The St Paul's Bay Local Council has adopted a precautionary approach regarding the commercial vessel being marketed as "Noma Island", citing the absence of official information from national authorities on its operations, regulatory status and environmental impact.

In a detailed statement issued following its meeting on 12 March 2026, the council confirmed that it had formally contacted Transport Malta, the Malta Tourism Authority and the Environment and Resources Authority on 4 March to request clarification and coordination on the project. The request focused on the vessel's intended operations, applicable permits, environmental safeguards and logistical implications.

However, the council said that, at the time of issuing the statement, no formal response had been received. As a result, it noted that the only information currently available is that already in the public domain, largely drawn from media reports and promotional material published by the vessel's operators. While such sources provide an indication of how the project is being presented commercially, the council stressed they cannot be considered official or verified.

Based on this publicly available information, it appears the vessel may hold a commercial operator licence and is expected to operate as a static venue at anchor, with no passengers carried while underway, it said. Instead, guests would be transported to and from the vessel via smaller shore-based boats. The council emphasised that these operational details have not been formally confirmed by the relevant authorities.

In light of this uncertainty, the council stated it would adopt a cautious approach within the limits of its legal remit, placing priority on the protection of residents, the marine environment and the proper management of coastal and maritime activity. It underlined that any initiative of this scale must be properly planned, appropriately regulated and fully compatible with both environmental protection and the quality of life of the local community.

The statement outlines a series of concerns that, according to the council, require urgent clarification. Among these are the potential traffic and logistical challenges associated with transporting large numbers of patrons to and from the vessel, particularly in already busy coastal areas.

Concerns were also raised about possible noise and light pollution, which could affect residents and nearby coastal zones, especially during peak hours or evening operations. Environmental considerations featured prominently, with the council highlighting potential impacts on marine ecosystems, including Posidonia seagrass beds, increased anchorage pressures and the cumulative effect of intensified maritime activity.

Further issues identified include the need for robust safeguards on sea water quality and waste management, as well as ensuring marine safety and navigational efficiency in waters that are already heavily used. The council also pointed to possible transboundary impacts, noting that activities taking place outside the immediate locality could still have consequences for St Paul's Bay and neighbouring communities.

The council made clear that its position is not politically driven, but instead rooted in its statutory responsibility to protect the interests of residents and ensure sustainable planning and environmental stewardship. It stressed that its concerns reflect legitimate questions that must be addressed before any such project proceeds.

Until formal clarification is received from the competent authorities regarding operational parameters, permitting frameworks, environmental protections and enforcement mechanisms, the council said it will continue to monitor developments closely, insist on full transparency and act to safeguard both residents and the coastal environment.

The statement concludes by reiterating that while commercial initiatives can contribute to economic activity, they must always be balanced with environmental responsibility, careful planning and respect for the rights and wellbeing of local communities.