Seven entities have expressed interest in partnering with Gozo Channel to submit a joint bid for the operation of a fast ferry service between Mġarr and Valletta, most of them from foreign operators, the Gozo Ministry said.

No information was given about the bidders, one of whom will by chosen by Gozo Channel, so that it can submit a bid to the government for the service by the time the tender closes on April 26.

Read: New tender for fast ferry service issued

The partner is expected to commit exclusively to Gozo Channel’s bid and it may not submit its own bid, participate as a member in a third party joint venture, consortium or other economic association, or accept to be named as a sub-contractor in a third party’s bid.

The government has decided that anyone who wants to run the service would also have to run the current service between Malta and Gozo – effectively limiting the bid in practical terms to Gozo Channel and its selected partner.

Read: Gozo-Malta fast-ferry provider must run traditional crossing