Overview: Malta to Sicily by Ferry
Sicily is just 90 kilometres from Malta, making it an irresistible day trip or weekend escape. The high-speed ferry crossing takes under two hours, whisking you from the Grand Harbour to the sun-drenched shores of southern Sicily.
Whether you're craving authentic Italian gelato, want to explore ancient Greek ruins at Syracuse, or fancy a driving tour through the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, the Malta-Sicily ferry opens up a world of possibilities. Many visitors don't realise just how easy it is to add Italy to their Malta holiday.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the ferry operator, schedules, prices, what to expect at Pozzallo, and detailed day trip suggestions to make the most of your Sicilian adventure. Already familiar with getting around Malta? Let's take you further afield.
Virtu Ferries: The Operator
Virtu Ferries is Malta's premier ferry company and the sole operator of the high-speed catamaran service between Malta and Sicily. The company has been running this route since 1988, providing a reliable connection between the islands.
🚢 The HSC Jean de la Valette
Virtu operates modern high-speed catamarans capable of carrying both passengers and vehicles. The vessels feature:
- Comfortable seating in air-conditioned lounges
- Business class option with extra legroom and priority boarding
- Onboard bar and snack service
- Vehicle deck for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles
- Accessible facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
Booking with Virtu Ferries
Tickets can be booked through several channels:
- Online: Via the official Virtu Ferries website (recommended for best prices)
- Phone: Call the Virtu Ferries booking line
- Travel agents: Many Malta-based agents sell ferry tickets
- Terminal: Walk-up tickets available (subject to availability)
Important: Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during summer months (June-September), Easter, and Italian public holidays when the ferry is often fully booked.
Pozzallo Terminal & Arrival
The ferry arrives at Pozzallo, a small fishing town on Sicily's southern coast. While Pozzallo itself is pleasant, most visitors use it as a gateway to explore wider Sicily.
🏖️ About Pozzallo
Pozzallo is a laid-back Sicilian town with beautiful sandy beaches and a charming seafront promenade. If you have time before your return ferry, it's worth a wander.
Pozzallo highlights:
- Torre Cabrera: A 15th-century watchtower overlooking the harbour
- Piazza delle Rimembranze: The main square with cafes and gelaterias
- Sandy beaches: Clean, less crowded than northern Sicily
🚌 Getting Around from Pozzallo
Once you arrive, you have several options for exploring Sicily:
- Hire car: Pre-book through the ferry or pick up at the terminal. Best for flexibility.
- Organised tours: Virtu Ferries offers day trip packages including coach transfers
- Public buses: AST buses connect Pozzallo to Ragusa and other towns (limited schedules)
- Taxi: Available at the terminal for transfers to Syracuse (approx. 45 mins)
- Train: Pozzallo has no railway station; nearest is Modica (15 mins by taxi)
Schedules & Crossing Times
The Malta-Sicily ferry schedule varies by season, with more frequent services during summer and reduced sailings in winter.
⏰ Typical Schedule
Crossing time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Summer (April-October):
- Morning departure from Valletta: 06:00-07:00
- Afternoon departure from Valletta: 14:00-15:00 (selected days)
- Evening return from Pozzallo: 18:00-19:00
- Up to 2-3 crossings daily in each direction
Winter (November-March):
- Reduced service: typically 1 crossing daily or less
- Some days may have no service
- Check the Virtu Ferries website for specific dates
Departure Point in Malta
Ferries depart from the Virtu Ferries Terminal at Pinto Wharf, Valletta Grand Harbour. The terminal is located near the Valletta Waterfront entertainment complex.
Getting to the terminal:
- By bus: Take any bus to Valletta, then walk down to the Waterfront (10-15 mins) or take the lift from Upper Barrakka Gardens
- By Bolt/taxi: Direct drop-off at the terminal (search for "Virtu Ferries Terminal")
- By car: Parking available at the Waterfront car park (paid)
For more transport options to reach the terminal, see our Getting Around Malta guide.
Ticket Prices & Booking
Ferry prices vary by season, how far in advance you book, and your ticket class. Here's a general guide to help you budget.
| Ticket Type | Low Season | High Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Return | EUR 130-140 | EUR 150-170 | Standard economy class |
| Child Return (4-12) | EUR 70-80 | EUR 85-95 | Age verified at check-in |
| Infant (under 4) | Free | Free | No seat allocation |
| Car + Driver Return | EUR 250-280 | EUR 300-350 | Standard size vehicle |
| Business Class | +EUR 30-40 | +EUR 30-40 | Upgrade per person |
Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always check the Virtu Ferries website for current fares.
💳 Booking Tips
- Book early: Prices increase closer to departure, and summer sailings sell out
- Check for promotions: Virtu regularly offers discounted day trip packages
- Flexible dates? Mid-week crossings are often cheaper than weekends
- Round trip: Return tickets are better value than two singles
- Vehicle booking: Reserve car space well in advance (weeks, not days)
Check-in Requirements
- Online check-in: Available from 48 hours before departure
- Terminal check-in opens: 2 hours before sailing
- Boarding closes: 30 minutes before departure
- Documents required: Booking confirmation, valid ID or passport
Day Trip Ideas from Malta
A day trip to Sicily is entirely feasible and hugely rewarding. Here are our favourite ways to spend your time across the water.
🏛️ Syracuse Day Trip (Most Popular)
Distance from Pozzallo: 60 km (45 mins by car/taxi)
Syracuse (Siracusa) is the jewel of southeastern Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the most powerful city in the ancient Greek world, it rivals Athens for historical significance.
Must-see highlights:
- Ortigia Island: The historic heart with baroque architecture, the stunning Cathedral, and atmospheric streets
- Ear of Dionysius: A remarkable cave with incredible acoustics in the Archaeological Park
- Greek Theatre: One of the largest ancient theatres, still used for performances
- Arethusa Fountain: A freshwater spring on Ortigia surrounded by papyrus
🏰 Ragusa & Modica Day Trip
Distance from Pozzallo: Ragusa 30 km, Modica 15 km
The Baroque towns of the Val di Noto are a feast for the eyes. Ragusa and Modica, both UNESCO-listed, are close to Pozzallo and easy to combine.
Highlights:
- Ragusa Ibla: The lower old town with winding streets and the stunning Duomo di San Giorgio
- Modica chocolate: Famous for its unique Aztec-style chocolate - visit Antica Dolceria Bonajuto
- Modica Alta & Bassa: The upper and lower towns connected by dramatic stairways
🌋 Mount Etna (Ambitious Day Trip)
Distance from Pozzallo: 140 km (2 hours by car)
While ambitious for a day trip, visiting Europe's highest active volcano is possible if you start early and hire a car or join an organised tour.
What's involved:
- Drive to Rifugio Sapienza (the main tourist base)
- Take the cable car and 4x4 minibus to near the summit craters
- Guided walks across lava fields and crater edges
Sicily Highlights to Explore
If you're planning more than a day trip, Sicily has endless attractions. Here's what's within reach of Pozzallo.
Within 1 Hour of Pozzallo
- Syracuse & Ortigia: Ancient Greek history and baroque beauty
- Ragusa Ibla: Stunning baroque hilltop town
- Modica: Chocolate capital with dramatic architecture
- Noto: The "Stone Garden" - perhaps Sicily's most beautiful baroque town
- Marzamemi: Charming fishing village with excellent seafood
Within 2 Hours of Pozzallo
- Catania: Sicily's second city at the foot of Mount Etna
- Taormina: Glamorous clifftop resort with Greek theatre views
- Mount Etna: Europe's largest active volcano
- Piazza Armerina: Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale
🍝 Sicilian Food Not to Miss
Sicily has some of Italy's best food. Don't leave without trying:
- Arancini: Fried rice balls stuffed with ragu or other fillings
- Cannoli: Crispy tubes filled with sweet ricotta (order them fresh!)
- Granita with brioche: Sicilian breakfast of iced fruit slush with sweet bread
- Pasta alla Norma: Syracuse specialty with aubergine and ricotta salata
- Fresh seafood: Especially in coastal towns like Marzamemi
- Modica chocolate: Grainy, intense chocolate made the ancient way
Practical Tips
Before You Go
- Book ferry tickets in advance - especially for summer and if taking a car
- Arrange transport in Sicily - don't assume you can hire a car at the terminal without booking
- Check ferry status - sailings can be cancelled in rough weather (winter months)
- Bring valid ID - passport or national ID card required
- Download offline maps - mobile data roaming applies in Italy for non-EU visitors
On the Ferry
- Arrive 1-2 hours early for check-in and security
- Take seasickness medication if you're sensitive - the crossing can be choppy
- Bring layers - air conditioning on board can be cold
- Snacks and drinks are available but pricey; bring your own if budget-conscious
- Sit outside on deck (weather permitting) for stunning views of both islands
In Sicily
- Sicily operates on Italian time - same as Malta (CET/CEST)
- Euro is the currency - no need to exchange money
- Shops close for siesta - typically 13:00-16:00, plan accordingly
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated for good service
- English is less common in rural Sicily than in Malta - learn a few Italian phrases
🍽️ Back in Malta? Where to Eat
After your Sicilian adventure, discover Malta's best restaurants:
Need Recommendations?
Ask AI Assistant 🤖📥 Download Your Free Sicily Day Trip Planner
Get our printable PDF with ferry times, Syracuse itinerary, and top restaurant picks!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ferry from Malta to Sicily?
The Virtu Ferries high-speed catamaran takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Valletta to Pozzallo. This is the only direct passenger ferry service between Malta and Sicily, operating year-round with multiple daily crossings in summer and reduced schedules in winter.
How much does the Malta to Sicily ferry cost?
Standard return fares start from around EUR 130-150 for foot passengers, though prices vary by season and how far in advance you book. Children (4-12) receive discounts, and infants under 4 travel free. Day trip packages and promotional fares are often available, so check the Virtu Ferries website for current offers.
Can I take my car on the Malta to Sicily ferry?
Yes, Virtu Ferries catamarans can transport vehicles. Car fares vary by vehicle size and season, typically starting from EUR 100-150 return for a standard car (in addition to passenger fares). Booking in advance is essential, especially during summer and holiday periods when vehicle spaces fill up quickly.
Is a day trip from Malta to Sicily possible?
Yes, day trips are popular and feasible. Morning departures from Valletta arrive in Pozzallo by mid-morning, giving you 6-8 hours in Sicily before the evening return ferry. You can visit Syracuse (45 minutes from Pozzallo), explore Ragusa, or enjoy the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto. Organised day trip packages are also available.
Where does the Malta to Sicily ferry depart from?
Ferries depart from Valletta's Grand Harbour, specifically from the Virtu Ferries terminal at Pinto Wharf (near the Valletta Waterfront). The terminal is easily accessible by bus, Bolt, or on foot from central Valletta. Check-in opens 2 hours before departure, and you must arrive at least 1 hour before sailing time.