Record number of Maltese and tourists visit Gozo during the festive season.
The Ministry for Gozo and Planning categorically rejects the unfounded and political allegations of the Nationalist Party, which is once again trying to undermine the serious work being done by the Government so that Gozo continues to grow economically and socially.
The facts are clear and cannot be denied. Gozo is today attracting a record number of Maltese and tourists, clear proof that the investment and planning being done by the Government and the Ministry are yielding results.
Over the past few months, the number of trips on the Gozo Channel has increased consistently and we have been able to do this also through four ships that have served the needs that were needed for the past few years. In addition, the Fast Ferry service carried a historic record of over 1.2 million passengers in 2025, a record figure that shows how much more reliable and widely used connectivity between Malta and Gozo is today. This also means an increase of 258,000 passengers, that is, an increase of over a quarter of a million passengers over the year 2024.
This was also possible because the Government agreed with the operators on more frequent timetables to meet the strong demand, which, it is worth remembering, did not exist during the time of Nationalist Governments.
It is ironic that the Nationalist Party today claims to worry about Gozo, when for many years it treated Gozo as a wasteland, with a lack of vision, strong seasonality and an economy that would die as soon as the summer passed. Today, thanks to the policies of this Government, Gozo is attracting people throughout the year. Gozo has seen a surge in tourists during the traditionally quiet shoulder months and this is no coincidence.
In December, 165 different Christmas-related activities were organised in Gozo, attracting thousands of families, Maltese and tourists to the island. This is a complete contrast to what Gozo was like under previous administrations. With regard to the situation that arose yesterday, the Ministry recalls that due to weather conditions, the Fast Ferry service had to be suspended and changes were made to the route of the ships, which had to pass behind Comino, factors that affect any maritime operation.
Despite this, the Gozo Channel, together with the Police and Transport Malta, worked tirelessly to control the situation in the most efficient way. Instead of appreciating the enormous effort being made and the success being achieved, the PN chooses to try to create panic and totally ignore the reality that Gozo is today facing a positive challenge: that of success and strong demand.
The Ministry for Gozo and Planning remains committed to continuing to strengthen services, invest in connectivity and ensure that Gozo remains a year-round destination, with opportunities for all.
