Robert Abela Pledges To Increase Gozo Channel Fleet To 5 Ships

Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced a new timeline for a major investment in Gozo’s connectivity, pledging that a €130 million upgrade to the Gozo Channel fleet will be completed within the next three years if the Labour Party is re-elected for a fourth consecutive term in the general election on 30 May.

Under the plan, the Gozo Channel fleet will be expanded to five vessels by 2029, including a dedicated cargo ship, strengthening both passenger and commercial links between the islands. While the investment had already been announced, the three-year timeframe marks a new commitment aimed at accelerating the project.

The proposal builds on earlier government plans revealed during a press conference in January 2026, where Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri, alongside Ministers Silvio Schembri and Chris Bonett, outlined the expansion of the service. The upgraded fleet will consist of four vessels serving passengers and vehicles, and a fifth dedicated to cargo transport, with the full system expected to be operational within approximately three to three and a half years.

Earlier this morning, Dr Abela also announced that the Labour Party will make ferry travel between Malta and Gozo free for all Maltese and Gozitan passengers travelling on foot, as part of its plans ahead of the general election.

Under the measure, the Gozo Channel service would be free of charge for foot passengers crossing between the two islands, in a move aimed at improving accessibility and easing daily commuting costs.

In addition, the party pledged increased support for Gozitans who rely on the fast ferry for work or study purposes. The current subsidy, which stands at up to €650, would be raised to €800 annually.

The proposal is intended to strengthen connectivity between Malta and Gozo while reducing financial burdens on regular travellers.

The Gozo Channel investment is being positioned as a key pillar in improving accessibility and supporting economic activity on the island, with the revised timeline underlining the government’s intention to deliver the project within a shorter timeframe.

The aim is to add more frequency of ferries to reduce waiting time for passengers between Gozo and Malta.

The tender for the 2 new ferries is to be issued bt the end of this year.

#MaltaDaily