The Silver Spirit is the latest vessel to make its maiden call on the port of Valletta on Tuesday July 6. The port will see a total of nine maiden calls by the end of this year, according to VISET Malta plc, operators of the Valletta Cruise Terminal.
A live band welcomed disembarking passengers on the quay, whilst Roman soldiers further added to the special atmosphere along the Valletta Waterfront promenade while re-enactors wearing British Victorian period military uniforms distributed information about various Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna sites of history and national heritage.
Just before the ship departed the Grand Harbour, passengers were treated to a performance of the popular In Guardia parade – a historical re-enactment portraying an inspection of the Knights’ fort and garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order.
During the Spirit’s exit from the harbor, the Port of Valletta gave its canon salute from the Saluting Battery at the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
“Along the years, Malta has established a good reputation of offering its visitors a warm and unforgettable welcome. More cruise companies are also requesting to include the Port of Valletta on their itineraries,” said VISET CEO John Portelli.
During the first quarter of 2010, 100,695 passengers passed through the Port of Valletta. This represents an increase of 45 percent over the same period last year.
