By
Laura Hyde |
For the first time in its 160-year history, Mifsud Brothers has appointed a female managing director. Michela Mifsud, the sixth generation of the family business founded in 1860, has taken over from her father, Ivan Mifsud, marking a new chapter in the company’s story.
“This business has been part of my family for over 160 years, and stepping into the role of managing director is not only a professional milestone but a personal journey,” she says. “It is both humbling and exciting. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to honour our legacy, built on integrity, hard work and determination, while leading Mifsud Brothers into a new chapter of growth and innovation. Being the first female in this position adds an additional layer of pride and motivation. My approach to this role is to respect the traditions that shaped us while ensuring the company continues to evolve in line with the expectations of today’s fast-moving world.”
To ensure Mifsud Brothers stays relevant and competitive, Michela is redefining the company’s strategic vision. “Relevance comes from originality and strong partnerships,” she says. “We are modernising operations and deepening collaborations with international and local partners. At the same time, we are expanding into the luxury cruise segment, offering curated services that reflect the growing demand for bespoke and authentic experiences.”
“I feel a strong sense of responsibility to honour our legacy, built on integrity, hard work and determination,” says Michela Mifsud
Mifsud Brothers has navigated the cruise industry’s evolution from humble beginnings in transoceanic passenger shipping to today’s premium and expedition ships. So how does Michela see the industry evolving in the coming years? “Momentum is moving toward small and mid-size vessels,” she says. “Policy and port dynamics increasingly favour the latter, and their strengths, access, intimacy, sustainability and itinerary flexibility are generating resilient yields and deep guest loyalty. For suppliers like Mifsud Brothers, the real opportunities lie in supporting this shift, where durability, adaptability and bespoke service will be most valued.”
Michela is combining this forward-looking perspective with her determination to ensure Mifsud Brothers focuses on sustainability. “We are working with stakeholders and local non-governmental organisations to minimise environmental impact, preserve Malta’s cultural heritage, and promote conscious travel,” she says. “Our aim is to deliver exceptional guest experiences that also contribute positively to our island and its future generations.”
Discover more insights like this in the 2026 issue of Cruise & Ferry Itinerary Planning. Don’t miss out – subscribe for FREE and get the next issue delivered straight to your inbox.