The Valletta Pageant of the Seas, one of the highlights of the Valletta 2018 programme, is being held in Grand Harbour.

Activities started on Thursday afternoon with a re-enactment, by members of In Guardia, of a parade harking back to the time of the knights.

The Grandmaster sailed into the Grand Harbour aboard the Fernandes, ironically, a Turkish gullet.

A regatta race was held from the Old Customs House across the fairway and back.

It was followed by a race of rafts built from recycled materials, without the use of traditional oars and motors. 25 teams participated.  

In another throw-back to history, swimmers also swam between Fort St Angelo and Valletta in L-Għawma Toni Bajada recalling the historical figure who relayed information  between the knights during the Great Siege of Malta.

Other activities included a show by Chaudron powerboats and performances by various bands in different parts of the harbour.  

Other activities later will include fireworks and an acrobatic show.