Government issues call for tender for scheduled Valletta ferry

Transport Malta is seeking operators to provide two scheduled ferry services between Sliema and Marsamxett, and for the inner part of Dockyard Creek in Cospicua, in a bid to promote more sustainable forms of transport.

"This strategy has the objective of reducing the level of land traffic, its associated costs and environmental impact, by increasing the availability and accessibility of alternative means of transport," the authority said in a statement.

TM said this strategy includes a more regular maritime service, connecting Valletta to both the Cottonera and the Sliema areas.

After a steep decline in the popularity of transportation by sea during the final quarter of the last century, the Sliema and Valletta connection has recently seen a steady increase in popularity. There are strong indicators that the volume of users, particularly those of tourists, can be increased further and well beyond the trips per day currently conducted during the peak season. 

TM said the new contract will be for the duration of eight years. The operator will have to pay a financial contribution from the fourth year onwards, while TM will offer free use of the lift at Lascaris in Valletta, for all valid ferry ticket holders. The offer will be introduced immediately on commissioning of the lift, which is expected to be by not later than early 2013.

Maximum fares will not exceed €1.50 per trip for adults, TM said, while children under 12, pensioners and blue card holders will pay 50c.