RYA Sailing Courses, Mile Builders, and Yachtmaster Preps in Malta

When sailing after sunset or in low visibility, navigation lights become essential. They’re used to indicate a vessel’s position, direction of travel, and type, helping to avoid collisions and keep everyone safe.

When you're learning to sail, one of the first things you'll hear is: "That's on the port side!" or "Look starboard!" But what do these terms really mean?

Sailing onto a mooring buoy is a fundamental skill that not only tests your seamanship but can be a lifesaver when anchorages are crowded or engine failure occurs. This maneuver requires precision, planning, and teamwork — but once mastered, it's incredibly satisfying and practical.

Choosing the right rope for your boat is crucial for safety, performance, and durability. Marine ropes come in various materials and constructions, each suited to specific tasks onboard, from mooring to sail control. Here’s a breakdown of the most common rope types used in boating, their materials, and typical applications.

Selecting the right mooring lines for your yacht is essential for safe and comfortable mooring. While sailing requires strong, low-stretch sheets and halyards for precise sail control, mooring lines have different demands. Using a spare sheet or halyard as a mooring line can lead to an uncomfortable night and potential damage to your vessel’s deck fittings.

Every vessel at sea is required to maintain a ship’s log—a detailed record of the vessel’s journey, environmental conditions, and onboard operations. A well-kept logbook is not just a formality; it plays a vital role in navigation, safety, and managing the boat’s systems and crew.

A compass deviation card is an essential navigation tool created after “swinging” your boat’s compass to measure and record compass errors caused by onboard magnetic interference. This card helps you correct compass readings for safe and precise steering.

When navigating at sea, understanding compass deviation is just as important as knowing about magnetic variation. Both affect how you interpret compass readings and steer an accurate course.

Navigating accurately at sea requires understanding various types of compasses and how to interpret their readings. Whether you’re sailing along the coast or crossing oceans, a reliable compass is an essential navigation tool.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is one of the most prestigious and challenging offshore yacht races held annually in the Mediterranean. Known for its demanding course and spectacular scenery, this race attracts top sailors and competitive yachts from around the world.

The Global Solo Challenge stands as one of the most demanding and prestigious yacht races in the sailing world. This ultimate single-handed circumnavigation race requires sailors to navigate their yachts non-stop around the globe without any outside assistance — testing skill, endurance, and resilience like no other event.

Sailing is not just a sport — it’s a thrilling test of skill, strategy, endurance, and teamwork. Around the globe, some sailing races stand out for their prestige, challenge, and history. Here are the most popular sailing races in the world every sailing enthusiast should know about.

Sailing has inspired some truly unforgettable films, blending breathtaking ocean scenery with stories of adventure, survival, and the spirit of the sea. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just love the nautical vibe, these best sailing movies are a must-watch.

Recovering a man overboard (MOB) under sail rather than engine power is less common but equally essential to master—especially if your engine is unavailable or fails. Maneuvering under sail demands more skill and planning but can be executed safely with the right techniques.

Recovering a man overboard (MOB) under engine power is the most common and practical method for most sailors. Maneuvering a yacht precisely with the engine allows you to stop quickly or even reverse if needed—giving you better control and increasing the chances of a safe and efficient rescue.

Learn how to heave to on a yacht and why this essential sailing technique can be a lifesaver. From heavy weather tactics to man overboard recovery and lunch breaks—discover when and how to use it effectively.

Discover the essential fire emergency procedures on a yacht. Learn what to do in case of a fire at sea, from raising the alarm to launching the liferaft, and how to brief your crew for onboard fire safety.

Learn how to read isobar weather maps, interpret pressure systems, and predict wind speed and direction for safer sailing or outdoor planning.

If you want to sail more efficiently and confidently, understanding how to use the traveller on a sailboat is essential. While many new sailors focus on halyards and sheets to trim their sails, the traveller offers an additional layer of finesse, particularly when it comes to fine-tuning your mainsail trim.

Being a good offshore skipper involves more than just navigation and boat handling. Once at sea—especially on longer passages—the skipper becomes the emotional barometer of the boat. Managing crew morale is as important as plotting a course.

In-mast furling is a system where the mainsail rolls into the mast instead of being hoisted and lowered like in traditional slab reefing. Some sailors love its convenience, others criticize its complexity. Here's a balanced look at the pros and cons:

In today’s GPS-driven world, traditional navigation skills may seem outdated. But if you suddenly lose all your electronic devices—GPS, compass, sextant—there are still simple, practical ways to find your way safely.

Always tie your tender securely to your yacht or the shore before inflating. A sudden gust of wind can easily blow it away, costing you more than just pride.

Leaving your vessel to get into a liferaft is generally the last option—usually, you “step up” into the raft as your boat sinks beneath you. Exceptions are emergencies like fire or if you must transfer to the liferaft for safety.

A spinnaker is a special type of sail designed specifically for sailing with the wind coming from behind or to the side—what sailors call reaching or sailing “off the wind.” For example, when you’re on a broad reach or running downwind.

Owning a yacht in Malta is a dream — but like all dreams, it comes with some chores. And antifouling ranks high on the “less glamorous” list. But in our warm, crystal-clear waters, marine growth is aggressive. If you don’t treat your hull, your boat will start dragging around half of Marsaxlokk Bay under her keel.

Whether you’re moored in Grand Harbour or anchored off Comino, there may come a time when you need to go aloft. While it might seem informal aboard your own yacht, mast climbs involve real risk — and in Malta’s often gusty sea breezes, safety is essential.

All EPIRBs used on Maltese-flagged vessels must be registered with Transport Malta (Merchant Shipping Directorate).

AIS, or Automatic Identification System, is a VHF-based radio tracking system used by ships and small craft to automatically share information about their identity, position, speed, course, and other data with nearby vessels, shore stations, and sometimes satellites.

Planning a yacht charter around Malta’s stunning coastline is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the islands. Whether you’re island-hopping from Valletta to Gozo or anchoring in a secluded Blue Lagoon cove, it’s important to know what’s included in your charter—and what’s not.

Avoid Regret, Embrace Adventure There’s a well-worn saying among sailors: “The best two days of owning a boat are the day you buy her and the day you sell her.” Whether that rings true for you or not, it’s undeniable—buying a yacht is a big decision. And with a bit of foresight, it can be one of the most rewarding ones you’ll ever make.

Many expressions we use today without a second thought have deep roots in the world of sailing. While some are wrongly attributed to life at sea, others are undeniably born from maritime tradition. Here are five colourful phrases that truly earned their sea legs:

One of the most frequently asked questions we hear from aspiring sailors is: "How long will it take me to get my RYA Day Skipper ticket?" It’s a fair question — but the answer is a little more nuanced than just “five days.”

If you’ve ever dreamed of hoisting the sails and heading into the sunset, you’re not alone — and the good news is, getting into sailing is more accessible than ever.

Heavy weather sailing is rarely something any sailor plans for — but if you spend enough time offshore, it’s bound to happen. When it does, preparation is your greatest defense. A well-prepared yacht and crew can transform a potentially dangerous situation into a manageable challenge.

How to Read and Interpret a Shipping Forecast for Sailing

When you’re out on the water, predicting the weather is one of the most important skills a sailor can have. Beyond reading the skies or monitoring marine forecasts, your most reliable ally on board may just be your barometer.

The warm sector is the area of warmer air found between a warm front and a cold front in a typical depression (or low-pressure system). Understanding this part of the weather cycle is key for sailors, forecasters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Celestial navigation is an ancient and time-tested method used to determine a vessel’s position on Earth by observing celestial bodies like the Sun, Moon, stars, and planets. Before GPS and electronic aids, it was the primary way sailors safely crossed vast oceans.

The nautical sextant is a classic navigation tool used by sailors for centuries to determine their position at sea by measuring angles between celestial bodies and the horizon. Despite the rise of GPS and other electronic systems, the sextant remains a trusted, reliable instrument for amateur navigators and those who appreciate traditional methods.

You’ve probably heard the old saying: “Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. Red sky in morning, sailor’s warning.” But is it just an old wives’ tale, or does it actually have scientific backing?

Knowing when a storm is approaching is essential for safe sailing, whether you’re on a Malta sailing charter, practicing skills in a sailing course med, or simply enjoying a coastal cruise. Here are four key ways to predict storms and prepare for changing weather at sea:

Understanding cloud formations is an essential skill for every sailor, whether you’re on a sailing adventure in the Mediterranean or taking a sailing course med in Malta. Clouds can provide important clues about upcoming weather conditions, helping you plan safer and more enjoyable voyages on your Malta sailing or sailing charter Malta experience.

When you’re enjoying a sailing adventure or on a Malta sailing trip at night, maintaining sharp night vision is critical. This is why red lights are commonly used in the cockpit or cabin during night sailing — but have you ever wondered why red lights help preserve your night vision?

Sailing has evolved dramatically over centuries, thanks to groundbreaking innovations that have enhanced navigation, safety, and performance on the water. From ancient steering methods to modern GPS technology, these key sailing advancements continue to shape the way sailors explore the seas.

Understanding the types of hulls, keels, masts, and sails helps you choose the right boat for your sailing style and conditions—whether you want speed, stability, easy handling, or classic charm.

Whether to tack or gybe depends on your sailing situation and the wind direction relative to your course. Here’s a quick guide:

Whether you’re dreaming of a sailing adventure in the Mediterranean or preparing for your first RYA sailing course, learning key nautical terms is an essential first step. Knowing the right vocabulary not only boosts your confidence but also helps you communicate clearly on board.

When planning a sailing passage, submitting a transit report via VHF radio is a simple yet vital safety practice. It acts as a safety net, ensuring that someone ashore knows when you’ve left, where you’re headed, and when you should arrive. This information could be crucial in an emergency, potentially saving lives if communication is lost or if you encounter trouble at sea.

Keeping an accurate ship’s log is an essential part of safe and effective vessel management. Not only is it a legal requirement for all boats when at sea, but it also helps the skipper monitor weather conditions, vessel systems, and navigation progress. Whether you’re preparing for your RYA Day Skipper course or planning a Malta sailing adventure, understanding what to record in your log is crucial.

Keeping a navigational log onboard is not just good seamanship—it’s a legal requirement under Regulation V/28 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974. British registered vessels must comply with this regulation as enforced by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Preparing a passage plan is an essential part of any sailing voyage. It’s more than just plotting a course on a chart—it’s about visualizing your entire journey, identifying potential challenges, and making sure you’re fully prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Tides are a fundamental part of the sailing world, influencing everything from your passage speed to your ability to enter harbors safely. Understanding how tides work—and particularly the difference between neap tides and spring tides—can mean the difference between a smooth, fast trip and a slow, uncomfortable one.

For sailors navigating tidal waters, understanding the power and timing of tides is crucial to a safe and efficient voyage. The enormous weight of water moving back and forth every six hours can significantly impact your boat’s progress — sometimes helping you along, other times making forward motion almost impossible.

When you’re out at sea, knowing how to communicate distress or urgency properly can be a lifesaver. Two internationally recognized radio calls—Mayday and Pan Pan—serve distinct purposes, and understanding the difference is crucial for every sailor

There’s a popular saying on the water: “If you don’t know knots, do lots.” While it might sound amusing at first, trust me — doing lots of knots without knowing what you’re doing will make you no friends on board!

Mastering knots is an essential skill for every sailor. The old saying goes, “If you can’t do knots, do lots,” but in reality, you’ll earn respect on board by knowing a handful of reliable, easy-to-tie knots — and how to undo them quickly when needed. A tangled mess of lines, known among sailors as a “bunch of bastards,” is the last thing any crew wants!

Understanding the key parts of a sailboat is essential for anyone starting their sailing adventure, whether you’re preparing for a sailing course or planning a sailing charter in Malta or the Mediterranean.

A Cunningham is a simple but highly effective sail control line used to improve the performance of your mainsail by adjusting its shape.

When sailing in moderate winds—around Beaufort Force 3 to 4—you’ll typically have your full mainsail and headsail set. This gives you good speed and control under normal conditions.

Reefing means reducing the sail area to keep your boat balanced and safe in stronger winds. There are two common methods for reefing the mainsail: In-Mast Reefing and Slab Reefing.

Preparing for the RYA Yachtmaster exam is a significant milestone for any serious sailor. Whether you’re training in Malta, cruising between Malta and Sicily, or exploring other Mediterranean sailing grounds, preparation and practical experience are key to success. Here are some top tips to help you pass your Yachtmaster Offshore or Coastal exam with confidence.

If you’re aiming to complete the RYA Day Skipper practical course, it’s essential to arrive with some sailing experience already under your belt. Candidates are required to have logged at least 5 days and 100 nautical miles of sailing, including 4 hours of night sailing, before starting the course. This baseline experience ensures you’re ready to fully benefit from the practical training.

A Low Pressure System (also called a depression) is an area where the atmospheric pressure is lower relative to the surrounding air. It usually contains warmer air that rises, creating dynamic and often unsettled weather conditions.

A High Pressure System is an area where the atmospheric pressure is higher than the surrounding air. While the average sea-level pressure is about 1013 millibars (mb), a high pressure system has pressure values above that relative to nearby areas.

Different anchors perform best depending on the seabed type you expect to encounter. Here’s a quick rundown of common anchor types and their ideal conditions:

Good anchoring depends on careful planning — weather, seabed, tides, traffic, security, and correct equipment use all matter. The reward is peaceful nights and memorable moments far from the marina hustle.

Anchoring is one of the great joys of cruising — nothing beats relaxing on a calm evening at a quiet anchorage. To make it enjoyable and safe, here’s what a competent yachtsman should consider.

A kedge anchor is the secondary anchor carried on a yacht. Kedge anchors are usually smaller and lighter than the primary anchor, making them easier to handle and recover.

Follow these points and increase safety and comfort during overnight anchoring, by minimizing the risks and ensuring a peaceful night at anchor.

Anchoring is one of the great joys of sailing—dropping anchor in a quiet cove or an empty beach can be peaceful, scenic, and cost-effective compared to marinas. But it does require careful planning and awareness to do safely and comfortably. Here’s what to keep in mind:

When packing for a Mediterranean yacht charter, think both holiday comfort and sailing practicality. Here’s a checklist to make sure you’re ready for the sun, sea, and occasional surprises:

Knowing how to raise the alarm in an emergency is critical. While a mobile phone might work near shore, the most reliable method at sea is a VHF radio.

VHF stands for Very High Frequency, a part of the radio spectrum used extensively in maritime communication. VHF radios operate on frequencies between 30 MHz and 300 MHz and are the primary means of short-range ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication.

Technology and better phone reception have made sailing apps popular. While apps rely on GPS and data, and can’t replace charts or seamanship, some are really handy—especially for day sailing or passage planning.

The RYA Yachtmaster is a highly respected qualification for experienced leisure sailors, split into three levels: Coastal, Offshore, and Ocean. All three are externally examined, unlike the Day Skipper course.

Master the art of berthing with these essential tips to safely dock your yacht, avoid costly mistakes, and impress your crew.

Discover the best sources for reliable weather forecasts at sea, including VHF broadcasts, apps, Navtex, and more, to keep your sailing safe.

Complete your RYA Day Skipper Practical Course in the beautiful Mediterranean waters and prepare to charter yachts worldwide.

Wondering if you can do the RYA Day Skipper Practical Course without first passing the theory exam? Find out why studying theory first is highly recommended.

Find out how long RYA sailing certificates remain valid, which require renewal, and what’s needed for revalidation or commercial endorsements.

Discover the diverse wildlife you can spot while sailing around Malta, from dolphins to seabirds, and how to observe them responsibly.

Learn about the different points of sail, what they mean, and why they matter for safe and efficient sailing in Malta and the Mediterranean.

Learn how to safely and respectfully enjoy a close encounter with dolphins while sailing around Malta and the Mediterranean.

Discover the Beaufort Scale, the international standard for measuring wind strength, and learn how it helps sailors understand sea conditions.

Learn what a gybe is in sailing, how it differs from tacking, and why careful control is essential to avoid accidents.

Confused about the word “tack”? Learn the three meanings of tack in sailing — from sail corners to boat direction — and how to spot them onboard.

Learn what a preventer is, how it protects you from accidental gybes, and when to use it while sailing downwind.

Planning to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean? Learn what qualifications you need, including RYA certificates and the ICC, to sail safely and legally.

Start your sailing journey with the RYA Competent Crew course in Malta and the Mediterranean. Learn essential skills onboard and enjoy stunning cruising grounds.

Preparing for your RYA Competent Crew course? Here’s a list of essential reading to help you get ready and make the most of your training in Malta.

Wondering whether to start sailing on a yacht or a dinghy? Here’s a balanced look at both options — and why learning on a yacht in Malta might be the best choice for you.

Starting your RYA Day Skipper course? Here’s the essential reading list to prepare for both theory and practical training.

Not sure where to start your sailing journey? Here's a simple guide to choosing the right RYA course in Malta — from beginner to Yachtmaster level.

Planning to charter a yacht in the Med? Here’s what an ICC certificate is, who needs it, and how to get yours through an RYA sailing school in Malta.

Worried about seasickness on your sailing course in Malta? Here’s what it is, how to prevent it, and why it’s nothing to fear.

Heading to Malta for an RYA sailing course? Here’s exactly what to pack — from deck shoes to sun protection — for a comfortable and successful week on the water.

Learn to sail in Malta with RYA-certified instructors. Enjoy hands-on sailing courses, island adventures, and Mediterranean sunshine while earning your qualifications.

Sailing from Malta to West Sicily is a longer and more open-water passage, offering a fantastic offshore training opportunity for skippers looking to build miles and gain endurance at sea. Spanning approximately 150–180 nautical miles, this route requires careful passage planning, weather routing, and offshore sailing techniques.

A long-distance passage from Malta to East Sicily is an exciting offshore sailing experience, offering a mix of open-sea navigation, coastal approaches, and night sailing challenges. Covering approximately 90–110 nautical miles, this passage is a great mile-building opportunity for sailors looking to gain offshore confidence and experience passage planning in real conditions.

This guide covers what to expect, key challenges, skills to practice, and essential preparation tips for a Greece-to-Malta passage