After the exit, the route leads the fleet north along the eastern coast of Sicily to the Strait of Mesina. Once this important tactical crossroads is over, it begins the stage towards Estromboli, a geographical milestone that will be recorded in the participants' memory forever. Then it points west along the northern coast of Sicily, towards the steep Egada islands, before starting a long southern stage towards the islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa, before returning to the line of arrival in Malta

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is a reference in the annual calendar of races in the Mediterranean... its 606 nautical miles tour around Sicily is recognized as one of the most beautiful and challenging in the world, and in its 42nd edition it will bring together about 120 ships in front of the line of departure in the imposing Grand Harbour of La Valeta on Saturday, October 23... the giant Swan 125 Skorpios, patronized by the Spanish Fernando Echávarri, part as a favorite for real-time victory.

Since its birth in 1968, the Rolex Middle Sea Race has gained a privileged place on the international high-rise race circuit, and its 606 nautical miles around Sicily has achieved legend status. Since 2002 it has been supported by Rolex, and next to the Rolex Fastnet Race (625 nautical miles between England and France) and the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart (628 nautical miles in Australia), it completes the triumphrate of epic ocean competitions included in the Swiss watch-making dossier, whose relationship with this sport began more than 60 years ago.