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  • Writer's pictureFestivals Malta

Set Sail with the Malta International Arts Festival!

Updated: May 12, 2023

Harbour Odyssey takes its audience on a sunset cruise across the Grand Harbour, accompanied by a theatrical narrative of entertaining historical anecdotes.

Photo by Darrin Zammit Lupi


Let’s set the scene. It’s a beautiful evening in Malta, just the right time to witness the sun setting on the Maltese skyline. A two-masted Turkish gullet 'The Fernandes' sails across one of the most beautiful ports of the Mediterranean, surrounded by a breath-taking backdrop. On board, a group of actors entertain the audience with stories of the Maltese corsairs. This is only a glimpse at the unique experience of the Harbour Odyssey - part of the Malta International Arts Festival.

Photos by Darrin Zammit Lupi


Taking place four times between the 19 and 22 June, the Harbour Odyssey is informed by fascinating historical narratives: The capture of the 'Corona Ottomana' - the sultan’s galley ship - by the ruthless corsair Captain Petar Želalić; the ruins of Villa Sciberras, Podesta the pasta maker who used to supply the corsairs with food and other desires; the legend of the mermaid of Senglea – re-enacted on the front deck of 'The Fernandes' against the stunning scenography of the Grand Harbour. Written by Chris Dingli and directed by Francesca Scerri who will also feature as an actress together with the rest of the cast which includes Mikhail Basmadjan, Sean Briffa, Gianluca Mifsud and Yuri Charyguine.


Join the Harbour Odyssey where Malta's Grand Harbour becomes the stage and backdrop of a truly unique theatrical experience. The Malta International Arts Festival will run between the 16 and 25 June featuring prominent local and international artists across various artistic disciplines.




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