Published on
January 27, 2026
Valletta Cruise Port has been successful and has recorded some notable growth in both ship calls and passenger numbers in the 2025 season. The port recorded 385 ship calls in 2025 which is 8% more than the 357 calls in 2024. In addition, the port had a record of 962,966 passengers in 2025, which is a 2.3% increase from last year’s record of 940,915 passengers. These numbers indicate that Malta is positively growing in the Mediterranean cruise tourism and the historic and scenic views of the island are drawing more international travelers.
Investment in Port Infrastructure Fuels Cruise Tourism Growth
The growth in passenger numbers can be attributed not only to Malta’s strategic location but also to Valletta Cruise Port’s continued investment in infrastructure and passenger services. With a focus on enhancing the visitor experience, the port has upgraded its facilities, ensuring smoother processes for embarkation and disembarkation, and better services for both transit and turnaround passengers. These improvements have not only boosted guest satisfaction but also positioned Valletta as a high-quality port of call within the global cruise tourism market.
Xuereb further emphasized, “This performance is supported by ongoing investment in port infrastructure, passenger services, and close collaboration with our industry partners. These efforts have played a significant role in strengthening Malta’s appeal to cruise operators and passengers, contributing to the growth of cruise tourism in the region.” As the port continues to attract more ships and travelers, its role in the region’s cruise tourism growth becomes increasingly vital.
Passenger Movements: Transit and Turnaround Visitors
Of the 962,966 passengers who passed through Valletta Cruise Port in 2025, a significant portion were transit visitors, with 772,664 passengers visiting Malta for short stays. These daytime visitors typically enjoy excursions on the island, contributing to local tourism and providing a significant boost to the economy. Meanwhile, 190,302 passengers were turnaround visitors, starting or ending their cruises in Malta, further highlighting Valletta’s strong position in the cruise tourism industry as a base for both short-term stops and extended voyages.
These figures not only demonstrate Valletta’s importance as a key Mediterranean cruise port but also reflect the growing tourism activity in Malta, driven by increasing cruise tourism demand. The blend of cultural tourism and luxury cruising makes Valletta an ideal destination for tourists seeking diverse experiences.
Valletta Recognized as the World’s Most Beautiful Port
Adding to its accolades, Valletta Cruise Port was named the most beautiful port in the world by All Clear Insurance in a study that assessed the visual appeal of global cruise ports. Valletta received a perfect score of 100 percent for its aesthetic qualities, further solidifying its status as a top cruise destination. The award reflects the city’s unique combination of historical charm, modern amenities, and scenic beauty, all of which enhance the cruise tourism experience for travelers.
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With increasing demand from luxury cruise lines and a growing number of passenger calls, Valletta is poised to maintain its position as one of the most attractive cruise tourism hubs in the Mediterranean.
Building on Momentum: Valletta’s Role in Cruise Tourism Growth
The impressive 2025 results follow 2024’s strong performance, when Valletta Cruise Port surpassed 940,000 cruise passengers, exceeding the pre-pandemic high from 2019. This consistent growth highlights the port’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the global cruise tourism market. The port’s commitment to enhancing the cruise passenger experience and maintaining a robust infrastructure ensures it remains an attractive port of call for cruise operators seeking to offer travelers an unforgettable Mediterranean journey.
Valletta Cruise Port’s Future Outlook in Cruise Tourism
The continued growth in passenger numbers and ship calls at Valletta Cruise Port signals a bright future for cruise tourism in Malta. The port’s investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure, its proximity to other Mediterranean destinations, and its commitment to improving the visitor experience all contribute to its standing as one of the top cruise destinations in the world.
As Malta’s cruise tourism market continues to expand, Valletta Cruise Port is set to play an integral role in driving growth within the Mediterranean. With ongoing enhancements to its facilities and services, Valletta is well-positioned to attract even more cruise lines and travelers, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination in the global cruise tourism sector.
Valletta’s Success as a Mediterranean Cruise Hub
Valletta Cruise Port’s performance in 2025 reveals sustained growth in cruise tourism for Malta, with significant increases in ship calls and passenger volume. The port’s geographic location, infrastructure investments, and improvements to visitor experience all contribute to its Mediterranean cruise tourism centrality. As Malta retains its position among the most popular cruise destinations, Valletta Cruise Port will continue its growth trajectory, positively impacting tourism, the local economy, and Malta’s global cruise industry positioning.
