Transport Malta

Local Notice to Mariners No. 5 of 2020

Speed Restricted in Close Proximity to Small Craft, Mooring Areas and Marinas

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, reminds mariners, boaters and operators of commercial vessels of the importance of proceeding at a safe speed at all times subject to the prevailing circumstances and conditions and with extra caution and slow speed when operating and manoeuvering in close proximity to small craft, mooring areas and Marinas. Mariners are also reminded on the importance of keeping a proper lookout at all times.

The following still apply:

1) In terms of the Yachting Centres Regulations (SL499.10) the speed limit in the approaches to and fairways near yachting centres, Marinas and mooring areas shall be a maximum of 3 knots;

2) Further to the Ports Regulations (SL499.01) and the Small Ships Regulations (SL 499.52) it is determined that within the other areas of the ports of Valletta, Marsamxett and Mġarr (Gozo) mariners are to proceed at a maximum speed of 5 knots and keeping wash as a minimum. In other ports and harbours, within 300m from the foreshore of a sandy beach and within 200m from other part of the foreshore are to proceed at a speed which is not in excess of 10 knots; and

3) When Speed Marker Buoys (IALA Special Mark) are sighted, speed as indicated on buoy is not to be exceeded.

Operators of Commercial Vessels are further requested to contact and inform the Valletta VTS on VHF Channel 12 prior to proceeding on Harbour Cruises within the Ports and also inform the respective Marina Operator on VHF Channel 13 when navigating within creeks and marina fairways.

Notice to Mariners No. 107 of 2011 and Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2015 of Transport Malta are hereby CANCELLED.  

14th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 6 of 2020

Entry Restriction in St. George's Bay – St Julian's

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that with immediate effect a restricted area for commercial vessels of twelve (12) metres in length overall and over, is being established in St George's Bay, St Julian's.

The restricted area is delineated by the imaginary line A to B, on the shore either side of the bay (as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) and the sea area South West of the line.

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35° 55'.666                 014° 29'.461

B         35° 55'.593                 014° 29'.518

Operators of commercial vessels of twelve (12) metres in length overall and over, are to anchor outside the imaginary line AB and safely disembark any passengers by using duly authorised smaller vessels.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2016 of Transport Malta is hereby CANCELLED.

Chart affected: BA 177

14th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 7 of 2020

Safe Distance from Diver's Flags Signal

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, reminds mariners to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at safe speed at all times.

They are to give a wide berth of not less than 100m from signal buoys or vessels that carry either a diver down (Alpha flag) and the diver's flag (red with diagonal white stripe), as found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt), when these are sighted, and to navigate at slow speed.

They are also reminded that they are not to exceed the speed limit of 10 knots when navigating within 200m from rocky shores and within 300m from sandy beaches.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 18 of 2017 of Transport Malta is hereby CANCELLED.

14th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 8 of 2020

Noise Levels on Board Commercial Vessels

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta reminds all operators, masters and crew of commercial vessels of the provisions of the Code of Practice for the Safety of Commercial Vessels dealing with noise and music on board such commercial vessels. These provisions are there to safeguard the safety of navigation and operations of the vessel by ensuring that all communications on board are not impaired at any time; and also take into consideration the social and environmental obligations by ensuring that no nuisance is caused especially in areas which are noise sensitive. These provisions are to be complied with at all times.

Furthermore, all operators, masters and crew are hereby being notified that, with immediate effect, the organisation of boat parties is subject to a prior No Objection from Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) to enter any port, harbour or bay.

This No Objection has to be applied for 24 hours prior to the activity and the following conditions have to be observed:

1. The required permits to hold the activity must be in hand and submitted to the Authority.

2. The name of the Master and that of a second contact person, together with their contact numbers on board, must be provided to the Authority.

3. Noise levels to be kept at a level that does not cause any nuisance to others in the vicinity, apart from not impairing any communications. To be complied with at all times.

4. Music must stop by 11.00 p.m.

Further restrictions may apply to locations in close proximity to residential or environmentally sensitive areas.

Operators, masters and crew are to keep watch on VHF Channel 12 and cooperate with the enforcement officers in the area and with the Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) and comply with any and all instructions and directions given.

Enforcement action will be taken accordingly in the event of any non-compliance.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 34 of 2017 of Transport Malta is hereby CANCELLED.

14th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2020

Geophysical survey off Ponta tat-Tawwalija, Dellimara

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that a Geophysical survey will be held off Ponta tat-Tawwalija, Dellimara.

Divers will be deployed during the survey which will be carried out within the area A, B, C and D, as shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A         35º 49'.429     014º 33'.722

B         35º 49'.241     014º 34'.066

C         35º 49'.379     014º 34'.174

D         35º 49'.570     014º 33'.811

Weather permitting, the survey will commence on Tuesday, 14th January, 2020, and is expected to be completed by Sunday, 26th January, 2020. The survey will start at 7.30 a.m. and stop by 5.00 p.m. everyday.

During the survey the vessel SIMO will assist the divers and will be displaying the International Code of Signals Flag 'A' and 'D' as it will also have restricted manoeuvrability.

Mariners and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout and give the above mentioned vessel a wide berth as it will have restricted manoeuvrability.

Instructions given by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14 are to be complied with.

Charts affected: BA 36, 2538

14th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 6 of 2020

Further to Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019 Regarding Small Sunken Vessel in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, informs mariners that further to Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019 regarding Small sunken vessel in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk, a wreck marker buoy has been established in position:

Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

35° 50'.287                 014° 32'.752

The buoy has a blue and yellow light flashing alternately (2) 3 Seconds, 1 second blue, 1 second yellow every 3 seconds and has a range of 2NM.

All other information in Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019 will remain valid.

Notice to Mariners No. 3 of 2020 of Transport Malta is hereby CANCELLED.

Chart affected: BA 36

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

14th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 1 of 2020

Cumulative List of Local Notices to Mariners for 2020

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

1. Local Notice to Mariners No. 40 of 2018

Re: Conduct of Small Craft inside Maltese Harbours

2. Local Notice to Mariners No. 121 of 2018

Re: Underwater hazard at Ir-Ramla ta' Għajn Tuffieħa

3. Local Notice to Mariners No. 122 of 2018

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

4. Local Notice to Mariners No. 9 of 2019

Re: Infrastructure Malta works in various localities in Malta and Gozo

5. Local Notice to Mariners Nos. 12, 17 and 26 of 2019

Re: Dredging at Mġarr Harbour – Gozo

6. Local Notice to Mariners No. 13 of 2019

Re: Infrastructure Malta works at Mġarr Harbour – Gozo

7. Local Notice to Mariners Nos. 35 and 156 of 2019

Re: Temporary mooring of several fish farm cages at Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

8. Local Notice to Mariners No. 93 of 2019

Re: Misuse of distress signals

9. Local Notice to Mariners No. 131 of 2019

Re: Long term maintenance repairs – Marsaxlokk Harbour – Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd

10. Local Notice to Mariners Nos. 141 and 145 of 2019

Re: Repair works on slipway and adjacent quay in Birżebbuġa

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2020

Restricted Areas round Malta due to Danger of Falling Rocks

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, would like to bring to the attention of all mariners the danger of falling rocks in caves and from cliff faces, due to the geological structure of the Maltese Islands.

The following areas (shown hatched on charts found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) are restricted to both vessels and swimmers and should be avoided:

Il-Ponta ta' Dellimara – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 1 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 49'.430                 014º 33'.381

B         35º 49'.165                 014º 33'.539

Blue Grotto limits of Wied iż-Żurrieq – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 2 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 49'.272                 014º 27'.415

B         35º 49'.307                 014º 27'.455

Il-Veċċja – Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 3 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 56'.833                 014º 23'.492

B         35º 56'.858                 014º 23'.495

Il-Qala tal-Għażżelin – Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 4 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 56'.967                 014º 24'.121

B         35º 56'.964                 014º 24'.129

Il-Ponta taż-Żonqor – Il-Bajja ta' Marsaskala – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B to C and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 5 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 52'.001                 014º 34'.291

B         35º 52'.004                 014º 34'.334

C         35º 52'.017                 014º 34'.368

Dawret ix-Xatt – Xghajra – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B to C and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 6 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 53'.129                 014º 33'.148

B         35º 53'.121                 014º 33'.152

C         35º 53'.113                 014º 33'.158

Il-Munxar, Marsaskala – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 7 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 50'.970                 014º 34'.300

B         35º 50'.677                 014º 34'.067

Il-Bajja tal-Ġnejna – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 8 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.325                 014º 20'.643

B         35º 55'.310                 014º 20'.644

Tignè – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 9 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 54'.507                 014º 30'.720

B         35º 54'.493                 014º 30'.732

Xrob l-Għaġin Il-Ħoffriet – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B to C and the intermediate coastline and the imaginary line D to E to F and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 10 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 50'.313                 014º 33'.722

B         35º 50'.267                 014º 33'.766

C         35º 50'.248                 014º 33'.831

D         35º 50'.344                 014º 33'.761

E          35º 50'.323                 014º 33'.824

F          35º 50'.298                 014º 33'.843

Il-Bajja ta' San Tumas – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B to C to D and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 11 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 51'.320                 014º 34'.041

B         35º 51'.340                 014º 34'.113

C         35º 51'.420                 014º 34'.142

D         35º 51'.426                 014º 34'.231

Il-Għar Ghana – Kemmuna – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 12 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         36º 01'.106                 014º 19'.469

B         36º 01'.100                 014º 19'.495

L-Imgiebaħ – Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa - The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 13 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 58'.132                 014º 22'.841

B         35º 58'.089                 014º 22'.889

Għar Lapsi – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B to C to D and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 14 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 49'.639                 014º 25'.464

B         35º 49'.640                 014º 25'.497

C         35º 49'.615                 014º 25'.523

D         35º 49'.614                 014º 25'.528

Il-Golf l-Abjad – Ħaż-Żabbar – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 15 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 52'.891                 014º 33'.450

B         35º 52'.888                 014º 33'.503

Qarraba Bay – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B to C and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 16 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 55'.586                 014º 20'.509

B         35º 55'.601                 014º 20'.570

C         35º 55'.582                 014º 20'.609

Il-Forti Ricasoli – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 17 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 53'.887                 014º 31'.617

B         35º 53'.861                 014º 31'.688

Id-Daħla tar-Rinella – The area bounded by the imaginary line A to B and the intermediate coastline, as shown on chart 18 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

            Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

A         35º 53'.697                 014º 31'.610

B         35º 53'.666                 014º 31'.621

Mariners are informed that a rope supported by black and white buoys may be placed along all the imaginary lines mentioned above.

This Local Notice to Mariners is to replace Local Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2019 which is hereby CANCELLED.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and owners of vessels that the above list is not comprehensive as others may be added at a later stage.

Mariners are to give special attention when entering any cave and to keep at a safe distance from cliff faces all round the Maltese Islands.

Charts affected: BA 36, 177, 194, 211A, 211B, 1537, 2538.

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 3 of 2020

Berthing and Mooring of Vessels along Breakwaters, Jetties and Slipways

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and users of sea craft that jetties, wharves and quays are to be used solely for the loading/unloading and the embarkation/disembarkation of passengers and otherwise to be kept clear.

Slipways are to be used solely for the launching and recovery of vessels and are to be left unobstructed at all times.

Double banking of vessels unattended and unmanned alongside such landing places for any length of time is not permitted.

Any owner or operator of a vessel who requires berthing or secure/remain alongside for any other reason must obtain the necessary authorisation or permit from the Authority and comply with the stipulated conditions.

Failure to comply with the above notice may result in administrative or legal action as applicable.

This notice is issued in terms of the Berthing Regulations SL (10:30) and without prejudice to other directives, legislation and permits issued by the Authority.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 51 of 2014 of Transport Malta is hereby CANCELLED.

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2020

Repair works on the Quay at Il-Bajja tal-Balluta in Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that repair works will be carried out on the quay at Il-Bajja tal-Balluta in Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan.

The works will start on Monday, 13th January, 2020, and are expected to be completed by Tuesday, 31st March, 2020.

The vessels MV Gold Dredger and MV Goldfinder will be used during the works.

A silt curtain will be laid along the imaginary line joining points A, B, C and D (approximately 10m from quay) as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Owners of vessels that are moored or have a mooring within the area of 10 metres from the quay, are to remove such moorings and associated ground tackle with an immediate effect and not later than Sunday,12th January, 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.

The quay cannot be used during this period due to the silt curtain. Masters and vessel operators are instructed to give way to the above mentioned vessels. 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.

Chart affected: BA 177

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 1 of 2020

Cumulative List of Notices to Mariners for 2020

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. 27 of 2019

Re: Fitting of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Equipment on commercial vessels employed in diving activities and access to historic wrecks

3. Notice to Mariners No. 39 of 2019

Re: Works in progress – Breakwater at Il-Ponta tal-Qrejten in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

4. Notice to Mariners No. 41 of 2019

Re: Conservation Areas around Wrecks – Updated May 2019

5. Notice to Mariners Nos. 42, 44 and 46 of 2019

Re: Beacon pole on Il-Ġebla ta' Ħajra – Destroyed

6. Notice to Mariners No. 45 of 2019

Re: Giordan Lighthouse, Gozo – UNLIT

7. Notice to Mariners No. 51 of 2019

Re: Archaeological Zones at sea – Superintendence of Cultural Heritage

8. Notice to Mariners No. 57 of 2019

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

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 2 of 2020

Information and Promulgation of Notices to Mariners

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, advises the public in general, local councils, government agencies, mariners and entities along the foreshore that the Chief Officer and Harbour Master is to be notified as early as possible when new or suspected dangers to navigation are discovered or any changes to aids to navigation are observed within the territorial and internal waters of Malta, in any port and in the land and sea approaches to any port, and on wharves.

The above also applies when corrections to navigational charts or publications would appear to be necessary in relation to depths, navigational aids, facilities and other matters affecting the safety of navigation and shipping in general within the territorial and navigable waters of Malta.

In the case of pre-planned activities, including works along the foreshore or within the territorial and internal waters and ports and the approaches thereto, the Chief Officer and Harbour Master is to be notified by not later than seven (7) working days prior to the date of the intended activity. This is to ensure that, if required, relevant Notices to Mariners are issued and promulgated through the Government Gazette in a timely manner and in conformity with legal requirements.

Observations are to be reported to:

Preferably via Valletta Ports Vessel Traffic Service (VALLETTA VTS)

Hours of Service: 24/7

Tel: (+356) 2291 4491/2

Email: (vts.tm@transport.gov.mt)

VHF: Channel 12/14/16

Port Operations

Tel: (+356) 2291 4413

Email: (portoperations.tm@transport.gov.mt)

Hydrographic Office

Tel: (+356) 2291 4430

Email: (hydrography.tm@transport.gov.mt)

Transport Malta − Ports and Yachting Directorate

Tel: (+356) 2122 2203

Email: (info.tm@transport.gov.mt)

Correspondence is to be addressed to:

The Chief Officer/Harbour Master

Transport Malta

Malta Transport Centre

Triq Pantar

Ħal Lija LJA 2021

Malta

Mariners are further reminded that Weather Bulletin and Navigational Warnings are issued daily by Malta Radio (9HD) Maritime Coast Radio Station on VHF, MF/RT.

Further details regarding transmissions may be obtained from Malta Radio on:

Tel: (+356) 2249 4201/2/3/4/5/6

Fax: (+356) 2180 9860

Email: (opsroom.afm@gov.mt) or (rccmalta@gov.mt) 

Notice to Mariners No. 13 of 2017 is hereby cancelled.

Charts affected: BA 2537, 2538

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 3 of 2020

Further to Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019 Regarding Small Sunken Vessel in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, informs mariners that further to Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019 regarding small sunken vessel in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk, a wreck marker buoy has been established in position:

            Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

            36º 49'.741     014º 32'.911

The buoy has a blue and yellow light flashing alternately (2) 3 seconds, 1 second blue, 1 second yellow every 3 seconds and has a range of 2NM.

All other information in Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019 will remain valid.

Chart affected: BA 36

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 4 of 2020

Chart Correction – Wreck Buoy in Il-Bajja ta'

Marsaxlokk

Reference is made to BA Chart 36 – Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners of the following changes in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Latitude (N)                  Longitude (E)

1) Delete symbol:       wreck buoy - close to position:     (a) 35º 49'.803                 014º 32'.155

2) Delete legend:        Fl.Y.4s - close to position:             (a) above

3) Insert legend           5.8 - close to position:                   (a) above

    (least depth)

Chart affected: BA Chart 36

Positions referred to: WGS 84 Datum

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 5 of 2020

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 16th January, 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, 16th January, 2020, with extended hours between 6.00 p.m. and 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

10th January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 74 of 2019

ROV Survey of the Malta-Sicily Interconnector Submarine Cable

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 M/V Polar King and her ancillary equipment.

Weather permitting, the survey is planned to commence on Sunday, 5th January, 2020, in the line between the following coordinates:

North              

extent              Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

                        36° 37'.775     14° 32'.542

Southern

extent              36° 27' .505    14° 32' .270

This part of the survey is expected to take 2 days.

The ROV survey will then continue along the following route (as shown on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)):

Turning Point             Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

1 (Malta –                   35° 56'.560     014° 26'.960

   Qalet Marku)

2                                  35° 56'.710     014° 27'.020

3                                  35° 56'.810     014° 27'.000

4                                  35° 57'.390     014° 27'.220

5                                  35° 57'.700     014° 27'.260

6                                  35° 59'.450     014° 29'.360

7                                  36° 02'.550     014° 30'.630

8                                  36° 12'.640     014° 33'.280

9                                  36° 22'.910     014° 33'.900

10                                36° 30'.980     014° 30'.820

11                                36° 35'.040     014° 30'.800

12                                36° 39'.640     014° 34'.400

13 (Sicily – Marina     36° 46'.650     014° 34'.240

     di Ragusa)

Weather permitting, this is expected to be completed by Tuesday, 21st January, 2020.

Since the vessel 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 0.5 nautical miles 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 194, 2123, 2124, 2537, 2538 and Int. 4301

3rd January, 2020

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 172 of 2019

Fireworks Display in Rinella Bay, Kalkara – The Grand Harbour

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that fireworks will be let off in Rinella Bay, Kalkara – The Grand Harbour (shown as point A on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)), on the date and times as follows:

On Sunday, 29th December, 2019, from 8.00 a.m. till noon.

In view of the above, mariners are informed to give a wide berth of 200 metres in Rinella Bay, Kalkara (as shown on point A on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)).

Mariners and owners of vessels are to take note of the above and are not to leave any vessel within the 200m area on the abovementioned date and time.

They are to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and any enforcement agency in the area.

Chart Affected: BA 177

20th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 169 of 2019

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 164 of 2019 - Cable Laying between Malta (Il-Ramla tal-Mixquqa) and Gozo (Ras il-Ħobż)

Reference is made to Local Notice to Mariners No. 164 of 2019.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the completion date for the cable laying has been extended up to Friday 31st January 2020.

Local Notice to Mariners No 164 of 2019 is to be amended accordingly.

All other information mentioned in Local Notice to Mariners No. 164 of 2019 will remain.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537, 2538

17th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 170 of 2019

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 166 of 2019 - Euromed Sailing Championship 2019 – Mellieħa Bay

Reference is made to Local Notice to Mariners No. 166 of 2019.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Euromed Sailing Championship 2019 in Mellieħa Bay will be held between Thursday, 19th December, 2019, and Sunday, 22nd December, 2019, and not as stated in the Local Notice to Mariners No. 166 of 2019.

All other information in Local Notice to Mariners No. 166 of 2019 will remain valid.

Charts affected: BA 211A, 2537, 2538

17th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 171 of 2019

Geotechnical Investigation in the Grand Harbour, Valletta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that Infrastructure Malta will be carrying out Geotechnical Investigation in different areas within the Grand Harbour, Valletta. The investigation will commence on Monday, 16th December, 2019, and be completed by Friday, 28th February, 2020.

The work consists of geotechnical investigation in areas 1, 2, 3 and 4 (as shown on chart on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) and will be carried out from flat barges.

The works 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 (no wake) 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 any enforcement agency on site.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 163 of 2019 - Geotechnical Investigation in the Grand Harbour, Valletta is hereby CANCELLED.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

17th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 73 of 2019

Small Sunken Vessel in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a small vessel has sunk in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk centered on the following position:

Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

35° 50'.287                 014° 32'.752

The highest part of the vessel is just below the surface.

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.

Chart affected: BA 36

12th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 166 of 2019

Euromed Sailing Championship 2019 – Mellieħa Bay

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Malta Young Sailors Club will be holding the Euromed Sailing Championship 2019, between Thursday, 19th December, 2019, and Saturday 21st December, 2019.

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

Inflatable marker buoys shall be laid between 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. daily during the three (3) days of the event.

The race management will be using VHF Channel 72 as a working channel with VHF Channel 71 as a reserve channel. As far as reasonably practicable, local traffic is requested to avoid these channels during the events.

All vessels 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 and any enforcement agency on site are to be complied with.

Chart affected: BA 211A, 2538, 2537

12th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 167 of 2019

Christmas Charity Swim at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that a Christmas charity swim will be held on Sunday, 29th December, 2019. The swim is estimated to commence at 9.30 a.m. and will finish at approximately 12.30 p.m. local time.

The Christmas charity swim will be held in Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan. The swimmers will start from off the pier by Independence Garden (point A), swim to an inflatable billboard (point B) and return to point A as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Support vessels will accompany the participating swimmers.

If the weather conditions are not good for the swim to take place, it will instead be held near the Neptunes waterpolo club on the same date and time. In this case the swimmers will jump from the southern part of the Neptunes waterpolo club (point C) and swim towards the billboard (point D) which will be placed on the rocks near the railings to indicate the exit point.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate well clear of the area during the stipulated date and time, giving the swimmers a wide berth. They are to comply with any instructions as communicated by the Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12, support vessels and any enforcement agency in the area.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2538

12th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 168 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 54 of 2019 – Regarding  Underwater Hazard alongside Quay at Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay – Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies that the Underwater Hazard alongside Quay at Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay – Gozo has been removed.

Therefore Local Notice to Mariners No. 54 of 2019 – re underwater hazard alongside quay at Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay – Gozo, is hereby CANCELLED.

Chart affected: BA 211

12th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 165 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 154 of 2019 – Regarding – PEACE MED – Shallow

Water Geophysical Survey

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the PEACE MED – shallow water geophysical survey has been completed.

Therefore, Local Notice to Mariners No. 154 of 2019 – re – PEACE MED – Shallow water geophysical survey is hereby CANCELLED.

10th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 162 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 118 of 2019 – regarding Repair of damaged Jetty at Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies that the repair works on the Jetty at Marsaxlokk have been completed.

Therefore, Local Notice to Mariners No. 118 of 2019 - re - Repair of damaged Jetty at Marsaxlokk is hereby CANCELLED.

6th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 163 of 2019

Geotechnical Investigation in the Grand Harbour, Valletta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that Infrastructure Malta will be carrying out a Geotechnical Investigation in different areas within the Grand Harbour, Valletta. The investigation will commence on Friday, 6th December, 2019, and be completed by Friday, 28th February, 2020.

The work consists of a geotechnical investigation in areas 1, 2, 3 and 4 (as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) and will be carried out from flat barges.

Area                                        Start Date                                            Completion Date

1                                              Thursday, 2nd January, 2020             Thursday, 30th January, 2020

2                                              Monday, 20th January, 2020              Friday, 28th February, 2020

3                                              Monday, 23rd December, 2019          Sunday, 5th January, 2020

4                                              Friday, 6th December, 2019               Tuesday, 31st December, 2019

The works 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 (no wake) 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 any enforcement agency on site.

Charts affected: BA 177,2537, 2538

6th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 164 of 2019

Cable Laying between Malta (Il-Ramla tal-Mixquqa) and Gozo (Ras il-Ħobż)

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a cable will be laid out between Malta (Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa) and Gozo (Ras il-Ħobż).

The cable will be laid out by the cable laying vessel Teliri along the route from A to B as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt). This laying will start on Friday, 6th December, 2019, and is expected to be completed by Friday, 14th December, 2019.

Position                       Latitude (N)                            Longitude (E)

A                                 35° 56'.060                             014° 20'.626               Malta (Il-Ramla tal-Mixquqa)

B                                 36° 00'.957                             014° 16'.769               Gozo (Ras il-Ħobż)

During the cable laying operation divers will be deployed.

Mariners and operators of sea craft are advised to keep a sharp lookout and proceed at slow speed while navigating in the above areas. They are to give the cable laying vessel Teliri a wide berth of at least 1.5 km as she will be restricted in manoeuvrability.

Moreover, they are requested to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537, 2538

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

6th December, 2019

Notice to Mariners No. 72 of 2019

Maritime Exercise by the Armed Forces of Malta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Armed Forces of Malta shall conduct a maritime exercise on Thursday, 5th December, 2019, from 6.30 a.m. till 4.00 p.m. (5.30 a.m. till 3.00 p.m. UTC).

The maritime exercise will be held within the area joining the points A, B, C and D as shown hatched in red on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position          Latitude (N)   Longitude (E)

A                     36º 07'.000    014º 30'.000

B                     36º 07'.000    014º 36'.000

C                     35º 57'.000    014º 36'.000

D                     35º 57'.000    014º 30'.000

If due to inclement weather conditions the maritime exercise cannot be carried out in the above mentioned area, it will be held within the area joining the points, W, X, Y and Z as shown hatched in blue on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt), on the same date and time.

Position          Latitude (N)   Longitude (E)

W                    35º 57'.000    014º 12'.000

X                     35º 57'.000    014º 18'.000

Y                     35º 55'.000    014º 18'.000

Z                     35º 55'.000    014º 12'.000

In view of the above all vessels in the vicinity of the exercise areas must proceed with caution, they are advised to give the exercise areas a wide berth and comply with all instructions given by AFM craft patrolling the area, Malta VTS (Malta Coastal Station) on VHF Channel 69 and Valletta VTS (Valletta Port Control) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 194, 2124, 2537 and 2538

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

4th December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 160 of 2019

Santa Swimming Event in Marsamxett Harbour

The  Ports  and  Yachting  Directorate,  Transport  Malta,  notifies  that  a  Santa  Swimming event will be held on Sunday, 8th December, 2019. The swimming event is estimated to commence at 10.00 a.m. and will finish at approximately noon local time.

The Santa Swimming event will start from the Grand Hotel Excelsior Marina point A, to Manoel Island point B, then to Ta' Xbiex Waterpolo club point C and finally back to the Grand Hotel Excelsior Marina point A, as shown on chart on Transport Malta (www.transport.gov.mt).

Support vessels will accompany the participating swimmers.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate well clear of the area during the stipulated date and time, giving the swimmers a wide berth. They are to comply with any instructions  as  communicated  by  the  Valletta  Port  Control  (Valletta  VTS)  on  VHF Channel 12 and any enforcement agencies in the area.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2538

3rd December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 161 of 2019

Diving Survey at Ċirkewwa Breakwater

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that, weather permitting, a diving survey of the Ċirkewwa breakwater armour and adjacent armour next to Berth 3 will be held on Thursday, 5th December, 2019.

In view of the above a wide berth is to be given to the above mentioned areas.

Chart affected: BA 211

3rd December, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 152 of 2019

Filming of Hartwig Seeler at Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar and Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar – Keep Clear

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and operators of vessels that filming will be carried out at Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar and Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar in Gozo.

The filming will be carried out at:

Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar between Monday, 25th November, 2019, and Monday, 2nd December, 2019 from 6.00 a.m. till 8.30 p.m. on each day.

Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar on Monday, 25th November, 2019, and Monday, 2nd December, 2019, from 6.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m. on each day.

Due to the above filming the area at Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar (as shown hatched on chart A found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) and the area at Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar (as shown hatched on chart B on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) are to be kept clear from any vessels during the above mentioned dates and times during the filming.

Mariners are to take note of the above and comply with any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and any enforcement agency on site.

Chart affected: BA 253

19th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 153 of 2019

Survey in Various Areas in Malta and Gozo in Connection with Medkey Habitat Campaign

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that in connection with the Medkey Habitat campaign, surveys will be carried out in various parts in Malta and Gozo.

The vessel SIMO will be used to operate the various types of surveys which include the use of single/multibeam echo sounder, side scan sonar, grab (for sampling), a towed camera/ROV and scuba divers. This survey will start with immediate effect and is expected to be completed by Friday 15th January, 2020.

The surveys will be carried out within the areas formed by joining the points and the intermediate coastline, shown hatched on charts on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

On chart 1 (Gozo)

Area                                                    Point   Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

Bajja tar-Ramla                                  A         36° 04'.390     014° 16'.054

                                                            B         36° 03'.937     014° 17'.456

Bajja ta' San Blas                               B         36° 03'.937     014° 17'.456

                                                            C         36° 03'.544     014° 18'.614

Bajja ta' Daħlet Qorrot                       D         36° 03'.433     014° 18'.718

                                                            E          36° 03'.005     014° 19'.159

Ponta tal-Ħotba għal Tal-Fessej         F          36° 00'.968     014° 16'.635

                                                            G         36° 00'.681     014° 16'.635

                                                            H         36° 00'.681     014° 15'.692

                                                            I           36° 01'.225     014° 13'.323

Dwejra                                                J          36° 02'.193     014° 11'.171

                                                            K         36° 02'.193     014° 11'.041

                                                            L          36° 03'.909     014° 11'.023

                                                            M        36° 03'.909     014° 11'.086

On chart 2 (Malta)

Area                                                    Point   Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

Bajja tal-Mellieħa                               A         35° 59'.294     014° 22'.584

                                                            B         35° 58'.288     014° 22'.767

San Pawl il-Baħar                               C         35° 57'.822     014° 23'.878

                                                            D         35° 57'.429     014° 25'.042

Bajja tas-Salina                                   E          35° 57'.593     014° 25'.813

                                                            F          35° 57'.291     014° 25'.985

Irdum Majjiesa għal Għar Lapsi         G         35° 49'.101     014° 27'.974

                                                            H         35° 48'.452     014° 26'.375

                                                            I           35° 49'.428     014° 24'.874

                                                            J          35° 52'.635     014° 19'.964

                                                            K         35° 54'.074     014° 19'.009

                                                            L          35° 56'.683     014° 19'.010

                                                            M        35° 56'.684     014° 19'.944

Filfla                                                   N         35° 47'.766     014° 25'.030

                                                            O         35° 46'.736     014° 25'.037

                                                            P          35° 46'.729     014° 23'.687

                                                            Q         35° 47'.759     014° 23'.679

Mariners and operators of sea craft are advised to keep a sharp lookout and proceed at slow speed (no wake) while navigating in the above areas. They are to give the vessel SIMO a wide berth of 500m, since she will be towing equipment behind and therefore restricted in her ability to manoeuvre.

Moreover, they are requested to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537, 2538

Position referred to WGS 84 DATUM

19th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 149 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners Nos. 15 and 48 of 2019 Regarding Repair Works on il-Moll tal-Fekruna, Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the repair works on il-Moll tal-Fekruna, Il-Bajja ta' San Pawl, have now been completed and therefore Local Notice to Mariners Nos. 15 and 48 of 2019 are hereby CANCELLED.

15th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 150 of 2019

OTILLO - Swimrun World Series 2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that the OTILLO Swimrun World Series 2019 will be held between Saturday, 23rd and Sunday, 24th November, 2019. There will be safety boats in each individual swim at all times.

On Saturday, 23rd November, 2019, the Spirit Malta and the Experience Malta races will be held, starting and finishing at Il-Bajja tal-Mixquqa (Golden Sands). There will be approximately 200 participants.

The swimming part of these races will follow the route (as shown on chart 1 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) and will be as follows:

Swim between points      Start and finish time of the individual swim

from A to B                     11.00 a.m. and 11.55 a.m.,

from C to D                     10.55 a.m. and 12.20 p.m.,

from E to F                      11.05 a.m. and 12.45 p.m.,

from G to H                     11.45 a.m. and 1.20 p.m. and

from C to B                     12.25 p.m. and 2.30 p.m.

On Sunday, 24th November, 2019, the World Series Malta race will be held, starting in Valletta and finishing at Il-Bajja tal-Mixquqa (Golden Sands). There will be approximately 300 participants.

The swimming part of this race will follow the route (as shown on chart 2 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) and will be as follows:

Swim between points      Start and finish time of the individual swim

from A to B                     800 a.m. and 8.30 a.m.,

from C to D                     8.10 a.m. and 8.45 a.m.,

from E to F                      8.20 a.m. and 9.10 a.m.,

from G to H                     8.30 a.m. and 9.20 a.m.,

from I to J                        8.50 a.m. and 10.30 a.m.,

from K to L                     9.15 a.m. and 11.10 a.m.,

from M to N                    9.35 a.m. and noon,

from O to P                      10.15 a.m. and 1.30 p.m.,

from Q to R                     10.45 a.m. and 2.00 p.m.,

from S to T                      11.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m.,

from U to V                     11.20 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.,

from W to X                    11.50 a.m. and 3.50 p.m. and

from Y to Z                     12.05 p.m. and 4.40 p.m.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at slow speed. They are to keep well clear of the areas during the stipulated date and times, giving the swimmers and support vessels a wide berth. They are to obey any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 177, 211, 2537 and 2538

15th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 151 of 2019

Diving Survey at Id-Daħla ta' Lazzarett in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that a diving survey will be carried out in the area (as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) at Id-Daħla ta' Lazzarett in Il-Port ta' Marsamxett.

The survey will start on Tuesday, 19th November, 2019, and will be completed by Tuesday, 3rd December, 2019.

The support vessel 'Julie Pearl' will be assisting the diver during the survey and will be displaying the international code of Signals flag 'A'.

Masters and operators of vessels are advised to keep a sharp lookout, and navigate with caution and slow speed (no wake) when navigating close to the above indicated area. They are to give the above area a wide berth of at least 50m. They are to comply with instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Chart affected: BA 177

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

15th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 68 of 2019

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 19th November, 2019 – 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, 19th November, 2019, with extended hours between 6.00 p.m. and 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 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

15th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 69 of 2019

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 21st November, 2019 – 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, 21st November, 2019, with extended hours between 6.00 p.m. and 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 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

15th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 146 of 2019

Infrastructure Malta seabed sampling in the Grand Harbour, Valletta

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that Infrastructure Malta will be carrying out seabed sampling in different areas within the Grand Harbour, Valletta. The sampling is to start on Monday, 11th November, 2019, and be completed by Friday, 22nd November, 2019.

The work consists of sediment collection using the vessels Sea Wolf II (flat barge) and Beezer (workboat) which will  be  carrying out the  sampling  with the  use  of  a  grab  and coring equipment.

The sampling  will  be  carried  out  within  the  areas  A,  B,  C,  D  and  E (as  shown  on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)).  The works  will  be  coordinated  by  the Traffic  Management  Unit  (TMU) and  the  contractor. Valletta Port  Control  (Valletta  VTS) will  be  transmitting  information on a day to day basis regarding the working areas.

Masters  and  operators  of  vessels  are  to seek information from  Valletta  Port  Control (Valletta  VTS) about  operating  restrictions  from  Transport  Malta  and also coordinate with the contractors on site in the locations indicated above.

They  are also advised  to  keep  a  sharp  lookout,  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 and any enforcement agency on site.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

8th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 147 of 2019

Diving Survey at Il-Magħluq in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that a diving survey will be carried out in the area (as shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)), at Il-Magħluq in Il-Bajja ta' Marsaxlokk.

The survey will start with immediate effect and will be completed by Friday, 15th November, 2019.

A support vessel will be assisting the diver during the survey and 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 give the above area a wide berth of at least 50m. They are to comply with instructions given by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14.

Chart affected: BA 36

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

8th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 148 of 2019

Malta Sailing Federation Dinghy National Championship

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies Mariners that the Royal Malta Yacht Club will be organising the Malta Sailing Federation Dinghy National Championship on Saturday, 9th November, and Sunday, 10th November, 2019, from 10.00 a.m. till 4.00 p.m. each day, off Tas-Sliema.

This activity will be held within area 1 as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

If the activity cannot be held in area 1 due to inclement weather, it will be held inside Marsamxett Harbour in area 2 and area 3 (as shown on attached chart) on the same dates and times.

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

8th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 67 of 2019

Live Firing Practice at Pembroke Ranges – 14th November, 2019 – 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, 14th November, 2019, with extended hours between 6.00 p.m. and 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 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

8th November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 145 of 2019

Amendment to Local Notice to Mariners No. 141 of 2019 - Repair Works on Slipway and Adjacent Quay in Birżebbuġa

Reference is made to Local Notice to Mariners No. 141 of 2019.

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that due to the placing of a silt curtain, no vessel will be allowed to enter within the area shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt), unless authorised by Transport Malta.

Local Notice to Mariners No. 141 of 2019 is to be amended accordingly.

All other information mentioned in Local Notice to Mariners No. 141 of 2019 will remain.

Chart affected: BA 177

1st November, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 143 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 11 of 2019 – Re – Infrastructure Malta Works at Marfa

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the works carried out by Infrastructure Malta at Marfa have now been completed and therefore Local Notice to Mariners No. 11 of 2019 Re – Infrastructure Malta works at Marfa is hereby CANCELLED.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537, 2538

25th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 144 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 41 of 2019 – Re  Refurbishment of Slipway and Adjacent Quay at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners and the general public that the refurbishment work on the slipway and adjacent quay at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan have now been completed and therefore Local Notice to Mariners No. 41 of 2019 re refurbishment of slipway and adjacent quay at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan is hereby CANCELLED.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538

25th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 139 of 2019

Swim in Dockyard Creek, Vittoriosa/Cospicua – Grand Harbour

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that part of the Super League event will be held in Dockyard Creek Vittoriosa/Cospicua. This event is a Triathlon race which includes a swimming event which will be held on:

On Saturday, 19th October, 2019, from 8.00 a.m. till 6.00 p.m., and

On Sunday, 20th October, 2019 from 7.30 a.m. till 5.00 p.m.

The swimming events will both be held along the imaginary line A, B, C and D as shown dashed in blue on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt). Marker buoys will be laid at points B and C, which will indicate the turning points.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 53'.077     014º 31'.249

B                     35º 53'.081     014º 31'.215

C                     35º 53'.128     014º 31'.233

D                     35º 53'.124     014º 31'.274

Mariners without a permit from the organisers are instructed not to enter the above restricted area on the mentioned date and times stated above. They are to cooperate with the organizers in the area. Moreover they are to obey any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and any enforcement agency.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537 and 2538

18th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 140 of 2019

Quay in Id-Daħla ta' Rinella, The Grand Harbour – Keep Clear

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and operators of vessels that the part of the quay at Id-Daħla ta' Rinella in The Grand Harbour will be used as an operational base for the filming of L'Incredibile Storia Dell' Isola Delle Rose.

The filming will be carried out outside The Grand Harbour off Kalkara on Friday, 18th October, 2019, between 7.00 a.m. and 7.00 p.m.

Due to the above the part of the quay shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) is to be kept clear on Friday, 18th October, 2019, from 6.30 a.m. till 8.00 p.m.

Mariners are to take note of the above and are not to leave any vessel berthed to the quay on the mentioned date and time.

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

Charts affected: BA 177

18th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 64 of 2019

Live firing Practice at Pembroke Ranges – 24th October, 2019 – Extended hours with the use of Pyrotechnics, Grenades and Flares

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, 24th October, 2019, with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 10.00 p.m. (Local Time).

All day the exercise will also include the use of Pyrotechnics, Grenades and Flares.

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 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 are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

18th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 65 of 2019

Live firing practice at Pembroke Ranges – 21st and 22nd October 2019 – Extended hours with the use of Pyrotechnics, Grenades and Flares

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, 21st and Tuesday, 22nd October 2019, with extended hours from 6.00 p.m. till 7.00 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 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 are to be strictly observed.

Charts affected: BA 2538, 2537, 194.

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

18th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 138 of 2019

Gozo to Malta International Open Water Swimming Races 2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that the Gozo to Malta international open water swimming races will be held on Sunday, 20th October, 2019.

Participants will depart from Il-Bajja ta' Ħondoq ir-Rummien (Gozo), point A on chart 1 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt), at approximately 8.00 a.m. They will swim to the east of Comino and then to Ir-Ramla tal-Bir, Malta, point B on chart 1 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt). The race is expected to be completed by 11.30 a.m.

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     36º 01'.665     014º 19'.349

B                     35º 59'.171     014º 20'.804

Il-Fliegu ta' Ghawdex will be restricted to navigation from 7.30 a.m. till 9.00 a.m. and Il-Fliegu ta' Kemmuna will be restricted to navigation from 8.30 a.m. till 11.30 a.m.

Another race will be held in Il-Fliegu ta' Kemmuna on the same day between 8.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. Participants will start from point X, swim to point Y, then to point Z and back to point X (as shown on chart 2 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

X                     35º 59'.173     014º 20'.804

Y                     35º 59'.354     014º 20'.598

Z                      35º 59'.383     014º 20'.652

If due to bad weather the race cannot be held between Gozo and Malta all races will either be held at Il-Bajja tal-Mixquqa (as shown on chart 3 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) or at Tas-Sliema (as shown on  chart 4 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt), depending on the wind direction. In both cases the swimmers will start from point A, swim to point B, then to point C and back to point A.

Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 56'.041     014º 20'.643

B                     35º 56'.011     014º 19'.991

C                     35º 55'.589     014º 20'.039

Tas-Sliema

Position           Latitude (N)    Longitude (E)

A                     35º 54'.689     014º 30'.497

B                     35º 55'.183     014º 30'.788

C                     35º 54'.927     014º 30'.224

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at slow speed, they are to keep well clear of the area during the stipulated time giving the swimmers and support vessels a wide berth. They are to obey any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 and maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537 and 2538

15th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 134 of 2019

Refurbishment of fishermen's slipway and adjacent quay at Mġarr Harbour – Gozo

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and the general public that refurbishment work on the fishermen's slipway and adjacent quay at Mġarr Harbour - Gozo (as shown hatched on chart shown on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) will start with immediate effect and is expected to be completed by Thursday, 10th October, 2019.

Due to the above mentioned refurbishment, the slipway and quay will not be accessible.

Mariners are to note the above and proceed with caution and at a slow speed when in the vicinity of the slipway while the refurbishment is being carried out.

Chart affected: BA 211

8th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 130 of 2019

Filming at Marsaxlokk Port and Għar Lapsi – Vanishing Wake

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies all mariners and sea vessel operators that filming activities will take place at Marsaxlokk Port and Għar Lapsi.

Filming will start on Wednesday, 2nd October, 2019, and should be completed by Friday, 8th November, 2019.

Filming will be carried out from the following locations as shown on charts found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) and also while transiting between the same locations:

Chart 1 – Marsaxlokk (Sunday market area)

Chart 2 – Marsaxlokk (next to the power station)

Chart 3 – Marsaxlokk (Il-Magħluq sandy beach)

Chart 4 – Għar Lapsi (Slipway and Open sea)

Chart 5 – Open sea between Marsaxlokk Port and Għar Lapsi

A clear horizon is requested from where filming is being carried out at the time, during the dates and times listed above.

The vessel MFA7277 and a decommissioned luzzu (to be used as prop) will be used during filming and are to be given a wide berth when sighted.

Mariners are requested to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at slow speed in the vicinity of the above areas. They are to cooperate with the organisers and Maritime Enforcement officers in the area. Moreover they are to obey any instructions given by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14.

Charts affected: BA 36, 2538

4th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 131 of 2019

Long Term Maintenance Repairs

Marsaxlokk Harbour – Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that long term maintenance repairs on the quay cranes on both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 North Quay are now in progress.

Each crane being repaired will be boomed in the 45 degrees angle for around 10 to 15 days. The first cranes are intended to be repaired on bollard 33, thus extra caution is needed during berthing and departing of vessels.

In view of the above works, mariners are to get authorisation from Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd before making any use of this quay and to give the above area a wide berth. Masters navigating in the vicinity are to keep a sharp lookout, proceed with caution and very slow speed. Vessels are to comply with instructions as issued by Marsaxlokk VTS (Marsaxlokk Port Control) on VHF Channel 14.

Chart affected: BA 36

4th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 132 of 2019

Quay in Id-Daħla ta' Rinella, The Grand Harbour – Keep Clear

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners and operators of vessels that the quay at Id-Daħla ta' Rinella in The Grand Harbour will be used as an operational base for the filming of 'L'Incredibile Storia Dell'Isola Delle Rose'.

Due to the above the quay is to be kept clear on Tuesday, 8th October, 2019, from 6.30 a.m. till 8.00 p.m.

Mariners are to take note of the above and not to leave any vessel berthed to the quay.

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

Chart affected: BA 177

4th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 133 of 2019

Filming – L'Incredibile Storia Dell'Isola delle Rose

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies all mariners and sea vessel operators that filming activities will take place outside The Grand Harbour off Kalkara and at Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa.

Filming will be carried out outside The Grand Harbour off Kalkara on Tuesday, 8th October, 2019, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m.

Filming will also be carried out within the area A, B, C and D (as shown hatched in red on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)), on Tuesday, 14th October, 2019, from 6.30 a.m. till 8.00 p.m.

A clear horizon is requested within the angle between the lines D to E and C to F. Any vessels that are moored within the area C, D, E and F (as shown hatched in blue on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)), are to be removed during the date and time listed above.

In case of bad weather conditions on any of the above mentioned dates the filming will be carried out at Paradise Bay on the same dates and times.

Mariners are requested to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at slow speed, in the vicinity of the above areas. They are to cooperate with the organisers and any maritime enforcement agency in the area. Moreover they are to obey any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 211, 2537, 2538

4th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 63 of 2019

Live firing practice exercise at Sea – Gunex 02/2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Armed Forces of Malta shall conduct live firing practice exercises at sea off Pembroke Ranges and in the south of Malta between Monday, 14th October, 2019 and Wednesday, 16th October, 2019; with Thursday, 17th October, 2019, and Friday, 18th October, 2019, scheduled as reserve dates.

The firing exercise will take place between 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. local time, (5.00 a.m. till 4.00 p.m. UTC) on the above mentioned dates.

The exercise will take place within the areas as mentioned below.

Off Pembroke Ranges

The firing exercise will be held within the area joining the points A, B, C, D, E and F as shown hatched on chart 1 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Position          Latitude (N)   Longitude (E)

A                     35º 59'.838    014º 25'.847

B                     36º 03'.490    014º 23'.728

C                     36º 04'.309    014º 28'.924

D                     36º 03'.023    014º 33'.978

E                     35º 59'.945    014º 37'.664

F                      35º 57'.088    014º 31'.589

At the South of Malta

The exercise will be held within a circular area of 8 Nautical Mile Radius, centred on point Z:

Position          Latitude (N)   Longitude (E)

Z                     35º 30'.500    014º 11'.000

as shown hatched on chart 2 found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

In view of the above all vessels in the vicinity of the exercise areas must proceed with caution, they are advised to give the exercise areas a wide berth and comply with all instructions given by AFM craft patrolling the area, Malta VTS (Malta Coast Radio Station) on VHF Channel 69 and Valletta VTS (Valletta Port Control) on VHF Channel 12.

Chart affected: BA 194, 2124, 2537 and 2538

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

4th October, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 126 of 2019

Roberts Cup – Como to Malta Seaplane Rally – 2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Malta Seaplanes Association in collaboration with Aero Club Como will be organising the Roberts Cup – Como to Malta Seaplanes Rally between Friday, 4th October, 2019 and Sunday, 6th October, 2019. Part of the rally will be held in the Grand Harbour.

The flying displays over the Grand Harbour will be held as follows:

On Friday, 4th October, 2019, from 4.00 p.m. till 5.00 p.m.

On Saturday, 5th October, 2019, from 10.00 a.m. till 1.00 p.m. and from 3.00 p.m. till 5.00 p.m.

On Sunday, 6th October, 2019, from 10.00 a.m. till 1.00 p.m. and from 3.00 p.m. till 5.00 p.m.

All timings are in local time.

The displays will consist mainly of landing and take-off maneuvers and will be held within the area A, B, C and D, as shown hatched in magenta on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt). Mariners are hereby informed that during the dates and times mentioned above traffic movements may be restricted.

Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) will be managing the movement of vessels, on VHF Channel 12.

Mariners are to navigate with caution and to keep a sharp lookout when in the vicinity to the above-mentioned area. They are to obey any instructions that are issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12, and Maritime Enforcement vessels in the area.

Positions are in WGS 84 Datum.

Chart affected: BA Chart 177, 2538

27th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 127 of 2019

Spear fishing Competition

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that Malta Skin Divers Club will be organising a spear fishing competition which will be held on two days, Saturday, 5th October, 2019 and Sunday, 13th October, 2019, starting at 8.30 a.m. and finishing at 2.30 p.m. on both days.

The competition will take place in either of the following three areas depending on the wind direction:

Area A – West of Malta as shown on Chart A found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt),

Area B – North-West of Malta as shown on Chart B found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt),

Area C – South-East of Malta as shown on Chart C found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

If due to adverse weather conditions the competition cannot be held on the above mentioned day it will be held on Saturday, 19th October, 2019 and on Saturday, 26th October, 2019 at the same time.

The competitors will be assisted by support vessels and there will be safety vessels also within the area.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at slow speed (no wake), they are also keep well clear of the area where the activity is being held during the stipulated time giving the competitors and support vessels a wide berth. They are to obey any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12 or Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14 and any maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 36, 211, 2537 and 2538

27th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 128 of 2019

Filming between the Southern Part of Gozo and the Northern Part of Malta – Sea of Time – October 2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies all mariners and sea vessel operators that filming activities will take place between the southern part of Gozo and the northern part of Malta.

Filming will start on Monday, 30th September, 2019 and should be completed by Thursday, 17th October, 2019, from 7.00 a.m. till 7.00 p.m. everyday.

Filming will be carried out from the following locations (as shown on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt) and also while transiting between the same locations:

Point A – Ras in-Niexfa

Point B – Il-Bajja taċ-Ċirkewwa

Point C – Ras in-Newwiela

Point D – Il-Port tal-Imġarr

Point E – Ras il-Qala

Point F – Daħlet ix-Xilep

Point G – Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa

A clear horizon is requested from where filming is being carried out at the time, during the dates and times listed above.

The vessels Abbot, Mahana and MV Grecale will be used during the filming and are to be given a wide berth when spotted.

Mariners are requested to keep a sharp look out and navigating at slow speed, in the vicinity of the above areas. They are to cooperate with the organisers and Maritime Enforcement officers in the area. Moreover they are to obey any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

Charts affected: BA 2537, 211.

27th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Notice to Mariners No. 129 of 2019

Birżebbuġa Regatta – 2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners that the Birżebbuġa Local Council will be organising regatta races in Birżebbuġa, Marsaxlokk Harbour.

The regatta races will be held on Sunday, 29th September, 2019, from 1.00 p.m. till 7.00 p.m., and will take place within the area A, B, C and D as shown hatched on chart found on Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

Any vessels which are within the designated area are to be removed.

No vessels will be allowed to cross the race course during the races.

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

Mariners are requested to keep a sharp look out and navigating at slow speed (no wake), in the vicinity of the above area. They are to cooperate with the organizers and any maritime enforcement assets in the area. Moreover, they are to obey any instructions given by Marsaxlokk Port Control (Marsaxlokk VTS) on VHF Channel 14.

Charts affected: BA 36, 2538

27th September, 2019

Local Notice to Mariners No. 125 of 2019

Rolex Middle Sea Race 2019

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that the Royal Malta Yacht Club will be holding the Rolex Middle Sea Race on Saturday, 19th October, 2019.  In addition a coastal race will also be held on Wednesday, 16th October, 2019.

The race programme is as follows:

a) Wednesday, 16th October, 2019

The coastal race starts at 10.00 a.m.

The start is from Marsamxett Harbour, at an imaginary line from the tower of Il-Fortizza ta' Tignè to the corner of the bastion on the western side of Il-Fossa in Valletta. When they exit Marsamxett Harbour they will proceed, depending on the weather conditions, either to Comino and/or Gozo or to Munxar and/or Filfa and finish at Marsamxett Harbour.

Mariners are requested to keep the Marsamxett fairway clear during the start of the coastal race and to keep a sharp lookout during the remaining hours of Wednesday, 16th October, 2019.

b) Saturday, 19th October, 2019

The Rolex Middle Sea Race starts at approximately 11.00 a.m.

The start is from Grand Harbour, at an imaginary line from an inflatable buoy near Saint Angelo Point to the Valletta Saluting Battery mast.

The yachts shall then proceed in a North Easterly direction along the Channel in Grand Harbour to an inflatable buoy, bearing the sponsor's logo, positioned outside the Saint Elmo Breakwater. The buoy shown as 1 on the chart that can be found on Transport Malta's website (www.transport.gov.mt) will be in the following approximate position:

Latitude (N)               Longitude (E)

35º 54'.160                 014º 31'.540

The yachts shall then proceed in a North Westerly direction towards St George's shoals where a second inflatable buoy bearing the sponsor's logo will be positioned. The buoy shown as 2 on the chart that can be found on Transport Malta's website (www.transport.gov.mt) will be in the following approximate position:

Latitude (N)                Longitude (E)

35º 55'.650                 014º 30'.070

They will follow the course as shown on Chart 1 that can be found on Transport Malta's website (www.transport.gov.mt).

The yachts shall than proceed in a North North Easterly direction towards Sicily.

Mariners are to navigate with caution and to keep a sharp lookout when in the vicinity of the above-mentioned courses and positions and, when sighted, give the participants a wide berth.

They are also to keep at least 200m away from the inflatable buoys 1 and 2 mentioned above.

Mariners are advised that on Saturday, 19th October, 2019, between 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. or such time as may be communicated by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12, if earlier, the Grand Harbour shall be closed for all traffic not directly related to the race.

During these times all other vessels shall be required to remain within designated areas in the inner harbour up to Ras Ħanżir, in Dockyard Creek, Kalkara Creek and Rinella Bay. (Areas are shown hatched in magenta on Chart 2).

No vessel will be allowed at the quay next to the fish market as this quay is being reserved for emergency vessels only.

Mariners are instructed to cooperate with the organizers and maritime enforcement officers in the area. Moreover they are to obey any instructions given by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF Channel 12.

 Positions are in WGS 84 Datum

Chart affected BA Chart 177

24th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 121 of 2019

Building of raft at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies that a group of scouts will be building a raft at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan.

Weather permitting, the raft will be built and moored at Il-Bajja ta' San Ġiljan in the approximate area shown marked with a red X on the chart found on the Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt).

This activity will be held on Saturday, 28th September, 2019, from 9.00 a.m. till 2.00 p.m.

All vessels navigating within the bay are requested to keep a sharp lookout, navigate with caution and at slow speed (no wake), and give the raft a wide berth.

Chart affected: BA 177

Positions referred to WGS 84 DATUM

20th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 122 of 2019

Malta – Comino – Malta Swimming Event

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta, notifies mariners that a Malta – Comino – Malta swimming event will be held on Saturday, 28th September, 2019.

Participants will depart from Ir-Ramla tal-Armier point A, at approximately 9.00 a.m. They will swim to point B, C and then point D back in Ir-Ramla tal-Armier (as shown on chart 1 found on the Transport Malta website  (www.transport.gov.mt)).

The swim is to be completed by noon.

If the event cannot be held as stated above due to bad weather conditions it will be held on the same date and time at either Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa (as shown on chart 2 found on the Transport Malta website (www.transport.gov.mt)) or at Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (as shown on chart 3 found on the Transport Malta website  (www.transport.gov.mt)) depending on wind direction.

Support vessels will accompany the participating swimmers.

Mariners are advised to keep a sharp lookout and navigate at slow speed and keep well clear of the area during the stipulated time giving the swimmers a wide berth. They are to obey any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12 and maritime enforcement assets in the area.

Charts affected: BA 211A, 2537 and 2538

20th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 123 of 2019

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 Monday, 30th September, 2019 to Monday, 28th October, 2019 (including weekends).

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.

20th September, 2019

TRANSPORT MALTA

Local Notice to Mariners No. 124 of 2019

Filming at Rinella (Malta Film Studios) using Flares

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies mariners and operators of vessels that flares will be used as part of filming activities in Rinella – Malta Film Studios.

The filming includes the use of pyrotechnics (parachute bright white flares) and will be taking place between Tuesday, 1st October, 2019 at 6.00 p.m. and Wednesday, 2nd October, 2019 at 4.00 a.m.

Mariners are to take note and be informed regarding the above activity and are requested to keep watch on VHF Channel 12/16.

Any instructions issued by Valletta Port Control (Valletta VTS) on VHF channel 12/16 are to be complied with.

Charts affected: BA 177, 2537, 2538, 194

20th September, 2019

Local Notice to Mariners No. 119 of 2019

Cancellation of Local Notice to Mariners No. 108

of 2019 – regarding Emergency Repair Works

on the Ras il-Ħobż, Gozo Sewage Outfall

The Ports and Yachting Directorate, Transport Malta notifies that the emergency repair works on the Ras il-Ħobż, Gozo sewage outfall, have been completed.

Therefore Local Notice to Mariners No 108 of 2019 – re  Emergency repair works on the Ras il-Ħobż, Gozo sewage outfall, is hereby CANCELLED.

13th September, 2019