Jul 19, 20222 min read

Malta’s Superyacht Industry Gains Traction

The Maltese Islands have always been recognized for their waters, ports and shipping but now they have topped the charts in the Superyacht Industry as well. Having experienced steady growth over the past few years, the Maltese flag has seen a 51% increase in superyacht registrations measuring over 78ft (28m) alone, making it the largest flag in Europe and amongst the top in the world.

Last week Malta hosted its very first Superyacht Symposium organised by the Malta Chamber of Commers and the Malta Maritime Law Association, in partnership with Transport Malta and Yachting Malta. It was, to say the least, very well attended and booked to the brim well before the 2-Day symposium took place at the Phoenicia Hotel in Floriana. As Malta already holds a reputable status for marina services, technical assistance, repairs and other yachting facilities, the symposium also focused on how Malta can truly become a destination chosen by superyacht owners, captains and passengers alike, to experience the beauty of the island and what it can truly offer guests of this calibre.

Speakers, moderators and panellists included a spectrum of specialists within the industry: Dr Aaron Farrugia, the recently appointed Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, Dr Alison Vassallo, head of yachting department at Fenech & Fenech Advocates, Dr Marthese Portelli, CEO of The Malta Chamber, John Huber, former Chairman of Yachting Malta, Ivan Castillo, shadow Minister for Transport, Cav. Lav Massimo Perotti, CEO & Executive Chair, Sanlorenzo Spa., Dr Nicholas Valenzia, a Partner at Mamo TCV Advocates, Niki Travers Trauss, CEO of Esprit Yachting Ltd. The Superyacht Symposium was successful in bringing together all stakeholders to evaluate and put forth ideas to improve and expand the Maltese Islands as the jurisdiction of choice. An exciting future lies ahead.