Gozo Ferry Queues: ‘My Trip from London Was Shorter’

Imagine this: you’ve just stepped off a 14-hour flight from London, eager to begin your Maltese holiday. You’re directed to the Gozo fast ferry, only to find yourself in a queue snaking down to the sea wall like a sunbather’s towel on Mgarr’s beach. Welcome to the reality of thousands of tourists this summer, as Gozo’s fast ferry queues reach record lengths.

Tourists aren’t the only ones feeling the pinch. Locals commuting daily to the sister island are also caught in the queueing quagmire. “I’ve been waiting for an hour,” says Maria, a regular commuter from Xlendi. “My trip from London was shorter than this queue.” The issue has become so prevalent that the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) has issued statements, urging patience and understanding.

So, what’s causing the chaos? Blame it on a perfect storm of factors. The pandemic has led to a surge in local tourism, with more people opting for staycations. The fast ferry, operated by Virtu Ferries, has reduced its fleet due to maintenance issues and crew shortages. Add to that the usual summer influx, and you’ve got a recipe for queueing disaster.

Virtu Ferries has acknowledged the issue, promising to increase capacity by adding more sailings and vessels. However, until then, what can passengers do? Arrive early is the obvious advice, but for those with tight schedules, it’s not always feasible. Some have turned to the slower, but less crowded, Gozo Channel ferry. Others are opting for the longer, but more scenic, Blue Sea Cruises.

“I’ve started using the Gozo Channel ferry,” says Jonathan, a regular visitor from St. Julian’s. “It’s slower, but at least I’m guaranteed a seat.” Blue Sea Cruises, too, has seen an increase in passengers. “We’re offering a more comfortable, less crowded alternative,” says a spokesperson.

Virtu Ferries has promised to resolve the issue by mid-August. Until then, passengers are advised to check the latest sailing schedules and arrive early. The MTA, meanwhile, is urging patience and understanding, reminding tourists that Malta’s charm lies not just in its beaches, but also in its resilience.

As Maria, the Xlendi commuter, puts it, “It’s frustrating, but it’s part of the Maltese experience. We’re a resilient bunch, and we’ll get through this together.” So, pack your patience along with your sunscreen, and remember: in Malta, even the queues have a story to tell.