You could say that Malta is one of the world's oldest sea-faring nations; it certainly is one of the most deeply-rooted and established in the Mediterranean. George Papagiorcopulo reviews the Island's largest boat show

Malta, set in the clear limpid waters of the central Mediterranean, continues to delight any yachtsman.

The island's 200 km coastline is indented by harbours naturally sculptured out of the islands' soft limestone, the main one, mother of all indents - Marsamxett harbour. Here, against the stunning background of Valletta's centuries-old fortifications that climb proudly well above the shoreline - as if to continue to protect the city and its inhabitants as in days gone by - there is indeed an air of anticipation for a major happening at the water's edge. The venue is the brand new Grand Hotel Excelsior, a magnificent setting for the island's very own Boat Show - in true maritime tradition that has gilted Malta's history over millennia. I caught up with John Formosa, organiser of the Valletta Boat Show, to find out more. For four magical days in September, the impressive yacht marina at the brand new Grand Hotel Excelsior Hotel in Floriana was transformed into a boating haven for this first Valletta Boat Show, packed with everything for boating enthusiasts and their families and friends.

What a venue
The Grand Hotel Excelsior is a monument to ever-changing times, blending contemporary vision with the rich history that graces Marsamxett Harbour and Valletta. Moored within its picturesque yacht marina, the in-the-water feature boats at the first Valletta Boat Show are guaranteed to appeal to all generations of boating enthusiasts. Back on dry land, various boating-related products and services, selling everything from navigation equipment, furnishings, clothing, dinghies, safety equipment, and everything else, will be on hand for you to explore. So whether you're ready to buy a boat and berth it in one of the splendid marinas that this island can offer, kit one out with the latest equipment or simply interested in getting a feel for boating and water to further savour this island's high-end lifestyle, experts will be on hand to guide visitors, answer questions and provide useful information.

Buying a new boat? There's no better place on the island to discover the very latest boats on offer, all under one roof, so to speak - in a splendid open-air marina, actually. Many of those who represent internationally known boat brand names appear, guaranteeing a marina-full of new sailing and power boats for everyone to see. So, if you'd like to explore them all and compare offers before taking that all-important buying decision, Valletta Boat Show is the place for you. In addition, of course, if you're looking for innovative ways to finance your new investment, if you're in need of new parts, and want to make sure your boat's ship shape and ready for your next sail or adventure, look no further.