The Malta Maritime Pilots Cooperative inaugurated its newest pilot boat, Sierra, a €900,000 vessel built entirely in Malta; an achievement that underscores local shipbuilding capability and the Cooperative’s commitment to continuous improvement within the maritime sector.
Addressing guests during the ceremony, Chief Pilot Capt. Terence Farrugia highlighted the trust placed in the cooperative by Malta’s maritime industry and reaffirmed its responsibility to ensure that national port operations remain safe, efficient, and uninterrupted.
Capt. Farrugia emphasized that the Cooperative performs an average of 8,000 pilotage services annually, a number that continues to rise. He noted that Sierra holds particular significance because it was entirely constructed in Malta, a decision driven by confidence in local talent and internal capabilities.
“By choosing to build Sierra locally, we placed our confidence in Maltese talent and skills, ensuring that this significant investment strengthened our own maritime economy,” he stated. He added that “Sierra is proof that Malta can build high-quality maritime assets that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those constructed abroad.”
Chief Pilot Capt. Terence Farrugia
To meet this sustained growth, strategic investments have been made not only in operational assets like the newly launched Sierra, but also in education, training, and environmental initiatives aimed at strengthening Malta’s maritime ecosystem. He noted that Sierra holds particular significance as it was entirely constructed in Malta, the result of a bold decision led by former Chief Pilot Capt. Jesmond Mifsud to trust local talent and internal capabilities. This approach ensured the investment flowed directly into the local maritime economy and reaffirmed the Cooperative’s guiding principle of supporting and developing local industry.
During the inauguration, Prime Minister Robert Abela praised the new vessel as a clear demonstration of the confidence that Malta’s industry places in its skilled workers and the exceptional professionalism shown across the sector. He underlined the essential role of Malta’s maritime pilots, who guide every vessel above 500 tonnes entering or leaving Maltese ports, in sustaining seamless and safe port operations.
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett commended the Cooperative’s investment, describing Sierra as an important advancement in strengthening the reliability and safety of Malta’s port infrastructure. He noted that this €900,000 investment not only enhances operational safety but also serves as a strong reminder of the expertise and dedication of Malta’s maritime pilots and crews who work daily to keep the country’s economy moving.
Capt. Farrugia concluded the event by expressing gratitude to his colleagues, the cooperative’s staff, and industry partners whose support and collaboration ensure that Malta’s maritime sector remains vibrant, competitive, and forward-looking.
