Ferries Sliema

When planning your trip on the ferry from Sliema, you can take advantage of the regular discounts available to specific passenger categories. Typically, you can expect cheaper ferry tickets for:

• Children under 11
• Seniors (60+)

Note: infants and toddlers up to 3 years old normally travel for free.

There are 2 main ferry routes from Sliema to Buġibba on the island of Malta and the nearby island of Gozo. Both routes are seasonal and operated by Gozo Highspeed with high-speed ferries.

Sliema to Gozo

The ferry connection from Sliema to Gozo is active from May to October and is typically served with 11 daily crossings. The ferry trip normally takes 1 hr 15 min and ticket prices start at €8.50.

Sliema to Buġibba

You can travel by ferry from Sliema to Buġibba between May and September. This route is operated 11 times a day with a travel time of around 30 min and tickets costing from €6.50.

Gozo Highspeed connects Sliema with the port of Buġibba in Malta and the nearby island of Gozo with high-speed ferries.

How much luggage can you take on the ferry from Sliema?

On Gozo Highspeed ferries, you can bring 1 piece of hand luggage (max. size 37×45×25 cm, max. weight 5 kg) and 1 bag (max. size 50×40×80 cm), which must be stowed in the vessel's storage area.

The ferry ride from Sliema generally takes 30 min to 1 hr 15 min, depending on your destination.

• Sliema - Gozo: the ferry trip normally takes 1 hr 15 min.
• Sliema - Buġibba: the journey typically lasts 30 min.

Which is the fastest route from Sliema?

The fastest route from Sliema is to the port of Buġibba, on the northern coast of Malta, with the journey usually lasting 30 min.

What is the cheapest ferry route from Sliema?

The cheapest ferry route from Sliema is the Sliema - Buġibba route, with ticket prices starting at €6.50.

Which destination port should I choose?

Because you are departing directly from the waterfront on The Strand in Sliema, your choice of arrival port depends on your itinerary for the day:

• Buġibba on the northern coast of Malta is ideal if you want to explore the seaside resorts, beaches, and attractions around St. Paul's Bay and Qawra without enduring a lengthy, traffic-heavy bus ride up the coast.
• Gozo is an ideal destination if you are planning a day trip or an extended stay on Malta’s more tranquil neighbor island. Arriving directly at Gozo's main harbor gives you immediate access to local buses, taxis, and boat tours heading out to Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

What other factors should I consider?

• Seasonality: these high-speed coastal routes operate with multiple daily crossings during the high season, usually from May through October. During the winter months, operations generally pause or scale back significantly.
• Travel time: these premium catamaran routes cut down your total transit time considerably by traveling over the water, completely bypassing Malta's central road congestion.
• Departure times: unlike local harbor shuttles that run every few minutes, the fast ferries to Buġibba and Gozo run on a precise daily schedule with a set number of morning and afternoon slots.
• Luggage and pets: you can bring standard luggage and handbags on board free of charge, while bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters are generally allowed onboard subject to space limitations. If you are traveling with a pet, they must remain securely in an approved carrier or on a leash in designated outdoor seating zones.

How much does it cost to bring my car from Sliema?

The ferries serving the routes from Sliema do not have car decks, so it is not possible to transport any motor vehicles, such as cars, motorbikes or campervans. Only bicycles and e-

Can I take my bike or e-scooter on the ferry from Sliema?

Yes, you can take your bicycle, e-bike or e-scooter on the ferry from Sliema, typically for free.

The ferries have a bike rack for 9 bicycles, while e-bikes and e-scooters are transported on the outer deck at your own responsibility.

The high-speed catamarans serving the Sliema ferry routes balance speed and comfort. On board, you can expect basic amenities and services, including an air-conditioned passenger lounge, seating on outer decks to enjoy the sea view and a café/snack bar with light snacks, coffee and drinks.

Are there cabins on the ferries?

No, due to the short duration of the ferry trip from Sliema to Buġibba and Gozo, there are no cabins on the ferries.

What type of seats can you book

On Sliema ferries, you can only book standard deck/lounge seats.

Can I travel first class?

No, Gozo Highspeed does not offer any premium or business-class seats on the Sliema ferry routes.

Can I reserve a specific seat?

No, you cannot reserve specific seats on Sliema ferries, as seating is usually available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once onboard, you can choose any available seat.

If you’re traveling with family or a group, or prefer a window seat, it’s best to arrive at the port a bit earlier to board sooner and pick your preferred seats.

Accessibility

The vessels operated by Gozo Highspeed on the Sliema ferry routes are generally accessible to travelers with disabilities and wheelchair users, featuring ramps and adapted seating.

Boarding assistance is also available upon request and prior notification before the journey.

Can you take pets on the ferry from Sliema?

Pets are generally allowed on the ferries from Sliema, provided you include them in your booking. Pets normally travel for free.

Make sure you bring along your pet’s health and travel documents, as well as tickets and pet supplies you may need for the trip.

Where do pets stay on the ferry?

On ferries from Sliema, you can keep your pet with you, but keep in mind that pets are not allowed to occupy passenger seats. During the trip, dogs must be kept on a leash (no longer than 1.5 m), while a muzzle may be required for the safety of passengers or other animals.

Certified guide and assistance dogs are welcome on board and are exempt from the muzzle requirement, provided they wear the appropriate identification harness.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

No, the ferries serving the routes from Sliema do not offer Wi-Fi access. As the journeys to Gozo and Buġibba are typically short, you can generally rely on your mobile internet connection.

What documents do I need?

Ferries from Sliema to Gozo and Buġibba are domestic crossings within Malta, so you do not normally need a passport or visa to travel, however it is a good idea to carry a valid ID.

If you are traveling to Malta from another country before taking the ferry, make sure to check the latest official entry requirements for your nationality.

How to book ferry tickets

You can easily book ferry tickets from Sliema on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks:

1. Select Sliema as your port of departure, along with your destination and travel dates.
2. Add passengers and pets.
3. Compare travel times and ticket prices.
4. Complete your booking securely online.

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive your ferry tickets by email. Ferryhopper lets you manage your booking, check for updates, and access customer support all in one place.

Check-in and boarding procedures

It is best to be at the port of Sliema at least 30 to 45 min before departure, or around 1 hr before departure during weekends, major holidays, and the busier summer months. Keep in mind that online ticket bookings close 20 min before the vessel departs, while the ticket booths and the boarding gates close 2 min before departure.

Once you arrive at the port, follow the crew’s instructions when boarding and keep your ticket handy throughout the trip.

Can I board with an electronic ticket?

Yes, when booking your Sliema ferry trip on Ferryhopper, you can easily check in online, get your tickets on your phone, and board the ferry directly with your e-ticket without collecting any paper tickets at the port.

Located on Malta's northeastern coast, Sliema is famous for its shopping districts, seaside dining, and its waterfront promenade. The town's centrally located ferry terminal along The Strand is a primary maritime gateway to northern coastal destinations and nearby island of Gozo. Ferry travel from Sliema allows you to bypass the island's heavy road traffic while enjoying stunning views of the Maltese coastline.

For more information about Sliema, you can check out our Malta travel guide.

Best time to book

Ferries from Sliema to Gozo and Buġibba are seasonal, so it is best to book early if you are traveling in summer, especially for weekends, holidays or day trips. Booking a few weeks in advance is usually a good idea for July and August, while shoulder-season trips in May, June, September, and October are often easier to plan closer to your travel date.

If you are planning a same-day return from Gozo, book both legs in advance for peace of mind, as popular evening return crossings can be busier in peak season.

Arrival

Sliema is a small but busy ferry port, especially in summer, so for high-speed ferry trips to Gozo or Buġibba, try to arrive at least 45 min to 1 hr before departure, particularly if you still need to check details at the port or are traveling during peak hours.

Where is Sliema's port?

The Sliema Ferry Terminal is located at The Strand, right on Sliema’s main seafront. The ferry port of Sliema is directly across from Valletta and around 11 km from Malta International Airport.

In the area around the ferry terminal, you will find plenty of traveler amenities, including hotels, waterfront cafés, restaurants and shops.

How to get to Sliema port

• By bus: you can reach Sliema with local bus lines 13, 14, 15, and 16 from Valletta or St. Julian's, or line 222 if traveling from northern coastal areas. From Malta International Airport, the TD3 Airport Direct bus connects the airport with Gżira, Sliema and St. Julian’s.
• By car: simply follow the signs toward The Strand and Sliema. Keep in mind that parking in the area is very limited, especially during the high season.
• By taxi: a taxi ride from the airport to Sliema usually takes around 20-30 min.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Sliema, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.