‘An important step’: Gozo associations welcome larger ferry fleet

The Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) and the Gozo Business Chamber (GBC) have welcomed the news that the Gozo Channel fleet will be expanded to five ferries, including a dedicated cargo vessel. 

The GTA, which has long been calling for a fleet expansion, said the government’s commitment is particularly significant following the high demand for channel crossings that was experienced at the start of the year.

However, it said that this must now be coupled with complementary investment in infrastructure, including the development of berths capable of accommodating five vessels at both Mġarr and Ċirkewwa.

It added that the road network, particularly the routes leading to and from Mġarr, must also be upgraded to anticipate higher traffic flows.

Meanwhile, the GBC also welcomed the news, stating it provides greater certainty for the local community as well as for the business sector in the years ahead.

It described the introduction of a direct cargo service between the Malta Freeport and Gozo as a “significant step” that reflects the growing number of Gozitan companies expanding their operations, alongside increasing import and export volumes.

It also welcomed the impending establishment of a task force that will focus on accessibility at the Mġarr Harbour, stating that such an initiative is essential to ensure the ferry investment delivers the maximum possible impact. 

As per the plan, two new passenger ferries will be added to the fleet by 2029: a larger vessel capable of carrying up to 250 vehicles and a smaller one with a capacity of 75 vehicles.

They will join the Ta’ Pinu and Malita vessels, which will be retrofitted, while the Gaudos will be repurposed to transport cargo between the Freeport and Ras il-Ħanżir and Mġarr.

Photo: Gozo Channel Operations Limited