Lisbon's ferry operator admits delays but promises electric fleet progress by 2026

Transtejo, Lisbon's ferry operator, has admitted to ongoing delays and service failures in 2025. Despite these challenges, the company reports signs of improvement and has outlined plans for the coming year. A record number of passenger complaints and slow progress on electric ferries have marked the past 12 months. The operator faced over 900 complaints in 2025—the highest in five years. Many issues stemmed from delays in rolling out electric ferries, with only six of the planned ten vessels currently in service. Three key routes—Seixal, Cacilhas, and Montijo—will see electric boats operational by March 2026, with full functionality expected by early summer. Initial setbacks included missing batteries on nine new boats and uninstalled charging stations, pushing timelines back by two years.

The new management team has acknowledged the surge in complaints and is working to address them. Despite the problems, Transtejo estimates it carried 22 million passengers last year, reflecting the service's continued importance in the region.

Looking ahead, the company hints at expanding its network. New routes, such as Algés and Parque das Nações, could be introduced soon. Over the past 50 years, Transtejo has grown steadily, adding more routes, longer schedules, and modern vessels. Transtejo closes 2025 with a mix of setbacks and progress. The delayed electric fleet remains a priority, with key routes set for activation in early 2026. As the operator moves forward, resolving complaints and expanding services will shape its performance in the year ahead.