Easterly winds in Malta often bring rough seas into the Grand Harbour, causing disruptions in sea travel for ferries departing from Valletta to Gozo, Sliema, and the Three Cities. But here’s the good news – the Maltese government has announced a major new infrastructure project to improve the safety and operational efficiency of the Grand Harbour!

This project is designed to reduce the impact of waves on crucial areas like Xatt il-Barriera and important maritime access points to Birgu, Kalkara, and Rinella. With these enhancements, Malta aims to ensure smoother sailing for ferries and safeguard the harbour’s critical operations.

The project will be built around three key structural elements designed to protect the Grand Harbour from waves coming from the northwest, northeast, and east – waves that can severely affect maritime activities. Here’s a breakdown of the plan:

1. Underwater Breakwater: A 600-meter underwater breakwater will extend from Imgerbeb Point to the tip of Fort St. Elmo. This submerged structure will absorb and reduce the intensity of waves from the northeast and east, providing much calmer conditions for the harbour.
2. Concrete Revetments: Two small concrete revetments will be positioned at Imgerbeb Point to reinforce the underwater breakwater. These will help enhance the overall stability of the structure and bolster protection against the elements.
3. Western Breakwater Extension: A 100-meter extension of the existing western breakwater will be constructed to protect the Grand Harbour from northwesterly waves, which are the most persistent throughout the year. This extension will play an important role in stabilising the harbour and ensuring smooth maritime operations year-round.

At the end of the day, the goal is simple – to keep the Grand Harbour safe, efficient, and fully operational, ready to face whatever the sea brings its way!

Have you ever experienced rough seas in the Grand Harbour?