Xemxija Bay Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchorage in Xemxija Bay — the western inner section of St Paul's Bay — in 2–7m over sand and weed. Good holding when anchored on sandy patches. The bay is well-sheltered from NW through S. Exposed to E and NE — the Gregale and easterly conditions make this uncomfortable. The bay has residential waterfront development and a small boat quay. Shallow near the quay area — approach with caution.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Xemxija Bay is primarily sand and weed with reliable holding when properly set.

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 2–7m. 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 (35m chain at 7m 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, Spade, Delta.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Xemxija Bay are best in settled conditions — the anchorage is exposed to E and NE 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 80m radius before going below. 80m radius in 3–5m sand/weed. Good holding on sandy patches. Shallow inner bay — check depths carefully. Exposed to E and NE (Gregale). Good base for St Paul's Bay area exploration.

April–October. St Paul's Bay is usable year-round in settled weather but NE (Gregale) exposure is a concern November–March. Good provisioning base.

Navigation Hazards

• E and NE exposure (Gregale) — leave if NE gale forecast November–March
• Shallow near shore and quay — check depths carefully on approach
• Weed patches — locate sandy areas for best holding

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: Keep clear of small boat quay. Shallow near shore — approach carefully. Sandy patches only — weed areas present.

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

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available on site
• Fuel: Available
• Restaurant: Full range of restaurants in Bugibba/St Paul's Bay (1–2nm). Fuel at Bugibba marina.
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. Good base for visiting Bugibba and St Paul's Bay — full provisions, restaurants, and ATMs within 2nm
2. Bus connections from St Paul's Bay to Valletta and all parts of Malta
3. Fuel available at Bugibba marina — relatively convenient compared to most Malta anchorages