The ferry service reconnecting Montenegro and Italy has resumed operations with the successful arrival of the AF Mia ship at the port of Bar. According to a statement from the Government, the ferry will now operate twice weekly between Ancona and Bar, marking the start of a fruitful collaboration following months of negotiations led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and involving Barska Plovidba and Adria Ferries.
The opening of the ferry route for this tourist season underscores the efficiency and strong cooperation achieved. Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, speaking at an event aboard the vessel capable of transporting passengers, vehicles, and goods, emphasized the significance of physically linking Montenegro with Italy and beyond.
“This initiative is just the beginning in our efforts to deepen integration between Montenegro and the EU. Integration isn’t just a bureaucratic process; it’s about connecting people, businesses, and opening up new markets. This is a major milestone for the citizens of Bar,” said Prime Minister Spajić.
Highlighting the ferry’s role in providing the fastest connection between Montenegro and Western Europe, Spajić noted its potential to attract tourists from Western countries to explore Montenegro and to facilitate business expansion opportunities.
The Government anticipates that restarting the ferry service will reinvigorate bilateral ties between Italy and Montenegro. The effective implementation of this initiative was supported by Italian Ambassador Andreina Marsela and Adria Ferries officials, led by Alberto Rosi, who played crucial roles in overcoming technical challenges and ensuring swift progress.
Looking ahead, the next objective is to connect Bar with Bari and enhance capacities to fully leverage Barska Plovidba’s participation in the project. Prime Minister Spajić affirmed that the Government will provide full support, with assistance from Italian partners.
Ambassador Marsela emphasized the importance of enhancing direct connections between Italy and Montenegro, underscoring the ferry’s role in fostering closer ties.
Rosi expressed satisfaction with the collaborative efforts to resolve issues swiftly, reflecting the commitment of both parties to making the ferry service a success. He expressed optimism about developing further models to strengthen connectivity between Bar and Bari.
The ceremony marking the ferry’s arrival was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Srđan Pavićević, Minister of Transport and Maritime Affairs Filip Radulović, directors, and board members of Barska Plovidba, as well as representatives from the Port of Bar and Adria Ferries.
AF Mia, with its journey time of 11 hours from Ancona to the Port of Bar, boasts a capacity for 1,528 passengers and a vehicle garage spanning 2,000 meters. Tickets can be purchased at the passenger terminal of Barska Plovidba in Bar, reflecting the anticipated benefits of this renewed maritime connection.
