Fewer than one in every four boats inspected by Transport Malta last year passed a routine spot check, statistics released by the transport authority have revealed.

Of the 306 vessels inspected in 2011, only 75 were found to be in line with regulations. Owners of the remaining 231 boats were either let off with a warning or formally charged, with an almost even split between the two.

Throttle-happy boat enthusiasts accounted for the lion’s share of contraventions, with almost 70 per cent of all charges related to over-speeding.

Sea patrols, carried out by Transport Malta and the police, are expected to intensify over the summer months.

Transport Malta has also announced the addition of three new swimmers’ zones to the existing list of 42 such sites.

Swimmers can now enjoy a dip at Marsaxlokk, Tigné and Ċirkewwa, safe in the knowledge that they will not be disturbed by any passing sea traffic.

As happened last year, Transport Malta bay coordinators will police Comino’s Blue Lagoon and Mellieħa bay to enforce sea regulations.

Transport Malta CEO Stanley Portelli said the authority was stepping up its efforts to educate boat owners and increase marine safety awareness.

“We’re encouraged by the positive feedback we receive every year and look forward to further initiatives in promoting the safe enjoyment of the sea by both swimmers and boat owners.”