It’s geographical location in the heart of the Mediterranean, year round sunshine, numerous historical sites, dining, nightlife and shopping options have long made Malta a popular European destination.

For centuries, the port of Valletta has been regarded as one of the finest and safest natural havens in the Mediterranean, its imposing bastions guarding a treasure of history, architecture, art and culture in the cities within.

Nowadays, the Grand Harbour has become an irresistible scene for hundreds of cruise ships visiting every year, giving thousands of passengers the opportunity to enjoy the Islands for a day on their Mediterranean itineraries.

Malta’s small size contributes to its popularity as a port-of-call. It’s easy for day visitors to get a good taste of what the Islands have to offer in a small lapse of time. Many are so impressed that they come back for a longer stay and continue to experience the Islands and the Maltese way of life.

The Maltese Islands are also an ideal departure point for your Mediterranean cruise, located as they are right at the center of the Med. Your pre or post cruise stay will be as enjoyable as the cruise itself. The Maltese Islands offer a wide range of hotels, from 5-star luxury to budget options, a variety of shopping opportunities, mouthwatering cuisine, historical sites and sporting facilities, cultural events and entertainment to suit all ages and preferences.

Here are some cruise options for 2019.

Azamara Club Cruises offers a 11-Night Med Pursuit Voyage & 3-Night Post Rome Stay from $5,849.

Celebrity Cruises is offering 26 sailings visit Malta including a 10 Night Dalmatian Coast & Italy Cruise Onboard Celebrity Constellation from $2,099 avg per passenger departing June 28.

Crystal Cruises offers a number of sailings that include Malta this year including it’s 13 day Monumental Mediterranean All-Inclusive Luxury Cruise from $4,749 sailing to Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece and Malta.

Seabourn also offers several sailings visiting Malta including it’s 11-Day Mediterranean Islands Odyssey departing May 1, 2019. Ocean view cabins start from $4,999.