Qawra Point Anchorage Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchorage in the lee of Qawra Point in 5–12m over sand and rock. Fair holding — rocky substrate predominates with sandy patches. Protected from NE through SE. Exposed to N, NW, and W. Useful only in NE/E conditions. Rocky headland provides some wind break. Caution for submerged rocks around the point — use chart. Shoals extend south of Qawra Point.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Qawra Point Anchorage is primarily sand and rock with variable holding that requires extra attention.

1. Monitor VHF Ch 16 for Malta Radio — the coast guard monitors continuously. Ferry and commercial vessel traffic in St Paul's Bay area requires attention.
2. Anchor in 5–12m. Malta's tidal range is negligible (<30cm) — no tidal depth correction needed. Wind-driven sea level variation up to 0.5m possible in strong winds.
3. Deploy at least 5:1 scope (60m chain at 12m depth). Verify the bottom is sand — check for Posidonia seagrass (EU protected) before dropping the anchor.
4. Set firmly in reverse — 30–60 seconds at moderate throttle. Use the scope calculator to confirm adequate chain.

Recommended anchor types: Rocna, Mantus.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Qawra Point Anchorage are best in settled conditions — the anchorage is exposed to N and NW and W and SW winds. The primary overnight hazard in north Malta is the Gregale NE gale (Nov–Mar): north-facing bays become dangerous — seek shelter in Grand Harbour or Marsaxlokk Bay immediately at any Gregale forecast.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 100m radius before going below. 100m radius in 6–10m sand/rock. Fair holding. Submerged rocks around Qawra Point — use chart carefully. NE/E conditions only — leave if NW or W wind develops. Trip line recommended.

Fair weather transit stop only. May–October in easterly conditions. Not for overnight.

Navigation Hazards

• Submerged rocks around Qawra Point — chart essential
• Rocky substrate — fair holding; trip line recommended
• N, NW, and W exposure — unsuitable in prevailing Majjistral conditions

Rules & Regulations

• EU member (not Schengen): No customs formalities for EU boats arriving from EU ports. Non-EU boats: Grand Harbour (Valletta) is the official 24/7 customs clearance point for Malta mainland. EES biometric recording required for non-EU crew since October 2025.
• Posidonia: EU protected throughout Maltese waters — anchor only in sand or mud patches. Fines apply. Use mooring buoys where provided.
• Anchoring fee: Free
• Restrictions: Rocky substrate — trip line recommended. Use chart carefully near Qawra Point submerged rocks. NE/E conditions only.

For a full overview, see our overnight anchoring rules by region guide.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available on site
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Bugibba / Qawra (1nm)
• Restaurant: None — nearest at Bugibba / Qawra (1nm)
• Provisions: None on site — Bugibba / Qawra (1nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. Transit anchorage only — move to Xemxija Bay or St Paul's Bay main anchorage for overnight
2. Trip line essential given rocky bottom