2016 record year for Valletta Cruise Port

January 21, 2017 - According to figures published by the National Statistics Office (NSO), 2016 was yet another record year for cruiseline passengers visiting Malta. A total of 682,222 passenger movements were recorded, meaning an increase of 2% on 2015. As per NSO statistics, which exclude embarking passengers, the 2016 landed passengers amounted to 626,082. The Minister for Tourism Hon. Dr. Edward Zammit Lewis welcomed these positive figures for the local cruise line sector.

The Minister noted that according to a study commissioned by the Valletta Cruise Port, it is estimated that in 2015 the cruiseline industry contributed around €90 million through direct expenditure into the Maltese Economy.

‘’Moreover, the multiplier effect increases this contribution and creates even further economic benefits,’’ explained Minister Dr. Zammit Lewis. Minister Zammit Lewis stated that the sister island of Gozo is also reaping extensive economic benefits from the success generated by the cruise sector. In 2016, according to figures produced by Transport Malta, 19 cruise port calls were registered in Gozo, and that carried nearly 7,000 passengers. ‘’This number of passengers is actually double that recorded in 2012,’’ continued the Minister for Tourism. 

The Minister noted that Malta is strategically positioned in the middle of the Mediterranean and also enjoys a resilient level of security while this industry is serving as an important incentive for regeneration projects and investment particularly within the Grand Harbour region.