Ponte Ferries has said that it is “still determined to bring competition to the Malta-Sicily route.”

In a statement on Saturday, the company said that is wished to “clarify” that it was “both willing and able to commence its fast ferry service to Sicily on August the 6th and was prevented from doing so due to last minute contestations by a competing operator on the use of berthing quays in Augusta.”

“Ponte Ferries was and is in possession of a valid permit from Transport Malta as well as the necessary certifications for a newly refurbished vessel to operate from Malta,” it said.

The company stressed that, “the ramps at its designated berths in Grand Harbour and Augusta were tested, certified and also ready to accommodate trucks and cars.”

“Ponte Ferries opted to complete the finalisation of the third alley way of its Malta ramp following the unfortunate delays encountered in Sicily. That is the real reason for the presence of equipment on site,” it said.

Ponte Ferries said that “in spite of these obstacles the company remains determined and committed to offer travellers and commuters a choice of service to Sicily.”

The company concluded by saying that it “feels it should not issue further statements in view of the ongoing discussions with Italian Authorities.”

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