Important Update – Duty-Free Fuel Regulations in Montenegro for 2025

With tax-free diesel fuel reinstated, we are pleased to inform you about significant updates regarding duty-free fuel regulations in Montenegro, which are set to enhance operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with local policies. With the return of this significant benefit, we anticipate a successful 2025 season and look forward to continuing our collaboration.

As part of these updates, all duty-free fuel transactions will now require the involvement of a licensed yacht agent to ensure a seamless and compliant process. Below are the key policy changes you should be aware of:

Key Updates to Duty-Free Fuel Regulations

1. Mandatory Agent Involvement 

All duty-free fuel transactions must be arranged through a registered agent, you can use fuel traders for organization of refuelling but local documentation handling and customs procedures must be with agent from Montenegro.

2. Fuel Pricing & Fees 

Prices will be set according to the official Government of Montenegro rates within their validity period, which is set to update on the night between Monday and Tuesday, every two weeks (14 days period). A Fuel Dock Usage Fee might and will be applied based on the quantity supplied and fuel supplier.

3. Documentation & Compliance

All yachts must prepare required documentation in a timely manner, with all requested information along with a valid vignette (transit log) for a period of stay in Montenegrin territorial waters. Customs will require the approved duty-free fuel Request Form along with supporting evidence which needs to be signed and stamped with a boat stamp (mandatory ink stamp on board), captains signature as well as appointed agent sign and stamp.

Awesome drone view on Boka Bay - main tourist hotspot in Montenegro

Eligibility & Booking Requirements

Minimum Stay: Vessels must remain in Montenegro for at least 72 hours after arrival to qualify. 

CLARIFICATION: Counting of the 72 hours begins on first midnight (00:00 CET) after vignette is issued and yacht free practice is approved by Harbour Master.

So, if the yacht arrives at Monday, 08:00 in the morning, or 17:00 afternoon, they will be able to refuel from Friday morning onwards.

Advance Notice: Requests must be submitted at least 72 hours prior to the intended fuelling date.

Booking Confirmation: A confirmed booking is required at least 24 hours before bunkering (urgent requests may be considered on a case-by-case basis).

Regulations that remain same as before

- Upon competition of bunkering and customs and police clearance operations yachts must depart from Montenegrin territorial waters

- Refuelling with these benefits is possible in Port of Bar, Marina Portonovi in Kumbor, and Marina Porto Montenegro in Tivat.

We appreciate your attention to these regulatory changes and encourage you to plan accordingly to ensure a smooth fuelling process. Should you require further clarification or assistance in arranging duty-free fuel, our team at Yacht Agent Montenegro remains at your disposal.

For inquiries and assistance, please contact us at montenegro@yachtagent.net or +38267132233.

We look forward to serving you and ensuring a seamless experience under the new framework.

Why Duty-Free Fuel in Yachting is Important for Yachts Itineraries and Plans?

The reintroduction of duty-free fuel for yachts in Montenegro is a transformative development for the yachting industry. Effective from January 2025, this policy solidifies Montenegro's status as a premier destination for both private and commercial vessels. It offers substantial benefits to yacht owners, charter operators, and the broader maritime tourism sector, further enhancing the country’s appeal as a nautical hub in the Mediterranean.

A Game-Changer for Yachting Itineraries

Fuel costs play a pivotal role in planning yachting routes and itineraries. With the reintroduction of duty-free fuel, Montenegro provides a significant cost-saving advantage for yacht owners and operators. This incentive positions the country as a highly attractive stopover point or even a base for extended stays, encouraging vessels to include Montenegro in their Mediterranean itineraries.

Adding to the appeal is the tax-free delivery of spare parts, which simplifies maintenance and repairs, allowing both private and commercial vessels to optimize their operations.

Enhancing Montenegro’s Nautical Infrastructure

Montenegro boasts a mix of luxury marinas and functional facilities catering to a diverse range of vessels. Porto Montenegro, Portonovi, Lustica Bay, Lazure Hotel & Marina, and Marina Budva represent the pinnacle of luxury, offering premium services and amenities ideal for superyachts and smaller yachts seeking an exclusive experience. These marinas provide an elegant gateway to Montenegro’s captivating coastline.

In addition, the Port of Kotor and Marina Bar serve as strategic hubs for smaller yachts and sailboats. While not positioned as luxury marinas, they are well-equipped and worth visiting for their proximity to cultural landmarks and local charm. Combined, these facilities underscore Montenegro’s capacity to accommodate diverse yachting needs.

The country also boasts two prominent shipyards, Navar in Tivat and Adriatic42 in Bijela, providing world-class maintenance and refit services. These facilities cater to superyachts and other vessels, ensuring a comprehensive support network for maritime operations.

View on Sveti Stefan with amazing M/Y Titania

Benefits for Private and Commercial Yachts

Both private yachts and commercial charter vessels stand to gain significantly from this policy:

Private Yachts: Owners can enjoy extended cruising opportunities with reduced operational costs. The 72-hour minimum stay requirement - applicable to all yachts, both pleasure and charter - encourages longer visits, allowing yacht owners and their guests to explore Montenegro’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and luxurious amenities.

Commercial Charters: Lower fuel costs translate into more competitive charter pricing, benefiting clients and boosting operator profitability. The policy’s alignment with Montenegro’s strategic location enables charter operators to integrate Adriatic routes seamlessly into broader Mediterranean itineraries. Additionally, tax-free spare parts delivery and duty-free fuel ensure smooth operations and minimized downtime.

Boosting Economic Growth and Tourism

The economic and tourism impact of this measure cannot be overstated. By attracting more yachts, Montenegro is poised to experience increased spending on local services such as provisioning, maintenance, and tourism. The influx of high-net-worth individuals and affluent travellers will stimulate growth across various sectors, reinforcing Montenegro’s reputation as a premium destination.

Additional Incentives for Yacht Owners and Crews

Berth in Marina Bar

Complementing the duty-free fuel initiative, Montenegro offers duty-free alcohol and tobacco products. These perks elevate the overall luxury experience for yacht owners, guests, and crew members, further enhancing Montenegro’s standing as a yachting haven. The availability of tax-free spare parts delivery ensures that yachts remain operational and well-maintained, making Montenegro a practical and efficient choice for extended stays.

Why This Matters

For the global yachting community, the reintroduction of duty-free fuel is more than a financial advantage. It underscores Montenegro’s commitment to fostering a thriving nautical sector that caters to the unique needs of yacht owners and operators. By integrating cost-saving measures, world-class infrastructure, and practical support services, Montenegro positions itself as a forward-thinking, yacht-friendly destination.

Conclusion

As Montenegro reclaims its place among the Mediterranean’s premier yachting destinations, the duty-free fuel initiative becomes a cornerstone for sustainable growth in the sector. Combined with luxury marinas, reliable maintenance facilities, and additional incentives, this policy invites yacht owners, charter companies, and maritime enthusiasts to rediscover the unmatched allure of Montenegro’s waters and to put them on map and plotter of every yacht in Med from this summer onwards!

Whether planning your next Mediterranean voyage or seeking a base for charter operations, Montenegro’s competitive advantages - now amplified by duty-free fuel - make it an essential destination. Let’s embark on a new era of yachting excellence in Montenegro!

Yacht Agent Montenegro is always at your disposal for all your inquires and questions!

Duty-Free Fuel Returns to Montenegro

Big News for the Yachting Industry: Duty-Free Fuel Returns to Montenegro! 🚤⛽

We are excited to share some fantastic news! 

Montenegro is reintroducing duty-free fuel for foreign yachts and vessels, both private and commercial.

This benefit was cancelled in 2022 but now is reinstated and will be available for everyone in 2025.

Key points:

* Significant savings on fuel for private and charter yachts, putting Montenegro back on itineraries and maps for all yachts in Med!

* Tax-free refueling available along the Montenegrin coast - Porto Montenegro (all sizes of yachts), Portonovi (up to 90 meter yachts), Port of Bar (all sizes of yacht and vessels) 

* This regulation will come into effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette of Montenegro in January!

Stay tuned for updates regarding the exact conditions under which duty-free fuel will be available for private and commercial yachts.

If you have any additional questions feel free to ask us anytime as always!

Montenegro's stunning coastline and exceptional hospitality and Yacht Agent Montenegro await you with renewed benefits in 2025!

DUTY FREE FUEL THIS SUMMER AVAILABLE ONLY IN MONTENEGRO AS ALBANIA SHUTS YACHTS TAX FREE BUNKERING FOR THIS SEASON

As per the latest regulation of Albanian authorities and customs, duty free fuel for yachts is not available in any of Albanian port, it is still cheaper than most of the surrounding countries as duty paid fuel, excluding Montenegro, where you can still get duty free fuel on departure for both commercial and private yachts.

It was announced by the end of the year that it might happen, but as it had a big impact on yachting in Albania and area, everyone thought it is unlikely to happen in such short notice. Starting from 1st of January bunkering in Albania will be possible only with duty paid fuel, two of the biggest refueling points in Albania, Porto Romano in Durres and bunker station in the port of Sarande, just across of the Corfu will be able to deliver diesel fuel for yachts as per government regulated price, currently around 0.90-0.95 Euro per liter, which will be changed depending on the world oil market. Of course, we will be watching the market and situation before the upcoming season and if any change occurs we will update you so that you can plan accordingly.

At the moment situation in Montenegro remains the same as it was in the previous year, there are four main refueling points for duty-free diesel:

⛽ Porto Montenegro in Tivat – can fit all current sizes of yachts with all kinds of connections, starting from a pistol with 40 liters per minute for sailing vessels and smaller yachts, up to 1000 liter per minute on the superyacht dispenser with all possible camlock connections;

⛽ Portonovi, Kumbor – operated by Turkish Asmira company, opened in 2021 this is new duty-free facility in Boka bay which can refuel a bit smaller vessel up to 70-75m LoA with dispenser up to 450 liters in a minute and two smaller dispensers, for yachts up to 35m in the inner part of marina up to 60 liters for single, or 100 liters per minute with dual pistol connection;

⛽ Port of Bar in Bar area – there are two refueling points in the commercial part of the Port which can fit all sizes of yachts and vessels, including cruise and commercial ships (13 meters of draft is limitation) with a fuel rate around 600 liters per minute;

⛽ Fuel station in Marina Bar – operated by Petrol, Slovenian company, this fuel dock is limited with 40 meters of LoA and it is usually for a smaller yacht that are departing further south towards Albania and Greece or crossing towards Italy. There is pistol connection with rate around 90 liters per minute and camlock connection with up to 350 liters per minute.

In other ports and marinas, only duty-paid fuel is available. For duty-free diesel as per Montenegrin government regulation you will need agent who is representing you and sorting out papers with customs representatives.

Besides above mentioned, our agency can provide you with support for all other needs that crew or guests might need while in Montenegro and are so feel free to contact us on our email montenegro@yachtagent.net or mobile +38267132233,  available on all messenger apps as well, and we will be eager to assist you and make your refueling or stay in Montenegro as pleasant as possible.

Also if you are part of managing company for yachts or fuel trader company you can contact us as well and can make collaboration for all your clients coming to Montenegro or the area around so that you have centralized services which will make your and your clients life much easier.

Tax and duty-free diesel in Montenegro

Montenegro offers tax and duty-free fuel for private and commercial vessels at a price of about 45% lower than the standard retail price, making Montenegro a tempting destination on the Adriatic Sea. 

Along the Montenegrin coast, there are three fuel stations where you can supply your yacht with tax and duty-free diesel. This are some important facts that can help you if you planning to visit Montenegro or other Mediterranean countries.

Port of Bar

Fuel dock in Port of Bar

Location: 42°05'36.6"N 19°04'42.3"E

D.O. grade: Euro diesel and GasOil 0.1 – TAX and DUTY FREE;

Yacht length: up to 140 meters;

Yacht Draft: up to 13 meters;

Quantity limitation: up to 1.000.000 liters;

Working hours: High season – 00:00 to 24:00 hrs;

                            Low season – 07:00 to 19:00 hrs.

NOTE: This is a commercial port and Port due (eg. firemans, mooring, unmooring, garbage, oil spill protecting system, etc.) will be charged.

Marina Bar

Fuel dock in Marina Bar

Location: 42°05'57.1"N 19°05'15.8"E

D.O. grade: Euro diesel – TAX and DUTY-FREE;

Yacht length: up to 45 meters;

Yacht Draft: up to 4,5 meters;

Quantity limitation: up to 30.000 liters;

Working hours: High season – (June 1st to September 30th) 8:00 to 20:00 hrs;

                            Low season – (October 1st to May 30th) 9:00 to 17:00 hrs.

NOTE: For quantities above 20.000 liters 2-3 days notice required. During summer season this fuel dock is also pretty busy.

Porto Montenegro Tivat

Fuel dock in Porto Montenegro

Location: 42°26'09.7"N, 18°41'26.7"E

D.O. grade: Euro diesel – TAX and DUTY-FREE

Yacht length: up to 250 meters

Yacht Draft: up to 15 meters

Quantity limitation: up to 800.000 liters

Working hours: High season (May 1st to September 30th) – 8:00 to 20 hrs; 

                            Low season (October 1st to April 30th) – 9:00 to 17 hrs.

NOTE: During summer season up to 7 days in advance notice required due to busy schedules.

Important note: For duty-free refueling, a valid vignette and a stamp with yacht’s details are required. Upon completion of bunkering, the yacht must clear out Montenegro territorial waters the shortest way. Duty-free fuel cannot be consumed in the country.

By standard retail prices of fuel, you can supply your vessel in Port of Kotor, Marina Kotor and Dukley Marina Budva.

For any information regarding diesel prices, berth availability and prices, do not hesitate to contact us through our website or by phone +382 67 552 287 any time 24/7.

Dukley Marina Budva

Dukley Marina Budva is located in the heart of the Budva Riviera and is a part of the resort which carries the same name. This marina is one of the most beautiful nautical destinations in the Adriatic. Opening hours of the Harbour Office in Budva are 07-15h, and there is a possibility of introducing a second shift during the summer season.

Marina has 350 berths in the inner part of the harbour, mainly for motor boats and super-yachts (up to 70m in length), but there are about 50 berths for visiting the yachts at the dock and two pontoons with a maximum draft of up to 5.0 meters.

Marina provides the necessary electricity and water, as well as waste collection services to the berthed vessels.

Services offered in the marina: 

• 24-hour water supply 
• 24 hours power supply 
• Gas station 
• Wi-Fi (free) 
• Pilotage 
• Technical support 
• 24-hour Security 

All airports in the vicinity are very well connected with other major European cities. The nearest international airport, Tivat Airport, is only 25 minutes away, and the main international airport Podgorica is an hour away. Distance of towns by sea: Dubrovnik 50NM, Sveti Stefan 3NM, Kotor 31NM, Bar 16NM and Ulcinj 28NM.

If you want to book a berth for your vessel in Budva or want to check the availability of berths for your yacht, Yacht Agent Montenegro is at your service.

In addition to booking berths, we offer services of obtaining free traffic permit upon the arrival / departure from the marina in Budva, supply of food and groceries, duty free fuel ( Bar marina, Port of Bar and Tivat Porto Montenegro), technical support and repairs, as well as other agency services necessary to fully enjoy your visit of the Montenegrin coast and ensure safe navigation.

What to visit near Dukley Marina Budva?

The old town of Budva

The walls and the towers of the Old Town are a testament that Budva is one of the oldest cities of the Adriatic. Cobbled streets, medieval cathedrals, and ancient facades in its historic quarter give it a form a labyrinth. Preserved old town with modern seaside community and the picturesque harbour, makes Budva the most modern centre of Montenegro today. Budva hosts numerous regattas, gourmet fairs and festivals.

Becici

Becici is situated 5km northeast of Budva. Becici beach is 1 950m long, and it is known to be among the most beautiful beaches in Montenegro and the southern Adriatic. This beach won the Grand Prix in Paris for the most beautiful beach in Europe in 1935.

Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan is a settlement near Budva, located only 10 km away. Sveti Stefan is connected to the mainland by a narrow earthen causeway, which is probably the reason why they started calling it the "Montenegrin Palm of Dubai." Although this is quite questionable, since Sveti Stefan has existed for hundreds of years, while the Palm not even a decade. This island is the most luxurious resort in Montenegro and one of the most luxurious resorts at the Adriatic coastline.

Petrovac

Petrovac is situated at a 20km distance from Budva. It is a well-known summer tourist destination famous for Roman mosaics from the 3rd century, which depict the god of sleep, Hypnos. Town beach is around 600 m and is one of the most beautiful beaches in this part of the Adriatic. There are two islands in close proximity to the town, the island of Katic and Sveta Nedjelja.

Bar

Bar, together with the Port of Bar and Bar marina, is one of the most beautiful places in Montenegro. Luka Bar, located at the entrance of the Adriatic, more precisely on 42˚05 'north latitude and 19˚05' east longitude. Port of Bar, united with railway and road traffic, represents an important link in the intermodal transport, which gives it a huge advantage over other ports in Montenegro, but also in the region. Port of Bar is located in the heart of the city, and in its vicinity there are hotels, a restaurant, bank and everything you might need during your stay in Bar.

The old part of town, Old Bar, is located 50 km southeast of Budva. Well-preserved remnants of the walls and fortresses, dating from the 9th century, provide a beautiful view of the town and its surroundings that binds all travellers to come and visit. The most attractive part of the old town is the old olive tree which is 2000-2500 years old. It is one of the five oldest olive trees in the world, and still bears fruit. In addition to Old Bar, Bar aqueduct is the only such construction in Montenegro, and one of the three largest in the former Yugoslavia. 

Ulcinj 

The old town of Ulcinj is one of the oldest architectural and urban units of the Adriatic. 

It is a common opinion that the Old Town with its Illyrian walls, the Citadel, a set of street networks, markets and squares, valuable architectural buildings, especially urban landscape, is in its entirety a cultural and historical monument of vital importance. As the most important historical sites of Ulcinj, we suggest you to visit: Balšića Tower, the Palace, the courts and the Square of Slaves. 

Jaz 

Jaz is a beach located 3 km west of Budva. It consists of two parts, one with the length of 500m, and the other of 300m. Being one of the longest beaches in Montenegro it is a favorite among tourists. 

Kotor 

For its beauty, vastness and magnificent terrain, the Bay of Kotor is among the most interesting natural attractions of the Mediterranean. Surrounded by Mount Lovcen and the sea, Kotor is located at the end of the Bay of Kotor, officially one of the 25 most beautiful bays in the world. It is about 23 km from Budva. The old town is surrounded by high walls, above which rises the old fortress on the Sveti Ivan hill (260 m). 

The old town of Kotor has three gates. The gate facing the sea that led to the city promenade and coastline; The gate near the river faces the direction to Risan and Herceg Novi; while the gate of Gurdic, faces the direction to Trojica and the intersection of Cetinje - Budva. 

When you come to this town, you will be able to visit some of the most famous attractions: the walls of the old city, Cathedral of St. Tryphon, Church of St. Nicholas and St. Luke, Maritime Museum ... 

Since 1979 Kotor is on the UNESCO’s list of protected world cultural heritage. 

Tivat and Porto Montenegro 

Tivat is one of the youngest and most modern cities of the Bay of Kotor, situated 25km west of Budva. Porto Montenegro marina is situated in the Bay of Tivat. The marina was made by following the best world standards, which makes Tivat a very popular tourist destination. You will enjoy the luxurious resorts, sandy beaches and rich content of the marina Porto Montenegro. 

Lake Skadar 

The largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula is only 40 km away from Budva. The lake is filled with islands and peninsulas which have many traces of history and valuable cultural heritage, some of which are the Lesendro castle on a rock in the middle of the lake and the fortress Grmožur. Clear water and preserved environment enabled the development of extremely rich eco-system. This is the only habitat of pelicans in the south of Europe. 

Along the shores of the lake there are two small towns called Virpazar and Rijeka Crnojevića. Nearby are the remains of the town of Obod, where the first printing house was built. In 1494 the first book in this part of Europe, Oktoih, was printed here. 

If you need help with the organization of excursions and sightseeing tours in the surrounding towns and villages, we are always happy to assist you, your guests and your crew. For more information please contact +382 67552287 

Yacht Agent Montenegro Team

The cheapest Diesel in the region

Today's cheapest price of tax and vat paid Euro Diesel in Montenegro is 0,92 EUR / lit.

This gives us opportunity to offer the cheapest diesel bunkering in the Adriatic Sea region and one of the cheapest supplying point in the Mediterranean Sea region and Europe. According to Global Petrol Prices today's prices of Diesel are as follows (EUR / lit):

Montenegro...........0.92
Spain.......................1.05
Greece.....................1.05
Slovenia..................1.06
Croatia....................1.08
Cyprus.....................1.08
France.....................1.10
Turkey ....................1.14
Malta.......................1.16
Albania....................1.18
Portugal...................1.22
Italy.........................1.29
Monaco...................1.37

Montenegro's Government provided certain benefits for yachting industry participants by lowering the taxes which apply to diesel as well.
Therefore, Yacht Agent Montenegro is able to supply tax and duty free fuel at today's lower price of 

• 0,423 EUR / lit

This price applies for both private and charter yachts, boats and ships in transit.
The selling price of all fuel derivatives in Montenegro is adjusted every two weeks, depending on the fuel price change on the global market.

Tax and Duty Free Diesel Refueling points

Bar Marina, Port of Bar , Porto Montenegro Tivat

Tax and Duty Paid Diesel Refueling points

Kotor Marina, Port of Kotor and Budva Marina

With lowering the taxes on fuel, berth costs and other marine services Montenegro's Government is putting an effort to making our country more attractive to private yacht owners as well as for chartered yacht managements and owners.
We in Yacht Agent Montenegro believe that next summer season has a lot of potential for yachting industry participants and we are ready to prove everyone that Montenegro has a lot to offer.

For any information regarding diesel prices, berth availability and prices, food supplying, planned maintenance etc. feel free to contact us trough our web site or by phone +382 67 552 287 any time 24/7 .

Bunkering for your yacht with tax and duty free Diesel in Montenegro

Following the slight increase of diesel oil prices in the world market, we have changed the price of duty paid and tax free diesel on Montenegro's market.

Today's lowest price of tax and duty free EuroDiesel and Gas Oil 0,1 is 0,406 EUR/lit.

Price of duty paid EuroDiesel is 0,900 EUR/lit.

The price is valid until 04th of April 2016.

These prices are actual prices for both private and chartered yachts, as well as all other kinds of private and commercial vessels in transit.

Refueling points for tax free diesel are: Marina Bar and Port of Bar, Porto Montenegro - Tivat. In Marina Kotor, Port of Kotor and Marina Budva.
We can supply duty paid eurodiesel for your yacht.
For more info, regarding condition, available quantities, grades ect. please contact Yacht Agent Montenegro or dial +382 67 552 287

New/Old price of tax and duty free Diesel in Montenegro

The price of tax and duty free as well as tax paid Diesel remains on the same levels as for the period of the last two weeks.

Today's lowest price of Diesel is 0,356 EUR/lit.

Price of regular eurodiesel is 0,840 EUR/lit.

The price is valid until 07th of March 2016.

We are able to refuel with duty and tax free diesel booth private and chartered yachts, as well as all other kind of private and commercial vessels in transit.

Refueling points are: Marina Bar and Port of Bar, Porto Montenegro - Tivat, Marina Kotor and Port of Kotor.
For more info, please contact Yacht Agent Montenegro or dial +382 67 552 287

Refueling with Duty and Tax Free Diesel in Montenegro

Great news for private and chartered yacht in Montenegro and Adriatic Sea region, New price drop of Tax and Duty Free Diesel.

Today's lowest price of Diesel is 0,339 EUR/lit.

Price of regular eurodiesel is 0,82 EUR/lit.

The price is valid until 07th of February 2016.

We are able to refuel with duty and tax free diesel booth private and chartered yachts as well as all other kind of private and commercial vessels.

Refueling points are: Marina Bar and Port of Bar, Porto Montenegro - Tivat, Marina Kotor and Port of Kotor.
For more info, please contact Yacht Agent Montenegro or dial +382 67 552 287

Price of Tax Free Diesel in Montenegro

New price drop of Tax and Duty Free Diesel in Montenegro - Adriatic Sea!

Today's lowest price of Diesel is 0,381 EUR/lit.
Price of regular eurodiesel is 0,87 EUR/lit.
The price is valid until 12th of January 2016.
We are able to supply with duty and tax free diesel booth private and chartered yachts as well as all other kind of private and commercial vessels.

Supply points are Porto Montenegro - Tivat, Marina Bar and Port of Bar.

For more info, please contact Yacht Agent Montenegro or dial +382 67 552 287

If you are interesting to receive updates about duty free diesel prices in Montenegro - Adriatic region, please contact us.

We wish you a Happy and Successful New Year 2016 !