A yacht which in 1967 made maritime history by making the fastest solo circumnavigation in a small vessel sailing from Plymouth, UK to Sydney, Australia and back via Cape Horn in just 274 days will be arriving in Malta on Saturday for a short stay.

The GMIV, as she is known, was owned by the late Sire Francis Chichester and it is with this yacht that Sir Chichester made maritime history.

After Sir Francis Chichester’s record breaking voyage, Gipsy Moth IV was put in a dry dock next to the Cutty Sark in Greenwich where it lay there for several years on show. In September 2004 the UK Sailing Academy (UKSA) became the custodians of the GMIV and undertook restoring the yacht.

The yacht was eventually re-launched on 20 June 2005. The yacht is circumnavigating the world. At each port of call the yacht exchanges crew. The crew consist of young people who are being given the opportunity to share in Sir Chichester’s adventure.

The yacht is being supported in Malta by Boats ‘n’ Sails of Ta Xbiex and is being kept at Grand Harbour Marina. Both Boats n Sails and Grand Harbour Marina are offering their services on a complimentary basis.

Gipsy Moth IV will offer a unique opportunity for maritime enthusiasts to see this fine yacht afloat. After her current world circumnavigation GMIV will become a floating exhibit at her home in Cowes UK.

Anybody wishing more information about Gypsy Moth IV’s stay in Malta can send an e mail to mark@boatsnsails.com or an sms on 79316995.