protective custody at Lab Wharf.

The Malta Maritime Authority said it regretted having to resort to such action but its repeated requests to the owners of the two yachts concerned to pay their berthing fees had been totally ignored. According to the Yachting Centres Regulations, berthing fees must be paid six months in advance.

Berthing fees at the authority’s marinas compare very favourably with those charged by private marinas and the authority has a long waiting list of applicants.

Earlier this year, the authority signalled its intention to step up its action against all boat owners who failed to pay their respective berthing fees.

The authority intends to pursue all legal steps, including the forced sale of the two yachts, in order to ensure that all payments due are made. The MMA also reiterates that similar action will be taken against any other defaulters in the future.