Gozo Highspeed Fast Ferry

Routes, Timetables, Tickets and Terminals

Gozo Highspeed is a passenger-only fast ferry service connecting Malta and Gozo. Passengers can travel between Valletta and Mġarr, between Buġibba and Mġarr, or from Sliema to Mġarr via Buġibba.

The journey takes approximately 45 minutes from Valletta, 30 minutes from Buġibba and 1 hour 15 minutes from Sliema via Buġibba. The service also connects Sliema and Buġibba in approximately 30 minutes.

Cars, motorbikes and other vehicles cannot be taken on Gozo Highspeed. If you are travelling to Gozo with a vehicle, you will need to use the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa instead.

This guide explains the current Gozo Highspeed routes, terminals, journey times, tickets, timetables and passenger information to help you choose the most convenient service.

Gozo Highspeed information last checked: August 2026.

In This Gozo Highspeed Guide

• Gozo Highspeed Routes at a Glance
• Which Gozo Highspeed Route Should You Take?
• Valletta to Gozo Fast Ferry
• Buġibba to Gozo Fast Ferry
• Sliema to Gozo via Buġibba
• Gozo Highspeed Terminals
• Timetables, Tickets and Fares
• Passenger Information
• Gozo Highspeed or Gozo Channel?
• Getting Around Gozo After Arrival
• What Can You Do After Arriving in Gozo?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Gozo Highspeed ferry at Mġarr Harbour

Gozo Highspeed Routes at a Glance

Gozo Highspeed currently operates two ferry lines: Valletta ⇄ Mġarr throughout the year and Sliema ⇄ Buġibba ⇄ Mġarr from March to October.

Because the Sliema service stops at Buġibba, passengers can also travel between Sliema and Buġibba or between Buġibba and Gozo.

Which Gozo Highspeed Route Should You Take?

Choose the departure point that is easiest to reach from where you are staying in Malta.

• Choose Valletta if you are staying in Valletta, Floriana or another area with convenient transport to the capital. This is the main year-round route, and the journey to Gozo takes approximately 45 minutes.
• Choose Sliema if you are staying in Sliema, Gżira or St Julian’s. The ferry travels to Gozo via Buġibba, so the complete journey takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Choose Buġibba if you are staying in Buġibba, Qawra or St Paul’s Bay. The journey between Buġibba and Gozo takes approximately 30 minutes.

If you are staying in Mellieħa, Marfa or close to Ċirkewwa, compare Gozo Highspeed with the Gozo Channel ferry. Ċirkewwa may be easier to reach from northern Malta and is the ferry you must use if you are taking a vehicle.

Remember: The Sliema and Buġibba routes operate seasonally, so check the current timetable before planning your journey.

Valletta to Gozo Fast Ferry

The Valletta to Gozo route operates year-round and connects Lascaris Wharf in Valletta with Mġarr Harbour in Gozo.

The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes and is a practical option if you are staying in Valletta, Floriana or anywhere with convenient transport to the capital.

If you are using Valletta as part of a wider Malta and Sicily itinerary, our Sicily to Malta ferry guide explains the current ferry routes from Malta to Pozzallo and Marina di Ragusa.

Lascaris Wharf in Valletta’s Grand Harbour

Where Does the Ferry Leave From in Valletta?

The ferry departs from the Lascaris Wharf Terminal in Valletta’s Grand Harbour.

The terminal is located below the Upper Barrakka Gardens. The easiest way to reach it from central Valletta is usually by using the Barrakka Lift and then walking to the terminal.

Allow extra time if it is your first visit, as the ferry does not depart from the main Valletta waterfront near the Sliema ferry landing.

Where Does the Ferry Arrive in Gozo?

The ferry arrives at Mġarr Harbour, beside the main Gozo Channel ferry terminal.

From Mġarr, you can continue your journey by public bus, taxi, rental vehicle or pre-arranged transfer. If you are travelling without a car, our guide to getting around Malta and Gozo explains the main transport options for exploring the islands.

Buġibba to Gozo Fast Ferry

The Buġibba to Gozo route connects the St Paul’s Bay area with Mġarr Harbour in Gozo and takes approximately 30 minutes.

This route is particularly convenient if you are staying in Buġibba, Qawra or St Paul’s Bay, as it avoids travelling across Malta to Valletta or north to Ċirkewwa.

Where Does the Ferry Leave From in Buġibba?

The ferry departs from the Buġibba terminal, along the waterfront in the St Paul’s Bay area.

Allow enough time to locate the boarding point, especially if it is your first journey, and check the exact terminal location before travelling.

Is the Buġibba to Gozo Ferry Seasonal?

Yes. The Buġibba route operates seasonally, rather than throughout the entire year.

Always check the current Gozo Highspeed timetable before planning your journey, as the operating period and departure times may change.

Sliema to Gozo Fast Ferry

The Sliema to Gozo route travels to Mġarr Harbour in Gozo via Buġibba and takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

This route is convenient if you are staying in Sliema, Gżira or St Julian’s, as it allows you to travel to Gozo without first going to Valletta or Ċirkewwa.

The Gozo Highspeed boarding area along The Strand in Sliema

Where Does the Ferry Leave From in Sliema?

The ferry departs from the Sliema terminal along The Strand.

The Sliema waterfront has several different ferry and boat departure points, so allow enough time to find the correct Gozo Highspeed boarding area.

We will add one official link to all Gozo Highspeed terminal locations later in the dedicated terminal section.

Does the Sliema Ferry Stop in Buġibba?

Yes. The Sliema service stops in Buġibba before continuing to Gozo.

The complete journey from Sliema to Mġarr takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, while the journey between Sliema and Buġibba takes approximately 30 minutes.

Is the Sliema to Gozo Ferry Seasonal?

Yes. The Sliema route operates seasonally.

Check the current Gozo Highspeed timetable before travelling because operating dates and departure times can change.

Gozo Highspeed Terminals

Gozo Highspeed currently uses four passenger terminals in Valletta, Sliema, Buġibba and Mġarr, Gozo.

Valletta Terminal

• The Valletta service departs from Lascaris Wharf at Ta’ Liesse, below the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
• The Barrakka Lift provides a convenient connection between the terminal area and central Valletta.

Sliema Terminal

• The Sliema service departs from The Strand in Sliema.
• Several ferry and boat services operate along the Sliema waterfront, so make sure you locate the correct Gozo Highspeed boarding point before departure.

Buġibba Terminal

• The Buġibba service departs from Dawret il-Gżejjer along the Buġibba waterfront.
• This terminal is convenient for travellers staying in Buġibba, Qawra and the wider St Paul’s Bay area.

Mġarr Terminal in Gozo

• All Gozo Highspeed services arrive at and depart from Mġarr Harbour, Gozo’s main ferry harbour.
• The fast-ferry boarding point is close to the larger Gozo Channel terminal. From Mġarr, passengers can continue by public bus, taxi, rental vehicle or private transfer.

View the official Gozo Highspeed terminal locations and directions.

Timetables, Tickets and Fares

Gozo Highspeed timetables vary by route and operating period. The Valletta service operates throughout the year, while the Sliema and Buġibba services are seasonal.

Always check the latest official timetable before travelling, especially during public holidays, bad weather or periods when a restricted schedule may apply.

Do You Need to Pre-Book?

Pre-booking is not always compulsory, because tickets can also be purchased from the terminal ticket booths.

However, booking in advance is recommended if you:

• Are travelling during weekends or public holidays.
• Need a particular departure time.
• Are travelling during the busy summer months.
• Are taking a bicycle or scooter and need limited onboard space.
• Want to avoid waiting at the ticket booth.

Online bookings close 20 minutes before departure, while passengers are advised to arrive approximately 15 to 20 minutes before the ferry leaves.

Where Can You Buy Tickets?

Tickets for the Valletta, Sliema and Buġibba routes can be purchased through the same Gozo Highspeed booking system.

You can buy tickets:

• On the official Gozo Highspeed website.
• From the ticket booth at the ferry terminal.
• Using cash or card at the terminal.

The ticket price depends on the route and passenger category. Reduced fares may be available for children, senior citizens, students, Gozo residents and eligible Tallinja Card holders.

Where Can You Check the Timetable?

Use the official Gozo Highspeed timetable for current departure times and route availability.

It is also sensible to check the company’s latest service updates before leaving for the terminal, as weather or operational changes may affect individual journeys.

Check the official Gozo Highspeed timetable, fares and ticket availability.

Passenger Information

Before travelling, check the rules for luggage, bicycles, scooters, pets, accessibility and restricted items. These conditions apply across Gozo Highspeed services and can affect what you may bring onboard.

Luggage

Each passenger may take one piece of personal luggage measuring no more than 50 × 40 × 80 cm. This must be placed in the storage area indicated by the crew.

You may also carry one piece of hand luggage measuring no more than 37 × 45 × 25 cm and weighing up to 5 kg.

Bicycles and Scooters

Standard bicycles can be taken on Gozo Highspeed free of charge, but space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

A maximum of nine bicycles may be accepted on each sailing, so booking in advance is recommended if you need bicycle space.

E-bikes, e-scooters and push scooters with lithium-ion batteries may only be carried on the outside deck at the owner’s responsibility.

Travelling With Pets

Passengers may travel with up to two pets, but pets should be declared when booking.

Large dogs may be required to wear a muzzle, and owners remain responsible for their animals throughout the journey.

Pet acceptance remains subject to the crew’s instructions and the conditions onboard.

Accessibility

The Gozo Highspeed terminals are accessible to passengers with reduced mobility and wheelchair users.

The ferries are equipped with ramps to help passengers board and leave the vessel safely.

Dangerous Items

Explosives, fireworks, flammable substances, toxic materials, radioactive materials and other dangerous goods are not permitted onboard.

Passengers should check the official Gozo Highspeed passenger conditions before travelling with any unusual item.

View the official Gozo Highspeed passenger and boarding conditions.

Gozo Highspeed or Gozo Channel?

Both ferry services travel between Malta and Gozo, but they serve different departure areas and travel needs.

Comparison of the Gozo Channel car ferry and the passenger-only Gozo Highspeed

Choose Gozo Highspeed if one of its passenger terminals is convenient and you are travelling without a vehicle.

Choose the Gozo Channel ferry if you are taking a car, motorbike or another vehicle to Gozo. It may also be more convenient if you are staying in Mellieħa, Marfa or close to Ċirkewwa.

Both services arrive at Mġarr Harbour, so your onward travel options in Gozo are broadly the same.

Getting Around Gozo After Arrival

All Gozo Highspeed routes arrive at Mġarr Harbour, where you can continue your journey by public bus, taxi, rental vehicle or pre-arranged transfer.

Public buses connect Mġarr with Victoria and other parts of Gozo. Check the latest routes and departure times before travelling, particularly if your ferry arrives later in the day.

A taxi or private transfer may be more convenient if you are carrying luggage, travelling with children or staying somewhere that requires a bus connection.

For detailed advice about buses, taxis, driving and travelling between Gozo’s villages and attractions, read our complete guide to getting around Gozo.

What Can You Do After Arriving in Gozo?

Gozo is well worth exploring after you arrive at Mġarr Harbour, with beaches, villages, historic sites and scenic coastal areas across the island.

A few popular places to consider are:

• Ramla l-Ħamra, one of Gozo’s best-known beaches.
• Xewkija, Nadur, Xlendi and Victoria, each offering a different side of the island.
• The Citadel in Victoria, one of Gozo’s main historic landmarks.
• A Gozo sightseeing tour if you want to see several highlights in one day.
• Dwejra, where you can visit the Blue Hole, Fungus Rock and Dwejra Tower.

For more ideas, read our complete guide to things to do in Gozo.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gozo Highspeed

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We are Albert and Benjamin Magro, two Malta locals who enjoy exploring the island and sharing practical advice with visitors. Our guides combine local knowledge with first-hand visits to Malta’s towns, beaches, attractions and accommodation areas. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook for more Malta tips, photos and videos.