The HSBC Premier Valletta Boat Show was officially opened last night by John Formosa, managing director of Network Publications.

The HSBC Premier Valletta Boat Show was officially opened last night by John Formosa, managing director of Network Publications.

Dock Number One in Bormla represents the largest venue yet for the boat show which is now in its third year and has grown in popularity dramatically with each new incarnation. This historic venue has been transformed for this spectacular event which sees more than 60 exhibitors displaying over 70 boats.

Dr Austin Gatt, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications, who was also present at the opening ceremony, explained that the regeneration of this area is something on the government’s priority list, noting that Malta’s maritime services sector has seen continued growth and development.

Dr Gatt also praised the choice of Dock Number One by Network Publications, saying that it gave people the chance to visit a site that they rarely saw and that the show allowed people to see the full potential of this location. The Minister announced that next year Bormla will be undergoing a renovation project valued at €7.3 million, a large portion of which will be from EU funds.

In addition, Dr Gatt also announced the signing of an agreement between the government and the Royal Malta Yacht Club to allow the club to use the former Malta Maritime Authority’s premises at Ta’ Xbiex – which will give the yachting sector a further boost.

Alan Richards, CEO of HSBC Bank (Malta) plc, also underlined Malta’s strong economic growth in the yachting sector and said how proud he was to yet again sponsor this very popular event. Mr Richards emphasised that HSBC has always been a supporter of the maritime sector and has several products available tailored to boat owners. Aaron Ciantar, the World P1 Powerboating Champion, was presented with an award by Dr Austin Gatt at the close of the ceremony.

The HSBC Premier Valletta Boat Show remains open up to Sunday. Opening hours are from 6 pm to 11 pm on Friday and from 11 am to 11 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Apart from the vast number of exhibitors and boats on display there is also live entertainment, food and beverage outlets and children's entertainment to make sure all the family enjoy a fun day out.

You can view the video here.