Passenger traffic between Malta and Gozo reached record levels during the Christmas and New Year holiday period, with official figures showing a sharp increase in crossings compared to both last year and previous decades.
Between Monday 22nd December 2025 and Sunday 4th January 2026, a total of 258,710 passengers travelled between the two islands using the Gozo Channel ferry service. This represents an increase of 6.7% when compared to the same festive period the previous year.
The Fast Ferry service operating between the Grand Harbour and Mฤกarr also registered significant growth, carrying 42,331 passengers over the same period. This marked an increase of 9,529 passengers, or 29.05%, compared to the Christmas season of 2024โ2025.
Combined, the two ferry services transported 301,041 passengers during the 2025โ2026 festive period, reflecting an overall year-on-year increase of 9.3%.
The increased reliance on ferry services has also reignited debate on whether existing transport links are sustainable in the long term, especially during periods of reduced service and rising demand.
When compared with the Christmas period of 2012โ2013, total passenger numbers more than doubled. The latest figures indicate a 133% increase over that period, highlighting a long-term upward trend in inter-island travel during peak holiday seasons.
Industry data suggests that this rise in passenger numbers translated into improved performance for much of Gozoโs tourism sector. A survey conducted among tourism operators found that around 60% reported better results than the previous year, while approximately 20% indicated stable performance.
The data strengthens the argument that Gozo is increasingly being chosen as a year-round destination rather than a purely seasonal one. However, the continued growth also raises questions about sustainability, infrastructure capacity, and whether the island can preserve the tranquillity and slower pace that are often cited as its main attractions.
During the festive period, Gozo hosted more than 165 Christmas-related activities, contributing to the islandโs appeal. As visitor numbers continue to rise, the challenge remains to balance economic gains with long-term environmental and social considerations.
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