About the Valletta Waterfront

Owner: Valletta Cruise Port, Stephen Xuereb, Chief Financial Officer
Designer: Architectural Project, EDSA, Inc. (master planners), Colin Toms and Partners (engineers)
Location: Floriana, Valletta, Malta

Why Valletta Waterfront

Today the Valletta Waterfront is a natural all-weather port, providing easy access to cruise vessels including the new vessels currently under construction. Viset Cruise Port plc took over the cruise and ferry terminal operations – previously a derelict site – following an international tender issued by the Government of Malta in 1996. Part of the offered package included a 65-year lease of all 48,000 square meters of the land and buildings including the quays. The project site includes all associated quays, stores and wharves, and also the first ever power station to be built in Malta (now disused). Viset took over the management of the cruise and ferry operations from the Government in 2002 and has redeveloped it into an entertainment destination for local residents and cruise ship passengers that dock in the Grand Harbour. The waterfront includes two terminals, nine quays, state-of-the-art check-in facilities, ship repair and transport facilities, as well as retail, dining and leisure experiences.

Many events and programs are held at the waterfront throughout the year from Carnival celebrations to concerts, drawing locals as well as tourists. Photo Credit: Valletta Cruise Port

Valletta Waterfront…

• The redevelopment conserved a historic 500-year-old waterfront edge including the steps to the water.
• The project was delivered on time and within budget and according to the quality standards envisioned.
• Redevelopment efforts increased cruise ship tourism by nearly 500%, contributing nearly $12 million in jobs.
• Includes modern facilities while conserving historical value of the architecture and the historic nature of the waterfront.
• At the front door of Valletta, the UNESCO World Heritage Site represents the epicenter of Malta’s maritime activity.