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The Queen Elizabeth 2, one of the world’s most luxurious and famous cruise liners, today (20 June 2005) visited the Port of Valletta. Following their excursions, passengers were treated to a taste of Malta on the newly inaugurated promenade of the Valletta Waterfront with the presence on the quayside of a traditional marching band as well as refreshments. The initiative was met with praise from the passengers who were surprised not only by the this particular reception but also by the magnificent setting provided by the newly restored Valletta Waterfront.
“VISET’s main aim is to transform Malta into one of the Mediterranean’s premier cruising destinations. The visit of this remarkable ship, just seventeen days after the opening of the first phase of the Valletta Waterfront project, is further indication that our strategy is bearing fruit,” said Mr Chris Falzon, Chief Executive at VISET plc, operators of the Valletta Waterfront.
The Queen Elizabeth 2, which is operated by Cunard, and handled in Malta by Malta Cruise Services (Mifsud Brothers Ltd) boasts 950 cabins, seventy per cent of which have ocean views. The ship also offers its passengers a choice of seven restaurants and seven lounges including a 529 seat theatre as well as a vast array of entertainment, sporting facilities and other attractions, including a branch of Harrods.
“The visits of cruise liners such as the Queen Elizabeth 2 are important opportunities not just for us but for the whole of Malta. Organising a special welcome for the passengers when they return from their excursions is perhaps a small gesture, but it helps to enhance their positive impression of Malta. Our hope is that all the other stakeholders, as well as the public, recognize the long term economic benefits of creating a positive image of Malta among these visitors, encouraging them to return for longer visits and continuing to attract ships of this calibre to our magnificent Grand Harbour,” concluded Mr Ben Stuart of the Malta Cruise Network. |
