Negotiations that lasted a little over a month bore fruit! In the port of Vis, an additional 50 meters of operational shoreline is provided for the mooring of tourist boats.
The Croatian Association of Private Shipowners, which brings together more than 250 tourist mini-cruisers, has held a series of meetings in recent weeks with representatives of the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, the Port Authority of Split-Dalmatia County, and the concessionaire Gradina Vis d.o.o. in order to find a solution for the highest quality reception of ships in the Port of Vis.
Direct positive impact on local economies
Mini cruisers, which in recent years have become an internationally recognized Croatian tourism product and an important brand on the European Union market, are recording a significant increase in interest among travelers. The special value of this segment of nautical tourism, shipowners point out, is also reflected in the contribution to local destinations and their economies.
Shipowners warned about the insufficient number of berths in the port of Vis and particularly highlighted the fact that ships have to move when the ferry arrives, which often happens in the early morning hours. Therefore, they requested from the Association to provide moorings in two rows of ships (two landanas), in order to increase both the safety of the ships and the comfort of the guests.
Busy days relieved
It was agreed that on Mondays and Tuesdays, moorings will be provided in two berths in the port of Vis, which means that guests and crews will be spared the night and early morning relocation of ships due to ferry traffic. As a sign of goodwill, the Association agreed to charge the full price of berths for all ships on those two days, regardless of their order in a particular berth. For the other days of the week, the practice remains the same as before.
“Securing a total of 100 meters of coastline, and that in two landings, is a necessary prerequisite for normal business for us. It is a solution in the interest of both shippers, guests, and the destination. Our ships convey a good image of Croatia to the world, and local communities benefit directly from the consumption of guests,” HUPB said.
This has achieved a step towards more stable operations, but also better traffic management in the port of Vis, which should ultimately contribute to greater tourist satisfaction, as well as navigation safety.
