Malta’s October calendar brings one of the Mediterranean’s most recognised sailing events back to the island this autumn. The Rolex Middle Sea Race 2026 occurs on Saturday 17 October, bringing an international fleet to Malta for a demanding offshore race surrounded by some of the Mediterranean’s most striking scenery. For guests staying at Palazzo Violetta in Sliema, race week offers another reason to spend time by the coast while seeing a different side of Malta’s maritime character.
The Rolex Middle Sea Race Returns
The 2026 edition marks the 47th Rolex Middle Sea Race, continuing a tradition that has become firmly established on the international offshore sailing calendar.
The race covers approximately 606 nautical miles, beginning and ending in Malta. Competitors set out from Grand Harbour before sailing north towards Sicily and continuing around a course that includes the Aeolian Islands, the Aegadian Islands, Pantelleria and Lampedusa.
A Spectacular Start from Grand Harbour
One of the highlights for visitors is the start itself. On Saturday 17 October, yachts will gather in Grand Harbour before leaving Malta in a series of starts from 11:00.
With Valletta’s historic fortifications surrounding the harbour, the opening stages provide an impressive setting even for visitors who do not regularly follow sailing. Spectators can watch from several points around Valletta’s bastions as the fleet moves through the harbour and out towards the open Mediterranean.
More Than 600 Nautical Miles at Sea
Once beyond Malta, crews face a course known for changing conditions and tactical decisions. The fleet sails anti-clockwise around Sicily, passing locations including the Strait of Messina, Stromboli and the islands lying to the west and south of Sicily before turning back towards Malta.
The event attracts a broad mix of yachts and crews from different countries, ranging from high-performance racing teams to smaller offshore competitors. The changing weather, narrow passages and long stretches of open water make each edition different.
Make More of an October Stay
The race forms part of a wider programme taking place in the days surrounding the main event. The Yachting Malta Coastal Race is scheduled for 14 October, followed by other race activities before the offshore fleet departs on 17 October. The main prize-giving takes place on 24 October.
Visitors can also use their stay to see more of Malta away from the sailing. Valletta, Mdina and the Three Cities offer plenty for a day out, while the Sliema and St Julian’s coastline provides an easy option for a slower afternoon closer to Palazzo Violetta.
Stay in Sliema During Race Week
Sliema provides a convenient base for visitors who want to follow the Rolex Middle Sea Race while also spending time around Malta. From Palazzo Violetta, guests can reach the Sliema waterfront easily, while Valletta and the Grand Harbour area are accessible for those planning to watch the start.
Between race-related activities, Sliema offers plenty of opportunities for a quieter day, whether walking along the promenade, stopping for lunch by the coast or spending time back at the hotel before heading out again.
With Palazzo Violetta as a base in Sliema, guests can follow one of Malta’s most established sporting events while still having time to enjoy the island at their own pace — from waterfront mornings and historic streets to quieter moments back at the hotel.
