The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has approved the first application received from Crystal Cruises, which is represented in Malta by Gollcher Group, for its award-winning Crystal Serenity which will call to Malta on June 5 and 6, 2015. Crystal’s onboard casinos on Crystal Serenity offering games of Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, 3 Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold’em and Mini-Baccarat, as well as slot and video poker machines.

“Valletta Cruise Port welcomes this first application, following our instigation to introduce this legislation. This legislation makes Malta a more attractive proposition to cruise liners particularly those cruise liners that opt to call at Malta or Gozo for an overnight stay,” said Stephen Xuereb, Valletta Cruise Port’s Chief Executive Officer.

"The Authority is committed to safeguard both the interests of passengers on board cruise ships, as well as those of the Maltese gaming industry. The regulations issued by the MGA mean that cruise ships will be able to operate their casinos in-line with the stipulated conditions whilst berthed within Maltese territorial waters," said the MGA's Executive Chairman, Joseph Cuschieri.

Parliamentary Secretary Hon. Dr. José Herrera said, “This is indeed very good and exciting news, which augurs well for the future. These new regulations were the result of direct consultation with the relevant stakeholders.” Dr. Herrera hailed both the MGA and Valletta Cruise Port for their commitment to increase the gaming and cruise industries.