Malta's strategic location has always put it at the forefront of Mediterranean maritime history but the islands are poised to enter an exciting new phase

The state-run marinas are going to be privatised and the government has pledged to add 1,000 more berths. The respected super yacht repair facility is being sold and private operators are reaping the rewards of investment in physical and human infrastructure. The islands have seen years of steady economic growth - particularly since EU membership in 2004. The marinas - four state-run ones and three private ones - are all full, with many people on the waiting list.

The Royal Malta Yacht Club has a year-round calendar of regattas and races, with the prestigious Rolex Middle Sea Race attracting record numbers and placing Malta squarely on the international racing calendar. There are a number of dinghy sailing schools while the Maritime Institute has a strong student cohort of Maltese seeking a maritime career. Jewel in the Med One of the most exciting sectors for the island has been super yachts. Two private marinas have dedicated super yacht quays, with many berths leased on a long-term basis.

Many famous boats are regular visitors, coming over for everything from mid-season breaks to winter refits. Malta Super Yacht Services has a covered dock, allowing top quality painting and coating, and a network has been set up of carefully-screened subcontractors, offering the full range of mechanical, electrical services. The island is very popular with overseas visitors. Expatriates can fulfil their dream of being able to cast off within minutes of leaving home. Non-residents are attracted to the island by the competitive marina fees and the fact that there is very little crime. The standard of living is very high, with sports - including a golf course and country club - and leisure facilities within easy reach.

The emergence of English as the international language has given Malta an added advantage - the Maltese are bilingual - and the well-established tourism industry means the islands offer everything international visitors would want, from foreign newspapers to world cuisine, from a full cultural calendar to comprehensive air links. A number of low-cost airlines fly to Malta, with most European destinations less than three hours away. Short-term visitors are drawn here by the Mediterranean weather and clear, clean seas. The islands may be small but the coast offers a number of picturesque bays and harbours for cruisers. This has also resulted in the creation of a relatively new chartering sector, for skippered and bare-boat yachts.

Although there are new companies blossoming every year, family-run companies still dominate the sector, drawing on decades of experience and contacts. One of the oldest is Ripard, Larvan and Ripard, better known as RLR Yachting, founded by local sailing legends Paul and John Ripard, with Bill Larvan, in 1963. The company offers an extensive range of services for motor and sail, commercial or pleasure, from equipment to guardiennage, brokerage to retail. Malta's government has identified yachting as an area where the island can excel, making the most of its existing resources. With companies like RLR to make sure that every experience is a positive one, it's a great place to drop anchor.