Powerboat racing returns to the Maltese islands with a bang this April as Voomquest hosts the opening round of the UIM Pleasure Navigation World Championships. From 17th–19th April 2026, the pristine waters of Sliema and the Grand Harbour will serve as the battleground for an elite international fleet.

Under the authority of the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) and the Malta Powerboat Federation, the event will see 28 teams from Malta, Belgium, Italy, and England compete for glory.

High-Octane Racing Schedule

The championship features a technical 3.54 nautical mile course and a mix of high-speed disciplines:

• Friday, 17th April: Straight-line speed runs in the Grand Harbour (10:00–12:00 & 14:00–16:00). Best viewed from Senglea Point.
• Saturday, 18th April: Practice sessions (10:00–12:00) followed by the first World Championship races (14:00–16:00) off the Sliema coast.
• Sunday, 19th April: Final World Championship race (10:30–13:00) and additional straight runs (14:00–17:00), concluding with a podium ceremony.

Experience the Action

The heart of the event will be at Boilers Wharf in Senglea, which serves as the race village. For fans, a dedicated Spectators’ Area at Surfside Lido in Sliema will offer the best views of the circuit racing.

Voomquest: Revitalizing Maltese Marine Sport

Led by five-time UIM World Champion Aaron Ciantar, Voomquest is the driving force behind Malta’s resurgence in international powerboat racing.

“Bringing a World Championship round to Malta is something we are extremely proud of,” says Ciantar. “It reflects our progress and our ambition to position Malta as a premier destination for international powerboat racing.”

Supported by Visit Malta and Enemed, this event reinforces the island’s reputation as a top-tier host for maritime sports, combining world-class competition with Malta’s iconic natural harbours.