MSC Cruises and VISET Malta plc are to sign a five year agreement next November 18th, 2010.

Following several years of unprecedented growth, MSC Cruises is the cruise industry market leader in the Mediterranean, South Africa and Brazil. The 11 ships comprising its ultra-modern fleet carry 1.2 million passengers. MSC Cruises has a longstanding strong relation with the Island of Malta and has been calling in Malta since 2002.

VISET Malta plc is the cruise terminal operator in the port of Valletta.

Commenting on the agreement, Dr Anton Micallef, Chairman of VISET said “MSC Cruises has always been viewed by VISET as a partner and not as a client. Our relationship is solid and continuous. This five year agreement is a consolidation of the current excellent business relationship”.

The Chief Executive Officer of MSC Cruises, Mr Pier Francesco Vago said: “MSC Cruises considers VISET Malta a reliable and dynamic partner. We praise the efforts that have been made to keep the port’s infrastructures and the waterfront suitable for our new generation vessels and we truly appreciate the outstanding hospitality our guests receive when disembarking. This agreement is the symbol of our loyalty towards Malta and will enable five of our ships to reach 34 calls at La Valletta in 2011, with an overall passenger movement of 150,000 cruisers.”