A new ferry route has launched, connecting the iconic Croatian city of Dubrovnik and the fortified town of Kotor on Montenegro’s coast. Aboard the catamaran Antonija, the first passengers enjoyed the scenic route on Monday, June 2.
“The introduction of the new maritime line Kotor–Dubrovnik marks a significant step forward in strengthening the friendly and economic ties between Montenegro and Croatia,” said Montenegro’s Minister of Maritime Affairs, Filip Radulović, during the opening in Kotor. He added that he hoped the new route would make the coastlines of both countries even more attractive for visitors. Operated by Kompas, the ferry line will connect the two hotspots until 30 September this year and is expected to greatly ease travel for both locals and tourists.
“In addition, by relieving pressure on the main roads, it will contribute to environmental preservation and the sustainable development of tourism,” Minister Radulović added.
The catamaran Antonija, with a capacity of 242 passengers, will operate on Mondays and Wednesdays.
According to Direct Ferries, the journey takes three hours, with tickets available for £43.85 per person in early July. The route from Dubrovnik to Kotor leaves at 9am local time, while the return departs at 5.30pm.
In 2024, Dubrovnik experienced a surge in tourism, solidifying its position as a top destination in Croatia. The city welcomed 1.35 million visitors, a 9% increase from the previous year, and saw just under 4.3 million overnight stays, up 10% year-on-year, according to The Dubrovnik Times.
Kotor, meanwhile, also experienced a surge in tourim. Uprava za statistiku – MONSTAT reported a total of over 2.6 million arrivals and 15.6 million overnight stays. Notably, foreign tourists accounted for 96% of overnights, while domestic tourists made up the remaining 3.9%.
The Dubrovnik-Kotor ferry is not the only route to launch this summer. A new service will link the historic Italian port city of Trieste with Croatia. The schedule includes two weekly departures on all three of its routes and it will operate from June 26 to early September.