A record number of 63 boats from 13 nations have entered the Rolex Middle Sea Race which is to start from Marsamxett Harbour of Saturday 22 October.

This is a record number of boats for the race – a marked improvement over last year's 50-strong fleet and others in previous years.

The largest groups hail from Italy and Malta, but there are entries from Thailand, Russia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Greece and Holland, among others.

The course record of 64 hours 49 minutes and 57 seconds is in the hands of Robert McNeil (Zephyrus IV) of the USA. It was established in 2000.

On the two days preceding the race, there will be a two-race inshore series. Entries close on 15 October. The prize-giving ceremony is scheduled to be held on 29 October at the La Valette Hall of the Mediterranean Conference Centre.