Cruising with a difference

A catamaran cruise liner shall operate between Malta and Sicily for the first time after SMS Group Ltd was appointed agent of the Sicilian company Ustica Lines.

Ammarì, an exclusive catamaran liner that can take 68 passengers, will call at the Grand Harbour every fortnight between May and September.

It allows those who wish to take a cruise to admire the beauty of a neighbouring island and the opportunity to embark and disembark from Malta, a spokesman for the agents said.

Sicily is fast becoming a popular tourist destination with the Maltese and SMS Group Ltd felt that by introducing this service it will be addressing the wishes of those who want to see the island, while enjoying the relaxation that comes with a cruise.

Passengers will have the chance to discover every aspect of the island from the sea, land, history and culture to the breathtaking coasts, natural ports and captivating inlets.

The itinerary includes the Valley of the Temples, the island of Mothia and the saltpans, the varied colours of Monte Cafano, the extraordinary beauty of the Zingaro Reserve, the sea rocks of Scopello and the Aeolian Islands.

"The 60-metre-long Ammarì, which has four decks, will give passengers the chance to relish these gems without the hassle of getting stuck in traffic. Those who are not keen on visiting any of the sites can either opt to swim or try their hand at water sports," the spokesman added.

All 32 passenger cabins are equipped with air conditioning, fridge bar, satellite television, internal telephone, safety box, hair-dryer and en suite bathroom, among others.

Ammarì is based in Trapani and was bought as part of the company's new project to operate special cruises around Sicily, which it launched last year.