislation. Under this programme, advice and assistance have been provided on request to States on the planning and preparation for new or updated maritime legislation. Such advice and assistance have been provided by IMOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interregional advisers or, where appropriate, by short-term consultants or experts recruited in consultation with the Government concerned. Interregional advisers prepare their recommendations after one or several short visits to the countries, whereas consultants and experts are recruited for relatively longer periods, usually of three to six monthsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; duration. While advisory services along these lines have been useful to many States, it is generally recognized that such assistance can only be of limited benefit and cannot provide an effective long-term answer to the needs of these countries. What each developing country needs is not only a good maritime law regime, but also a reasonable cadre of national legal personnel who are available to oversee, on a systematic basis, the implementation of existing law, to review and evaluate the provisions and arrangements for their implementation, to advise on the need for new or revised laws and regulations and, as necessary, to prepare suitable texts for consideration and adoption by the relevant legislative bodies. This is a crucial role, which must necessarily be discharged on a continuous basis if it is to be effectively discharged. It is therefore a need which cannot be met by occasional visits of advisers, or even by experts who can only stay for limited periods. Therefore, the IMO International Maritime Law Institute was established in 1988 through an international agreement between IMO and the Government of Malta. Courtesy: IMO
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 35
>> World Superyacht Awards
Palumbo Group By Special Correspondent
wins important international award for ‘Divine’ The Palumbo Group was among the winners in the World Superyacht Awards 2016 held in Florence on Saturday. These awards recognise the remarkable ingenuity and innovation demanded by the design, engineering and construction of the world’s finest luxury yachts. Attended by the elite of the superyacht world, owners and industry leaders will come together to recognise the finest superyachts launched throughout 2015. Among the winners there was Columbus which forms part of the Palumbo Group in Malta. The Superyacht manufactured by Palumbo Group and which won the award was:
The Superyacht manufactured by Palumbo GroupF, which won the award Name: Divine Length: 40.1m Builder: Palumbo Group Naval Architect: Palumbo Group / Hydrotec Exterior Styling: Palumbo Group / Hydrotec Interior Design: Palumbo Group / Hot Lab yacht & design
Built in aluminium by Italian yard Palumbo to a design by Hydro Tec, she was delivered in 2015 as a hybrid sports yacht. RINA classed, her interior accommodates up to 11 guests in five cabins consisting of a full beam master suite, two doubles and two
Issue 3 >> 36
twins plus a Pullman berth, all with entertainment centres, flat screen Samsung television sets and en suite bathroom facilities. There is also accommodation for seven crew in four cabins. A large saloon comes with sofas, coffee tables, occasional chairs and an entertainment centre including a large flat screen Samsung television and a Kaeleidescape server giving on-demand audio and visual systems throughout the guest areas. A special feature of the saloon is a pair of folding sea balconies on each side. The aft deck offers glorious space for al fresco dining on free standing settees, chairs and tables, and has port and starboard stairways down to the luxurious beach club which comes with a Jacuzzi spa, bar, gym and bathroom. The hybrid propulsion system is state of the art and consists of two 1,920hp MTU diesel engines giving her a cruising speed of 15 knots and a range of 3,500 nautical miles at 12 knots. For long range cruising, however, a pair of Siemens electric generators come into their own, silently delivering a range of 9,000 nautical miles at 7.5 knots. Divine won this prestigious Award which is organised by Boat International. The Palumbo Group, continues to provide excellence in both the Shipping and Superyachts Industry. Palumbo Group largest facility in the Mediterranean and beyond is that in Malta. This is the 6th year Palumbo since the Group took over the facilities in Malta which saw a major overhaul in investment, practices and level of activity.
Mediterranean Cruising <<
Cruises from Europe Mediterranean & all Europe By George Carol
Mediterranean cruises for 2016-2017 Mediterranean 2016-2017 cruises for 78 ships listing 1651 cruises from Brisbane with today’s best deals! NEW FEATURE... Browse recent ship & cruiseline reviews from our guests, benefit from their tips & stories. NEW FEATURE... Follow the Facebook Event links in the ports and ship lists of sailings to chat with your fellow cruisers, pre-plan meetings, dinners, tours & more. Save up to 80% on shore excursions. Link up with fellow passengers booked on your cruise to plan & pre-book your own shore excursions, tour guides, taxis etc. Save up to 80% on shipboard prices and be guaranteed of a place. We use & recommend Viator.com otherwise search online & call us if you need help. Or just rent a taxi/pushbikes/tour/charter from the wharf when you berth, often the best value but be among the first ashore!
Port Vila’s “The Ekasup Cultural Tour” with prices for 2 adults. P&O Cruises: $170 Travelonline: $110 MelanesianPortVila: $89 Port Vila wharf: $35
broadly group as Western Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean, Black Sea, and Holy Land (Palestine/Egypt). Where will you visit first? Ancient Rome and the Vatican, the Acropolis of Athens, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, unearthed civilisations of Turkey, or Egyptian megaliths? Well, just plan for a second and third cruise.
Keep in mind that if you go it alone and something happens like the taxi/bus breaks down and you end up being late back to the ship it will not wait for you unless it is advised. On the other hand if it is a ship-booked tour there are no problems as they are in contact with the tour companies.
All the major cruise lines and small ships visit this region. Cruises sail from the UK, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Rotterdam, Stockholm, Oslo and Bergen. Generally cruises visit either the Baltic Sea states or the North Sea fjord coastline. The latter usually spend 7 nights around the sub-Arctic fjord coast of Norway. Longer cruises reach further north to the Arctic regions of Norway and/or include Iceland. If visiting St Petersburg look for an itinerary that gives you one or two nights’ stay to allow for worthwhile on-shore tours.
The Mediterranean (“Middle of the Earth”) enabled trade for the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Arabs – to name a few – since the start of history. Museums on its shores display recovered sea relics from these ancient civilisations. Its ports are gateways to the treasures of Egypt, Turkey, Greece and Rome. Call at modern resorts on the Cote d’Azur, the Principality of Monaco, and islands of France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey and Malta. Some of the key ports are Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Venice, Athens and Istanbul. Cruises
Sailing is year-round in the Mediterranean. Embark from the UK or one of the Mediterranean ports. Consider on-shore tour options offered by the cruise line or local tour operators. On some cruises the ship stays overnight in port to allow for more time to look around, say, cities like Athens or Istanbul. Can you plan a pre- or post-tour to allow for a longer stay in a city? Smaller vessels offer premium/luxury cruising, off-the-track small ports, and overnight stays where you need more time to explore on shore.
CLASS 1
IS THE SLEEPING GIANT STIRRING By David Sewell
It might be a rumour were hearing or it might have some truth but whispers coming from Norway are suggesting that the UIM World Class 1 championship might be resurrected at the end of 2016. Although a provisional calender has been produced at least two of the venues seem most unlikely.
David Sewell David has been producing powerboat racing magazines for over 30 years. His strong opinions and love of the sport continue.
If it does happend the venues that are able to stage a round of the series are all in the UAE with Abu Dhabi and Dubai as front-runners. However with Fujairah hosting the 2016 UIM General Assembly it would be very appropriate they host a round of the series. You will notice we have not included any names of those folk trying to make this venture happen as if and when it does bear fruit, they will become known and if it is just a rumour, no harm is done. www.mbrpublications.net
>> 37
>> Charter
Azure Ultra Launches the 2016 Luxury Yacht Charter Season in Chic Style By Annabel Camilleri
Following a successful start to its operation in 2015, and to celebrate the opening of the summer 2016 charter season, Azure Ultra hosted an event on board its fleet of luxury Sunseeker yachts. As Malta’s premier luxury yacht charter provider, Azure Ultra prides itself on its upscale service which sets it apart in the local charter scene. The essence behind its charter product is the bespoke service provided by its professional crew, who ensure everything is taken care of in order to enjoy the perfect day at sea – from supplying a range of beverages on board to freshly prepared appetising lunches and snacks. In addition, the yachts are equipped to offer fun water sports and activities. The experienced crew attend to every minor detail, allowing guests to simply sit back, relax and enjoy their time on the water. Azure Ultra’s fleet is made up of three Sunseeker yachts: Miss Moneypenny, Don’t Ask, and the most recent addition Mio Amore. The iconic world-class elegance of the Sunseeker range brings to life the luxury lifestyle experience that can only be enjoyed while sampling one of Azure Ultra’s charter packages. Offering both full day and overnight charter packages, the Azure Ultra fleet can also cater for bespoke programmes to suit all requirements.
Unique Yacht Ownership Opportunity Developed in line with Azure’s innovative premium holiday product offering, Azure Ultra has completely revolutionised the concept of yacht ownership with its unique fractional programme. Hailed as Europe’s most successful fractional motor yacht ownership programme by industry experts FractionalLife.com, Azure Ultra provides realistically affordable options that place the high life on board a luxury Sunseeker within easy reach of aspiring yacht owners, while guaranteeing a splendid hassle-free time at sea.
Ultimate Luxury Charter Experiences Azure Ultra also provides fantastic yacht chartering opportunities for the enjoyment of fine living on deck in the Mediterranean. Azure Ultra yacht charters combine unsurpassed service with the iconic world-class elegance and comfort of the Sunseeker range, offering exceptional value-for-money packages and bespoke programmes for a memorable time aboard.
5-Star On-board Service The Azure Ultra experience is rendered complete with full VIP service provided by a top-class yacht management team – inclusive of captain and stewardess – that takes care of all the minor details, ensuring that all guests’ holiday requirements are fully catered for. Offering a unique product and services within the world of luxury yachting, the Azure Ultra brand is therefore the obvious choice for anyone looking to indulge in the ultimate Mediterranean yachting lifestyle. For more information, contact Azure Ultra on tel: 23561839, email: info@azureultra.com or visit www.azureultra.com
About Azure Ultra Azure Ultra features as part of an award-winning portfolio of luxury lifestyle products created by Azure, a European market leader in the vacation ownership industry with over 10 years of experience in Malta alone.
Issue 3 >> 38
2016
Powerboats Racing
<<
A TRANSITION YEAR FOR CLASS 1 AND V-1
After a five-year term as Promoter for Class 1 and V-1 the company Class 1 Promotion MFZE decided not to renew their agreement with UIM regarding these classes after the final race in Abu Dhabi last year. UIM was prepared for this and had already early 2015 started the process of finding a new promoter. In light of the challenging conditions in the global economy these efforts have not yet produced the expected solution. The UIM has through incentives from dedicated units within the sport found that 2016 will have to be resolved as a transition year where the teams and organizers are taking heavy loads to make the Championship come true. UIM are currently in dialogue with several organizers and are in the final stages of concluding this year’s Class 1 / V-1 racing Calendar. Two races in Europe and three in the United Arabic Emirates are the perspectives UIM are working towards and hope to have this programme finalized within May. Also the situation regarding the new Promoter is in advanced stages of solution, and the UIM expect to be able to present the new promoter and the Calendar for 2017 by the General Assembly in Fujairah in October at the latest.
* The podium for the World Championship 2015
* From left to right: Arif Al Zaffain, Nadir Bin Hendi – 3 Victory Team; John Tomlinson, Gary Ballough – 6 Abu Dhabi Team; Luca Formilli Fendi, Giovanni Carpitella – 10 Fendi Racing. Honoured by UIM President Raffaele Chiulli and HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nayan
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 39
>> Dive Sites
DiveinSites Malta By Special Correspondent
The three islands that make up the Maltese Archipelago - Malta, the largest; Gozo, the mythical isle of Calypso; and tiny Comino, famous for its Blue Lagoon - form a very special diving site at the heart of the Mediterranean. The islands invite you to discover their natural harbours, bays, sheltered creeks, cliffs, reefs and wrecks. The waters here are some of the most limpid and clear in the world. Visibility is excellent down to around 30 metres. So Malta is a dream destination for underwater photography. Marine life flourishes in a vibrant display of colours. With dive sites just a stone’s throw away from each other, you will be able to explore a variety of underwater worlds. We’ve listed some of the best known dive sites ranging from labyrinthine caves to reefs and wartime wrecks. For more excitement, try a night dive or dive deeper to 30 or 40 metres. Colours appear almost fluorescent by torchlight. For the more experienced, these dives offer a unique adventure.
Conservation Areas around Wrecks A number of conservation areas have been established around submerged wrecks located in Maltese waters. At present, there are seven such conservation areas, namely:
Issue 3 >> 40
•
The Um el Faroud in Wied Iż-Żurrieq
•
MV Xlendi, Cominoland, Karwela off Xatt l-Aħmar
•
Tug St. Michael, Tug 10 in Marsaskala
•
The Imperial Eagle off Qawra Point
•
Rożi, P29 off Ċirkewwa
•
Blenheim Bomber off Xrobb l-Għaġin
•
Bristol Beaufighter off Exiles Point
Powerboat Racing <<
Royal boost for round the world race By George Carol
A power boat racer from Hampshire will receive a major boost today on his round the world record bid. Team Britannia will be supported from The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Endeavour Fund. Team Britannia is a multi-million round the world record bid which hopes to shave up to seven days off the current record of 60 days 23 hours 49 minutes, held by New Zealander Pete Bethune. It is lead by British powerboating legend Alan Priddy, in a revolutionary semi-wave slicing boat that will carve through the waves, rather than surfing them. The boat will be crewed by a team of 12,
including up to four wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women (WIS) on each of the seven legs of the voyage. The Endeavour Fund will support the selection and training process of the WIS crewmembers. I am delighted that we are receiving this generous and welcome support from the Endeavour Fund as part of this historic record attempt. Back in 2014 when my team and I first started to talk about bolstering our crew with wounded and injured servicemen and women, we all knew that it was the right thing to do, especially as several of the existing crew have strong ties to the military.
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 41
>> Ocean Biodiversity
DNA Barcoding of life: discovering the genetic identity and diversity of life forms By Adriana Vella
New record of Abudefduf hoefleri in the Mediterranean
Photo by Adriana Vella, CBRG-UoM
There is something in all living things that unites us all, the DNA molecule. This molecule is at the heart of each cell, it organises and guides the activities and needs to sustain life from the single cell to the whole organism. The discovery of this incredible molecule was first identified by Friedrich Miescher in 1869 at the University of TĂźbingen, a substance he called nuclein, and the double helix structure of DNA was first discovered in 1953 by Watson and Crick at the University of Cambridge.
phylogeography, CBRG-UoM has been active in studies to discover extensive genetic sequences of unique unstudied species, while exploring the functionality of the various genes. A number of new discoveries including aliens in local waters, such as the latest on the first record of the African Sergeant, Abudefduf hoefleri (Perciformes: Pomacentridae), in the Mediterranean Sea have also been identified through DNA barcoding. This research has been recently published in the peer-reviewed journal, Marine Biodiversity Records.
Little did they know that with the increasing tools that would have developed to understand both human and nonhuman DNA we would have entered an era of transformation where DNA would become central to our everyday life, from diagnosing genetic conditions causing health problems, to changing the DNA to produced genetically modified organisms, to studying the genetic identity of species and their diversity from local to regional to global.
The diversity of wild species both marine and terrestrial considered by the CBRG-UoM, allows this research group to apply DNA studies to local, regional and global level, where detailed genetics studies of species such as sharks, Bluefin tuna and groupers have been considered beyond Maltese waters. Part of long-term research on Bluefin tuna led by this research group has been also recently been published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Applied Ichthyology which presents original molecular genetics studies on this highly exploited species.
The Conservation Biology Research Group (CBRG-UoM) at the molecular genetics laboratory of the Department of Biology, has been the first molecular genetics research group in Malta to undertake and apply molecular techniques to better understand the genetic identity of species and populations in and around the Maltese Islands. From small invertebrates to the large vertebrates, the members of this research group led by Dr. Adriana Vella, Ph.D (Cambridge), have developed knowledge on this very important aspect of biodiversity. Numerous projects from bees to fish to turtles are subject of research to understand the genetic identity, population genetic diversity, structure and resilience in the face of environmental changes. This research group has been at the fore in using Next Generation Sequencing on wildlife to study the genome and to design new species specific molecular techniques never studied before. Moreover, apart from DNA barcoding, phylogenetics and
Issue 3 >> 42
Increasingly this conservation and molecular research laboratory is attracting more students and interns both local and foreign and is now also opening the doors to post-doc research through the recently established Reach High Scholarships â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Post doctoral Grants encouraging able scientist to continue to contribute in advancing local scientific knowledge and applications. The CBRG-UoM is therefore advancing further in both technical and environmental fields with many applications in fields related to conservation and genetics. It is doing this by keeping DNA at the heart of its research efforts to better understand natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diversity of forms and functions. For further information contact: adriana.vella@um.edu.mt Refs to publications: http://mbr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41200-016-0008-7 http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jai.13035/abstract
Malta Sailing League <<
Fierce battle expected in final event of Malta Sailing League
The third and final Cup event of the 2016 Malta Sailing League got underway first week of May with six top local clubs/ teams competing for the possibility to be crowned National League Champion. Organised by the Royal Malta Yacht Club and the J70 Association Malta, the 7th and 8th of May will see Malta’s top sailing crews out on the water in Marsamxett Harbour, battling it out for a chance to compete in the International Sailing Champions League since winners will qualify to represent their Club and Malta, at the Sailing Champions League. In addition to the qualification, thanks to the support of Mapfre Middlesea and Yachting Malta, qualifying teams will have entry fees and flights part sponsored. “It’s a prestigious prize, and competition has been fierce throughout the league. After the dramatic events of last month’s Cup where challenging weather conditions and technical difficulties pushed the teams to their limit, only seven points now separate the top two scoreboard leaders” commented Sebastian Ripard, representative, J70 Association Malta. This weekend could see second placed team RMYC - Xp-Act, skippered by Josef Schultheis and Timmy Camilleri catch up with MYSC – Calypso, skippered by Benji Borg and Sebastian Ripard. Applying the pressure is RMYC - Artie who are hot on their heels, and in this final regatta of the season there’s still time for them to gain crucial points.
Photo Credit: RMYC/Kurt Arrigo
More information about the 2016 Malta Sailing League can be found on www.rmyc.org or http://www.j70malta.com Creditline: Royal Malta Yacht Club
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 43
>> Maritime News
Transport Malta welcomes important new global mandatory requirements for ships to mitigate climate change By Special Correspondent
The Marine Environment Protection Committee of the International Maritime Organisation at its 69th session held last week in London approved new global mandatory requirements for ships to record and report fuel consumption. The agreement was reached when World Earth Day was being celebrated and the day the Paris agreement on climate change was being signed by world leaders in New York, including Malta’s Prime Minister. Transport Malta, as the regulator of maritime affairs in Malta welcomed the new data collection requirements hailed internationally as a significant contribution to the ongoing work by the international community to mitigate climate change. This was also welcomed by the Malta International Shipowners Association and the international shipping community. IMO member States also agreed to continue at the next MEPC session in November with their work to further address greenhouse gas emissions from ships. The mandatory data collection system is intended to be the first in a three-step process in which analysis of the data collected would
Issue 3 >> 44
provide the basis for an objective, transparent and inclusive policy debate on climate change mitigation from shipping. Malta, as befitting a leading maritime nation, is an active participant in the work of IMO and actively took part in a wide ranging discussion leading to the approval of a new mandatory data collection system. Malta was represented at the IMO meeting by senior officials of the Merchant Shipping Directorate within Transport Malta together with the Permanent Representation of Malta to IMO and support from industry. The new agreement is yet another clear and positive signal about the firm commitment of the shipping industry to climate change mitigation. To date, IMO is the only Organization to have adopted energy-efficiency measures that are legally binding across an entire global industry. Mandatory energy efficiency standards for new ships, and mandatory operational measures to reduce emissions from existing ships, entered into force in 2013. Thanks to those new measures, by 2025 all new ships built will be 30% more energy efficient than those built in 2013.
IMO Secretary General Mr Kitack Lim welcomed the approval of the amendments and said “The work in the MEPC this week shows IMO’s strong commitment, as the global regulator of the shipping industry, to continue its work to address GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions from ships engaged in international trade. IMO has a major role to play in ensuring that the positive momentum towards climate change mitigation is translated into tangible and lasting improvements in people’s lives.” Transport
Malta
reaffirmed
its
firm
commitment to continue working together with its international and European partners, through the IMO, to further enhance the energy efficiency of the international shipping sector through a harmonized global regime. Transport Malta welcomes the support of the Malta International Shipowners Association in this direction. For further details, please contact: Transport Malta Malta Transport Centre Marsa MRS1917 Tel: 21222203; Fax: 21250365 Email: info.tm@transport.gov.mt
Cover Story: Exclusive Interview with Sir Ben Ainslie <<
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 45
>> Satellite Navigation
Garmin showcases its latest products at this year’s Seawork International 14-16 June 2016 | Stand Q42 Garmin, the global leader in satellite navigation, will be showcasing its suite of pioneering marine products at this year’s Seawork, designed for individuals working within the commercial sector and vessels from fishing boats and workboats to RIBs. Garmin’s vast range of marine products are all designed, developed and manufactured with longevity in mind to ensure they are rugged enough to withstand the harsh commercial marine environment. Products on display at Seawork include the new GMR Fantom radar, the GPSMAP 7400 and 8400 series, and the echoMAP CHIRP series.
GMR Fantom Garmin’s new GMR Fantom solid-state pulse compression radar series with MotionScope™ Doppler technology has 40W of power, the highest in the industry for its kind. Available in a 4 or 6 foot open array, the Fantom series MotionScope™ technology uses the Doppler effect to create a display, automatically “Painting” dangerous moving targets red, safe moving targets in green thereby giving unrivalled levels of situational awareness to help users avoid potential collisions. With pulse compression technology, it provides high resolution while maximising energy on targets to enhance detection and identification of targets. It uses pulse expansion to maximise target size to help differentiate real targets from noise. Featuring a unique design that’s smaller and lighter than previous open-array radar models, the new Fantom radars deliver high sensitivity for both close and long range without any compromise in ruggedness or reliability. As no warm-up time is needed, mariners can start tracking targets instantly.
echoMAP CHIRP series The echoMAP CHIRP series, 4-inch, 5-inch, 7-inch and 9-inch verions, is a new line of affordable chartplotter/ sonar combination units with built-in CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP DownVüTM and SideVü- the clearest scanning sonar on the water. For the clearest scanning sonar of fish and structure on the market, this new series offers built-in CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP DownVü and SideVü technology. Instead of just sending one single frequency, CHIRP sends a continuous sweep of frequencies and interprets them individually upon their return, creating crisper fish arches with better target separation. For fishermen who want to see objects and structure below the boat, DownVü provides a nearly photographic view with excellent resolution and target separation in both freshwater and saltwater. The echoMAP sv models also add SideVü scanning for those who want to see what’s located on both sides of the boat. All units come standard with Garmin QuickdrawTM Contours, a new software feature that lets mariners instantly create personalised HD fishing maps with 1-foot contours on any body of water. The series includes full UK and Ireland charting free of charge and with NMEA® 2000 compatibility, the new echoMAP’s can also receive information from sensors, engines, autopilots and more. Additionally, the 7-inch and 9-inch echoMAP CHIRP models provide support for Garmin PanoptixTM all-seeing sonar. With Panoptix on board, fishermen can see realtime sonar imagery at video-like speed. It shows an image of fish swimming and moving toward or away from the boat – even while stationary – in real time and up to 100 feet away. The echoMAP CHIRP series will support all Panoptix models, including the new PS21.
GPSMAP 7400 series The GPSMAP 7400 units, which now include a built-in J1939 connector, offering a dedicated CAN port for directly receiving compatible engine data to create a fully-integrated and completely networked helm, are available in sonar and non-sonar versions and feature CHIRP DownVü and SideVü. The GPSMAP 7400 series is a premier line that streamlines high performance, usability and superior boating features with a renowned interface that makes any time on the water more productive and enjoyable. The GPSMAP 7400 series encompasses the same performance and dependability customers have grown to expect from the GPSMAP range. With full pinch-to-zoom touchscreen capabilities, these devices integrate features that are essential in commercial marine and offshore environments. Full-network compatibilities allow the user to add sensors, multiple screens, remote sonar modules, weather, radar, autopilot, thermal and IP camera visibility, digital switching and more. All units in the GPSMAP 7400 series also offer the conveniences of built-in WiFi connectivity for use with the Garmin Helm™ and BlueChart Mobile 2.0 apps. Garmin has also recently announced the addition of 16-inch MFDs to the GPSMAP 7400 series.
GPSMAP 8400 series The GPSMAP 8400 series is the powerful new all-in-one multifunction displays (MFDs) that offer mariners the highest screen resolution on the market. These large-format MFDs provide a sleek glass-helm look and are available in 17, 22 and 24-inch displays, featuring full HD inplane switching (IPS) screens with multi-touch control. Boasting new and improved processors, the GPSMAP 8400 series provides increased performance, enhanced video processing, and the fastest chart drawing offered to date in a Garmin MFD.
Garmin’s sales team will be available throughout the show to offer advice and demonstrate the new and existing products. To find out more about Garmin’s innovative product ranges, please visit: www.garmin.com
Issue 3 >> 46
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 47
>> RMYC Citadel Coastal Race
Aaron Gatt Floridia - Otra Vez (1st Place - IRC Class 1)
Ian Pace - Mawimbi (1st Place - IRC Class 4)
Mark Vassallo - Fast Forward (1st Place - IRC Class 2) Photo Credit: RMYC/Maria Vella-Galea
Fickle winds and steep swells for RMYC Citadel Coastal Race RC44 Valletta Cup Match Racing Results Results of the 2016 Citadel Coastal Race IRC Class 1 1st Place - Otra Vez (Aaron Gatt Floridia) 2nd Place - Juno (Sonke Stein) 3rd Place - Xpresso (Sean Borg) IRC Class 2 1st Place – Fast Forward (Mark Vassallo) 2nd Place – Time Out (Mario Sant) 3rd Place – Windriven (Per Sahlberg) IRC Class 4 1st Place – Mawimbi (Ian Pace) 2nd Place – Inspiration (Godwin Zammit)
Issue 3 >> 48
With weather conditions in Marzamemi leading to the postponement of the Citadel Marzamemi Regatta, the Royal Malta Yacht Club organised a Coastal Race for crews who had been geared up to race over the weekend. Whilst weather conditions were slightly better in Malta, nevertheless the seventeen competing crews encountered some tricky moments during Saturday’s Citadel Coastal Race. Split into three classes, crews were given an approximate fifteen nautical mile course starting from Marsamxett Harbour and which took them south to Munxar before turning back to finish at the Royal Malta Yacht Club early in the afternoon. Winner of IRC Class 1, Aaron Gatt Floridia (Otra Vez) commented “We enjoyed the race and the fine sailing conditions. Otra Vez has just been put back in the water for the new season and we were looking forward to getting back to racing. The wind was very light at the start and the swell made it tricky to keep the boat moving but the breeze improved as we went South and made for a very enjoyable race”. Mark Vassallo’s Fast Forward sailed into first place in IRC Class 2. Vassallo echoed Gatt Floridia’s sentiments - “Although a short race, it didn’t come without its fair share of tricky moments particularly at the start, due to the fickle wind and steep NE swell..... and at Marsascala, where in view of our overlapping genoa we were unable to hold an angle high enough to avoid a non-making tack at the reef......which cost
us precious time....Once round Munxar, the breeze picked up slightly which made for a very easy sail all the way to the finish!!” Ian Pace sailing on his Oceanis 40 Mawimbi won IRC Class 4, “A well organised race, which we thoroughly enjoyed, making up for the disappointment of the Marzamemi postponement. We look forward to hopefully racing to Marzamemi on the 13th”. Crews were hosted to a Prize Giving evening which was held at the Royal Malta Yacht Club later on in the day. The Royal Malta Yacht Club is grateful to Citadel Insurance plc for supporting this event as well as all the volunteers who take care of Race Management on the day. Citadel Marzamemi Weekend Regatta Royal Malta Yacht Club crews are now hoping for good weather for the Citadel Marzamemi Regatta Weekend which has now been moved to the weekend starting 13th May. The Regatta will see boats racing up to Marzamemi on Friday and racing back down on the Sunday. Throughout the weekend there will be the possibility of racing with Italian counterparts as well as a social event hosted by the Royal Malta Yacht Club at the Yacht Club in Marzamemi. A Prize Giving will be held at the Royal Malta Yacht Club on Friday 20th May. More information on the Royal Malta Yacht Club Racing Calendar can be obtained by visiting www.rmyc.org
Outboard Motoring <<
Torqeedo showcases new Cruise engine at Seawork International 2016 14-16 June 2016 | Stand Q28 and Berth V41
Torqeedo, market leader in the fast growing electric outboard motor industry, will debut its innovative new electric motor at this year’s Seawork International, on stand Q28 and berth V41. 1241-00_Cruise_10KW LOWThe new generation, the Cruise 10.0R, is equivalent to a 20HP combustion engine. It boasts 12kW peak power, 10kW continuous power and a voltage level of 48V to deliver impressive, emissionfree performance at speeds of up to 17.2knots (31.9km/h). The Cruise 10.0R weighs 47.2kg in its smallest variation and features a powered tilt function, alongside a maximum RPM standing at 1,400RPM, and 315lbs of static thrust. Available in three shaft lengths ranging from 38.5cm to 63.9cm, the Cruise 10.0R is suitable for a variety of boats. With its very robust design, protected from corrosion, salt-water capable and completely waterproof, this new addition is suited for rugged environments and extreme conditions. It can provide the power and thrust for planing boats and displacement hulls up to the weight of 10 tonnes.
The new Torqeedo Cruise 10.0 R engine, available to test and review at Seawork International.
Press at Seawork will have the opportunity to go out on the water and experience the Cruise motor first-hand. Also on display at Seawork International 2016 will be Torqeedo’s award winning Deep Blue 80HP and Travel Series. To organise a demonstration or a meeting at the show, please contact Boatcare Ltd. Torqeedo’s environmentally friendly engines achieve the same power as a petrol outboard without the risk of leaking fuel and emissions. For further information, please visit www.torqeedo. com.
About Torqeedo Founded in 2005 in Starnberg, Germany, Torqeedo is the market leader in the fast growing electric outboard motor industry. Torqeedo’s range of high-tech outboards combine lithium batteries with leading-edge motor technology and propeller design to offer unrivalled strength and efficiency for superior range, in addition to ultra-light designs. With a broad product range of outboards ranging from 1 to 80 HP, as well as innovative accessories, including solar powered chargers and high-powered lithium batteries, Torqeedo’s products are environmentally-sound and truly pioneering, reflected in the numerous awards the products have won. Torqeedo products are currently available in over 40 countries world-wide. For further information, please visit www.torqeedo.com.
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 49
>> Maritime Academy
International Maritime Academy Welcome to the International Maritime Academy (IMA) where we can provide training that introduces you to recreational sailing or that contributes to the progression of your career across the Maritime industry. Our open and bespoke in-house courses, which all lead to internationally recognised qualifications combines a professional approach to learning through classroom lectures coupled with practical experience. Our qualified staff pride themselves on a relaxed yet professional approach to learning, offering expertise for varying levels of qualifications, resulting in an unparalleled depth of knowledge transfer. Courses are available throughout the year, or can be arranged upon request to accommodate the needs of all levels within their respective disciplines or existing experience. Our mission is to be the premier provider of maritime training in the Mediterranean region and our vision is to establish IMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a centre of excellence across oceans attracting amateur sailors and maritime career professionals from around the globe. Ideally located on the island of Malta, IMA enjoys all the advantages of being at a hub of recreational yachting, commercial boating, shipping and other maritime activities. Situated at the Portomaso marina, St Julians, we are in an area with easy access to a number of hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. Moreover the close relationship with other maritime facilitates easy practical experience while our simulation capacity which includes state of the art bridge replication. Malta provides an ideal base for training purposes. Just a three hour flight from the UK and measuring 19 x 25 kilometres, the climate is perfect for the majority of the year. The costs of accommodation, transport and food meanwhile, are very favourable compared to other European countries. IMA is continually expanding its range of courses and resources to offer the highest quality of training and is committed to providing learning opportunities that increase personal maritime skills and professional development. Email : info@imamalta.com Creditline: Royal Malta Yacht Club, Taâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Xbiex
Issue 3 >> 50
www.mbrpublications.net
>> 51
Issue 3 >> 52