Transport Malta and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) have signed a Shore Power Purchase Agreement enabling the cruise group’s vessels to use electricity from Malta’s grid while berthed in port. The Maltese Government announced the agreement on 13 October 2026.
The arrangement forms part of Malta’s Shore-to-Ship Project, designed to reduce the need for ships to generate electricity using onboard engines during port calls.
How shore power works
Cruise ships require electricity while alongside for lighting, air conditioning and other hotel services. A compatible vessel can instead connect to a shore-based electrical supply, reducing local emissions from onboard power generation while at berth. The overall environmental benefit also depends on the source of the electricity supplied.
Fourth agreement for Transport Malta
The government described this as the fourth shore-power agreement signed by Transport Malta. The deal expands the commercial framework for using the country’s shore-power infrastructure, but the announcement did not identify individual vessels, connection dates, electricity volumes or financial terms.
Agreement signed at maritime conference
Transport Malta chief executive Leonid McKay and NCLH director of nautical operations Cristian Cutugno signed the agreement during the Decarbonising The Future conference, held in Malta from 12 to 14 October 2026.
Sustainable Mobility Minister Chris Bonett and harbour master Captain Fritz Farrugia attended. Officials presented the agreement as part of efforts to improve air quality around the port and support more environmentally responsible maritime operations.
What the deal means for cruise visitors
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is the parent group of Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The announcement does not specify which ships or brands will connect to the Maltese system. It should therefore not be read as confirmation that every NCLH ship calling at Malta can already use shore power.
Frequently asked questions
What has Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings agreed with Malta?
It has signed a purchase agreement allowing eligible cruise ships to use electricity supplied from shore while in port.
When was the agreement announced?
The Maltese Government issued its official announcement on 13 October 2026.
How does shore power reduce pollution?
It reduces the need to operate onboard power-generation equipment while a ship is berthed, lowering emissions at the quayside.
Which NCLH ships will use the system?
No individual vessels were named in the announcement.
Has Malta signed similar agreements before?
Yes. Transport Malta described this as its fourth shore-power agreement.