Supplier News
Malta – Malta approves first casino cruise liner
By Phil - 5 June 2015
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has approved the first application for a casino cruise liner 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 are stylish venues offering Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, 3 Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold’em and Mini-Baccarat, as well as slot and video poker machines are available.
Stephen Xuereb, Valletta Cruise Port’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “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. This is undoubtedly an incentive to encourage cruise liners to overnight in Malta or Gozo, and include both islands in their Mediterranean itinerary. Valletta Cruise Port has been promoting these regulations, and feedback from other cruise lines has been positive.”
MGA’s Executive Chairman, Joseph Cuschieri added: “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.”
Parliamentary Secretary Hon. Dr. Jose 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.”
