Naval Fleet Records

Vessels of the Mediterranean

From the multi-decked war galleys of Grand Master La Valette to WWII's Operation Pedestal relief convoys.

Wooden tall ship sailing ship hull on open Mediterranean sea water Order of St. John

Knights' War Galleys

Custom-engineered at the Birgu Arsenal for maximum speed and firepower, mounting heavy 36-pounder centerline bow cannons for close-quarters naval engagements.

Historical merchant and naval vessel sailing on open sea during Operation Pedestal convoy WWII Siege Convoy

SS Santa Elisa & Pedestal

The critical August 1942 Allied relief convoy that endured four days of fierce attacks to bring 13,000 tons of aviation fuel aboard SS Ohio, saving Malta from capitulation.

Lateen-rigged wooden sailing xebec ship sailing in Maltese waters against deep blue sky 18th-Century Corsairs

Maltese Xebecs & Frigates

Fast lateen-rigged xebecs and convertible polaccas built in Valletta arsenals, operated under the Tribunal of Armaments for high-speed Mediterranean privateering and anti-piracy patrols.