Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg and Transport Minister Chris Bonett visit the Valletta Cruise Port
A record number of cruise passengers visited Malta in 2024, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 2019.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett and Valletta Cruise Port CEO Stephen Xuereb announced these results during a visit to the Valletta Cruise Port.
More than 940,000 passenger movements were registered at the Valletta Cruise Port in 2024, 4% higher than 2019, the previous record year. During the last 12 months, the Grand Harbour received 357 cruise ship calls.
The cruise industry is a major contributor to several sectors of the Maltese economy, particularly shipping services, as well as retailers, catering establishments and other tourism services in Valletta and the Grand Harbour region. It is estimated that cruise ships berthing at the Grand Harbour contribute circa €88 million to Malta’s economy every year, with €38 million in spending by cruise passengers and another €50 million by the cruise line companies.
Commenting on these results, Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg explained that the Government is determined to continue supporting this sector, while improving the overall experience of cruise passengers during their short stop in the Maltese Islands. “We want cruise passengers to enjoy their experience and put our country in their bucket list for a longer holiday next time round. To achieve this, we need a comprehensive effort by all stakeholders, not only from the private sector, but also from different government entities and authorities. This is why we are collaborating with other ministries to make sure that as a country, we intensify our efforts for a better-quality tourism product in coming years,” said Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg.
During 2024, the Malta Tourism Authority continued to promote Malta as an important cruise destination in the Mediterranean. It regularly participates in the industry’s leading international fairs and expos, while investing in targeting marketing campaigns to encourage cruise operators and travellers to choose the Maltese Islands for their cruise itineraries.
Minister Chris Bonett emphasised the significant strides being made in sustainability through the recent investment in shore-to-ship infrastructure. The system, which has the capacity to power up to five cruise liners simultaneously, is directly improving the quality of life for thousands of families living in the vicinity of the Grand Harbour. The project is expected to cut pollution by 90% for nearby residents by 2030.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of the OPS (Onshore Power Supply) project, marking Malta as the first Mediterranean port to have the technology, as a pivotal initiative that reflects the country’s leadership in sustainable maritime solutions. He also pointed to the extension of Quay Pinto 4-5, noting that these initiatives underscore the government’s steadfast support for the maritime industry and its long-term, sustainable growth. “These projects are a clear demonstration of our commitment to balancing economic development with environmental responsibility,” Minister Chris Bonett affirmed, reinforcing the government’s determination to continue investing in infrastructure that supports both the industry and the wellbeing of local communities.
Stephen Xuereb, COO of Global Ports Holding and CEO of Valletta Cruise Port, stated, “We are incredibly proud of the record-breaking results achieved in 2024, reflecting the cruise industry’s resilience and swift recovery post-Covid. This success is due to the collaboration of various stakeholders, and we extend our gratitude to all of them – including the Ministries of Tourism and Transport, Authorities, Ship and Shorex Agents, Service Providers, Tenants, and especially our dedicated personnel. Beyond the impressive numbers, we must continue to work towards delivering a smooth and authentic Mediterranean experience for which our Islands are globally renowned. The government is continuing its work on Quay Pinto 4-5, a crucial part of our infrastructure, and we anticipate its completion within the next year. With this development and our status as the first Mediterranean port to offer onshore power supply, we are well-positioned to ensure sustainable growth in this sector. In addition to our cruise facilities, Valletta Cruise Port issued a request for proposals for the Old Power House in December, and by mid-February, we will launch a public tender for the development of the Atrium car park.”
Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg and Minister Chris Bonett were accompanied by Malta Tourism Authority CEO Carlo Micallef, Transport Malta CEO Kurt Farrugia and Capt. Fritz Farrugia, Chief Officer & Harbour Master at Transport Malta.
