TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 32 of 2021

Zones reserved for swimmers in Comino

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies all mariners, owners of vessels and bathers, that the following arrangements will be made for Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Bay and San Niklaw Bay in the North Comino channel for the period between Saturday, 1st May, 2021 and Friday, 15th October, 2021.

1a) Blue Lagoon – Comino Swimmers' Zone (Figure 1 found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt))

No vessels or objects which may endanger the safety of bathers, including any type of fishing gear/implements, shall be used within a swimmers' zone. The swimmers' zone is being reserved exclusively for bathers and is delineated by the following coordinates:

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

1A                   36º 00'.893     014º 19'.281(Shore)

1B                   36º 00'.898     014º 19'.289

1C                   36º 00'.825     014º 19'.351

1D                   36º 00'.846     014º 19'.440

1E                    36º 00'.854     014º 19'.448 (Shore)

1F                    36º 00'.751     014º 19'.471 (Shore)

1G                   36º 00'.740     014º 19'.390 (Shore)

1b) Mooring areas for Commercial vessels

Two mooring areas are being assigned for Commercial vessels. The boundaries of these mooring areas are delineated by the following coordinates:

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

4                      36º 01'.004     014º 19'.397 (Shore)

5                      36° 00'.965     014° 19'.332 (Buoy)

6                      36° 00'.927     014° 19'.364

7                      36° 00'.974     014° 19'.425 (Shore)

8                      36º 00'.920     014º 19'.458 (Shore)

9                      36º 00'.941     014º 19'.433  

10                    36º 00'.904     014º 19'.383

11                    36° 00'.859     014° 19'.421

12                    36° 00'.866     014° 19'.439 (Shore)

1c) Fairway

A fairway has been established as indicated on the chart as Figure 1 found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt) and it is delineated by the following positions. Special mark buoys fitted with a yellow light flashing every 5 seconds will be placed at points 1, 2, 3 and 5.

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

1                      36° 00'.852     014° 19'.401 (Buoy)

2                      36º 00'.913     014º 19'.346 (Buoy)

3                      36º 00'.952     014º 19'.310 (Buoy)

5                      36º 00'.965     014º 19'.332 (Buoy)

11                    36° 00'.859     014° 19'.421

9a) Il-Bajja ta' San Niklaw – Comino Swimmers' Zone       (Figure 9 found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt))

No vessels or objects which may endanger the safety of bathers, including any type of fishing gear/implements, shall be used within a swimmers' zone. The swimmers' zone is being reserved exclusively for bathers and is delineated by the following coordinates:

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

9A                   36º 01'.008     014º 19'.735(Shore)

9B                   36º 01'.005     014º 19'.749(Shore)

9C                   36º 01'.001     014º 19'.766

9D                   36º 01'.039     014º 19'.773  

9E                    36º 01'.037     014º 19'.820 (Shore)

9b) Fairway                                        

The fairway was established by Notice to Mariners No. 7 of 2017 and is to be used solely for navigation and should otherwise be kept clear.

10a) Il-Bajja ta' Santa Maria - Comino (Inner) Swimmers' Zone (Figure 10 found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt))

No vessels or objects which may endanger the safety of bathers, including any type of fishing gear/implements, shall be used within a swimmers' zone. The swimmers' zone is being reserved exclusively for bathers and is delineated by the following coordinates: -

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

10A                 36º 00'.996     014º 20'.180(Shore)

10B                 36º 01'.001     014º 20'.185

10C                 36º 00'.997     014º 20'.247

10D                 36º 00'.984     014º 20'.249(Shore)

10b)     Fairway

The fairway was established by Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2017 and is to be used solely for navigation and should otherwise be kept clear.

53) Il-Bajja ta' Santa Maria - Comino (Outer) Swimmers' Zone (Figure 53 found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt))

No vessels or objects which may endanger the safety of bathers, including any type of fishing gear/implements, shall be used within a swimmers' zone. The swimmers' zone is being reserved exclusively for bathers and is delineated by the following coordinates: -

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

53A                 36º 01'.089     14º 20'.289 (Shore)

53B                 36º 01'.134     14º 20'.301 (Shore)

A minimum safety distance of five (5) metres from the swimmers' zone is to be maintained.

Nylon ropes supported by floats will delineate the swimmers' zone and may remain in place, two weeks after the stipulated date.

For the benefit and safety of all bathers and mariners, Transport Malta urges all visitors and commercial vessels to adhere to these arrangements. Enforcement Officers will be constantly patrolling the area. Any offender, on conviction, shall be liable to the fines (multa) as laid down in the second column to the Third Schedule of the Small Ships Regulations, as amended.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate with caution and at slow speed in the North Comino Channel at Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay. They are also reminded that it is prohibited to secure/moor any vessel to any of the marker buoys, swimmers' zone delineation markers and related gear belonging to Transport Malta.

All positions are referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

Chart affected: BA 211

16th April, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 11 of 2021

Cancel Notice to Mariners No. 53 of 2020

– Marsaxlokk Lighthouse, Dellimara Point

– Light Unreliable

Reference is made to BA Chart 36 – 'Marsaxlokk and Approaches' and 'Marsaxlokk'.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Marsaxlokk, Dellimara Lighthouse light, flashing 2 every 12 seconds Fl (2)12s in the following position:

Latitude (N)               Longitude (E)

35º 49'.300                 14º 33'.538

has been REPAIRED

Therefore, Notice to Mariners No. 53 of 2020 – Marsaxlokk Lighthouse Dellimara Point, Light Unreliable, is hereby CANCELLED.

16th April, 2021

​ 

​Local Notice to Mariners No. 31 of 2021

Dolphins, Whales, Turtles, Sharks, Jellyfish Blooms and Alien Species Studies by the Conservation Biology Research Group of the University of Malta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Conservation Biology Research Group of the University of Malta is conducting research on marine biodiversity within the Central Mediterranean Region around the Maltese Islands (from coastal to offshore) in respect of:

1. Dolphins, whales and turtle sightings;

2. Sharks, rays sightings;

3. Jellyfish blooms sightings;

4. Alien species sightings or caught during fishing.

Mariners are requested to cooperate and support the research by reporting sightings immediately as follows:

Email: Prof. Adriana Vella on (adriana.vella@um.edu.mt)

SMS/phone on mobile/WhatsApp: +356 99429592

Additionally, with the support of NGO BICREF, one may also send information at (http://bicref.org/notices-to-mariners/).

The information required includes the following:

a) Date and time of observation;

b) Number of dolphins/whales/turtles/sharks/blooms of jellyfish/alien species;

c) Location of sighting (including GPS coordinates if possible);

d) Photos/videos whenever possible to allow for identification of the species.

The participation of mariners in such a long-term initiative is necessary to ensure regular updates supporting monitoring of Maltese waters to devise an early warning system for bathers and assist in Mediterranean-wide marine conservation.

13th April, 2021

Local Notice to Mariners No. 29 of 2021

Further refurbishment of Sally Port Promenade, Birgu – Id-Daħla tal-Kalkara

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that further refurbishment work will be carried out along Sally Port promenade, Birgu, in Id-Daħla tal-Kalkara.

The refurbishment works will be carried out within the imaginary line A, B, C, D, E, F, G and the intermediate coastline shall start on Monday 12th April, 2021, and is expected to be completed by Thursday, 30th September, 2021, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35° 53'.387                 014° 31'.321

B         35° 53'.397                 014° 31'.327

C         35° 53'.367                 014° 31'.378

D         35° 53'.346                 014° 31'.516

E          35° 53'.313                 014° 31'.541

F          35° 53'.299                 014° 31'.561

G         35° 53'.292                 014° 31'.550

These refurbishment works include the driving of piles into the sea bottom and dredging between the piles and the existing quay.

During the dredging a silt curtain will be laid along the imaginary line A, B, C, D, E, F, G and will have safety buoys and warning flags in the corners B, D and F. The dredging will be carried out by the work vessel MV Gold Dredger.

It is to be noted that due to the above-mentioned refurbishment all vessels are to keep at least 15m away from the quay and that the quay will not be accessible while the refurbishment works are in progress.

Any vessel moored along the quays are to be removed with immediate effect.

Mariners are to note the above and proceed with caution and at a very slow speed (no wake) when navigating close to the above-mentioned area while the refurbishment is being carried out.

Chart affected: BA 177

9th April, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 30 of 2021

Shifting of Pontoon from Il-Port tal-Imġarr to Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that the temporary pontoon established by Local Notice to Mariners No. 23 of 2020 will be shifted at some time between Monday, 12th April, 2021, and Saturday, 17th April, 2021.

The temporary pontoon will be shifted from its current position along the main breakwater at Il-Port tal-Imġarr, Gozo, to Il-Port ta' Marsamxett.

In Il-Port ta' Marsamxett the pontoon will be permanently laid in three (3) sections within the area A, B, C, D, E and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

                        Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A                     35º 54'.227                 014º 29'.784

B                     35º 54'.218                 014º 29'.771

C                     35º 54'.195                 014º 29'.771

D                     35º 54'.174                 014º 29'.783

E                      35º 54'.198                 014º 29'.810

All moorings and moored vessels within the above area are to be removed with immediate effect.

Mariners are to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution, and at very slow speed giving the indicated areas a wide berth. They are to comply with any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or 16 and any enforcement personnel on site.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 23 of 2020 regarding laying of temporary pontoons along the Main Breakwater in Mġarr Harbour, Gozo, is hereby CANCELLED

Chart affected: BA 211

9th April, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 10 of 2021

Chart Correction – New pontoon near New Flagstone Wharf in the Grand Harbour

Reference is made to BA Chart 177 – Valletta Harbours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies Mariners that a new floating pontoon has been established near New Flagstone Wharf in the inner part of Il-Port il-Kbir, as shown on the chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).  

The pontoon has been established in the following positions:

                                    Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

Insert floating             35º 53'.095     014º 30'.014

pontoon from

to                                 35º 53'.087     014º 30'.019

Positions referred to:  WGS 84 DATUM

Chart affected: BA Chart 177

9th April, 2021

​ 

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 28 of 2021

Refurbishment Works on Quay next to Marfa Breakwater at Ir-Ramla tal-Bir in Il-Fliegu ta' Kemmuna

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that refurbishment works on the quay next to Marfa breakwater at Ir-Ramla tal-Bir in Il-Fliegu ta' Kemmuna (Malta side) will start with immediate effect and will be completed by Tuesday, 20th April, 2021.

A work area of 20m radius centred on point A is being established. A silt curtain, with the aid of divers, will be deployed along the edge as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Due to the abovementioned works no vessel is allowed to enter the area while the work is being carried out.

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 59'.201                 014º 20'.653

Mariners are to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and very slow speed and give the indicated areas a wide berth. They are to comply with any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or 16 and any enforcement personnel on site.

Chart affected: BA 211

6th April, 2021

​ 

Local Notice to Mariners No. 27 of 2021

Infrastructure Malta Works on Berth 3 side at Mġarr Harbour – Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies Mariners that Infrastructure Malta will start works at Mġarr Harbour, Gozo, on Monday, 5th April, 2021, and is expected to be completed by June, 2021.

The works will be carried out along all the quay on berth 3 side, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Due to the above-mentioned works a silt curtain will be laid along the imaginary line A, B, C, D, E and F as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

                        Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A                     36º 01'.452                 014º 17'.874

B                     36º 01'.462                 014º 17'.863

C                     36º 01'.491                 014º 17'.900

D                     36º 01'.484                 014º 17'.909

E                      36º 01'.508                 014º 17'.940

F                      36º 01'.504                 014º 17'.944

These works will include the use of vessels/barges/workboats and divers. A working area of 20m from the silt curtain will therefore be required and is always to be kept clear

Masters and operators of vessels are informed that no vessel will be allowed to berth alongside that section of the quay while works are in progress. Any vessel berthed along the quay is to be removed immediately.

They are to seek information about operating restrictions from Transport Malta and coordinate with the contractors on site.  Further details about these works can be obtained from Infrastructure Malta on (info.im@infrastructuremalta.com).

They are also advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and very slow speed and give the indicated areas a wide berth. They are to comply with any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or 16 and any Enforcement Personnel on site.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 13 of 2019 is hereby CANCELLED.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537

30th March, 2021​

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 25 of 2021

Survey in the inner part of the Grand Harbour

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a survey will be carried out in the inner part of the Grand Harbour, Valletta, between Tuesday, 23rd March, 2021, and Saturday, 3rd April, 2021 (weather permitting).

The support vessels Beezer will be used during the survey and will be towing a 25m boom, therefore a wide berth of 50m is requested. As part of this survey the vessel Beezer will also be towing a 75m cable along Bridge Wharf and Church Wharf due to the shallow depth. The support vessel will be moving slowly and will display the international code of Signals flag D when the boom is deployed.

The survey will be carried out within the area as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

In line with the survey operation a number of vessels will be instructed to shift. The shifting of vessels and the survey itself will be coordinated by the Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS), the Traffic Management Unit (TMU) at Transport Malta and the contractor on site.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed and give the above support vessel Beezer a wide berth. Instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or 16 are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 177

26th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 26 of 2021

Diving survey along the coast in Il-Port il-Kbir

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that a diving survey will be held along the coast from Il-Port il-Kbir.

The diving surveys will take place along the coast from Pinto 5 up to ex Pixkerija within the area shown hatched in red on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) and will start on Friday, 26th March, 2021 and is expected to be completed by Saturday 10th April 2021, weather permitting.

The diving survey of the quays will be carried out by scuba divers and will be accompanied by the support vessel MV Goldfinder which will be displaying the international code of Signals flag A.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed (no wake) when navigating close to the above indicated area. They are to coordinate with the contractor on site and comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or 16.

Chart affected: BA 177

26th March, 2021

​ 

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 24 of 2021

Extension of Ro-Ro ramp between Deep Water Quay and Wine Wharf

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that works will be carried out at the Ro-Ro ramp between Deep Water Quay and Wine Wharf.

The extension includes the construction of piles to support a deck. The works are scheduled to start on Wednesday, 24th March, 2021, and be completed by Monday, 31st May, 2021.

When the works commence, a silt curtain will be laid in position 1, it will be shifted to position 2 after about 2 weeks and later to position 3 after another 2 weeks. The positions 1, 2 and 3, are shown on the chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

During the work the barges BEZZ I and BEZZ V will be used, therefore the area delineated by the imaginary line A, B, C, D and the intermediate coastline (as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) will be a working area and only vessels involved in the works are to enter.

Lit up marker buoys will be placed in positions B and C to indicate the outer limit of the area.

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 53'.278     014° 30'.388  

B                     35° 53'.246     014° 30'.393  

C                     35° 53'.242     014° 30'.350

D                     35° 53'.265     014° 30'.349

Divers will be assisting in these works and will be displaying the International Code Flag A.

Masters and vessel operators are instructed to cooperate with the contractor on site. They are to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at very slow speed (no wake) during the above-mentioned dates.

Moreover, any instructions given on VHF Channels 12 and 16 by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 177

23rd March, 2021​

​​TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2021

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 22nd to 26th March 2021 –  Extended Hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out Live Firing Practice between Monday, 22nd and Friday, 26th March, 2021 with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 8.00 p.m. (Local Time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

                        Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 55'.540      014º 28'.320

                                                (Centre point on land),

a radius of 4 nautical miles to points 

B                     35º 59'.460      014º 27'.150 and

C                     35º 58'.290      014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice Red Flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits.  After sunset instead of the red flags there will be red lights and two safety vessels with blue lights on each side, to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep as a minimum 4 nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given on VHF Channels 12 and/or 16 by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

16th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2021

AUV Surveys in 2021

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) surveys will be carried out in three (3) different areas round Malta. The vessel m/v CHIKO, will be assisting and participating in the survey.

The three (3) areas where the AUV surveys will be carried out are as follows:

within the points A, B, C, D, E and F

within the points G, H, I and J

within the points K, L, M and N,

as shown in red on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position         Latitude (N)                  Longitude (E)

A                     35° 56'.173                 014° 37'.352

B                     35° 55'.484                 014° 39'.233

C                     35° 53'.858                 014° 38'.421

D                     35° 54'.392                 014° 37'.103

E                      35° 54'.221                 014° 36'.983

F                      35° 54'.960                 014° 36'.100

G                     35° 50'.358                 014° 35'.072

H                     35° 50'.012                 014° 38'.273

I                       35° 47'.718                 014° 37'.678

J                      35° 48'.329                 014° 33'.976

K                     36° 07'.599                 014° 13'.449

L                      36° 06'.481                 014° 18'.405

M                     36° 04'.424                 014° 17'.608

N                     36° 05'.649                 014° 12'.547

The surveys will be carried out during daylight hours and will start with immediate effect, and are expected to be completed, weather permitting, by Sunday 20th November 2021.

Mariners are instructed to navigate with caution when close to the above-mentioned area and give the vessel m/v CHIKO a wide berth of 150m.

Moreover, any instructions given on VHF Channels 12, 14 and/or 16 by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS), Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts Affected: BA 2537, 2538, 194, 2123, 2124

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

16th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 21 of 2021

Removal of Sand from Il-Magħluq for the re-nourishment of the Beach close by

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that sand will be removed from parts of Il-Magħluq and used to replenish the beach close by, the work is expected to start with immediate effect and will continue until further notice.

The project consists of removing sand from within Il-Magħluq, area A, B, C, D, E and the intermediate coastline and area F, G, and the intermediate coastline. The sand will then be used the replenish the area W, X, Y, Z and the intermediate coastlines as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Point               Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A                     35° 50'.385                 014° 32'.763

B                     35° 50'.389                 014° 32'.752

C                     35° 50'.406                 014° 32'.762

D                     35° 50'.359                 014° 32'.802

E                      35° 50'.381                 014° 32'.798

F                      35° 50'.386                 014° 32'.870

G                     35° 50'.367                 014° 32'.859

W                    35° 50'.329                 014° 32'.929

X                     35° 50'.324                 014° 32'.927

Y                     35° 50'.336                 014° 32'.851

Z                      35° 50'.344                 014° 32'.852

Silt curtains will be laid along the following imaginary three lines: line A, B, C, D, E, line F to G and line W, X, Y, Z. The silt curtains will be marked by spherical buoys at close intermittent distances from each other.

In view of the above, mariners navigating in the area, are to proceed with caution and at very slow 'no wake' speed. They are to give the above areas a wide berth and obey any instructions as may be given by the Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14 and/or enforcement personnel.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

Chart affected: BA 36

12th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 22 of 2021

Refurbishment of Sally Port Promenade, Birgu - Id-Daħla tal-Kalkara

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that refurbishment work along Sally Port promenade, Birgu, in Id-Daħla tal-Kalkara will be carried out.

The refurbishment works will be carried out in phases. The first phase which is made up of the area within the imaginary line A, B, C, D, and the intermediate coastline shall start on Monday, 15th March, 2021 and is expected to be completed by Sunday, 17th July, 2021. A silt curtain will be laid along the imaginary line A, B, C, D and will have safety buoys and warning flags in the corners B and C as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 53'.433                 014º 31'.240

B         35º 53'.442                 014º 31'.252

C         35º 53'.397                 014º 31'.327

D         35º 53'.387                 014º 31'.321

The work boat Goldfinder will be used for the laying of the silt curtain and warning buoys.

It is to be noted that due to the above-mentioned refurbishment all vessels are to keep at least 15m away from the quay and that the quay will not be accessible while the refurbishment works are in progress.

Any vessel moored along the quays are to be removed with immediate effect.

Mariners are to note the above and proceed with caution and at a very slow speed (no wake) when navigating close to the above-mentioned area while the refurbishment is being carried out.

Chart affected: BA 177

12th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 23 of 2021

Water Sampling in Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that water sampling will be carried out within Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk between Wednesday, 17th March, 2021 and Thursday, 18th March, 2021.

Water sampling will be carried out along the imaginary lines in approximate position W to X and Y to Z as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

W                    35° 49'.908     014° 33'.241  

X                     35° 49'.174     014° 33'.277  

Y                     35° 49'.679     014° 32'.767

Z                      35° 49'.680     014° 33'.410                          

The works will be carried out with the assistance of the vessel Atlantis II.

A safety zone of 50m round the support vessel is to be kept during the sampling.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution, and at slow speed when navigating close to the above indicated area.

Any instructions issued by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF channel 14 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 36

12th March, 2021

​ 

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 10 of 2021

Fireworks – Feast of St Paul Shipwreck – Valletta – 2021

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies Mariners that in connection with the Titular Feast of St Paul's Shipwreck, aerial fireworks display will be let off from the foreshore at il-Ponta ta' Sant'Iermu (point A) and ground fireworks from the bastion next to il-Ponta tal-Imgerbeb (point B) in Valletta, from approximately the following position:

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A         35° 54'.163     14° 31'.226

B         35° 53'.892     14° 31'.089

The dates and times of the fireworks from the above positions are as follows:

From point A:

On Wednesday, 10th February, 2021 from 8.00 a.m. till 8.15 a.m., from noon till 12.20 p.m. and from 8.30 p.m. till 9.00 p.m.

From point B:

On Tuesday, 9th February, 2021 from 10.00 p.m. till 11.00 p.m.

Mariners are to note the above, give the position indicated a wide berth and a safe distance from point A of at least 200m and from point B of at least 50m (as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)). They are further instructed to contact Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 when navigating in and/or out of the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour on the above dates and times. Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

Chart Affected: BA Chart 177           

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 11 of 2021

Sailing Regatta in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk – February 2021

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Birżebbuġa Sailing Club shall be holding a regatta for dinghies between Saturday, 13th February, 2021, and Monday, 15th February, 2021.

Races shall be held from 9.00 a.m. till 4.00 p.m. (local time) each day.

Class races shall be held over two (2) adjacent upwind / downwind courses, centered in the selected sailing area depending on the weather conditions at the time. Areas A, B and C can be found on chart found on  Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

The courses shall be defined by inflatable marks of about 1.5 meters high around which the competitors shall have to sail.

Races will be held when no merchant traffic is scheduled to enter or depart from the Malta Freeport Terminals. 

Masters of all craft not directly involved in this Sailing Regatta are asked to keep clear of the racing area, especially at each of the turning marks and observe any instructions that may be given by the Race Organisers safety craft and by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14.

Charts effected:  BA 36, 2538

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 12 of 2021

Refurbishment Works Along the Quays and Stairs at Tal-Għażżelin in Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that refurbishment work along the quays and stairs at Tal-Għażżelin in Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl, will start with immediate effect and will continue until further notice.

Mariners are to note that due to the above-mentioned refurbishment all vessels are to keep away from the quays and stairs within the area shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

They are to note that the quays and the stairs will not be accessible while the refurbishment works are in progress.

Any vessel moored along the quays are to be removed with immediate effect.

Mariners are to note the above and proceed with caution and at a very slow speed (no wake) when navigating within the above-mentioned area while the refurbishment is being carried out.

Chart affected: BA 211

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 13 of 2021

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2021 regarding Benthic Survey in Gżira, Marsamxett Harbour

Reference is made to Local Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2021.

The Directorate for Ports and Yachting, Transport Malta, informs mariners that the date of completion of the benthic survey in Gżira, Marsamxett Harbour, has been extended until Sunday, 28th February, 2021.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2021 is to be amended accordingly.

All the other information mentioned in Local Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2021 will remain valid.

Chart affected: BA 177

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 14 of 2021

Further to Local Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2021 regarding Filming at id-Daħla tar-Rinella and

Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa – Das Boot III

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that further to Local Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2021 regarding filming at Id-Daħla tar-Rinella and Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa – Das Boot III, that filming activities will also take place in Rinella – Malta Film Studios.

The filming from Rinella will take place as follows:

On Thursday, 11th February, 2021, from 6.00 p.m. to Friday, 12th February, 2021, at 5.00 a.m.,

On Friday, 12th February, 2021, from 6.00 p.m. to Saturday, 13th February, 2021, at 5.00 a.m.,

On Tuesday, 16th February, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Wednesday, 17th February, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Thursday, 18th February, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Friday, 19th February, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Saturday, 20th February, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Monday, 22nd February, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Tuesday, 23rd February, 2021, from 6.00 p.m. till Wednesday, 24th February, 2021, at 6.00 a.m.,

On Wednesday, 24th February, 2021, from 6.00 p.m. till Thursday, 25th February, 2021, at 6.00 a.m,

On Thursday, 25th February, 2021 from 6.00 p.m. to Friday, 26th February, 2021, at  6.00 a.m.,

On Friday, 26th February, 2021, from 6.00 p.m. to Saturday, 27th February, 2021, at 6.00 a.m.,

On Monday, 1st March, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.,

On Tuesday, 2nd March, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m., and

On Wednesday, 3rd March 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.

In view of the above a clear horizon is required for filming purposes.

Mariners navigating in the indicated area on the mentioned dates and times are requested to keep watch on VHF Channel 12 and cooperate with the crew and/or enforcement personnel in the area.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 are to be complied with.

All other information included in Local Notice to Mariners Nos. 8 of 2021 will remain valid.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 15 of 2021

Laying of Silt Curtains in Il-Bajja tal-Balluta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that small silt curtains will be laid in Il-Bajja tal-Balluta, envisaged works being carried out along the coast.

This notice comes into force with immediate effect.  Small silt curtains are to be laid within the area shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).  The silt curtains will be removed, weather permitting, by Friday, 12th March, 2021.

Mariners are to note the above and navigate with caution and at slow speed (no wake), they are to give the area a wide berth of at least 20m.

All vessels are to comply with any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or Enforcement Personnel on site.

Chart affected: BA 177

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 16 of 2021

Establishment of an Organised Mooring Area in Xemxija (il-Bajja ta' San Pawl)

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Authority for Transport in Maltaj notifies all mariners that works will be carried out in Xemxija Bay, Xemxija, St Paul's Bay, to establish an Organised Mooring Area and associated fairway for the mooring of small craft.

Owners of vessels that are moored or have a mooring within the area bounded by the imaginery lines A, B, C, D and the coastline (as shown on the chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) are to remove such vessels, moorings and associated tackle by not later than Saturday, 20th March, 2021. 

Point              Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 57'.005     014° 23'.198

B                     35° 56'.921     014° 23'.269

C                     35° 56'.855     014° 23'.151

D                     35° 56'.920     014° 23'.096

Any vessels and moorings that are left in this area after the stipulated date will be removed at the expense of their owner.  No liability whatsover will be accepted by the Authority for any damage that may be caused while removing the said vessels and moorings.

Furthermore, mariners are reminded that it is prohibited to lay any mooringss and ground tackle without the prior permission of the Authority.

In view of the above, mariners navigating in the area are to navigate with caution and at very slow 'no wake' speed.  They are to give the above area a wide berth and comply with the instructions as communicated by the Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF Channel 12 or by the Authority's officials or other Enforcement Agencies.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

Chart affected: BA 211

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 17 of 2021

Further to Local Notice to Mariners Nos 8 and 14 of 2021 regarding filming at Id-Daħla tar-Rinella and Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa – Das Boot III

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that further to Local Notice to Mariners Nos 8 and 14 of 2021 regarding Filming at Id-Daħla tar-Rinella and Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa – Das Boot III, that filming activities will also take place on Tuesday, 9th March, 2021.

The filming on Tuesday, 9th March, 2021, will be held in Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa (Riviera Bay) from 7.00 a.m. till 6.00 p.m., where no vessel will be allowed to drop anchor or remain underway within the bay.

All other information and instructions included in Local Notice to Mariners Nos 008 and 014 of 2021 will remain valid.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 18 of 2021

Diving Survey and Water Sampling in Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that diving surveys and water sampling will be carried out within Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk between Friday 5th March, 2021, and Sunday 7th March, 2021.

The diving surveys will be held will be carried out at approximate locations A, B, C, D and E as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position          Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A                     35° 49'.751                 014° 33'.290        

B                     35° 49'.690                 014° 33'.344       

C                     35° 49'.594                 014° 33'.368

D                     35° 50'.299                 014° 32'.776

E                      35° 49'.757                 014° 33'.641

Water sampling will be carried out along the imaginary lines in approximate position W to X and Y to Z as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

W                    35° 49'.908     014° 33'.241  

X                     35° 49'.174     014° 33'.277  

Y                     35° 49'.679     014° 32'.767  

Z                      35° 49'.680     014° 33'.410

The works will be carried out with the assistance of the vessel Atlantis II which will be displaying the international code of Signals flag A.

A safety zone of 50m round the support vessel is to be kept during the survey/sampling.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution, and at slow speed when navigating close to the above indicated area.

Any instructions issued by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 36

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 19 of 2021

Upgrading works of Jetty 2 slipway in Il-Bajja ta' San Tumas

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that upgrading works will be carried out on Jetty 2 slipway in Il-Bajja ta' San Tumas.

The work will be carried out between Monday, 15th March, 2021 and Monday, 31st May, 2021.

Divers will be carrying out some of the work and will be displaying the International Code Flag A.

A silt curtain will be laid along the imaginary line joining points A, B and C as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position          Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 51'.158     014° 33'.810  

B                     35° 51'.152     014° 33'.808  

C                     35° 51'.151     014° 33'.797  

A safety distance of 20m from the silt curtain is to be maintained at all times.

Owners of vessels that are moored or have a mooring within the enclosed area, are to remove such moorings and associated ground tackle with immediate effect and not later than Sunday, 14th March, 2021.

Any vessels and moorings that are left in this area will be removed at the expense of the owner. No liability whatsoever will be accepted by the Authority for any damage that may be caused while removing the said vessels and moorings.

The slip cannot be used during this period due to the silt curtain and the upgrading works. Masters and vessel operators are instructed to cooperate with the contractor on site. They are to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at very slow speed (no wake) during the above-mentioned dates.

All vessel operators are to comply with any instructions as given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and/or any enforcement officers on site.

Chart affected: BA 2538

9th March, 2021

Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 20 of 2021

Benthic Survey in Id-DaĦla tal-Kalkara – Il-Port il-Kbir

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a benthic survey will be carried out in Id-Daħla tal-Kalkara – Il-Port il-Kbir, within the area bounded by the imaginary line A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J and K, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Point               Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 53'.459     014° 31'.311

B                     35° 53'.391     014° 31'.389

C                     35° 53'.362     014° 31'.467

D                     35° 53'.397     014° 31'.509

E                      35° 53'.322     014° 31'.619

F                      35° 53'.228     014° 31'.582

G                     35° 53'.358     014° 31'.490

H                     35° 53'.349     014° 31'.479

I                       35° 53'.364     014° 31'.373

J                      35° 53'.406     014° 31'.292

K                     35° 53'.427     014° 31'.267

The survey will start with immediate effect and will be completed by Sunday, 15th May, 2021 (weather permitting).

The Benthic survey will be carried out by ROV which will be operated from land. Scuba divers will also be deployed to take samples and confirm findings.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed when in the vicinity.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 177

9th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 6 of 2021

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 4th February 2021 –  Extended Hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out live firing practice on Thursday, 4th February, 2021, with extended hours between 6.00 a.m. and 7.00 a.m. (local time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.540     014º 28'.320 (Centre point on land),

a radius of 4 nautical miles to points 

B         35º 59'.460     014º 27'.150 and

C         35º 58'.290     014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice Red Flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits.  After sunset instead of the Red Flags there will be Red Lights and there will be two safety vessels with blue lights on each side, to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep as a minimum 4 Nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF channel 12 and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

9th March, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 7 of 2021

Seabed Survey around the Spoil Ground

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a marine survey will be carried out with the use of the following equipment: Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) side-scan sonar, multibeam and a Van Veen grab. This survey will be carried out by the vessels Atlantis II and Wilfred, they will be displaying lights and shapes as per COLREGS.

The survey area is bounded by the following coordinates, as seen on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Point               Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 53'.854     014º 31'.797

B                     35º 54'.686     014º 32'.335

C                     35º 55'.316     014º 31'.354

D                     35º 56'.431     014º 31'.904

E                      35º 57'.102     014º 32'.996

F                      35º 54'.770     014º 36'.630

G                     35º 53'.703     014º 36'.030

H                     35º 53'.047     014º 34'.836

I                       35º 52'.998     014º 33'.374

Weather permitting the survey will start with immediate effect and will be completed by Sunday, 28th February, 2021.

Since the vessels (Atlantis II and Wilfred) will be towing equipment and sometimes stationary, they will be restricted in their ability to manoeuvre.

Mariners are instructed to navigate with caution when the above-mentioned vessels are sighted and give a wide berth and observe a 500 metres radius restricted zone which will be implemented around the vessels Atlantis II and Wilfred.

Mariners are also notified to abide with any instructions from Valletta Port Control, (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 177, 194

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

9th March, 2021

​T

​RANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2021

Filming at Id-Daħla tar-Rinella and Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa – Das Boot III

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies all mariners and owners of vessels that filming activities will take place at Id-Daħla tar-Rinella and Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa.

The filming will be held as follows:

At Id-Daħla ta' Rinella, from the quay.

Between Wednesday, 3rd February, 2021, at 7.00 a.m., and Saturday, 6th February, 2021, at 7.00 a.m. (filming day and night).

At Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa, from the beach.

On Monday, 1st March, 2021, from 7.00 a.m. till 6.00 p.m.

Mariners and owners of vessels are informed that no vessel will be allowed to drop anchor or stay loitering within Id-Daħla ta' Rinella and Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa while filming is taking place in the respective area.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

26th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2021

Refurbishment Works on Slipway and adjacent Jetty at Ir-Ramla tal-Bir in Il-Fliegu ta' Kemmuna

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that refurbishment work on the slipway and adjacent jetty at Ir-Ramla tal-Bir in Il-Fliegu ta' Kemmuna (Malta side) will start with immediate effect and will continue until further notice.

Mariners are to note that due to the above-mentioned refurbishment all vessels are to keep out of the area shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

The area is centred on point A and has a radius of 40m, there will be laid a silt curtain and several small black and white buoys within the area.

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 59'.207                  014º 20'.730

They are to note that the slipway will not be accessible while the works are in progress.

Mariners are to note the above and proceed with caution and at a slow speed (no wake) when in the vicinity of the slipway while the refurbishment is being carried out.

Chart affected: BA 211

26th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 5 of 2021

Cancel Notice to Mariners Nos. 20 and 29

of 2020  – Derelict vessel on anchor – Hazard to Navigation

Reference is made to BA Chart 194 – Approaches to Malta and Gozo.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the derelict vessel mentioned in Notice to Mariners Nos. 20 and 29 of 2020 is no longer in the mentioned position and current updates of this derelict vessel are unknown.

Therefore, Notice to Mariners Nos. 20 and 29 of 2020 re Derelict Vessel on Anchor – Hazard to Navigation, are hereby CANCELLED.

Charts affected: BA 194, 2123, 2124

26th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 5 of 2021

ROV Survey off Ras il-Qala, Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a survey will be carried out with the use of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). This survey will be carried out by the vessel Atlantis II and her ancillary equipment.

Weather permitting the survey is planned to be carried out between Tuesday, 12th January, 2021 and Sunday, 31st January, 2021, within the area A, B, C and D as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt):

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         36° 01'.750                 14° 20'.110

B         36° 01'.807                 14° 20'.297

C         36° 01'.679                 14° 20'.373

D         36° 01'.617                 14° 20'.180

Since the vessel Atlantis II will be towing an ROV, she will be restricted in her ability to manoeuvre.

Mariners are instructed to navigate with caution when the above-mentioned vessel is sighted and maintain a safe distance of 500m from the vessels.

Mariners are also notified to abide by any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537

12th January, 2021

​ 

Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2021

Conduct of Small craft inside Maltese Harbours

The Authority for Transport in Malta draws the attention of masters, owners and operators of small craft, including but not limited to yachts, fishing vessels, craft used for water sports and craft under sail and/or under oars.

Such vessels are not to impede the passage of, or hinder the manoeuvre of, larger commercial vessels inside any part of the Maltese ports, declared under Article 3 of the Ports and Shipping Act (Chapter 352 of the Laws of Malta), and the approaches thereto.

Without prejudice to any other legal provisions, including those of the laws mentioned hereunder, special reference is being made to:

(i) Regulation 21 of the Ports Regulations (S.L. 499.01);

(ii) Rule 9 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as enacted under the Merchant Shipping Act (Chapter 234 of the Laws of Malta).

Enforcement action will be immediately taken in the event of non-compliance, without prejudice to any other legal action.

Notice to Mariners No. 40 of 2018 is hereby CANCELLED.

8th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 3 of 2021

Underwater Hazard at Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, would like to bring to the attention of all mariners, the danger of blocks and sharp pointed metal objects less than 1 metre below the sea surface at Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa.

Due to the above, the area enclosed between the points A, B, C and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt), is to be avoided.

Position           Latitude (N)               Longitude (E)

A                     35º 55'.808                 014º 20'.645

B                     35º 55'.741                 014º 20'.648

C                     35º 55'.734                 014º 20'.681

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta urges swimmers to use caution when swimming in the above indicated area.

Notice to Mariners No. 121 of 2018 is hereby CANCELLED.

Charts affected: BA 2537, 2538

8th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2021

Benthic Survey in Gżira, Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that a benthic survey will be carried out at Gzira in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett. The survey will start with immediate effect and will be completed by Monday, 15th February, 2021 (weather permitting) in the area shown hatched in magenta on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

The benthic survey will be carried out by ROV which will be operated from land. Scuba divers will also be deployed to take samples and confirm findings.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed when in the vicinity.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 177

8th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2021

Lay Up of Rig Key Singapore

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that the rig Key Singapore has been laid up with immediate effect and until further notice in the following position:

Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

35º 55'.400                 014º 49'.300

A safety zone of radius 500m centered on the above position has been established, restricted to all unauthorized vessels.

Positions are referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

Charts affected: BA 194, 2123, 2124

8th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 3 of 2021

Small Sunken Vessel in Id-Daħla ta' Tas-Sliema at Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that a small vessel has sunk in Id-Daħla ta' tas-Sliema at Il-Port ta' Marsamxett, centered on the following position:

Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

35° 54'.308                 014° 30'.450

A navigational aid buoy with light flashing Al.Oc.BuY.3s has been placed close to the above-mentioned position.

Masters of vessels navigating in the area are warned of this danger to give a wide berth and navigate with caution when in the vicinity

Position is referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

Charts Affected: BA 117

8th January, 2021​

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 153 of 2020

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 131 of 2019, re Long Term Maintenance Repairs, Marsaxlokk Harbour, Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Long term maintenance repairs, Marsaxlokk Harbour, Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd, have been completed.

Therefore, Local Notice to Mariners No .131 of 2019, re  Long term maintenance repairs, Marsaxlokk Harbour, Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd, is hereby CANCELLED.

5th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 154 of 2020

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 41 of 2020, re repair works on St Angelo Bridge

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Repair works on St Angelo Bridge, have been completed.

Therefore, Local Notice to Mariners No. 41 of 2020, re Repair works on St Angelo Bridge is hereby CANCELLED.

5th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 155 of 2020

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2019, re Infrastructure Malta Works in Various Localities

in Malta and Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Infrastructure Malta works in various localities in Malta and Gozo have been completed.

Therefore, Local Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2019, re Infrastructure Malta works in various localities in Malta and Gozo is hereby CANCELLED.

5th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 1 of 2021

Cumulative List of Local Notices to Mariners for 2021

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the following Notices to Mariners are still in force:

1. Local Notice to Mariners No. 122 of 2018

Re: Land Reclamation and Construction Works in Gżira, Marsamxett Harbour

2. Local Notice to Mariners Nos 12, 17 and 26 of 2019 and Nos. 51 and 73 of 2020

Re: Dredging at Mgarr Harbour, Gozo

3. Local Notice to Mariners No. 13 of 2019

Re: Infrastructure Malta works at Mġarr Harbour, Gozo

4. Local Notice to Mariners No. 93 of 2019

Re: Misuse of distress signals

5. Local Notice to Mariners Nos 2, 26 and 132 of 2020

Re: Restricted areas round Malta due to danger of falling rocks

6. Local Notice to Mariners No. 3 of 2020

Re: Berthing and mooring of vessels along breakwaters, jetties and slipways

7. Local Notice to Mariners No. 5 of 2020

Re: Speed restricted in close proximity to small craft, mooring areas and marinas

8. Local Notice to Mariners No. 6 of 2020

Re: Entry restriction in St George's Bay, St Julian's

9. Local Notice to Mariners No. 7 of 2020

Re: Safe distance from diver's flags signal

10. Local Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2020

Re: Noise levels on board commercial vessels

11. Local Notice to Mariners No. 10 of 2020

Re: Use of il-Moll ta' Buġibba by commercial vessels

12. Local Notice to Mariners No. 12 of 2020

Re: Refurbishment of slipway adjacent to Cold War Memorial Monument at Birżebbuġa in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

13. Local Notice to Mariners No. 13 of 2020

Re: Installation of snorkelling trail at Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa and at Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa

14. Local Notice to Mariners No. 45 of 2020

Re: Re-construction work of two jetties in Il-Bajja ta' San Tumas

15. Local Notice to Mariners No. 46 of 2020

Re: Shallow patch in front of slipway at Wied il-Buni in Il-Bajja ta' Birżebbuġa

16. Local Notice to Mariners No. 104 of 2020

Re: Studies on light-induced seabird ship strikes in the Maltese waters by BirdLife Malta

17. Local Notice to Mariners No. 107 of 2020

Re: Repair works on slipway at Ir-Ramla ta' Wied Musa in ċirkewwa

5th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 1 of 2021

Cumulative List of Notices to Mariners for 2021

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the following Notices to Mariners are still in force.

1. Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019

Re: Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges

2. Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2020

Re: Information and Promulgation of Notices to Mariners

3. Notice to Mariners Nos 20 and 29 of 2020

Re: Derelict vessel on anchor – hazard to navigation

4. Notice to Mariners No. 38 of 2020

Re: Interference to the Global Navigational Satellite Service (GNSS)

5. Notice to Mariners No. 44 of 2020

Re: Life Arcipelagu Garnija Project – restrictions areas around Malta

6. Notice to Mariners No. 45 of 2020

Re: Restricted Area between il-Ponta tal-Aħrax and Daħlet ix-Xilep

7. Notice to Mariners No. 53 of 2020

Re: Marsaxlokk Lighthouse, Dellimara Point – light unreliable

5th January, 2021

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 61 of 2020

Amendment to Notice to Mariners No. 55 of 2020

regarding Seabed Survey around the Spoil Ground

Reference is being made to Notice to Mariners No. 55 of 2020.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that due to adverse weather conditions, Notice to Mariners No. 55 of 2020 regarding seabed survey around the spoil ground, is being amended as follows:

The completion date is now being extended to Sunday, 31st January, 2021.

All other information included in Notice to Mariners No. 55 of 2020 will remain valid.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 177, 194

31st December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 62 of 2020

ROV survey – East of Malta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a survey will be carried out with the use of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). This survey will be carried out by the vessel Nickina.

Weather permitting the survey is planned to start with immediate effect and will be completed by Wednesday, 6th January, 2021.

The survey area is centred on the following position and has a radius of 1 NM.

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

            35° 55'.372     014° 49'.278

The actual survey is expected to take about 1 day.

Since the vessel Nickina will be towing an ROV, she will be restricted in her ability to manoeuvre. Therefore, the above-mentioned area is a No-Go Zone.

Mariners are instructed to navigate with caution when the above-mentioned vessel is sighted and maintain a safe distance of 1NM from the vessels.

Mariners are also notified to abide by any instructions issued by Malta VTS on VHF Channel 16, 69 and Valletta Port Control, (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 194, 2123, 2124

31st December, 2020

​​TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 150 of 2020

Cancel Local Notice to Mariners No. 43 of 2020 re Works on the slipway next to the Malta Canoe Federation in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the works on the slipway next to the Malta Canoe Federation in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett have been completed.

Therefore, Local Notice to Mariners No. 43 of 2020 re works on the slipway next to the Malta Canoe Federation in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett is hereby CANCELLED.

29th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 151 of 2020

Fireworks (Stoppini) Display from Pinto Wharf 1 and 2 at the Grand Harbour

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies Mariners that fireworks (stoppini) will be let off from Pinto Wharf 1 and 2 at the Grand Harbour.

The fireworks will be let off from the edge of the wharf (seaward side) on Thursday, 31st December, 2020, starting at 11.59 p.m. for about 10 minutes.

Mariners are informed that a safety distance of 10 meters from the letting off site at The Grand Harbour is required.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 177

29th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 152 of 2020

Fireworks Display from the Foreshore off the

Corinthia St George's Hotel, St Julian's

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a 10 minute fireworks display will be held from the foreshore off the Corinthia St George's Hotel in St. Julian's on Thursday, 31st December, 2020. The display will be centred in the approximate following position:

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

            35°55'.753      014°29'.516

The fireworks display will take place between 11.59 p.m. and 00.10 a.m.

Masters of vessels are advised to keep 100m off the coast along this Hotel during the abovementioned date and time. Any boats berthed within 100m radius from the abovementioned position are to be removed.

Mariners are to obey instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (VTS).

Chart affected: BA 177

29th December, 2020

Notice to Mariners No. 59 of 2020

Chart Correction - New Breakwater at Il-Qrejten in Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk

Reference is made to BA Charts 36 – Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies Mariners that a new breakwater has been established at Il-Qrejten in Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk.

The breakwater is formed by joining the following positions and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt):

                        Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

from                35º 50'.139     014º 32'.745   Coast

to                     35º 50'.155     014º 32'.790

to                     35º 50'.157     014º 32'.788

to                     35º 50'.159     014º 32'.79

to                     35º 50'.153     014º 32'.796

to                     35º 50'.136     014º 32'.746   Coast

Furthermore, a light has been established at the end of the breakwater in the following position

                        Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

                        35º 50'.153     014º 32'.794

The characteristics of the light are: Fl(2).R.5s 11m 7M

Positions referred to: WGS 84 DATUM

Chart affected: BA Chart 36

24th December, 2020

​Notice to Mariners No. 60 of 2020

Chart Correction – New Pontoon at Gżira Gardens Marina in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

Reference is made to BA Chart 177 – Valletta Harbours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies Mariners that a new floating pontoon has been established at Gżira Gardens Marina in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The pontoon has been established in the following positions:

                                    Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

Insert               from    35º 54'.096     014º 29'.789

floating            to         35º 54'.133     014º 29'.819

pontoon

Positions referred to: WGS 84 DATUM

Charts affected: BA Chart 177

24th December, 2020

Local Notice to Mariners No. 149 of 2020

Diving Survey of the Seabed at Xemxija in Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that a diving survey of the seabed will be held at Xemxija in Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl.

The survey will be held within the area formed by joining the imaginary lines between the points A, B, C, D and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 57'.005     014° 23'.198   Coast

B                     35° 56'.921     014° 23'.269   Buoy

C                     35° 56'.855     014° 23'.151   Buoy

D                     35° 56'.920     014° 23'.096   Coast

Buoys may be placed at points B and C to indicate the outer limit of the survey area.

The diving surveys will take place on Wednesday, 23rd December, 2020, all day.

The survey will be carried out by scuba divers and will be accompanied by the support vessel displaying the international code of Signals flag “A".

A safety zone of 50m round the support vessel is to be kept during the survey.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed when navigating close to above indicated area.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 211

22nd December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 145 of 2020

Coring at Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl, near Buġibba Breakwater

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that coring operations will be carried out in Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl, close to the breakwater at Buġibba. The coring operations will be carried out from the barge BEZZ V which will be assisted by two (2) tugboats. The vessels will display appropriate lights and shapes in compliance with the requirements of the International Regulations for the prevention of collisions at sea 1972 (COLREGS) as amended.

The coring operations in this area are scheduled to commence on Monday, 4th January, 2021, and, weather permitting, are estimated to be completed by Saturday, 20th January, 2021. Several cores will be lifted from within the area joining the points A, B, C, D, E, F, G and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 57'.151     014° 24'.531

B                     35° 57'.166     014° 24'.448

C                     35° 57'.086     014° 24'.327

D                     35° 57'.042     014° 24'.322

E                      35° 57'.024     014° 24'.351

F                      35° 57'.064     014° 24'.447

G                     35° 57'.082     014° 24'.428

Owners of vessels that are moored or have a mooring buoy within the above-mentioned areas, are to remove such mooring buoys and associated ground tackle with immediate effect and by not later than Sunday, 3rd January, 2021.

Any vessels and moorings that are left within the marked area will be removed at the expense of the owner. No liability whatsoever will be accepted by the Authority for any damage that may be caused during the removal of the said vessels and mooring arrangements.

Due to the above-mentioned works, navigation within the said areas will be restricted and entry will only be permitted following agreement and permission from the contractor on site.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, and shall navigate with caution and at slow speed, when in the vicinity of the marked area. They are to give the area a wide berth due to the ropes and sinkers which will be holding the barge in position.

They are to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Chart affected: BA 211, 2537, 2538

18th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

 ​

Local Notice to Mariners No. 146 of 2020

Swim from Ħondoq ir-Rummien – Gozo, to Ir-Ramla tat-Torri – Armier, Malta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a swim from Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo, to Ir-Ramla tat-Torri, Armier, Malta, will be held on Sunday, 20th December, 2020.

The swimmers will depart from Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo (point A) at approximately 9.30 a.m. and arrive at Ir-Ramla tat-Torri, Armier, Malta (point E) at approximately 1.30 p.m. They will be following the route along the points A, B, C, D and E as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

There will be two support vessels accompanying the swimmers.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate at slow speed (no wake) and keep well clear of the area during the stipulated time and giving the swimmers and the support vessels a wide berth.

All mariners are to adhere closely to any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and/or by the maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 211A, 2537

18th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 147 of 2020

Swim from Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Marfa – Malta, to Ħondoq ir-Rummien – Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a swim from Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Marfa, Malta, to Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo, will be held on Sunday 20th December, 2020.

The swimmer will depart from Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Marfa, Malta (point A) at approximately 9.30 a.m. and arrive at Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo (point F) at approximately 1.30 p.m. He will be following the route along the points A, B, C, D, E and F as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

The support vessel 'Just Add Water' will accompany the swimmer.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate at slow speed (no wake) and keep well clear of the area during the stipulated time and giving the swimmer a wide berth.

All mariners are to adhere closely to any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or by the maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 211A, 2537

18th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 148 of 2020

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 138 of 2020 re Coring at Il-Port ta' Marsamxett, near Valletta to Tas-Sliema ferry landing place

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that Local Notice to Mariners No. 138 of 2020 regarding Coring at Il-Port ta' Marsamxett, near Valletta to Tas-Sliema ferry landing place, is being amended as follows:

The completion date is now being extended to Saturday 23rd January, 2021.

All other information included in Local Notice to Mariners No. 138 of 2020 will remain valid.

Chart affected: BA 177

18th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 58 of 2020

Cancel Notice to Mariners No. 39 of 2020 – re Works in progress – Breakwater at Il-Ponta tal-Qrejten

in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

Reference is made to BA Chart 36 – Marsaxlokk.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the works on the breakwater at Il-Ponta tal-Qrejten in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk has been completed.

Therefore, Notice to Mariners No. 39 of 2020 – re works in progress – Breakwater at Il-Ponta tal-Qrejten in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk, is hereby CANCELLED.

18th December, 2020

​ 

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 143 of 2020

​Swim from Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo, to Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Marfa, Malta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a swim from Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo, to Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Marfa, Malta, will be held on Saturday, 19th December, 2020.

The swimmer will depart from Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo (point A) at approximately 9.00 a.m. and arrive at Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Marfa, Malta (point F) at approximately noon. He will be following the route along the points A, B, C, D, E and F as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

The support vessel 'Just Add Water' will accompany the swimmer.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate at slow speed (no wake) and keep well clear of the area during the stipulated time and giving the swimmer a wide berth.

All mariners are to adhere closely to any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or by the maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 211A, 2537

15th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 144 of 2020

Malta Young Sailors Club, Dinghy Sailing Regatta, Mellieħa Bay – 18th December, 2020

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Malta Young Sailors Club will be holding a Dinghy Sailing Regatta, between Friday 18th December and Sunday 20th December, 2020.

The activity will take place in Mellieħa Bay and approaches, in an area delineated by the imaginary lines A, B, C, D and E as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

Inflatable marker buoys to indicate the racecourse within the above-mentioned area shall be laid from 8.30 a.m. till 6.00 p.m., on each day of the activity.

All vessels that are not involved in the activity are to keep well clear from the competing boats and follow any instructions given by the race officials and support vessels.

Mariners are to note the above and are to give the area indicated a wide berth. They are further instructed to fully comply with Rule 18 (COLREGS 1972) and to 'keep out of the way' of the sailing vessels participating in the regatta. Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and/or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2538, 2537

15th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 57 of 2020

Replacing of Navigational Aid Buoys around

the Maltese Islands

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that, as part of the maintenance programme, the navigational aid buoys located around the Maltese Islands are to be replaced.

The following buoys will be replaced:

Buoy                                                   Latitude (N)               Longitude (E)

Għallis North Cardinal Buoy                                   35° 57'.310                014° 26'.840

Outer Munxar East Cardinal Buoy              35° 50'.982                014° 35'.940

Cominotto West Cardinal Buoy                   36° 00'.930                014° 18'.920

Comino West Cardinal Buoy                                   36° 01'.040                014° 19'.200

Marsalforn East Cardinal Buoy                   36° 04'.496                014° 15'.557

Marsaxlokk South Cardinal Buoy (Taqtiegħa)       35° 48'.890                014° 33'.680

Marsaxlokk Dellimara West Cardinal Buoy           35° 49'.302                014° 33'.230

Ellis Reef South Cardinal Buoy                   35° 49'.551                014° 32'.213

Marsaxlokk Bengħajsa East Cardinal Buoy           35° 48'.030                014° 33'.550

Marsaxlokk Isolated Danger – Bern                        35° 49'.359                014° 31'.890

Valletta Harbour Fairway Buoy                   35° 54'.748                014° 32'.511

Imgerbeb Point Starboard Buoy                  35° 53'.838                014° 31'.143

Senglea Point Port Buoy                              35° 53'.488                014° 30'.826

St Angelo Point Port Buoy                           35° 53'.593                014° 31'.010

Marsamxett Yellow Speed Marker Buoy    35° 53'.925                014° 30'.132

The work will be carried out by the vessels Goldfinder and Gold Dredger which will be displaying lights and shapes as per COLREGS.

The replacing of the buoys will start with immediate effect and is expected to be completed by 31st March, 2021, weather permitting.

Due to the lifting and lowering of the navigational aids and associated mooring components, the above-mentioned vessels will remain stationery, once in position.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and to proceed at slow speed. When the above-mentioned vessels are sighted, they are to be given a wide berth.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12, Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14 and/or by any enforcement agency on site are to be complied with.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

Charts affected: BA 36, 177, 211, 2537, 2538, 194

15th December, 2020

Local Notice to Mariners No. 142 of 2020

​​Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 136 of 2020 - Coring at Id-Daħla tal-Imsida in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

Reference is made to Local Notice to Mariners No. 136 of 2020.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that whilst all works have been completed, the departure of the barge BEZZ V will not be taking place, as planned, due to adverse weather conditions.

The departure of the barge BEZZ V from Id-Daħla tal-Imsida is now planned to take place by latest Sunday, 20th December, 2020 and again will be coordinated as in previous arrangements listed in Local Notice to Mariners No. 136 of 2020, which will remain in force.

Chart affected: BA 177, 2538

11th December, 2020

Local Notice to Mariners No. 141 of 2020

Malta Young Sailors Club, Dinghy Sailing Regatta, Mellieħa Bay – 5th December, 2020

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that the Malta Young Sailors Club will be holding a Dinghy Sailing Regatta, between Saturday, 5th December, 2020 and Sunday 6th December, 2020.

The activity will take place in Mellieha Bay and approaches, in an area delineated by the imaginary lines A, B, C, D and E as shown on Chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

Inflatable marker buoys to indicate the racecourse within the above-mentioned area shall be laid, from 8.00 a.m. till 6.30 p.m. on both days of the activity.

All vessels that are not involved in the activity are to keep well clear from the competing boats and follow any instructions given by the race officials and support vessels.

Mariners are to note the above and give the area indicated a wide berth. They are further instructed to give the right of way to the participants. Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 or by any enforcement agency on site, are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 211, 2538, 2537.

4th December, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 56 of 2020

Live Firing Practice at Pembroke Ranges – 15th December, 2020 - Extended Hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out Live Firing Practice on Tuesday, 15th December, 2020 with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 11.00 p.m. (Local Time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

             Latitude (N)               Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.540                 014º 28'.320 (Centre point on land),

a radius of 4 Nautical miles to points

B         35º 59'.460                 014º 27'.150 and
C         35º 58'.290                 014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice Red Flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits. After sunset instead of the Red Flags there will be Red Lights and there will be two safety vessels with blue lights on each side, to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep as a minimum 4 Nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF channel 12 and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

4th December, 2020​

Local Notice to Mariners No. 139 of 2020

RMYC Dinghy Sailing Regatta – off Tas-Sliema

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies Mariners that the Royal Malta Yacht Club will be holding a Dinghy Sailing Regatta on Saturday, 28th November, 2020, from 11.00 a.m. till 4.00 p.m., and Sunday, 29th November, 2020, from 10.00 a.m. till 4.00 p.m., off Tas-Sliema.

This activity will be held within the area A, B, C, D, E and F as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

2m inflatable buoys will be used to indicate the exact course.

Point               Latitude (N)                Longitude (E) 

A                     35º 55'.435                 014º 30'.447  

B                     35º 54'.798                 014º 31'.422

C                     35º 54'.454                 014º 31'.167  

D                     35º 54'.633                 014º 30'.826

E                      35º 54'.910                 014º 30'.515  

F                      35º 55'.178                 014º 30'.093

Mariners are to note the above and give the area indicated a wide berth. They are further instructed to coordinate with the support vessels on site and give the right of way to the participants. Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 are to be complied with.

Chart Affected: BA Chart 177

27th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 140 of 2020

Further to Local Notice to Mariners No. 12

of 2019 Regarding Dredging at Mġarr Harbour – Gozo (South)

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that further to Local Notice to Mariners No. 12 of 2019 regarding Dredging at Mġarr Harbour – Gozo, further dredging will be carried out within the area enclosed by the imaginary line joining the points A, B, C, D and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

Position           Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A                     36° 01'.490                 014° 17'.922         B               36° 01'.530                 014° 17'.903

C                     36° 01'.466                 014° 17'.855         D               36° 01'.452                 014° 17'.874

The works are expected to start on Tuesday, 3rd December, 2020, and be completed by 31st December, 2020. A silt curtain will be laid along the above-mentioned imaginary lines.

In view of the above vessels berthed in this area are to be removed immediately. Any vessel and mooring that is left in this area will be removed by the contractor. No liability whatsoever will be accepted by the authority for any damage that may be caused while removing the said vessels and moorings.

The AFM vessels will be shifted to within the area E, F, G, H and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt). No vessel can enter this area. Access for entering and departing of AFM vessels from their berth must always keep clear.

Position         Latitude (N)                  Longitude (E)

E                      36° 01'.433                 014° 17'.853

F                      36° 01'.442                 014° 17'.863

G                     36° 01'.460                 014° 17'.839

H                     36° 01'.451                 014° 17'.830

Mariners are to keep out of the area and advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and very slow speed (no wake) when navigating close to the indicated areas. They are to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on   Channel 12 and any enforcement personnel on site.

All other information included in Local Notice to Mariners No. 12 of 2019 will remain valid.

Chart affected: BA 211

27th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 53 of 2020

Marsaxlokk Lighthouse,

Dellimara Point – Unreliable Light

Reference is made to BA Chart 36 – 'Marsaxlokk and Approaches' and 'Marsaxlokk'

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Marsaxlokk Lighthouse Dellimara, Point Light flashing 2 every 12 seconds Fl(2)12s in the following position:

Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

35º 49'.300                 14º 33'.538

has had its lenses damaged and therefore the range is UNRELIABLE

Position in WGS 84 Datum

Charts affected: BA Chart 36, 2538, 194

27th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 54 of 2020

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 10th

December 2020 – Extended Hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out Live Firing Practice on Thursday, 10th December, 2020, with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 11.00 p.m. (local time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

                        Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A                     35º 55'.540                 014º 28'.320 (centre point on land),

a radius of 4 nautical miles to points 

B                     35º 59'.460                 014º 27'.150 and

C                     35º 58'.290                 014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice Red Flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits.  After sunset instead of the Red Flags there will be Red Lights and there will be two safety vessels with blue lights on each side, to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep as a minimum 4 Nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

27th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 55 of 2020

Seabed survey around the spoil ground

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a marine survey will be carried out with the use of the following equipment: Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) side-scan sonar, multibeam and a Van Veen grab. This survey will be carried out by the vessels Atlantis II and Wilfred, they will be displaying lights and shapes as per COLREGS.

The survey area is bounded by the following coordinates.

Point               Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 53'.854     014º 31'.797

B                     35º 54'.686     014º 32'.335

C                     35º 55'.316     014º 31'.354

D                     35º 56'.431     014º 31'.904

E                      35º 57'.102     014º 32'.996

F                      35º 54'.770     014º 36'.630

G                     35º 53'.703     014º 36'.030

H                     35º 53'.047     014º 34'.836

I                       35º 52'.998     014º 33'.374

Weather permitting the survey will start on Tuesday, 1st December, 2020, and will be completed by Thursday, 31st December, 2020.

Since the vessels  Atlantis II and Wilfred will be towing equipment and sometimes stationary, they will be restricted in their ability to manoeuvre.

Mariners are instructed to navigate with caution when the above-mentioned vessels are sighted and give a wide berth and observe a 500 metres radius restricted zone which will be implemented around the vessels Atlantis II and Wilfred.

Mariners are also notified to abide with any instructions from Valletta Port Control, (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 177, 194.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

27th November, 2020​

​

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 138 of 2020

Coring at Il-Port ta' Marsamxett, Near Valletta – Tas-Sliema Ferry Landing Place

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that coring will be carried out in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett, near Valletta – Tas-Sliema ferry landing place.

The coring will be carried out form the barge BEZZ V which will be assisted by two (2) tugboats and will display lights and shapes as per COLREGS.

The coring is scheduled to start on Monday, 7th December, 2020 and be completed by Saturday, 19th December, 2020, weather permitting. This work will be coordinated with the Valletta – Tas-Sliema ferry operator as this service cannot be interrupted.

Several cores will be carried out within the area joining the points A, B, C, D and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website: (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35° 54'.069     014° 30'.639

B                     35° 54'.103     014° 30'.602

C                     35° 54'.074     014° 30'.521

D                     35° 54'.031     014° 30'.523

Owners of vessels that are moored or have a mooring within the above-mentioned area, are to remove such moorings and associated ground tackle with immediate effect and not later than Sunday, 6th December, 2020.

Any vessels and moorings that are left in this area will be removed at the expense of the owner. No liability whatsoever will be accepted by the Authority for any damage that may be caused while removing the said vessels and moorings.

Due to the above-mentioned works, navigation within the said area is restricted and entry is only allowed in agreement with the contractor on site.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed when in the vicinity, they are to give the area a wide berth due to ropes and sinkers which will be holding the barge in position.

They are to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

24th November, 2020

​ 

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 137 of 2020

RMYC Dinghy Sailing Regatta – off Tas-Sliema

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies Mariners that the Royal Malta Yacht Club will be holding a Dinghy Sailing Regatta on Saturday 21st November and Sunday 22nd November, 2020, from 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m., both days, off Tas-Sliema.

This activity will be held within the area A, B, C, D E and F as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

2m inflatable buoys will be used to indicate the exact course.

Point   Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 55'.435      014º 30'.447

B                     35º 54'.798      014º 31'.422

C                     35º 54'.454      014º 31'.167

D                     35º 54'.633      014º 30'.826

E                      35º 54'.910      014º 30'.515

F                      35º 55'.178      014º 30'.093

Mariners are to note the above and give the area indicated a wide berth. They are further instructed to coordinate with the support vessels on site and give the right of way to the participants. Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 are to be complied with.

Chart Affected: BA Chart 177

20th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 51 of 2020

Live Firing Practice at the Pembroke Ranges – 25th and 26th November, 2020 – Extended hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out Live Firing Practice on Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th November 2020 with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 11.00 p.m. (local time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.540                  014º 28'.320 (Centre point on land),

a radius of 4 nautical miles to points 

B         35º 59'.460                  014º 27'.150 and

C         35º 58'.290                  014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice red flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits.  After sunset instead of the red flags there will be red lights and there will be two safety vessels with blue lights on each side, to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep as a minimum 4 nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected:          BA 2538, 2537, 194

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

20th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 52 of 2020

Live Firing Practice at Pembroke Ranges – 2nd December, 2020 – Extended hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out Live Firing Practice on Wednesday, 2nd December, 2020, with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 11.00 p.m. (local time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.540      014º 28'.320 (Centre point on land),

a radius of 4 nautical miles to points

B         35º 59'.460      014º 27'.150 and

C         35º 58'.290      014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice red flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits. After sunset instead of the red flags there will be red lights and there will be two safety vessels with blue lights on each side, to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep as a minimum 4 nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

20th November, 2020

​TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 136 of 2020

Coring at Id-Daħla tal-Imsida in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that coring will be carried out at Id-Daħla tal-Imsida (Ta' Xbiex side) in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett. The work is scheduled to start on Saturday, 28th November, 2020, and be completed by Saturday, 12th December, 2020.

The coring will be carried out form the barge BEZZ V which will be assisted by two (2) tug boats and will display lights and shapes as per COLREGS.

The coring will be carried out within the area joining the points 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

1                      35° 53'.821     014° 29'.590

2                      35° 53'.809     014° 29'.598

3                      35° 53'.811     014° 29'.614

4                      35° 53'.826     014° 29'.650

5                      35° 53'.838     014° 29'.646

Owners of vessels that are moored or have a mooring within the above-mentioned area, are to remove such moorings and associated ground tackle with immediate effect and not later than Friday, 27th November, 2020.

Any vessels and moorings that are left in this area will be removed at the expense of the owner. No liability whatsoever will be accepted by the Authority for any damage that may be caused while removing the said vessels and moorings.

Due to the size of BEZZ V and it having to be towed to position, all vessels moored along the quay from point 5 to point 6 (next to Mamma Mia), from point 7 to point 8 (at Il-Ponta Tal-Pietà) and the outer 30m of pontoons G, H and M (shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) are to be removed on Saturday, 28th November, 2020 from 7.00 a.m. till noon and again on Saturday, 5th December, 2020 while BEZZ V is entering and departing Il-Port ta' Marsamxett.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

5                      35° 53'.838     014° 29'.646

6                      35° 53'.845     014° 29'.664

7                      35° 53'.772     014° 29'.700

8                      35° 53'.764     014° 29'.856

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed and stay as far to the south of the fairway as possible due to sinkers that hold barge in position, they are to give the area a wide berth.

They are to navigate and comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Chart affected: BA 177

17th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 131 of 2020

ROV Survey of Cable – from Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq out to Sea

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a survey will be carried out with the use of a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). This survey will be carried out by the vessel Mare Rosa and her ancillary equipment.

Weather permitting the survey is planned to be carried out between Friday, 6th November, 2020 and Wednesday, 11th November, 2020, along the line A-B as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt):

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35° 56'.435                 14° 27'.342 (Coast)

B         35° 57'.618                 14° 28'.062

The actual survey is expected to take about 1 day.

Since the vessel Mare Rosa will be towing an ROV, she will be restricted in her ability to manoeuvre.

Mariners are instructed to navigate with caution when the above-mentioned vessel is sighted and maintain a safe distance of 500m from the vessel.

Mariners are also notified to abide by any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control, (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 2537, 2538

6th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 132 of 2020

Further to Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2020 regarding Restricted Areas round Malta due to

Danger of Falling Rocks

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that further to Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2020 regarding Restricted Areas round Malta due to danger of falling rocks, the following area is to be added to the list.

Rdum il-Bies – Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl – An area of 50m radius centred on the following approximate position, as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

                        Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

            A         35º 57'.708     014º 23'.766

All conditions and advice mentioned in Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2020 will remain valid and will apply to this area also.

Chart affected: BA 211B

6th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 133 of 2020

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 123 of 2020 regarding Benthic Survey in Gżira, Marsamxett Harbour

Reference is made to Local Notice to Mariners No 123 of 2020.

The Directorate for Ports and Yachting, Transport Malta, informs mariners that the date of completion of the Benthic survey in Gżira, Marsamxett Harbour, has been extended until Monday, 30th November, 2020.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 123 of 2020 is to be amended accordingly.

All other information mentioned in Local Notice to Mariners No. 123 of 2020 will remain.

Chart affected: BA 177

6th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 134 of 2020

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 68 of 2020 regarding Infrastructure Malta – Ferry Landing

in Tas-Sliema

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that Local Notice to Mariners No. 68 of 2020 regarding Infrastructure Malta – Ferry Landing in Tas-Sliema, is being amended with the following:

The completion date is now being extended to end of March, 2021.

All other information included in Local Notice to Mariners No. 68 of 2020 will remain valid.

Chart affected: BA 177

6th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 135 of 2020

Re-installation of Floating Pontoons in Il-Magħluq,

Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that floating pontoons will be re-installed at Il-Magħluq, Il-Port ta' Marsaxlokk.

The preparation and re-installation of the floating pontoons will take place between Friday, 6th November, 2020, and Saturday, 21st November, 2020.

The assembling and re-installation of the pontoons will be carried out by scuba divers and will be accompanied by the support vessels MV Gold Dredger, MV Goldfinder and Anselma, and they will be displaying the international code of Signals flag A.

Due to the re-installation, the area A, B, C, D and E (as shown hatched on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) will be used as a working area, therefore this is a restricted area for the duration of the works.

Point               Latitude (N)   Longitude (E)

    A                 35°50.393     014°32'.769                  Coast

    B                 35°50.398     014°32'.754                 

    C                 35°50.427     014°32'.771

    D                 35°50.395     014°32'.861

    E                  35°50.357     014°32'.839                  Coast

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed (no wake) when navigating close to the above indicated area.

​ 

They are to cooperate with the contractor on site and comply with any instructions given by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14.

Chart affected:  BA 36

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM.

6th November, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 50 of 2020

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 9th, 11th and 12th November, 2020 – Extended hours

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies that further to Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019, the Armed Forces of Malta will carry out Live Firing Practice on Monday, 9th, Wednesday, 11th and Thursday, 12th November, 2020, with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 11.00 p.m. (Local Time).

The exercise area (LM-D6) is delineated by sector ABC.

From Position A

            Latitude (N)   Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.540     014º 28'.320 (Centre point on land),

a radius of 4 nautical miles to points          

B         35º 59'.460     014º 27'.150 and

C         35º 58'.290     014º 32'.190

During the Live Firing Practice Red Flags (approximate size 2.5m x 2m) will be flown from the shore limits.  After sunset there will be red lights instead of the red flags, as well as two safety vessels with blue lights on each side to indicate the limit. Mariners are warned to keep a minimum 4 nautical miles off the coast when the flags or safety vessels are sighted.

Moreover, any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and the Armed Forces of Malta are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

3rd November, 2020

Notice to Mariners No. 49 of 2020

Chart correction – Malta-Gozo Fibre Optic

Submarine Cable

Reference is made to BA Chart 2537 – Għawdex (Gozo), Kemmuna (Comino) and the Northern Part of Malta.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a fibre optic cable has been laid along the following route:

                                                Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

From Malta

(Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa)          35°56'.060     014°20'.626                 

till                                35°55'.965      014°20'.335

            till                              35°55'.934      014°20'.091

            till                              35°56'.071      014°18'.915

            till                              35°56'.138      014°18'.721

            till                              35°56'.274      014°18'.527

            till                              35°56'.782      014°18'.066

            till                              35°59'.764      014°17'.066

            till                              36°00'.669      014°16'.881

            till                              36°00'.673      014°16'.785

            till                               36°00'.761     014°16'.841

            to Gozo                       36°00'.962      014°16'.717

            (Ras il-Ħobż)             

Charts affected: BA Chart 2537, 2538, 211A

Positions referred to:  WGS 84 Datum.

30th October, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 128 of 2020

Diving surveys at Il-Ponta Tal-Pietà in Marsamxett Harbour

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that diving surveys will be held at Il-Ponta Tal-Pietà in Marsamxett Harbour, within the area A, B, C, D and the intermediate coastline as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (http://www.transport.gov.mt).

The diving surveys will take place between Saturday, 31st October, 2020, and Saturday, 14th November, 2020.

The surveys will be carried out by scuba divers and will be accompanied by the support vessels Goldfinder and Gold Dredger, and they will be displaying the international code of Signals flag A.

A safety zone of 50m round the support vessel Goldfinder and Gold Dredger is to be kept during the surveys.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and slow speed when navigating in the above indicated area. They are to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Chart affected: BA 177

30th October, 2020

Local Notice to Mariners No. 126 of 2020

Filming from Rinella – Malta Film Studios – Clear Horizon

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and operators of vessels, that filming activities will take place in Rinella – Malta Film Studios.

The filming will take place from Thursday, 5th November, 2020, to Tuesday, 10th November, 2020 (including the weekend), from 6.00 a.m. till 1.00 a.m. (the next day) everyday.

In view of the above a clear horizon is required for filming purposes.

Mariners navigating in the indicated area on the mentioned dates are requested to keep watch on VHF Channel 12 and cooperate with the crew and enforcement personnel in the area.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 are to be complied with.

27th October, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 117 of 2020

Marine Works off Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that marine works will be carried out off Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay, Gozo.

The works will be carried out from the Barge Sea Wolf and will consist also the laying of a circular silt Curtain centred in position:

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 01'.598                 014º 19'.427

The silt curtain will be laid with a radius of 40m and will surround the flat barge Sea Wolf.

The works are expected to start with immediate effect and are expected to be completed by 20th November. These works will be carried out by divers who will be displaying the international code of signals flag 'A'.

Mariners are to note the above and navigate at slow speed (no wake) and they are to give this area a wide berth.

Chart affected: BA 211

2nd October, 2020

Notice to Mariners No. 44 of 2020

LIFE Arċipelagu Garnija Project – Restrictions on Areas around Malta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that as part of the LIFE Arċipelagu Garnija project, the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has established a number of restrictions, in line with:

The Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC) transposed into Maltese legislation through the Conservation of Wild Birds Regulations (S.L. 549.42).

The Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC) transposed into Maltese legislation through the Flora, Fauna and Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations (S.L 549.44).

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (Directive 2008/56/EC) transposed into Maltese legislation through the Marine Policy Framework Regulations (S.L. 549.62).

Blue Grotto – Qrendi – Chart 1

Shown in red – Formed by the imaginary line 1F to 1G and the intermediate coastline - No navigation and no anchoring in the area except for fishing and diving vessels and local commercial vessels operating in the area. Only compulsory lights and sound. All year round and at all time.

Shown in blue – Formed by the imaginary lines 1A to 1B to 1C to 1D to 1E, the imaginary line 1F to 1G and the intermediate coastline – Only compulsory lights and sounds. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

1A                   35° 49'.213     014° 27'.724

1B                   35° 48'.984     014° 27'.570

1C                   35° 48'.938     014° 27'.382

1D                   35° 49'.037     014° 27'.128

1E                    35° 49'.140     014° 27'.182

1F                    35° 49'.165     014° 27'.334

1G                   35° 49'.192     014° 27'.574

Cominotto – Blue Lagoon – Chart 2

Shown in red – Formed by the imaginary lines 2C to 2B to 2D and the intermediate coastline – No anchoring in the area except for fishing and diving vessels. Maximum speed 3 knots. Only compulsory lights and sounds. All year round and at all time.

Shown in blue – Formed by the imaginary lines 2A to 2B to 2C and the intermediate coastline – Only compulsory lights and sounds. Maximum speed 10 knots. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

2A                   36° 00'.222     014° 19'.472

2B                   36° 00'.638     014° 19'.206

2C                   36° 00'.731     014° 19'.370

2D                   36° 00'.716     014° 19'.156

Dwejra – Gozo – Chart 3

Shown in red – Formed by the imaginary lines 3A to 3B to 3C to 3D to 3E and the intermediate coastline – Only compulsory sounds and lights allowed. Maximum speed 5 knots. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

3A                   36° 02'.729     014° 11'.366

3B                   36° 02'.721     014° 11'.288

3C                   36° 02'.809     014° 11'.220

3D                   36° 02'.871     014° 11'.243

3E                   36° 02'.886     014° 11'.294

Majjistral NHP – Chart 4

Shown in red – All transiting traffic to maintain a minimum distance of 100 m from the cliff. All year round and at all time. Shown in blue – Formed by the imaginary lines 4A to 4B to 4C to 4D to 4E and the intermediate coastline - Only compulsory light and sounds. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

4A                   35° 56'.678     014° 19'.905

4B                   35° 56'.826     014° 19'.360

4C                   35° 57'.223     014° 19'.663

4D                   35° 57'.828     014° 19'.364

4E                    35° 58'.115     014° 19'.586

Migra l-Ferħa – Chart 5

Shown in red – Formed by the imaginary line 5A to 5B and the intermediate coastline – No navigation and no anchoring in the area except for fishing and diving vessels. Only compulsory light and sounds. All year round and at all time.

Shown in blue – All transiting traffic to maintain a minimum distance of 100 m from the cliff. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

5A                   35° 52'.084     014° 21'.095

5B                   35° 52'.232     014° 20'.978

Santa Marija Caves – Chart 6

Shown in red – Formed by the imaginary line 6E to 6F and the intermediate coastline – No anchoring in the area except for fishing and diving vessels. Maximum speed 3 knots. Only compulsory lights and sound. All year round and at all time.

Shown in blue – Formed by the imaginary lines 6A to 6B to 6C to 6D, the imaginary line 6E to 6F and the intermediate coastline – No stopping and no anchoring zone of 0.5 NM except for fishing and diving vessels. Only compulsory lights and sound. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

6A                   36° 01'.141     014° 20'.400

6B                   36° 01'.475     014° 20'.761

6C                   36° 01'.248     014° 21'.080

6D                   36° 00'.914     014° 20'.716

6E                    36° 00'.960     014° 20'.665

6F                    36° 01'.116     014° 20'.427

St Paul's Islands – Chart 7

Shown in red – Formed by the imaginary lines 7A to 7B, the imaginary line 7C to 7D and the intermediate coastline – Only compulsory lights and sound. Maximum speed 5 knots. All year round and at all time.

Shown in blue – Formed by the circle of radius 0.5NM centred on point 7E – Only compulsory lights and sound. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

7A                   35° 57'.838     014° 23'.951

7B                   35° 57'.812     014° 23'.864

7C                   35° 58'.066     014° 23'.824

7D                   35° 57'.970     014° 24'.066

7E                    35° 57'.985     014° 24'.176

Ta' ċenċ – Chart 8

Shown in red – All transiting vessels to maintain a minimum distance of 100m from the cliffs. All year round and at all time.

Shown in blue – Formed by the imaginary lines 8A to 8B to 8C to 8D to 8E to 8F and the intermediate coastline – Only compulsory sounds and lights allowed. Maximum speed 10 knots. All year round and at all time.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

8A                   36° 00'.952     014° 16'.260

8B                   36° 00'.448     014° 16'.330

8C                   36° 00'.197     014° 15'.744

8D                   36° 00'.835     014° 12'.796

8E                    36° 01'.285     014° 12'.469

8F                    36° 01'.560     014° 12'.865

Action will be taken against anybody not observing these restrictions.

Mariners are also reminded to navigate with caution and slow speed and give the indicated areas a wide berth. They are to comply with any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 194, 211, 2537

25th September, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 45 of 2020

Restricted Area between Il-Ponta tal-Aħrax

and Daħlet ix-Xilep

The Ports and Yachting Dirctorate, Transport Malta, notifies that as part of an EU LIFE project, aimed at protecting the Yelkouan Shearwaters (Garnija), seabirds that breed on cliffs, a restricted area is established. One such breeding area is located at L-Irdum tal-Madonna on the cliffs between Il-Ponta tal-Aħrax and Daħlet ix-Xilep. The L-Irdum tal-Madonna breeding colony has been designated as a Special Protection Area because Malta has 10% of the world's population of Yelkouan Shearwaters and is internationally important for these birds. Light and noise can easily disturb the birds and cause them to desert the colony.

The buffer zone to the Special Protection Area (SPA) (about 1.1 Nautical Mile from shore) lies between the following imaginary points and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 1 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt):

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

(A)      35°59'.268      14°22'.574

(B)       35°59'.231      14°23'.759

(C)       36°00'.624      14°23'.088

(D)      36°00'.874      14°22'.692

(E)       35°59'.901      14°22'.057

In view of the above Masters of all vessels and craft are to adhere to the following conduct while transiting the area all year round

Lights, other than lights prescribed in the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGs) have to be switched off and no loud noise, other than sound signals prescribed in the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGs), from vessels is allowed whilst moving along this stretch of coast.

Pleasure cruises operating as Boat Parties are obliged to follow the above guideline and switch off all lights and music while passing in the indicated area or otherwise keep clear from the buffer zone to the SPA.

The letting off of petards and other fireworks from sea is not allowed in the buffer zone to the SPA all year round.

The buffer zone to the SPA is a “no stopping zone" for all vessels other than vessels carrying out fishing activities.

Fishing activities in the area using strong lights (lampara etc) are prohibited in line with Art.4 of the Fishery Regulations (SL425.01) and Council Regulation (EC) No. 1967/2006 concerning management.

Further to the above, the Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that as part of the LIFE Arċipelagu Garnija project, the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has established a number of restrictions, in line with:

The Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC) transposed into Maltese legislation through the Conservation of Wild Birds Regulations (S.L. 549.42)

The Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC) transposed into Maltese legislation through the Flora, Fauna and Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations (S.L 549.44).

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (Directive 2008/56/EC) transposed into Maltese legislation through the Marine Policy Framework Regulations (S.L. 549.62).

As such, the area enclosed by the imaginary line X – Y and the intermediate coastline, shown hatched red on chart 2 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt), while all conditions mentioned above apply, no anchoring except for fishing and diving vessels is permitted. Maximum speed 3 knots.

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

(X)      35°59'.584                  14°22'.339

(Y)      35°59'.539                  14°23'.361

Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2010 of Transport Malta is hereby CANCELLED.

Charts Affected: BA 211A, 2538, 2537, 194

25th September, 2020