The ongoing crisis in the Middle East could have an impact on ticket prices, Virtu Ferries – the operator of the popular sea link betwen Valletta and Pozzallo in Sicily – has warned.

In its latest financial report, it said that “in 2026 Malta-Sicily operations are expected to be affected by the high volatility in the fuel markets primarily driven by geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.”

The group’s bulk fuel procurement arrangements mean that in the first half of the year, the price of fuel is expected to have a “minimal” effect.

European Union measures that facilitate state aid to the tune of 70 per cent of the increased costs could also ease price pressures and keep ticket prices down, said the group.

“However, should fuel prices continue at their current high levels, the group will be constrained to put into place the existing fuel surcharge mechanism,” it said, referring to a surcharge shipping firms may impose on their customers to compensate for volatile fuel costs.

Even allowing for a reduction in the number of trips and lower demand, Virtu still expected to see “satisfactory levels of profitability” in 2026.

“Forecasts prepared by management show levels of profitability and cash generation to continue to take place over the course of the coming year.”

The group beat its own forecasts last year, generating €13.8 million in pre-tax profits – €4 million more than projected.

Virtu said the improvement was largely due to stronger than expected demand on the Malta-Sicily ferry service in freight operations, along with moderating fuel costs.