This was such a great experience—comfortable, quick, and honestly one of the most useful ways to get around Malta for us: the Gozo Fast Ferry (officially called just that), or more specifically, the Valletta–Gozo ferry.
Even in the off-season, it was so popular that we missed our first try. But still, the ride turned out to be smooth and memorable. More on that in a minute.
Let’s start with what exactly the Gozo Fast Ferry is, plus some info on the schedule and ticket prices.
What Is the Gozo Fast Ferry?
Let’s begin with the basics—what exactly is the Gozo Fast Ferry?
Malta, the country, has two main islands: Malta and Gozo. There’s a traditional car ferry that connects them, but the Gozo Fast Ferry is the perfect option if you’re traveling without a car and want to get directly from the capital (Valletta) to the smaller island (Gozo) or back.
Liesse, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Triq Għajnsielem, Għajnsielem, Malta
And yes, it really is fast: it gets you from Valletta’s harbor to the port of Mgarr in just 45 minutes—with total comfort along the way. The ride takes you along most of Malta’s eastern coast, with some amazing views as the ferry cruises just off the shoreline.
Perfect for Day Trips
If you’re visiting as a tourist, the Gozo Fast Ferry is ideal for a day trip—whether you’re heading to Gozo or even stopping by Comino and the famous Blue Lagoon. Here are a few tips on when this comfortable ferry really shines:
- If you’re staying in or around Valletta, a day trip to Gozo is a fantastic option.
- You can also reach Comino and the Blue Lagoon from Valletta. Tourist boats depart to Comino directly from the Gozo port.
- It’s even possible to visit both Gozo and Comino in one day from Valletta.
- If you’re staying on Gozo, a day trip to Malta’s capital, Valletta, is super easy with this ferry.
Gozo Fast Ferry Schedule and Prices
The Gozo Fast Ferry generally runs once an hour from both Valletta and Gozo. Departures are usually at 45 minutes past the hour from each port, and the journey takes 45 minutes. Be sure to double-check the current schedule and prices on the official website before your trip!
Ticket Prices at the Time of Writing
- Standard fare: €7.50
- Children (ages 4–10) and seniors: €3
- Free for kids under 3
- Round-trip tickets booked online: €12 (discounted)
Don’t Miss It!
We actually missed the ferry the first time—not because we were late, but ironically, because we were on time.
Sounds odd, right? Here’s what happened: this ferry is so popular that even outside of peak season, it fills up fast. So even if you get to the dock a few minutes before departure, it might already be too late.
That’s exactly what happened to us. We arrived a few minutes early, the boat was already docked and ready to go—but there was a big crowd waiting to board. A really big crowd.
And of course, safety regulations mean there’s a strict passenger limit. We showed up just after that limit had been reached. So we had no choice but to watch as the lucky ones boarded and the ferry slowly pulled away across the bay and out to sea.
Pro tip: just like with a lot of public transportation in Malta, it’s smart to get to the Gozo Fast Ferry at least 30 minutes before departure. And if you already know when you’re planning to go, book online ahead of time—you’ll save money too!
