Port information & tips for Mgarr Harbour (Gozo)
Gozo, Malta's enchanting sister island, welcomes travelers to the picturesque harbor of Mgarr with an incomparable Mediterranean idyll. The approach impresses with a panorama of azure water, traditional luzzu fishing boats, and the striking neo-Gothic Our Lady of Lourdes chapel, which towers majestically over the harbor basin. In the immediate vicinity, the historic Fort Chambray and the charming village of Għajnsielem invite initial exploration and immediately convey the island's authentic flair. Cruise ships utilize the berths at the Mgarr Ferry Terminal or the pier, from where the central island capital Victoria is easily reached in around ten minutes thanks to excellent connections by bus or taxi, allowing visitors to marvel at the famous medieval Cittadella.
Mgarr Harbour on Gozo, Malta, is an idyllic cruise port primarily reached by plane and a subsequent ferry connection from the main island of Malta. For a relaxed arrival, an overnight stay in advance is recommended due to the longer transfer times.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is via Malta International Airport (MLA) on the main island of Malta, which is served by direct flights from many German, Austrian, and Swiss airports. The airport is located about 30 kilometers from the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal, from where the ferry departs for Gozo. An early arrival with an overnight stay on Malta or Gozo is recommended for a stress-free start to your cruise.
Ferry & Transfer
From Malta International Airport (MLA), you can easily reach the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in northern Malta by taxi or rental car in about 45 to 60 minutes. From Cirkewwa, the Gozo Channel ferry crosses regularly and reliably to Mgarr Harbour; the crossing takes only about 25 minutes. Upon arrival in Mgarr Harbour, the cruise piers are usually within walking distance or just a short taxi ride away. There are no direct highways to the port; the journey is via well-maintained country roads on Malta and Gozo.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the multi-stage journey by plane and ferry, an overnight stay before embarkation is recommended. Hotels near Malta International Airport (MLA), in the Valletta area, or St. Julian’s on Malta are ideal for starting the ferry transfer on embarkation day feeling refreshed. Alternatively, you can book a charming hotel directly on Gozo, for example near Mgarr or Victoria, to enjoy the beauty of the island before your cruise. Parking for rental cars is available at the ferry terminals in Cirkewwa and Mgarr, although these are primarily designed for the local population.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Mgarr Harbour on Gozo, Malta, is an idyllic cruise port primarily reached by plane and a subsequent ferry connection from the main island of Malta. For a relaxed arrival, an overnight stay in advance is recommended due to the longer transfer times.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is via Malta International Airport (MLA) on the main island of Malta, which is served by direct flights from many German, Austrian, and Swiss airports. The airport is located about 30 kilometers from the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal, from where the ferry departs for Gozo. An early arrival with an overnight stay on Malta or Gozo is recommended for a stress-free start to your cruise.
Ferry & Transfer
From Malta International Airport (MLA), you can easily reach the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in northern Malta by taxi or rental car in about 45 to 60 minutes. From Cirkewwa, the Gozo Channel ferry crosses regularly and reliably to Mgarr Harbour; the crossing takes only about 25 minutes. Upon arrival in Mgarr Harbour, the cruise piers are usually within walking distance or just a short taxi ride away. There are no direct highways to the port; the journey is via well-maintained country roads on Malta and Gozo.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the multi-stage journey by plane and ferry, an overnight stay before embarkation is recommended. Hotels near Malta International Airport (MLA), in the Valletta area, or St. Julian’s on Malta are ideal for starting the ferry transfer on embarkation day feeling refreshed. Alternatively, you can book a charming hotel directly on Gozo, for example near Mgarr or Victoria, to enjoy the beauty of the island before your cruise. Parking for rental cars is available at the ferry terminals in Cirkewwa and Mgarr, although these are primarily designed for the local population.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Mgarr Harbour welcomes you as a charming gateway to the island of Gozo and, thanks to its well-organized structure, offers excellent orientation immediately after leaving the ship.
Tallinja Buses and Hop-On Hop-Off
The green Tallinja scheduled buses depart frequently directly from the port terminal and reach the island's capital, Victoria, in about 15 minutes. In addition, the popular Hop-On Hop-Off buses start here, providing a convenient round trip to the island's most important sights and temple complexes.
Taxi and Tuk-Tuk
Numerous official white taxis are available at the exit of the port area and offer a direct transfer to any destination on the island. At the same time, the Tuk-Tuks typical of Gozo can be found at the quay, representing an original and service-oriented way of getting around the picturesque villages.
Ferries and Water Taxis
The landing stages for the fast ferries to Valletta as well as small boats and water taxis towards Comino are located directly at the terminal. Thanks to short intervals, these connections allow for uncomplicated access to the Blue Lagoon and also offer a wonderful view of the rugged coastline.
To get the most out of your stay on Gozo, we recommend a combination of exploring the historic capital Victoria and the impressive natural and cultural treasures, which are quickly accessible from the port thanks to short distances.
Victoria & The Citadel
The charming island capital Victoria delights with its magnificent medieval fortress and offers a spectacular panoramic view thanks to its elevated location, as well as winding alleys that are perfect for a relaxed stroll through the city.
Ramla Bay
This extraordinary stretch of coastline impresses with its bright golden-red sand and crystal-clear water; moreover, the extensive bay is an ideal place for a relaxing break in the midst of untouched nature thanks to its idyllic location.
Ggantija Temples
The monumental UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the oldest free-standing structures in the world and also fascinates visitors with its mystical atmosphere and impressive megalithic structures, which offer deep insight into the history of Gozo.
The Citadel of Victoria
The impressive Citadel towers majestically over the island's capital, Victoria, and is easily accessible from the port of Mgarr in about fifteen minutes by taxi or public bus. This perfectly restored fortress offers cruise guests fascinating insights into the medieval history of Gozo, as well as a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view across the entire island to the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. The winding alleys invite you to take a relaxed stroll and also feature charming cafés and small boutiques with local handicrafts on the cathedral square in front. Ideally, visit the Citadel in the morning to fully enjoy the peace of the complex, and plan your return journey to the port about ninety minutes before departure to be back on board relaxed and on time.
Returning to the port of Mgarr is very relaxed and safe thanks to the compact size of the island of Gozo and the well-organized means of transport.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services
Thanks to the white taxis, which you can find at central locations such as Independence Square in Victoria or the waterfront promenades of Xlendi and Marsalforn, you can get back to the terminal quickly at any time. In addition, vehicles can be conveniently ordered at fixed prices directly to your current location via apps such as Bolt or eCabs, allowing for a punctual arrival at the ship.
Public Bus
The central bus station in Victoria serves as an ideal hub and offers a direct connection to the port of Mgarr with lines 301 and 323. The buses run at regular intervals and, thanks to the short distances on the island, bring you back to the port area easily and cost-effectively.
Orientation and Walking Path
If you end the day in the village of Ghajnsielem, located directly above the port, you can take a relaxed stroll down the paved footpaths to the pier. The striking Lourdes Chapel high above the bay serves as a reliable landmark and leads you directly and safely back to your ship's berth.
