Silver Spirit on Maiden Call at Port of Valletta, Malta

Silver Spirit, Silversea's newest luxury ship, was the latest cruise liner to grace the port of Valletta on a maiden call, on Tuesday 6th July. The Port of Valletta will see a total of nine cruise liner maiden calls by the end of this year, said VISET Malta plc, operators of the Valletta Cruise Terminal.

Making its grand debut in December 2009, Silver Spirit offers a luxurious cruise experience with a variety of dining choices, well-appointed rooms, and various onboard amenities.

A live band cheered disembarking passengers with joyful tunes 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 cruise liner left the Grand Harbor, 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 its exit from the harbor, the Port of Valletta gave its salute to the Silver Spirit with a 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. Renowned cruise companies are also increasingly requesting to include the Port of Valletta on their itineraries," said VISET CEO John Portelli. "The award of Best International Port in the Mediterranean further confirms the Port of Valletta's attraction as a cruise liner destination together, as well as an appreciation of the level of service provided to both cruise ships and their guests."

During the first quarter of 2010, 100,695 passengers passed through the Port of Valletta. This represents an increase of 45% over the same period last year.

http://www.vallettawaterfront.com