REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)

Potential Development of International Ferry Services Between Montenegro and Italy and/or Croatia

Issued by:
Ministry of Maritime Affairs of Montenegro

Background

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs of Montenegro is exploring opportunities to improve maritime connectivity between Montenegro and neighboring countries across the Adriatic Sea, particularly Italy and Croatia.

Historically, ferry services have operated between Montenegrin ports and ports in Italy, while regional passenger maritime services have also linked destinations across the Adriatic. The Ministry is interested in assessing current market interest and identifying commercially viable opportunities for the establishment, revival, or enhancement of such services.

This Request for Information (RFI) is issued solely for market consultation purposes and does not constitute a procurement procedure, tender, concession process, or commitment by the Government of Montenegro.

Objectives

The Ministry seeks information regarding potential ferry and passenger maritime services connecting Montenegro with destinations in:

• Italy
• Croatia
• Other Adriatic destinations proposed by respondents

The Ministry is interested in evaluating:

• High-speed passenger ferry services
• Ro-Pax ferry services
• Combined passenger and vehicle services
• Seasonal and year-round operations
• Services involving one or more Montenegrin ports

Possible Montenegrin Ports

Respondents may consider one or more of the following ports:

• Bar
• Kotor
• Budva
• Herceg Novi
• Other suitable locations

Information Requested

Interested operators, shipowners, investors, and maritime transport companies are invited to provide non-binding information regarding:

A. Proposed Service

• Suggested routes and destinations
• Seasonal or year-round operation
• Service frequency
• Estimated journey times
• Target passenger segments

B. Vessel Information

• Vessel type
• Number of vessels required
• Passenger capacity
• Vehicle capacity (if applicable)
• Service speed
• Main technical particulars
• Flag and classification status

C. Operational Requirements

• Port infrastructure requirements
• Berthing needs
• Terminal requirements
• Customs, immigration, and security considerations
• Crew requirements

D. Commercial Considerations

• Indicative operating model
• Market assumptions
• Potential challenges and risks
• Estimated traffic potential
• Expected level of demand

E. Public Sector Cooperation

Respondents are invited to provide views on potential cooperation mechanisms, including:

• Marketing support
• Infrastructure support
• Route development programs
• Public Service Obligation (PSO) arrangements
• Other partnership structures considered appropriate

Submission Format

Interested parties may submit a brief response including:

• Company profile
• Relevant experience operating ferry services
• Description of proposed service concept
• Preliminary vessel information
• Key commercial and operational considerations
• Any recommendations for further analysis

Responses may be submitted in English.

Confidentiality

Information provided in response to this RFI will be used solely for market assessment and planning purposes. Submission of information does not create any rights or obligations for either the respondent or the Ministry.

Disclaimer

This RFI is issued for information-gathering purposes only. The Ministry reserves the right to undertake future studies, consultations, procurement procedures, concession processes, or other initiatives as it deems appropriate.

Submission of information does not imply prequalification, selection, or any future contractual relationship.

Contact Details: kabinet@mpo.gov.me

Submission Deadline:  01 july 2026