Being islanders, where the sea is practically within walking distance from any location, referring to our affinity to water possibly has the same connotation as when referring to fish and the sea.
Maybe I’m going slightly overboard in my comparison, but I’m definitely within sight.
The local sport scene is well endowed with prime nautical events that enjoy international recognition and provide exciting competitions for locals and foreigners alike.
These events also highlight our attractions and facilities, resulting in valuable promotion opportunities that give Malta an identity in sport tourism.
Behind such successful endeavours are a dedicated breed of administrators who are contributing to the enhancement of our water sports, creating excellent chances for local sailing enthusiasts and putting Malta in the elite market of yachting.
In 2005, a new club was set up to continue with the upward trend in sailing. This group had a specific orientation, as it was meant to be a cruising club to cater for both sail and power boats.
An enthusiastic gathering of some 40 sailors attended the first meeting, which discussed the concept and objectives, the statute and membership.
A committee was elected and the entity’s name confirmed. This led to the establishment of the Malta Cruising Club (MCC).
The mentor behind the idea was Anthony de Bono, a retired surgeon and a keen sailing fanatic who still features in today’s committee as honorary commodore.
But what is the Malta Cruising Club offering that is not catered for by the established sailing clubs?
The reasoning at the time of foundation was that there was no club that specifically catered for cruising rather than racing... the MCC is unique in this regard.
MCC activities include cruises, both local and in the central Mediterranean, and other events to help those with less experience.
There is a world of difference between racing and cruising.
Cruising folk enjoy the adventure and fun of exploring new destinations at their own pace. Racing boats are naturally much faster. However, cruising boats are far more comfortable and therefore tend to be heavier and often slower.
Today, the club’s original concept and objectives are still adhered to. The Illustration Presentation on Cruising, a popular and regular activity organised by the MCC, sees members sharing their experiences with others at the club.
Two such presentations were recently given by Alexander d’Agata, who spoke about his cruising voyage in Sardinia, and by Vladimir Apukov, who spoke about Pantelleria’s charm through the eyes of a Russian.
MCC commodore Roland Darmanin Kissaun reckons cruising is becoming more popular.
“We’ve seen a growth in numbers for initiatives like the traditional Easter Gozo weekend and the newly-introduced weekend cruise to Pozzallo,” he said.
“Here our members, their families and friends cheerfully endorse one of the club’s main objectives, namely having a club that caters specifically for people who love cruising.”
Yes, sailing is serene and exciting, but cruising is fun.