Bank of Valletta is assisting Virtu Ferries in the financing of a new state-of-the-art catamaran which is set to improve the service between Malta and Sicily. This support by Bank of Valletta to Virtu Ferries comes at a time when the company is experiencing growing demand for travel between the two islands.

Bank of Valletta is well positioned to offer local companies large-scale financial support. Over the years the Bank has supported numerous local enterprises in their financing requirements, helping them expand and generate more business both on a local and international level. Over the coming months the Bank is set to continue offering this support to local enterprises, providing financial assistance and support that will undoubtedly have a positive spill-over effect on the Maltese economy at large.

The new catamaran, which will be built in Western Australia, will be one of the largest aluminum hull catamarans in Europe. It will be named Jean de la Valette and is set to replace the present catamaran Maria Dolores on the Malta-Sicily route. The new catamaran, which costs around E60 million, will have a seating capacity of 800 on two decks, economy and VIP lounges, three catering outlets and a central shopping area. The vehicle deck can also carry numerous cars, trucks and trailers. The catamaran will also have an outdoor seating capacity of more than 110 passengers.