The Malta Maritime Authority (MMA) will launch the results of a feasibility study on Thursday about the possibility of developing direct links to Gozo from Catania with a fast ferry service The study concerned the development of direct links to Gozo using a fast ferry or catamaran service, which will enable both passengers and vehicles, including trailers, to depart from Gozo directly to destinations in Europe via Sicily.
The study forms part of Project Calvago 2006, which was launched last year and approved by Regione Sicilia.
Fast catamarans, known as Jumbos – with a transport capacity of 600 passengers, 65 cars and 10 heavy vehicles –started operating this summer between Catania and Malta.
Project Cavalgo 2006 is a joint effort between the Catania Port Authority and the MMA that aims to increase maritime traffic in the long term between Sicily and Malta by 55 per cent, from the current average of 47,250 passengers to around 70,000 a year.
Chris Farrugia from the MMA explained that the feasibility study had two main aims: to see how a direct ferry link to Gozo will be of benefit to the island and what changes are needed to the infrastructure of Mgarr harbour.
“The Mgarr area is quite congested during peak hours – not only is it used by the Gozo ferry but by fishermen, private yachts and the seaplane service,” said Mr Farrugia.
The study went into the viability of a fast ferry service between Sicily and Gozo – there is the need for a ferry service that takes only a few hours to get to Sicily, he added.
Mr Farrugia said that the report would be food for thought for all the stakeholders about what is needed to help Gozo.
Furthermore, he added, the study will take a high level view of what is needed to improve port infrastructure and capacity in Mgarr, Gozo – something that may need to be addressed over the next 15 to 25 years according to demand and increased activity.
The workshop will give the opportunity to all stakeholders to participate in a semi-public dialogue and give their views on the project.
“The transport infrastructure is a very important means of supporting Gozo’s economy,” said Mr Farrugia.
The proposed concept for the development of Mgarr also incorporates the existing plans for a cruise liner berth in Gozo, he added.
The project will be split into four phases. The first is the construction of an elevated ramp in Catania’s port for the embarking and disembarking of passengers and vehicles from the catamarans.
The second phase will see the Catania Port Authority providing reception facilities for passengers arriving from and departing to Malta. The MMA will be carrying out a feasibility study for the development of direct links to Gozo using a fast ferry service that will enable both passengers and vehicles, including trailers, to depart from Gozo directly to destinations in Europe.
The project is not only aimed at developing further the tourist market but also looks at maximising the commercial potential and the new opportunities that will be created in the process.
It is hoped that this will eventually develop into a wider context to include countries in the Mediterranean, particularly countries in the North African region.