1
Scuttling of the MV Xlendi

Gozo Channel donated the M.V. Xlendi to the Gozo Tourism Association for scuttling purposes off the coast of Gozo with the intention to create an artifical reef i.e. Marine haven.

2
Renal Unit for the Gozo Hospital

The sponsoring of the purchase of the renal unit for the Gozo General Hospital relieves the Gozitan patients from the hardship to cross over regularly.

3
Preserving Local Heritage

The restoration of the “Sacra Famiglia” is a commitment undertaken by Gozo Channel as part of its contribution towards the preservation of local heritage.

Board of Directors

Joe Cordina
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN

Joe Cordina is an Accountant by profession and started out as a sole practitioner in 1994, having already established himself as a respected player in the business with a long and distinguished career behind him in a number of companies, including Bank of Valletta.

Dr. Marlene Cini
Company board of director's Secretary
Ms.Tania Vella
BOARD MEMBER
George Paul Camilleri
BOARD MEMBER
Joe Debono Grech
BOARD MEMBER
Ms. Josephine Hili
BOARD MEMBER
Mr. Godwin Agius
BOARD MEMBER
Bugeja Anthony
BOARD MEMBER
Buttigieg Carmel
BOARD MEMBER
Said Joseph
Director

History

Gozo Channel was formed in 1979, to maintain, develop, and operate a sea transport service to and from Malta, Gozo and elsewhere which, by the carriage of passengers, freight and mail, will serve the national economy and interest of the Maltese Islands.

The overriding business strategy for Gozo Channel is to provide an economic, efficient, profitable, reliable and safe service to Gozo and for the Company’s customers. Management has identified a number of key elements which will assist the Company achieve its objectives. These include:

• Safety, quality and environmental protection;

• Offering competitive and reasonable prices and complying with the social obligation aspect required of the Company;

• Basing the Company’s strategy on a marketing and customer care orientation.

The Company’s first vessels to operate the route were the M/V Ghawdex (purchased in early 1979) the M/V Melitaland and M/V Mgarr (both purchased in early 1980). Initially, these vessels performed an average of eight (8) round trips per day.

With diversification in mind, a seasonal service to Sicily was introduced in June 1981 with the M/V Ghawdex. The Company operated up to three (3) weekly trips to Siracuse, Catania and eventually Pozzallo and the service became very popular among local Maltese and Gozotan wishing to spend a day or more in Sicily. The service was discontinued in 1995.

As the traffic between Malta and Gozo increased, more vessels were introduced into the service to cope with the demand, and by 1990 the Company was operating five (5) vessels, including a fast ferry service between Mgarr, Sliema and Sa Maison, and performing an average of 27 round trips per day. In that year the Company carried 1.93 million passengers and 370,000 cars.

In the mid 90s, the Company embarked on a very ambitious programme – the modernisation of the fleet. Plans for the construction of three ro-ro vessels at the Malta Shipbuilding were finalised. The first vessel, the M.V. Ta’ Pinu, was introduced into service in March 2000, whilst the second ship, the M.V. Gaudos entered into service in February 2001. The third vessel, the M.V. Malita, was delivered in March 2002. All vessels have state of the art technology.

In line with the ongoing modernisation programme, the Company introduced various customer care initiatives. Customer orientation became the order of the day. This is reflected in the slogan adopted by the Company: ‘A Service to Gozo and for our Customers’.

Today, Gozo Channel has become one of the leading local maritime companies in Malta, with over 200 employees. On average, the company performs 20,000 trips a year, and ferries around 4.1 million passengers and 1.2 million vehicles annually between the two Islands.

As shown by its history, over the coming years, the Company will continue to strive to improve its service in line with the development of Gozo and the demands of its customers.

Gozo Channel Safety

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DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY

Drivers are ultimately responsible for the safe operation of their vehicle. Please follow the directions of traffic directors and spotters when instructed.

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MOTORCYCLIST RESPONSIBILITY

Motorcyclists must use caution when driving on the approach ramps and vehicle decks. Drivers should be alert to possible slippery surface, securing railings and other equipment located on vehicle decks. Motorcycle drivers are responsible for securing their own machines.

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PETS

Pets are only allowed in the lobby and in all outdoor spaces of the vessels. Pets must be leashed or kept in pet containers. Pets are not allowed in the lounge and cafeteria areas. All pet owners are responsible for any and all actions of animals. Please be considerate of others and clean up after your pet.

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Life Saving Equipment

On board the Company’s vessels there is an abundant supply of life jackets in both adult and child sizes. In addition, there are life rafts and rescue boats which are used in conjunction with marine emergency evacuation slides (MES) that ensure ample capacity for all on board.

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Emergency Procedures

On board the Company’s vessels there is an abundant supply of life jackets in both adult and child sizes. In addition, there are life rafts and rescue boats which are used in conjunction with marine emergency evacuation slides (MES) that ensure ample capacity for all on board.

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MOVING ABOUT THE VESSEL

Passengers should be aware that in order to meet the highest standards for vessel safety, certain requirements such as raised door sill and automatic doors may pose a challenge for some passengers. Passengers should be alert to possible rolling and pitching of the vessel during a voyage.

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AED DEVICES

AED devices are available on board all Gozo Channel vessels and at both Terminals (Mgarr and Cirkewwa). These are life saving automated external defibrillator (AED) that feature Rescue Ready®, RescueCoach™ and STAR® biphasic technology to simplify the use of these devices and moreover specific staff have been trained accordingly.

Click here to view the user demonstration of the AED devices.

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ACCESS TO VEHICLE DECKS

Passengers are not allowed to remain in their vehicles during the crossing.

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FIRE PROTECTION

Fire and smoke detectors, along with portable fire extinguishers, are located throughout the ship, with extinguishing systems installed in all areas.

Accessibility for disabled persons

A priority lane has been set up at both Cirkewwa and Mgarr to assist persons with disability. Lifts are available on M.V Malita, M.V. Ta Pinu and M.V. Gaudos whilst a chair lift is available on M.V. Nikolaos.

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