The 43rd edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race begins on Saturday, with a global fleet of 120 yachts from 25 countries competing in the prestigious annual yachting race. 

Five maxi multihulls and two maxi monohulls are expected to lead the charge around the 606 nautical mile course, albeit at a more gentlemanly pace than last year.

Vessels from Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States, as well as most of Europe, are all in contention. 

The race will begin at Valletta's Grand Harbour and will see crews sail up to Sicily, circumnavigate the Italian island and return back to Malta to reach the finish line. 

The prevailing forecast is for a light wind race, in complete contrast to the dream conditions of 2021. Experienced navigator and race router, Mike Broughton delivered the Weather Briefing to the expectant crews at the pre-race Skipper’s Meeting.

“High pressure is dominating the central Mediterranean, which makes for light wind across the course,” he advised.

Click here for full story