A group of men armed with their expensive remote-controlled mo-del powerboats took over the Valletta Waterfront on Sunday morning trying to outdo each other with the fastest and most pimped out model.

Organised by enthusiasts, the event was held to unofficially mark the opening of the boating season, when the true lovers of the sea unfurl their sails once the summer rush is over.

About 40 people took part, bringing along 90 or so radio-controlled boats. There are different types and classes of powerboats but these are mainly split into two categories: according to their engine, which can be electric, glow plug or petrol, or by the hull, which can be mono, hydro or outrigger.

Powerboats are designed for maximum speed and manoeuvrability. In fact, the machines are used for racing in circuits of different shapes laid out on water and marked with buoys. The model powerboats do not come cheap. Prices start from €500 and the cost can easily run into thousands of euros.

Speed can reach over 40 miles an hour out of the box and, with modifications, can go as fast as 50 to 60 miles an hour.