Powerboat thrills in Malta

In mid-May, the normally placid and tranquil waters of Malta will become a churning maelstrom of activity as the Powerboat P1 championships scream into town.

The adrenaline filled event is kicking off its new season in Malta, having successfully hosted races there in 2005.

Malta's rich maritime heritage and picturesque harbour buildings provide an ideal backdrop to a glitzy, crowd-pulling event such as P1.

This year and for the next two years, Malta will hold two rounds of the championship at the spectacular Grand Harbour of Valletta.

Between May 12th and 14th, thousands of boat and speed fans will descend on Malta for the nail-biting grand prix. There will also be an additional event, where racers will attempt to break the record for speeding round the island of Malta.

If you arrive early, it is worth taking time to explore Malta's striking, sun-drenched buildings, gardens and restaurants. But for the race itself, you are advised to get down to the promenade in Silema, where you will get the best view of the super-fast action.

Like every great grand prix, there is a carnival atmosphere that accompanies the race experience, with the opportunity to take walks through the pits and see the racers and their mean machines,

There will also be live stage shows to entertain spectators and locals while power boats are out of the water.

For more information on the Powerboat P1 Malta grand prix, visit www.powerboatp1.com