Gozo Ferry Queues: ‘London to Ċirkewwa Faster than the Crossing’

Imagine this: you’ve just touched down at Malta International Airport, eager to explore the sister island of Gozo. You’ve heard tales of its pristine beaches, ancient history, and laid-back vibe. But first, you’ve got to tackle the beast that is the Gozo fast ferry queue. “My trip from London was shorter than the line to get on this boat,” grumbles a fellow passenger, echoing the sentiments of many a frustrated traveler.

Summer in Malta means long queues for the Gozo fast ferry. The line snakes down the concrete pier at Ċirkewwa, a stark contrast to the azure sea and golden sands nearby. Locals and tourists alike bake in the Mediterranean sun, clutching their tickets and boarding passes, hoping for a swift crossing to the ‘Island of Calm’.

But why the long wait? The fast ferry, operated by Virtu Ferries, is a lifeline for Gozitans and a popular route for tourists. It’s the quickest way to get to Gozo, with a crossing time of just 25 minutes. But with demand outstripping supply, the queue grows longer each summer.

Virtu Ferries runs a frequent service, with ferries departing every 45 minutes during peak season. Yet, it’s not enough to meet demand. “We’re doing our best to accommodate as many passengers as possible,” says a spokesperson for Virtu Ferries. “But with limited berthing space at Ċirkewwa and Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour, we’re restricted in how many ferries we can run.”

Meanwhile, demand is soaring. Tourism in Malta and Gozo is booming, with record numbers of visitors each year. Locals are also using the service more, thanks to cheaper fares and improved connections. The result? Long queues and frustrated passengers.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. The Maltese government is aware of the issue and is working on solutions. Plans are afoot to improve infrastructure at Ċirkewwa and Mgarr, and there’s talk of a new fast ferry terminal in Gozo. Until then, passengers are advised to plan ahead, book online, and arrive early to avoid the worst of the queues.

“It’s a small price to pay for the beauty of Gozo,” says one seasoned traveler, wiping sweat from his brow. “Just make sure you’ve got plenty of water and patience.”