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Best spots to watch the Rolex Middlesea Race
In less than 24 hours, the yachting event of the year kicks off at 10:30 am. As usual, the race will begin at the Grand Harbour in Valletta, after which the boats will set sail to Sicily. This year, the 44th edition of the iconic race, has amassed an impressive 109 yachts from 25 different countries. Here’s a few places to get a good look at the fleet before the boats disappear into the horizon, or alternatively, where you can spot them when they return.
Upper Barraka Gardens
At the risk of stating the obvious, a number of ideal spots can be found within Valletta’s walls. The Upper Barraka Gardens offer several breathtaking vantage spots from which to watch the boats take off in elegance.
Lower Barraka Gardens
If you’re looking for a quieter, less-crowded spot with the same view, consider the Lower Barraka Gardens. Even better, try the Siege Bell War Memorial just a few meters away for a more isolated spot.
St Barbara Bastion
The St Barbara Bastion is just a 4-minute walk away from the Lower Barraka, but it merits its own spot in the list. Overlooking the Grand Harbor Area, St. Barbara Bastion is a flat-faced bastion with a modest parapet.
St Elmos’ Point
See the fleet off at Valletta’s tip at Fort St Elmo’s Point. If you’re brave enough (and careful enough, of course) you can walk to Sebastian’s Street, sit on the wall and potentially catch a glimpse of the boats sailing by.
Fort St Angelo
On the opposite side of the harbour, Fort St Angelo in Birgu (Vittoriosa) offers a uniquely stunning view. Not to mention, an unmatched historic opulence.
Dragonara Point
If you’re looking for some place outside of the fortified cities, Dragonara Point is a surprisingly befitting spot to watch the start of the race, as the fleet sails past the grand Dragonara casino.
The Race Tracker
Alternatively, there’s plenty of options if you’d like to watch the race from the comfort of your own home. Anyone who wishes to may follow the individual boats’ voyages online via The Race Tracker, which can be found here. This is because all competing yachts have a tracking unit installed, allowing spectators on land to monitor the fleet’s progress as it navigates the course. Not to mention, the race’s website and social media channels post frequently updates from the moment it starts to the moment it ends.
So, where will you be watching this year?
