301,041 passengers crossed to Gozo during Christmas
9 JANUARY 2026 | BY LAURA CALLEJA
A total of 301,041 passengers travelled between Malta and Gozo via Gozo Channel ferries and the fast ferry service during the Christmas and New Year period, marking a record increase in crossings, the Ministry for Gozo said.
Between 22 December 2025 and 4 January 2026, Gozo Channel ferries carried 258,710 passengers in both directions. This represented a 6.7% increase compared to the same period a year earlier.
At the same time, Gozo Highspeed, which operates the fast ferry service between the Grand Harbour and Mġarr, transported 42,331 passengers. This figure was up by 9,529 passengers, or 29.05%, when compared to the corresponding period in 2024–2025.
Combined, the two services recorded a 9.3% overall increase in passenger numbers over the same festive period last year.
The ministry said the figures also represent a sharp rise when compared to the Christmas period of 2012–2013, when a total of 129,000 passengers crossed to Gozo. The current total of 301,041 passengers reflects a record increase of 133%, more than double the figures recorded 13 years ago.
Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri said the results confirm that Gozo has become a preferred destination for Maltese residents and tourists seeking a short break during the festive season. He said this was in line with the objectives of the “Gozo, Island of Villages” strategy.
Camilleri said the figures reinforce the ministry’s commitment to continue implementing policies aimed at making Gozo an all-year-round destination.
He also referred to a survey by the Gozo Tourism Association, which found that 60% of tourism operators reported better business during the period compared to the previous year, while around 20% said performance was on par with last year.
The minister said efforts would continue to build on this momentum while safeguarding the qualities that distinguish Gozo from other destinations, including tranquillity, a slower pace of life and a wide range of activities.
Camilleri concluded by thanking all those who chose to visit Gozo during the festive season, as well as everyone involved in organising more than 165 Christmas-related activities across the island.