For the first time since the fast ferry service between Valletta and Mġarr, Gozo began operating, more than one million passengers used this mode of transport in a single year, the government said.

"With over 1,150,000 passengers by the end of November, 2025 reflects a new record and a substantial increase over last year's figures. Above all, these numbers confirm the need for this service and the importance of this transport link, which strengthens connectivity between different localities across the Maltese Islands."

These figures also reflect the importance of the ongoing investment to expand the service, with a number of new routes planned to come into effect during the coming year, the government said. "Connections between Malta and Gozo will be doubling when new fast ferry services to Gozo from Sliema and Buġibba come into operation."

The Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett, emphasised the importance of looking at the sea as part of the solution for future transport, "as it is an efficient and reliable mode that offers a sustainable alternative."

He said: "The Government's commitment is to continue investing in the ferry service, including through an extension to the southern part of Malta to connect the entire eastern coast." He said that work is currently underway on a new ferry landing in Marsaskala, which will eventually lead to a new service connecting to Valletta. Minister Bonett concluded by saying that with investments in other services such as circular bus routes and park & rides, ferries are being integrated into a multi-modal transport system.