The Port of Kotor is anticipating a significant surge in revenue this year, projecting a total income of €6.8 million, marking a substantial 43% increase compared to the previous year. Ljiljana Popović-Moškov, Chair of the Board of Directors, made this announcement, highlighting that the projected revenue is notably higher by 67% compared to the year 2022, which represented the first year of normal operations post-COVID crisis, as reported by Radio Kotor.
Popović-Moškov further disclosed that a total of 505 ship arrivals are scheduled for this year, carrying approximately 700,000 passengers, indicating an increase of about 150,000 passengers from the previous year.
However, she cautioned that not all projected arrivals may materialize due to various technical or logistical reasons. Despite this, the plan encompasses 490 ship arrivals, marking an increase of about 40 ships compared to the previous year.
To alleviate pressure on the city’s infrastructure, the Port of Kotor has strategically scheduled ship arrivals. In line with this, Popović-Moškov revealed plans to abolish anchorage No. 1 in front of the Faculty of Maritime Studies from the following year. This move aims to allow for the anchoring of two or three ships at remote anchorages instead of two, contributing to the overall sustainability of tourism in Kotor.
The removal of anchorage No. 1 is expected to significantly ease the burden on passenger traffic and infrastructure. While this change was initially planned for the previous year, its implementation was delayed until now, with approval pending from the Shareholders’ Assembly of the Port of Kotor, scheduled for May 14.
In addition to operational enhancements, the Port of Kotor will now hold exclusive rights for pilotage activities in Kotor Bay, a development resulting from negotiations with the Government of Montenegro over the past three years. This achievement is reflected in an annex to the contract, ensuring the Port’s stable revenues for the next eight years.
Popović-Moškov also highlighted ongoing efforts to address challenges related to illegal mooring of vessels in the marine area. Over 40 cases have been processed, with compensation claims already being enforced. Looking ahead, discussions are underway with the local government to establish regulations similar to those governing taxi services, aiming to regulate the number of permits issued for gliders, thus ensuring optimal management of maritime resources in Kotor Bay.
