Grimaldi to operate new service to Libya

The Grimaldi Group is to launch a new shipping service linking Salerno to Libya, via Malta, covering the ports of Tripoli or Misurata.

The mv Salerno Express will be deployed on a fixed day schedule starting in Salerno on September 21.

"The new service to Libya will develop the Valletta Grand Harbour as a new transhipment hub," said a spokesman for Sullivan Maritime Limited, agents for the Grimaldi Group.

Meanwhile, the mv Eurocargo Europa sailed into Grand Harbour for the first time last week after it was bought by the Grimaldi Group Naples last July. Sullivan Maritime said the new vessel will further improve the maritime service network within the Mediterranean and particularly for Malta.

The roro vessel was purchased by the Malta Motorways of the Sea, which forms part of the Grimaldi Group. It is the ninth vessel owned by Malta Motorways of the Sea.

The 33,652 gross ton vessel is 182 metres long and has been deployed on the weekly Genoa-Malta run with a cargo capacity of 2,875 Lane Metres, equivalent to 220 trailers.