Regatta clubs are worried that the presence of three cruise ships in the Grand Harbour will disrupt tomorrow’s race.
Three liners are expected to be moored at Pinto 1, Pinto 2 and Pinto 3 throughout this year’s edition, prompting concern that their positioning will hinder spectators’ view.
“Unfortunately, this situation has become a yearly occurrence,” Marsamxett Regatta Club secretary David Brydon said.
“As clubs, we invest a great amount of time, money and energy in order to keep this national sport alive.
“The cruise liners will obstruct a good half of the race; nearly three-quarters I would say.”
One of the cruise liners is scheduled to dock at Pinto Wharf at 11am.
“The races start at 1pm and the racecourse inspection is due at noon. Any delays will automatically affect us.
“The cruise liners’ departure at 6pm means that we are under tight pressure to conclude our races by 5.30pm,” Mr Brydon said.
Bormla Regatta Club secretary Stephen Paris recalled an incident during the regatta two years ago.
“In 2010, the crew aboard one of the vessels berthed at the harbour suddenly decided, without authorisation, to blow out the ballast tanks. The agitated waters drew the boats off-course.”
“The regatta is part of our national culture. Our oarsmen have been training hard for months. We naturally want the race to be a successful event.
“The fact that it is being televised already lures away many potential spectators. I’m afraid that the cruise liners will only serve to lower attendance,” Mr Paris said.
“All we ask for is a free afternoon twice a year. Is that too much to expect?”
The port services manager at the Valletta Cruise Port, Charles Duncan, yesterday said spectators will be assigned Pintos 4 and 5, directly alongside the finish line.
“The harbour is a commercial port. We can’t turn away cruise liners,” Mr Duncan said.
“However, we’re doing our utmost to ensure no problems will arise to impede the races.
“All engines will be switched off and members of Transport Malta, the Police Force and the Armed Forces will also be present. Two of the vessels are also relatively small so there should be no hindrance.”
The seven participating clubs in this year’s regatta (Marsamxett, Vittoriosa, Cospicua, Kalkara, Marsa, Birzebbugia and Senglea) will compete in 11 races, five races in the A category and five in the B category.
The Malta Sports Council yesterday said there will be an extra race this year, in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the George Cross.