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**Ally** · 06-14-2006, 09:34 AM

In Valletta, a traditional Maltese programme preceded the inaugural departure beginning with a special reception onboard graced by The Honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mr. Francis Zammit Dimech, together with about 300 invited guests comprising dignitaries from Malta Government, the Malta Tourism Authority, Port authorities and members of the hospitality industry in Malta. Besides the local media and travel trade, also present for the event and inaugural cruise were about 60 international media and travel trade from the United Kingdom, Middle East, South Africa, Spain and Asian countries such as Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Korea and Malaysia.

The Minister for Tourism and Culture, said that he was pleased to welcome Star Cruises, the captain of SuperStar Libra, its crew and passengers to Malta.

The Honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mr. Francis Zammit Dimech said, "The operation by SuperStar Libra of cruises using Malta as a base was a very important breakthrough for this kind of high yield tourist activity". "The Malta Tourism Authority is committed to segment driven marketing and the cruise and stay sector formed part of the 'other growth markets' segment".

The event culminated with a spectacular fireworks display over the Grand Harbour, compliments of the Malta Tourism Authority, as SuperStar Libra departed Valletta at 10.30 in the evening on her inaugural 7-night cruise to the Italian destinations of Civitavecchia, La Spezia, Olbia and Naples.

"This is a significant milestone for the company as it moves from a purely Asian focus to one which now includes Europe in its scope of operations. It will be a particularly interesting and challenging period for us as we introduce and promote cruise experiences with an Asian touch in a European environment to entirely new markets", said Mr. Chong. "Bookings thus far reflect a multi-national passenger mix which provides a very international feel to the cruise experience as well".

Added Mr. Chong, "We are also very appreciative of the tremendous support and assistance extended by the Government and people of Malta in conjunction with our inaugural deployment to Europe".

The Eastern Mediterranean cruise deployment will see SuperStar Libra offering cruise itineraries of between 7 and 13 nights to destinations in Italy, Greece, Croatia, Turkey and Egypt.