The cruise liner SuperStar Libra operated by Star Cruises will be based in Malta during the next summer season, operating cruises in the Mediterranean.

This decision was reached following meetings held in Malta between a delegation from the company and their Malta agents SMS Group. Star Cruises is the third largest cruise operator in the world. The delegation, led by Star Cruises’ chief operating officer Chong Chee-Tut, was in Malta earlier this month and met Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi.

“The decision to homeport the ship in Malta stems from the port conditions and strategic location that are conducive for Star Cruises to plan interesting and appealing itineraries in the Eastern Mediterranean”, said Mr Chong Chee-Tut.

This is a breakthrough for Malta’s plans to develop the island into a home port for cruise liners. SuperStar Libra’s seasonal deployment is in India from October to May, during which sea and weather conditions are more ideal.

As from 6 June, the vessel will be deployed at the Malta harbour. Star Cruises will also be offering cruises on the SuperStar Libra not only to the European market but also to its core markets in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

The SuperStar Libra will operate a series of different cruises in the Mediterranean ranging between five and 12 nights covering the most exciting ports. SuperStar Libra will operate the following weekly itineraries:

Malta – Civitavecchia (Italy) – La Spezia (Italy) – Olbia (Italy) – Naples (Italy) – Malta

Malta – Santorini (Greece) – Istanbul (Turkey) – Izmir (Turkey) – Malta

Malta – Dubrovnik (Croatia) – Venice (Italy) – Corfu (Greece) – Messina (Italy) – Malta

Malta – Santorini (Greece) – Rhodes (Greece) – Alexandria (Egypt) – Malta

Malta – Pireaus (Greece) – Rhodes (Greece) – Iraklion (Greece) – Santorini (Greece) – Malta