Reaching Malta from Italy by sea is now possible quickly, reliably and comfortably thanks to the Virtu Ferries hydrofoil service on the Pozzallo – Valletta route.
It is currently the fastest sea link between Italy and Malta, a solution increasingly chosen by those who want to avoid the plane without giving up competitive travel times. In this article you will find everything you need to know: duration, schedules, departures in rough seas, alternative ports and other practical tips from ferryfinder.com.
What is the fastest way to reach Malta by sea from Italy?
The Pozzallo – Valletta link operated by Virtu Ferries is now the fastest sea crossing from Italy to Malta.
Key Data
- Average duration: about 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Ship type: hydrofoil/high-speed catamaran
- Direct route: nonstop
- Port of departure: Pozzallo (southeastern Sicily)
No other Italian port currently offers a sea link with shorter times.
Why does the hydrofoil to Malta leave from Pozzallo?
Pozzallo is the closest Italian port to Valletta Malta. This strategic geographic location allows:
- reduced navigation time
- use of fast ships
- regular year-round connections
This is why the port of Pozzallo has become the point of reference for Italy-Malta maritime connections.
Virtù Ferries hydrofoils to Valletta (Malta) : comfort and speed
Virtue Ferries uses modern high-speed catamarans designed for stability and comfort.
- On-board services
- numbered and air-conditioned seats
- comfortable indoor environments
- snack and beverage service
- luggage spaces
The level of comfort on board Virtù Ferries hydrofoils and catamarans is superior to that of a traditional ferry, with significantly shorter travel times from Pozzallo to Valletta Malta.
Does the hydrofoil to Valletta Malta leave even in rough seas?
Yes, Virtu Ferries hydrofoils can depart to Valletta (Malta)even in rough seas, within certain safety limits.
What happens in case of rough seas?
- with moderately rough seas, runs are normally made
In adverse marine weather conditions, the company may:
- delay the departure
- change the time
- cancel the race for safety
In the winter months, it is always advisable to check weather forecasts and official communications before going to the port.
Hydrofoil Schedules Pozzallo – Valletta
Hydrofoil departure times from Pozzallo to Malta vary by season.
In general:
- Spring/summer: more daily rides
- fall/winter: reduced frequency but regular service
They are usually provided:
- morning departures
- afternoon departures
- Additional routes during periods of high demand
From which Italian ports can you reach Malta by hydrofoil and ferry?
Many users are looking for information on alternative connections, such as Catania or Syracuse. Here is the updated situation.
Catania – Valletta Malta ferry: is it still operational?
No. Currently there is no active scheduled ferry between Catania and Malta. The longer distance from Pozzallo would still make the crossing longer and less efficient. Those looking for “Catania Malta ferry” should consider Pozzallo as their only real alternative.
Syracuse – Valletta Malta by sea?
Syracuse does not have regular sea connections with Malta either. Attempts or occasional services have existed in the past, but none are stable or continuous.
Departures to Malta from other Italian ports
Ports such as Palermo, Reggio Calabria or Naples do not offer regular direct connections
- Would require very long navigation time
- Are not competitive for passenger transport
What is the best port to reach Malta?
To date, Pozzallo is the only Italian port from which regular, direct, high-speed ferry connections to Malta depart. The Pozzallo – Valletta route with Virtu Ferries is:
- The fastest way by sea to reach Malta
- the most concrete solution
- the most popular route chosen by Italian travelers who want to get to Malta by sea
Buy Pozzallo – Valletta (Malta) hydrofoil tickets on FerryFinder
To best plan your sea journey to Malta, FerryFinder is the ideal tool to compare all available solutions in seconds.
Thanks to the FerryFinder search engine you can:
- Compare all sea routes to Malta,
- Check updated schedules and availability,
- Choose hydrofoil or ferry according to your needs,
- Identify the most affordable fares based on the travel period.
Whether you are planning a vacation, a weekend getaway or a business trip, ferryfinder.com helps you find the best solution to reach Valletta from Pozzallo, in a simple, fast and transparent way. Compare the available options and book your hydrofoil to Malta at the best price.
