Malta Watersports Owner’s Unconventional Plea for Help

Imagine this: a lone cave on a secluded Maltese island, its walls echoing the whispers of ancient mariners. Now, picture an unlikely addition to this historic scene – a bright yellow ‘Help Needed’ sign, flapping in the Mediterranean breeze. This is not a prank, but a desperate plea from a local watersports owner, who’s turned to unconventional methods to keep his business afloat.

Stranded in Ġnejna

Ġnejna, a tiny islet off the coast of Malta, is no stranger to solitude. Yet, for the past two years, it’s been home to a unique sight: a makeshift sign attached to the entrance of Ġnejna cave, pleading for help. The sign’s author? None other than Joe Xuereb, a seasoned watersports enthusiast and owner of Xtreme Watersports Malta.

Joe’s not asking for handouts, but for a lifeline to save his business. “I’m not looking for charity,” he says, “I just need a chance to show what I can do.” His plea, however, has sparked a conversation about the struggles of small businesses in Malta, especially those dependent on tourism.

Riding the Waves of Uncertainty

Xtreme Watersports Malta, based at Mellieha Bay, has been Joe’s dream for over a decade. From jet-skiing to parasailing, he’s offered a taste of adventure to thousands of tourists. But the pandemic has left his business high and dry. “I’ve had to let go of my staff, and I’m barely keeping afloat myself,” he admits.

Joe’s not alone in his struggle. According to the Malta Chamber of Commerce, around 2,000 businesses have closed since the start of the pandemic. The tourism industry, which contributes around 15% of Malta’s GDP, has been one of the hardest hit.

From Sea to Sign

Desperate times call for desperate measures, and for Joe, that meant turning to Ġnejna. “I thought, if I can’t reach the people, maybe I can reach the boats. Someone might see the sign and share it,” he explains. His gamble paid off – the sign went viral, reaching thousands of people and even catching the attention of local politicians.

But the sign is more than just a plea for help. It’s a testament to Joe’s resilience and his love for the watersports industry. “I’ve seen this place at its best, and I know it can bounce back,” he says, his voice filled with determination.