From its position astride one of the major arteries of shipping, Malta offers a whole range of international maritime services and facilities including:

• deep natural harbours and well equipped ports which offer a haven for international shipping
• extensive bunkering, ship supplies and towage services
• ship building and ship repair yards which can take the largest ships afloat
• modern facilities for transshipment and distribution, including a very successful Freeport and oil terminal
• high level training for both deck and engineering officers at a reputable nautical school
• a hub for cruise liners
• international yacht marinas backed by efficient repair and shore support services
• an international ship register - one of the largest in the world

The functions of the Authority related to maritime transport include:

• The efficient operation and further improvement of ports and yachting centres
• The registration of ships and administration of the services contemplated in the Merchant Shipping Act
• Overall control for the preservation of good order in territorial and internal waters in Malta, in the ports and their land and sea approaches
• The human resource development of port personnel and seafarers
• The prevention and control of pollution of ports
• The provision of appropriate safety measures related to ports and shipping
• The overseas promotion of Malta as a maritime centre
• Advice to Government on matters relating to maritime activities and their development