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    14-Day Round Malta and Sicily Sailing Holiday

    All year around

    Rolex Middle Sea Race Made Slow

    Sail through the stunning waters of the Mediterranean, following the iconic Rolex Middle Sea Race route in a slow and comfortable way. This trip is ideal for those looking to build miles, prepare for the Middle Sea Race, or simply enjoy a two-week sailing holiday with a mix of adventure and relaxation. Expect offshore passages, scenic anchorages, charming harbors, and time ashore to explore the cultural gems of Sicily and Malta.

    Enjoy the cruise, take turns to skip yacht, build mileage and log over 700NM qualifying passages for the Yachtmaster Exam and additional coaching where required/desired.

    • Your own cabin! No-one shares unless by choice when booking
    • Option for couples, families or groups on 46ft cruise yachts
    • You can join this trip as RYA Competent Crew course (if you completed theory)
    • A mix of long offshore passages & short coastal hops
    • You will be expected to helm and keep watch!

    14-Day Mile Builder

    4.9 rating of 46 reviews

    Bavaria 46C - 4 cabins

    Monday - Sunday of 2nd week

    14 - 65 years old

    Meet interesting and active people from all over the world, and discover new spots.

    4 - 8 people onboard

    700 Nautical Miles

    All year available

    Manoel Island Yacht Marina

    No assumed knowledge

    Prices from 1400 per person

    Upcoming Trip Dates

    This course is arranged upon request, please contact us or send us an enquiry if you're interested. 😉‍

    Essential Skills Practiced During Mile Building

    Passage Planning & Navigation

    Passage Planning & Navigation

    • Planning the route before departure, taking into account weather, tides, currents, hazards, and stopovers. • Identifying way points, adjusting course, and ensuring the passage is safe and efficient.

    Night Sailing & Watchkeeping

    Night Sailing & Watchkeeping

    • Sailing in darkness with limited visibility using navigation lights, radar, AIS, and chart plotters. • Watchkeeping involves standing shifts (watches) during long passages, where crew members rotate roles.

    Sail Handling & Trim Optimization

    Sail Handling & Trim Optimization

    • Adjusting sails to maximize speed, efficiency, and comfort based on wind conditions. • Understanding how different sail settings affect the boat's performance.

    Heavy Weather Sailing & MOB

    Heavy Weather Sailing & MOB

    • Techniques to handle strong winds, rough seas, and unexpected squalls. • Using storm sails, heaving-to, deploying drogues, and managing crew fatigue. • Practicing man-overboard drills.

    Anchoring & Mooring Techniques

    Anchoring & Mooring Techniques

    • Learning how to safely anchor in different seabed conditions. • Mooring in various settings, including marinas, pontoons, and mooring buoys.

    Radio Communication & COLREGS

    Radio Communication & COLREGS

    • Using VHF radio to communicate with harbormasters, coast guards, and nearby vessels. • Understanding Collision Regulations (COLREGs) for right of way at sea.

    Between Malta and Sicily

    A region in the central Mediterranean known for its rich history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant sailing traditions

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    Malta - Valletta

     A Grand Sailing Destination

    Malta - Valletta

    Valletta, Malta’s historic capital, has been a maritime powerhouse since the 16th century. Its Grand Harbour, once a key naval stronghold for the Knights of St. John, now thrives as a hub for sailing, yachting, and prestigious regattas. With its fortified waterfront and world-class marinas, the city remains deeply connected to its seafaring past.

    itinerary map-mobile

    * example mile builder stops, subject to weather

    Typical Itinerary (Malta to Sicily Adventure)

    Visit Malta, Gozo, Syracuse, Catania, and Tourmina, with some night sailing. Sail coaching available for those wishing to improve their skills. C. f350NM (7 day) logged, with the possibility of 60NM YM qualifying passages.

    Valletta → Comino (~20NM, Coastal Warm-up)

    ⛵ Training Focus: Coastal navigation, anchoring techniques, safety procedures. • Morning: Crew arrival, safety briefing, and passage planning session. • Midday: Depart Valletta, sailing past Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Mellieha Bay. • Afternoon: Anchor at Crystal Lagoon, a stunning bay with turquoise waters & sea caves. • Evening: Swim, snorkel, and relax onboard with sunset drinks. 📍 Overnight: Anchor in Crystal Lagoon, Comino

    Comino → Gozo (~10NM, Short Sail & Exploration)⛵ Training Focus: Mediterranean mooring, docking practice, weather briefing. • Morning: Short sail to Gozo, docking at Mgarr Marina. • Midday: Explore Victoria & The Citadel, Gozo’s historic hilltop fortress. • Afternoon: Swim at Ramla Bay, known for its red-golden sand beach. • Evening: Dinner at a local Gozitan restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood & local wine. 📍 Overnight: Marina in Mgarr, Gozo
    Gozo → Syracuse (~90NM, Overnight Passage)⛵ Training Focus: Watchkeeping, offshore passage planning, night navigation. • Morning: Depart Gozo for an offshore passage to Sicily. • All Day & Night: Crew rotates watches, practicing night navigation & offshore passage skills. • Early Morning Arrival: Dock in Syracuse and enjoy a well-earned rest. 📍 Overnight: Marina in Syracuse, Sicily
    Explore Syracuse – Rest & Cultural Discovery⛵ Training Focus: Post-passage debrief, harbor maneuvering practice. • Late Morning: Crew rests & recovers after the overnight passage. • Afternoon: Explore Ortigia Island, the Greek Theatre, and vibrant Sicilian markets. • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Sicilian trattoria. 📍 Overnight: Marina in Syracuse
    Syracuse → Catania (~35NM, Coastal Sail)⛵ Training Focus: Coastal pilotage, docking in busy harbors, sail trim refinement. • Morning: Set sail along the Sicilian coast, passing dramatic cliffs and fishing villages. • Midday: Arrive in Catania, a vibrant port city at the foot of Mount Etna. • Afternoon: Explore Catania’s bustling markets, Baroque architecture, and historic squares. • Evening: Optional excursion to Mount Etna, or enjoy a seafood dinner at La Pescheria market. 📍 Overnight: Dock at Catania Marina
    Catania → Taormina (~30NM, Short Coastal Sail)⛵ Training Focus: Anchoring near cliffs, maneuvering in light winds, fine-tuning sail handling. • Morning: Short sail along Sicily’s eastern coast, with views of Mount Etna. • Midday: Swim stop at Isola Bella, a beautiful cove near Taormina. • Afternoon: Explore Taormina’s Greek Theatre, charming streets, and cafés. • Evening: Dinner overlooking the sea, with a stunning sunset backdrop. 📍 Overnight: Anchor near Taormina or dock at Giardini Naxos Marina
    Taormina → Messina Strait → Stromboli (~85NM, Long Passage)⛵ Training Focus: Tidal calculations, offshore passage-making, night approach to a volcanic island. • Early Morning: Depart early from Taormina, checking tidal currents for the Messina Strait. • Midday: Navigate through the Strait of Messina, experiencing strong currents and busy shipping lanes. • Afternoon & Evening: Continue towards Stromboli, an active volcano island. • Night: Dock at Marina del Gabbiano-Stromboli, enjoy dinner in the quaint town, and hike to the volcano viewpoint to watch the eruptions. 📍 Overnight: Dock at Marina del Gabbiano, Stromboli
    Stromboli → Palermo (~100NM, Offshore Passage)⛵ Training Focus: Offshore passage planning, helming in varying sea conditions, Mediterranean weather routing. • Early Morning: Final weather check and departure from Stromboli. • Midday: Offshore passage westward, passing the Aeolian Islands. • Afternoon and evening: Watch rotations, passage-making practice. • Evening: Arrive in Palermo, docking in the historic port. • Night: Arrive in Palermo, docking in the historic port. 📍 Overnight: Marina in Palermo
    Palermo – Rest & Exploration Day⛵ Training Focus: Post-passage debrief, harbor maneuvering practice, Mediterranean mooring. • Morning: Leisurely start with breakfast at the marina. • Midday: Crew rest & optional maintenance check on the yacht. • Afternoon: Visit Palermo's cultural highlights, such as Palermo Cathedral & Ballarò Market. • Evening: Traditional Sicilian dinner & optional night out in Palermo. 📍 Overnight: Marina in Palermo
    Palermo → Trapani → Favignana (~60NM, Coastal Passage)⛵ Training Focus: Coastal navigation, docking in a busy port (Trapani), anchoring practice in clear waters (Favignana). • Morning: Depart Palermo, sailing along Sicily's scenic northwestern coast. • Midday: Short stop in Trapani, allowing time to visit the historic old town and waterfront. • Afternoon: Depart Trapani and sail 10NM to Favignana, arriving by evening. • Evening: Swim and snorkel at Cala Rossa, one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Egadi Islands. • Night: Enjoy a seafood dinner in Favignana town or a relaxed evening onboard. 📍 Overnight: Dock in Favignana Marina or anchor in Cala Rossa
    Full Day in Favignana & Night Passage to Lampedusa, passing Pantelleria (~120NM, Overnight Sail)⛵ Training Focus: Advanced night navigation, watch rotations, radar/chartplotter use, fatigue management. • Morning: Leisurely breakfast onboard or at a waterfront café. • Midday: Snorkeling and swimming at Cala Rossa, one of the most beautiful bays in the Egadi Islands. • Afternoon: Explore Favignana town by bike or scooter, visiting Bue Marino sea caves and the historic tuna fisheries. • Evening: Early dinner in Favignana, enjoying fresh seafood and local Sicilian wine. Final provisioning. • Late Night: Depart Favignana around 22:00, sailing through the night towards Lampedusa. • Overnight: Crew rotates watchkeeping shifts, practicing offshore navigation & night sailing techniques. 📍 Overnight: At sea, sailing towards Lampedusa
    Morning Arrival & Full Day in Lampedusa⛵ Training Focus: Post-passage debrief, anchoring in a remote island setting, analyzing night sail performance. • Morning: Arrive at Lampedusa, docking at the marina or anchoring in a bay. Rest & late breakfast onboard or in a local café. • Midday: Visit Rabbit Beach, one of the world's top-rated beaches, with crystal-clear water and soft white sand. • Afternoon: Optional snorkeling or diving tour to explore underwater caves & marine life. • Evening: Relaxed dinner at a traditional Lampedusan seafood restaurant. 📍 Overnight: Dock in Lampedusa
    Lampedusa → Malta (~90NM, Offshore Passage, ~15-18 hours)⛵ Training Focus: Final offshore passage, Mediterranean weather and routing analysis. • Morning: Final provisioning and weather check before setting sail for Malta. • Midday: Depart Lampedusa for the last offshore passage of the trip. • Afternoon & Evening: • Crew rotates watchkeeping shifts. • Possible encounters with dolphins in deep waters. • Final night sailing experience, using light identification and navigation aids. • Early Morning Arrival: Enter Valletta's Grand Harbour at sunrise, docking at Manoel Island Yacht Marina. 📍 Overnight: Manoel Island Yacht Marina, Malta
    Valletta – Disembarkation & Farewell📍 Final Stop: Manoel Island Marina, Valletta • Morning: Crew breakfast at a waterfront café. • Final crew debrief & reflection on the 14-day adventure. • Logbook recording and signature for Yachtmaster candidates. • Midday: Crew disembarks, free time to explore Valletta's historic sites before heading home. ⛵ Final Thoughts: ✔ Over 700 nautical miles logged ✔ A perfect mix of offshore passages & cultural experiences ✔ Hands-on training in night sailing, passage planning, and offshore navigation.
    Tips from instructors

    Avoiding Seasickness & Staying Healthy

    To prevent seasickness, stay hydrated, eat light meals, and get plenty of fresh air. If you start feeling queasy, focus on the horizon and try to stay out of enclosed spaces. Consider taking seasickness tablets, ginger, or using acupressure wristbands as a preventive measure. Rest is key—fatigue can make seasickness worse. Keeping the cabin well-ventilated and practicing good hygiene will help you feel your best throughout the trip. A healthy crew makes for a smoother, more enjoyable sail!

    Tips from instructors

    Prioritize Seamanship and Boat Handling

    A great sailor knows their vessel inside and out. As you sail, focus on refining basic skills like tacking, gybing, and sail trimming. In particular, pay close attention to the boat's responsiveness in different wind conditions. Practicing tight turns and smooth maneuvering will make you more comfortable when entering marinas, docking, or navigating tight spaces. Don't rush, and always double-check your lines and fenders before any docking or anchoring. Consistent practice will boost your confidence.

    Tips from instructors

    Mastering Passage Planning

    A well-planned passage makes all the difference, especially on longer legs. Always study your route the night before, considering potential obstacles, wind forecasts, tides, and alternate anchorages or harbors. During the day, use the GPS and charts to confirm your course and make necessary adjustments. Remember to regularly monitor your position and check your speed. A good practice is to plan your arrival at a port during daylight, so you have plenty of time for entry and maneuvering.

    Tips from instructors

    Communicate and Delegate

    Clear communication among the crew is essential for a smooth sail. As the skipper, delegate tasks to ensure everyone remains engaged—whether it's adjusting sails, keeping watch, or taking bearings. Encourage a team environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and providing input. This teamwork builds confidence, improves safety, and allows for smoother transitions between shifts or tasks, especially during challenging weather or longer passages.

    Tips from instructors

    Avoiding Seasickness & Staying Healthy

    To prevent seasickness, stay hydrated, eat light meals, and get plenty of fresh air. If you start feeling queasy, focus on the horizon and try to stay out of enclosed spaces. Consider taking seasickness tablets, ginger, or using acupressure wristbands as a preventive measure. Rest is key—fatigue can make seasickness worse. Keeping the cabin well-ventilated and practicing good hygiene will help you feel your best throughout the trip. A healthy crew makes for a smoother, more enjoyable sail!

    Tips from instructors

    Prioritize Seamanship and Boat Handling

    A great sailor knows their vessel inside and out. As you sail, focus on refining basic skills like tacking, gybing, and sail trimming. In particular, pay close attention to the boat's responsiveness in different wind conditions. Practicing tight turns and smooth maneuvering will make you more comfortable when entering marinas, docking, or navigating tight spaces. Don't rush, and always double-check your lines and fenders before any docking or anchoring. Consistent practice will boost your confidence.

    Tips from instructors

    Mastering Passage Planning

    A well-planned passage makes all the difference, especially on longer legs. Always study your route the night before, considering potential obstacles, wind forecasts, tides, and alternate anchorages or harbors. During the day, use the GPS and charts to confirm your course and make necessary adjustments. Remember to regularly monitor your position and check your speed. A good practice is to plan your arrival at a port during daylight, so you have plenty of time for entry and maneuvering.

    Tips from instructors

    Communicate and Delegate

    Clear communication among the crew is essential for a smooth sail. As the skipper, delegate tasks to ensure everyone remains engaged—whether it's adjusting sails, keeping watch, or taking bearings. Encourage a team environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and providing input. This teamwork builds confidence, improves safety, and allows for smoother transitions between shifts or tasks, especially during challenging weather or longer passages.

    Tips from instructors

    Avoiding Seasickness & Staying Healthy

    To prevent seasickness, stay hydrated, eat light meals, and get plenty of fresh air. If you start feeling queasy, focus on the horizon and try to stay out of enclosed spaces. Consider taking seasickness tablets, ginger, or using acupressure wristbands as a preventive measure. Rest is key—fatigue can make seasickness worse. Keeping the cabin well-ventilated and practicing good hygiene will help you feel your best throughout the trip. A healthy crew makes for a smoother, more enjoyable sail!

    Tips from instructors

    Prioritize Seamanship and Boat Handling

    A great sailor knows their vessel inside and out. As you sail, focus on refining basic skills like tacking, gybing, and sail trimming. In particular, pay close attention to the boat's responsiveness in different wind conditions. Practicing tight turns and smooth maneuvering will make you more comfortable when entering marinas, docking, or navigating tight spaces. Don't rush, and always double-check your lines and fenders before any docking or anchoring. Consistent practice will boost your confidence.

    Tips from instructors

    Mastering Passage Planning

    A well-planned passage makes all the difference, especially on longer legs. Always study your route the night before, considering potential obstacles, wind forecasts, tides, and alternate anchorages or harbors. During the day, use the GPS and charts to confirm your course and make necessary adjustments. Remember to regularly monitor your position and check your speed. A good practice is to plan your arrival at a port during daylight, so you have plenty of time for entry and maneuvering.

    Tips from instructors

    Communicate and Delegate

    Clear communication among the crew is essential for a smooth sail. As the skipper, delegate tasks to ensure everyone remains engaged—whether it's adjusting sails, keeping watch, or taking bearings. Encourage a team environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and providing input. This teamwork builds confidence, improves safety, and allows for smoother transitions between shifts or tasks, especially during challenging weather or longer passages.

    Never sailed before?

    You can still join the trip if you are in good physical and health condition,
    but we strongly recommend completing our RYA Competent Crew course as a minimum.

    See beginner courses

    What's included

    Accommodation onboard

    Opportunity to practice navigation, passage-making, and mooring techniques

    Food provisioning

    Free WiFi by Starlink

    Safety gear and wet weather clothing

    RYA recognized Instructor

    All necessary bedding and towels

    A mix of short coastal hops and longer offshore passages

    Fuel

    Final cleaning

    What's not included

    Marina fee, shared by crew, subject to passage

    Restaurant onshore

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    Mile building tour gallery

    Set sail on our mile-building adventure between Malta and Sicily, guided by an expert instructor, where you’ll experience the best of the Mediterranean’s coastal beauty and rich history.

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