Malta is an easy and pleasant day sail from the south coast of Sicily. I made a quick passage as the wind, usually easterlies or westerlies, was on the beam and sea conditions were favourable. You should make for Valetta and either stay in the harbour itself (a little more expensive) or at one of the marinas in and around Ta’Xbiex. If you don’t stay in Valetta’s old harbour, do tour around in your yacht as it is a stunning ancient harbour riddled with history and you get a unique vantage point from the sea. They filmed parts of Napoleon here. You must first call the harbour master to ensure there are no large ship movements (‘traffic”). I asked them ..” If I could tour their world-famous harbour?” and they were most helpful telling me I was welcome but to be sure to be out by a certain time as a large vessel was due to dock. 

You’ll find plenty to see in Valetta old town and any Brits will see sights and goods to remind them of home. I enjoyed wandering the maze of old streets that forms the heart of the city. When hunger hit, I found plenty of restaurants to choose from.
The obvious starting point to view Valetta in the bus station. Places to visit include:

• Fort St Elmo
• National War Museum
• The Lascaris War Rooms
• Saluting Battery (gun fired at noon)
• St John’s Cathedral

While on Malta do visit The Hal Saflieni. It’s a Neolithic temple and burial complex dating from 4000 BC. You are unlikely to see anything quite like it and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Be warned, you may need to book a month in advance.

Sailing destinations near Malta include Comino Island, where you can anchor in the Blue Lagoon. You may find it busy during the day with tripper boats but it does quieten at night. You might also visit the circular anchorage at Dwejra bay on nearby Gozo. If you’re lucky, you’ll find room to anchor and stay the night.