The administrative problems of the Yacht Marina in Malta

Abstract

Early in 1963 a group of foreign industrialists showed a particular interest in the foundation of a Yacht Marina in Malta. Discussions were held by this group of people with the Hon. Dr. G. Felice, LL.D., then Minister of Industrial Development and Tourism and Mr John Pollacco, Charmain of the Malta Government Tourist Board. Mr Lindsay-Finn, Chairman of the Friends of Malta G.C., Wing-Commander Grant Ferris, and Mr Mark Woodnutt also took part in the discussion. It was agreed by all that a Yacht Marina in Malta was a highly desirable development which would contribute considerably to enhance the tourist economy of the Island. The British Navy in previous years had realised that Malta occupies a key position in the centre of the Mediterranean and just as this was important for the Navy in the days of sail, so it is equally important today for yachtsmen. Moreover, distances from Malta to the most popular sailing areas in the Mediterranean are as follows: To the Riviera - 600 miles, To Majorca - 600 miles, To the Greek Islands - 500 miles, to the Dalmation Coast - 500 miles, to Corsica - 400 miles, to Sardinia - 300 miles, to Tunis and the North African Coast - 200 miles, to Sicily - 80 miles. It is therefore possible to base a yacht in Malta and be within two to four days' cruising of all the Mediterranean summer resorts. In this respect Malta can become a winter laying up harbour of Yacht Charter Companies and a stopping-off place for all yachts passing from the western to the eastern Mediterranean and vice-versa.