Bar-Ancona Ferry Line: Montenegro Sailing Toward Better Connectivity or Just Making Waves Without Direction?
Ready for another maritime adventure or just another attempt to “get things moving”? Montenegro has just launched a new ferry line Bar-Ancona, which will operate two to three times a week starting mid-September. Officially, this is the fourth ferry line opened this season, and Minister of Maritime Affairs Filip Radulović claims it proves the government’s commitment to developing maritime transport.
But let’s dive a little deeper.
What’s really going on?
The Bar-Ancona line is a new connection between Montenegro and Italy, which sounds like a great idea for tourism and the economy. Radulović proudly stated the line will run two to three times a week, aiming to strengthen the maritime network and regional connectivity. Previously, lines Bar-Bari, Budva-Dubrovnik, and Kotor-Dubrovnik were established, further showing Montenegro’s ambition to be a key player in maritime transport.
But is it all sunshine and rainbows?
Boris Mihailović, Executive Director of Bar Shipping, says last year’s cooperation was “mutually satisfying” and this year they expect more passengers, cars, and trucks. However, he didn’t provide concrete numbers, and it’s known that there have already been issues with sailing and the Jadrolinija company, with schedule adjustments announced in July due to “certain problems.”
Is this just another political show?
Minister Radulović and Executive Director Mihailović throw around words like “commitment,” “significance,” and “key for the local community and economy,” but is that really the case? Will this line truly bring an economic boom, or will it be another project spinning in circles with promises but no real impact?
What do citizens and passengers say?
There’s still little info on how this line will affect everyday life. Will ticket prices be affordable? Will the service be reliable? Or will passengers be disappointed again by delays, poor organization, and problems with the companies running the lines?
Conclusion
The new Bar-Ancona ferry line sounds like a great idea on paper. But, as many times before, the question remains whether promises will be fulfilled or if it will all stay just pretty words and political phrases. Montenegro has the potential to become an important maritime hub, but only if organizational and infrastructure problems are seriously and permanently solved.
Meanwhile, as we wait for the first ships to sail, tell us — do you believe in this new maritime story or think it’s just another wave in a sea of promises? Drop a comment, maybe together we’ll find out if this is a voyage to success or just a ride in circles!
Reminder: The Bar-Ancona line will operate two to three times a week starting mid-September, while the Bar-Bari line already runs once a week since late August. Last month, Budva-Dubrovnik and Kotor-Dubrovnik lines were also established.
