WISTA Malta Marks Women in Maritime Day Alongside MEDTUG
To mark International Day for Women in Maritime, WISTA Malta brought its members together for a morning that combined industry insight, networking, and a first-hand experience of one of Malta’s most essential maritime operations: harbour towage.
The day began in Valletta, where members boarded MT Pawlina for a guided tug tour around the harbour. Part of MedTug’s fleet, MT Pawlina is a Twin Screw Azimuthing Stern Drive tug built by Damen Shipyards in 2006. Measuring just over 30 metres in length and with a bollard pull of over 67 tonnes ahead, she offered members an impressive introduction to the strength, precision, and capability behind modern towage operations.
With beautiful weather setting the tone, the tour offered a unique opportunity to see Valletta Port from a different perspective and to appreciate, up close, the scale, movement, and operational importance of Malta’s Grand Harbour.
As the tug made its way through the port, members were shown the various harbour areas and facilities that support Malta’s maritime activity. The experience served as a reminder of how much happens behind the scenes to keep port operations safe, efficient, and responsive.
A highlight of the morning was the visit to the tug’s cockpit, where members gained a closer look at the equipment, controls, and skill required to operate a tug in a busy port environment. The group was especially impressed by the tug’s manoeuvrability and turning circle , a practical demonstration of how a vessel built for power must also perform with exceptional precision.
There was also plenty of time for members to network on deck, exchange experiences, and, naturally, capture the many photo-worthy moments offered by Valletta’s harbour backdrop.
Following the tour, members made their way to MedTug’s offices in Valletta, where they were welcomed by Malcolm Custo`, General Manager at Med Tug Malta, and Anna Maria Darmanin, Secretary General of the European Tugowners Association.
Their addresses gave members a deeper understanding of the towage industry and its role within the wider maritime ecosystem. Malcolm shared insight into the operations of MedTug Malta, the importance of reliable harbour towage services, and the responsibility carried by tug operators in supporting safe port movements. Drawing on his long experience with MedTug Malta development over the years, he highlighted the operational discipline, technical expertise, and teamwork required in this highly specialised sector.
Anna Maria brought a broader European perspective to the discussion, speaking about the harbour towage sector across Europe and the role of the European Tugowners Association in representing tug operators at policy level. She also reflected on the importance of visibility, opportunity, and inclusion in maritime, particularly as the industry continues to evolve and modernise.
A key takeaway from the morning was that towage may often happen quietly in the background, but its contribution is fundamental. Tug crews, operators, and support teams play a critical role in ensuring that vessels move safely in and out of port, that maritime trade continues smoothly, and that ports remain resilient and responsive.
The event also reinforced the importance of opening more spaces where women can engage directly with different parts of the maritime industry. Experiences like this help make the sector more visible, more accessible, and more connected.
The morning closed on a warm note, with roses presented to the members who attended in celebration of International Day for Women in Maritime.
WISTA Malta extends its sincere thanks to MedTug Malta, Malcolm Custo, Anna Maria Darmanin, and all members who joined us for such a memorable event.
It was a day of learning, connection, and appreciation for Malta’s harbour, its maritime professionals, and the essential work that keeps our industry moving.
To be part of more events like this, join the WISTA Malta community and connect with women and allies working across Malta’s maritime sector.
