Jadrolinija plans to upgrade fleet with eco-friendly ships, replacing outdated vessels

Jadrolinija plans a significant upgrade regarding its fleet, despite facing challenges posed by public procurement regulations. The company’s efforts to repair and maintain outdated ships have proven costly and ineffective, prompting a shift towards a more modern and sustainable fleet.

While progress has been slower than desired, the biggest Croatian ferry company remains committed to the process and is exploring new ways to overcome the hurdles that have impeded its fleet upgrade. With a renewed focus on innovation and environmental sustainability, Jadrolinija is set to emerge as a leader in the industry, poised to deliver a superior travel experience for its customers.

However, the question remains – will they succeed in the quality renovation of their ships when literally anyone with capacities within the European Union can apply for the tender?

Ship Dubrovnik sold to Greece and new catamarans have improved maritime capabilities

Jadrolinija has officially confirmed, Greek shipping company A-Ships Management bought Jadrolinija’s ship Dubrovnik for ferry lines between Brindisi, Igoumenitsa and Corfu.

But besides this news, there is one very optimistic for the Croatian visitors. The new catamarans for Kvarner seem to have improved maritime capabilities.

Will the ships sail in the storm?

Considering the bad experiences of the islanders so far when the old catamarans were tied up in the port for every stronger gust of wind, the question of the endurance of the new ships arises.

In this context, Jadrolinija states only that on the national route 9308 Mali Lošinj – Ilovik – Susak – Unije – Martinšćica – Cres – Rijeka, the Kolovare catamaran sails instead of the Dubravka catamaran. The catamaran was built in 2019 and the capacity is 317 passengers. It is characterized by improved maritime ability and complete adaptability to people with disabilities. The identical catamaran Puntamika has taken over the state catamaran line 9309 Rijeka – Rab – Novalja.

Electric ships to replace the old ones

Of course, most locals are wondering what is going to happen to their favourite ships Tijat, Postira and Premuda.

Jadrolinija has announced a tender for the construction of three electrically powered passenger ships using electricity stored in batteries. These are ships that are intended to replace classic ships from the Tijat, Premuda and Postira fleets. Jadrolinija has received bids from interested parties for the construction, and we are talking about domestic and foreign shipbuilders.

In addition, the procedure for the public procurement of a passenger ship with a capacity of 208 passengers, built in 2004, which will replace the Premuda on the line Mali Lošinj – Susak – Unije – Srakane, has been completed. The planned connection of the ship is in the fall of 2023 and the main advantage of the newer ship is better maritime capabilities and the ability to transport cargo to the islands of Unije and Susak.

Famous ship Tijat is retiring

The 68 years old ship Tijat is retiring this year. A lot of locals find this very emotional as the ship was a part of all of their journeys. What’s more, the ship is in the proposal for the cultural property of the Republic of Croatia to become the Ship Museum.

Besides that, the renewal of the fleet goes in the direction of the acquisition of two catamarans up to 5 years old, the construction of three electric ships, and the acquisition of a classic ship as a replacement for Premuda ship and two used ro-ro passenger ships of the state ferry line.

In addition, Jadrolinija constantly monitors the market of ships with overnight cabins (night ferries such as Marko Polo) intended for international lines.

Source: Morski.hr