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.

Duty-Free Fuel Regulations in Montenegro: A Timeline of Changes

From June 2022 until January 2025, duty-free fuel in Montenegro was limited to commercially registered yachts and commercial and cargo vessels. During this pause, privately registered yachts were not eligible for duty-free fuel. As of January 2025, the regulations have resumed, allowing all yachts to take advantage of the duty-free pricing, but with updated requirements.

Key Comparisons: Then vs Now

Eligibility and Pricing

Before and Now: The price for duty-free fuel remains unchanged completely free of duties and taxes. This makes Montenegro more cost-effective than neighbouring Albania, where only VAT is excluded from fuel pricing.

72-Hour Stay Requirement

Before: There was no requirement for yachts to stay in Montenegrin waters for 72 hours before refuelling. Yachts could simply arrive, complete check-in procedures, refuel, handle clearance out procedures, and depart.

Now: All yachts must stay in Montenegrin territorial waters for a minimum of 72 hours after the day of arrival before being eligible to refuel duty-free. This means that itineraries must now account for this condition when planning refuelling stops.

Documentation and Compliance

Before and Now: Yachts are required to hold a valid vignette (transit log) to stay in Montenegrin territorial waters. The vignette’s validity must extend at least three hours beyond the planned end of refuelling operations to ensure compliance.

Timing and Scheduling

Before: Timing was more flexible, and same-day bunkering slots were often, except for the peak of the summer, available. Yachts could refuel with minimal advance planning.

Now: Refuelling operations require much more advanced planning due to stricter time regulations. Same-day bunkering is now unlikely, and all refuelling operations must be scheduled well in advance.

Refuelling of a wonderful Perini Navi sailing yacht in Portonovi Marina

How Yachts/Captains/Clients Should Organize Accordingly?

To navigate these updated regulations and ensure smooth operations, yacht captains, management, operators and owners should take the following steps:

Plan Itineraries Carefully

Ensure itineraries account for the 72-hour stay requirement before refuelling. Work closely with agents to synchronize schedules and avoid unnecessary delays.

Engage Professional Yacht Agents

Experienced agents are essential for navigating the new regulations. They handle reservations, documentation, communication with fuel suppliers, and coordination with customs officials. Agents can also assist with potential inspections to ensure compliance.

Prepare Documentation in Advance

Communicate with your dedicated agent and verify that all paperwork, necessary for obtaining the vignette and departure clearance, is in order and aligns with the updated compliance requirements. For obtaining vignette in Montenegro you have to have all following documentation valid:

1. Yacht / Boat Registration Certificate

2. Minimum valid Third Person Liability Insurance - on 800.000,00 EUR minimum sum

3. Valid STCW or other skipper or Captains licence that is adequate for yacht

4. PoA (Power of Authorization) - If owned by private person, either owner have to be on board or Captain should have notarized PoA from the owner of the vessel, or if Company or Legal entity is owner of the yacht then it need to be present PoA with valid sign and stamp from legal entity

5. List of all crew member as well as guest on board with their identifications documents number and expiry date - please be noted that visa regulations must be check before arrival to Montenegrin boarders and passport should be valid for no less then 3 months.

Communicate on all relevant topics which may influence or change timeline for refuelling

As we are all aware that guest plans can change in a moment, it is important to have good communication with your agent so that we can also plan ahead all the small details that may influence timings so that fuel providers, authorities, other clients and everyone else in supply chain does not get affected by sudden changes.

Key Takeaways

Montenegro’s duty-free fuel regulations continue to offer significant cost-saving opportunities, but the updated requirements demand better planning and coordination. By staying informed about these changes and working with experienced agents, yacht owners can still greatly benefit from Montenegro’s competitive pricing while ensuring compliance with the latest rules.

Planning ahead, maintaining open communication with agents who will then further communicate with suppliers, customs, police and harbour master authorities, and understanding the updated processes are essential for a smooth and efficient refuelling experience.

For more information or assistance with navigating Montenegro’s duty-free fuel regulations, feel free to reach out. Our team is here to ensure your operations are seamless and stress-free.

YACHTING ALPHABET

Learn basics of yachting terminology

A

Agent is designated person ashore appointed by Captain or management company that helps with anything crew or guests might need while in area covered. Agents sort out all matters requested to make stay of their clients as pleasant as possible.

Anchor is large piece of metal usually on chain which is used to secure yacht position by attaching to sea bottom. Also used as verb, meaning that yacht will be out of marina, floating in some bay or place of interest.

APA is common word in chartering of yachts, meaning advance provisioning allowance. It is payment usually in range from 20% to 40% used to cover all guest expenses that are not included in charter fee, such as fuel, provisioning, transportation, agency costs, berths etc. In most cases charter fee includes renting of the yacht, wages of the employed crew and their supplies and all equipment onboard, all other expenses are considered as extras and are paid from APA.

AIS is tracking system for yachts which provides real time data all over the world.

Air draft is usually referred to the highest point of the yacht, usually particularly important for large sailing yachts as in many countries there are limitations in some areas. It is measured from water to the top of the yachts most prominent point.

B

Berth has two meanings; one is place in marina where yacht or boat stays while spending time there. Also, it is referred as bed, or place for sleeping onboard.

Bow is most forward part of the boat hull, usual pointy or narrow for smoother water breaking.

Bridge is place of command onboard; it is where deck officers perform their duty and where they monitor all boat operations.

Bollard usually piece of metal strongly attached to dock that is used to secure boats position when lines are tied to it.

Broker is person or company that is in between of buyer and seller of yacht, they are also involved of promotion of yachts for sale all over world.

C

Crew represents all personnel employed onboard of a yacht taking care of works and operations.

CoR is short for Certificate of Registration, representing one of yacht main documents as it states all details and particular of the vessel as well as ownership details. It is issued by country in which yacht is registered in.

Captain or often referred as Master is person onboard who oversees all boat operations, highest rank, and responsibility onboard.

Charter in yachting terminology is hiring of yacht or boat for a limited period, base charter duration is usually seven days, but it can be agreed on any period, for pleasure or business purposes.

Clearance formalities are performed on arrival and departure from any country, also known as check-in and check-out and they consist of taking care of police, customs, immigration, harbor masters authorities so that boat and everything on board (crew, guests, pets, items) are reported and legally signed in or out of certain county.

D

Deck is what you called level of the yacht, going all the way from front to the back and creating floors. Smaller yacht has two or three decks but on mega yachts sometimes it can be even more than five or six deck, some of them above and some of them below waterline, usually for engine and technical departments.

Duty-Free Fuel is referred to fuel taken on departure from certain country or under special conditions, which can be up to 70% less expensive than regular fuel making it especially important as it is one of the largest expenses on yachts.

Dry dock is special construction capable of lifting boats out of the water for repairs. When mentioned as “we need to dry dock” means that yacht will go for repair or inspection in shipyard.

Draught or Draft represents number from waterline of the boat to its lowest point under. It is minimum of water lever required for some boat to sail.

Delivery in yachting terminology is moving boat from one place to another, often by hiring external professional crew, or it represent timing when newbuild yacht will be ready for hand over to owner.

E

ETA is short word commonly used in yachting and shipping, meaning estimated time of arrival, which is essential for planning of trips and all other plans.

ENG1 is special medical certificate often asked for on larger yachts as it is issued by approved doctors and requested mostly by UK flagged yachts.

F

Flag represents territory under which boat is registered. Main flag or flag of registration needs to be visible all the time. There is also courtesy flag representing country in which territory yacht is sailing and it is usually next to registration flag or on high point of the ship representing token of respect to host country.

G

GMDSS is short word for international distress and safety signal. Officers on board need to have valid license when in charge of boat operations.

Gangway is walkway at the and or side of the yacht used for entry or exit on board. It is considered polite to ask person in charge onboard for permission before stepping on it.

Galley is different name for kitchen on yachts.

Guests are considered all persons onboard that are not crew, usually owners or charterers and their guests.

H

Hull is referred to the essential part of the boat that is in contact with water which enables floating of the vessel. It does not include superstructure, engines, or mast if it is sailing boat.

Homeport in most cases is port where yachts stay most of their time during the year or from, they start and end their charters most of the time. It can be also referred to the port of registration.

Harbor Master’s Office represent authorities that are in charge for all operations on sea in one country. They take care of all boats that come and go from some area, and they are taking care that all maritime related documents are in accordance whit regulations of the host country.

I

Interior is inside of the yacht, beside bridge, garage, and technical department. It is where guest stay and spend their time onboard. Usually fitted with most luxurious materials with unique details.

Itinerary represents some plans for trips during cruising or chartering of the. It can be for some specific period, or for some specific area depending on the demand of the client, usually it is provided from agent or some local guide.

IMO number is called specific seven signs number that is unique for every vessel, and it is registered with International Maritime Organization.

J

Junior crew are usually less experienced crew in yachting, kind of apprentices, who are completely new to yachting or transferring from different sectors in maritime that need to adapt and learn basics of yachting.

Jetty is called part of the marina where boats can be moored, or it serves as breakwater for protection of the marina or harbor.

K

Knot is measurement for speed on water, it is calculated as one nautical mile per hour.

L

Lines are called ropes, chains or cables that are used to dock boat safely to buoy, bollard, or shoreline to keep it secured in position.

LoA is longest measurement for yachts, as it means length overall and it includes any addons, platforms or anything else that is above waterline and is part of the ship.

M

Master Bedroom is called most luxurious bedroom onboard, not to be confused with Master (Captain), as this is room reserved for owner of the yacht or main charterer and it is always considered as best room on yacht.

Mooring, similar meaning as lines, and often name for two lines that are for bow of the boat

MYBA is world know association in yachting, which preserves high standards in yachting business, especially in chartering and brokerage.

Mast on sailing boats is high standing pole that sails are attached to,

N

Nautical mile is main unit in maritime. All measurements are told in miles, and it is 1852 meters, not to be mistaken for land mile which is 1609 meters.

O

Overboard is accident when someone falls of the ship, it is emergency that require assistance of anyone available in vicinity.

P

Port side is called left side of the vessel when front facing bow. Both sides have their distinctive names so that crew can know at any time when speaking. When onboard in communication it is never used left or right side.

Provisioning is suppling yacht with all necessary items for their time on the sea. It includes all basic items such as food, beverages, items, oils, spares etc.

Pilot is designated person appointed by government or authorities of certain area to assist all vessels to navigate that area due to safety reasons. Usually in and out of ports, harbors, or some specific areas, such as bays, straights or around islands.

Q

Qualifications are called basic certificates that any crew member should obtain when preparing to work onboard. Usually they are basic STCW certificate, medical examination proofs, drug and alcohol test, small boat license for tender operations or some advanced certificates for higher ranks or various positions. Stewardess position sometime require Food and Hygiene certificates.

R

Refit works means repairing or replacing of certain parts of the yachts that can be done afloat or in shipyards. It can be an aesthetic refit meaning that only some interior parts will be changed, such as furniture, AV/TV equipment or modernization of existing systems.

Regatta is a maritime event that includes many boats, usually sailing, in journey from one place to another for pleasure or as a competition.

S

Starboard is called right side of the vessel when front facing bow.

Stern is back of the boat, usually where propulsion system is located.

Skipper is other name for person in charge of the boat, but it usually is used for captains on smaller yachts or tenders.

Sailing yacht is type of yacht that uses sails as its main way of propulsion. Most of the sailing yachts have auxiliary engine as well, and there are yachts that uses engine as primary propulsion system but have sails when crew or owner wants to use them for recreation.

STCW stands for Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for seafarers and it is world known type of certification that every mariner needs to have to be eligible to join any yacht or vessel.

SoF is common yachting terminology referring to south of France, area covering from Italy to Spain, but in most cases, it is from Nice to Marseille.

T

Tender is smaller boat that is used as way of transport if yacht is on anchor or to cover short distances without moving main boat. It is used for watersports, supplies, or any other things. In most cases it can be lifted on the yacht or fitted in garage, or it is towed behind with lines. If it goes on its own behind or in front of the yacht it is called chase boat as well.

Toys are all complementary equipment, items, devices or addons on yacht. They can be jet skis, water slides, RIBs, SUPs, water cities, inflatable platforms or any other items that are for pleasure.

Transit log is permit from authorities of certain area to cruise, pass or stay for limited period. Usually, it is obtained before or immediately upon arrival.

Thruster is auxiliary propulsion device located on bow (bow thruster) or stern (stern thruster) that ease maneuvering of the yacht or tender.

U

Unmooring is procedure of letting loos lines and departing location where yacht has been moored.

V

Vignette is different name for transit log, in Montenegro it is called like that, and it can be obtained for period up to one year in harbor masters office when all required documents are presented and checked.

VHF in common language refer to radio stations that are used for communication between crew, with authorities, or other vessels within range. Main VHF channel is 16 in most countries.

W

Winch is device that is used for winding ropes onboard, on motor yachts it is used for maneuvering and pulling of the mooring lines, and on sailing yachts it is used for sails as well.

Waterline is straight line where water is on the side of the yacht in normal state. It is one of important measures in shipping.

X

Xebec is special type of the sailing ship typical for Mediterranean area.

Y

Yacht is vessel typically used for pleasure purposes, but it can be used competitive in races or regattas. Nowadays there is huge variation in sizes, shapes, and models all of them with some distinctive modifications. If it is used only by owner and its closest relatives and family it is private yacht, and if it is used for chartering and business purposes then it is commercial yacht.

Yacht Agent Montenegro is your true and reliable partner in Montenegro and Adriatic. With more then seven years we can provide all services for all sizes of yachts. We have established cooperation with partners in Albania, Croatia, Italy, and Greece so through our network you can travel with ease and be sure that you are covered with highest level of service possible.

Z

Zero speed stabilization is technology that enables yachts and boats to remain without unpleasant movements when out on the sea, even when they are anchored.

Four yachting days in Montenegro - itinerary

DAY 1 - BAR - BUDVA

As you come in Montenegro from southern points, you'll have to do your clearance formalities in Port of Bar, so it is great place for you to start your journey here. Morning check in lets you use rest of day in a best possible way.

Upon departure of marina in Bar you'll pass city of Bar, small touristic places of Sutomore and Canj, and then arrive on Queen's Beach (Kraljicina plaza - N 42,2632904 E 18,890086), small, secluded beach which can be approached only by boat. Sandy beach, and perfectly clear water in this natural bay shows. 

Kraljicina plaza (Queen's Beach)

Montenegro in it's true beauty. Since it not overcrowded it is perfect place to rest, swim and enjoy for couple hours. From this point you can go on to historic little town of Petrovac, famous for mosaics dated from Roman period. Now this touristic place offers various restaurants, beach bars and cafes during summer season. If you seek for more private and luxurious places for rest or maybe have a lunch, further on your way to Budva you will find beautiful restaurants which have their own docks, or possibility to meet you with their tenders.

Sveti Stefan peninsula is now high class hotel complex, but around it are beautiful beaches, Milocer (N 42.2602849 E 18.8907645), Przno (N 42.268123, E 18.8898298), Kamenovo (N 42.2749629, E 18.8845378) and many smaller beaches.

Sveti Stefan

As you pass all this beauty you will come to riviera of Budva, one of most famous touristic places in region. You can anchor yourself next to island of St. Nicola or near cape of Zavala, depending on winds, and go with your tender in Dukley marina in Budva, or you can find your berth in marina for night.

Dukley marina-Budva

Budva offer one of best nightlife in Adriatic. World famous open air club Top Hill is just one of more then hundred places where you can go out. You can take a walk around old town, along promenade or have delicious meals in restaurants there.

DAY 2 - BUDVA - HERCEG NOVI

Just behind old town of Budva is located beach Mogren (N 42.2762399, E18.8295445), and a bit further is Jaz beach (N 42.2820632, E 18.7978916), know for both it's beauty and for events that were held there (Sea Dance festival, concert of Rolling Stones, Madonna, Lenny Kravitz and many others).

Budva - Old town

Just behind a cape there are two more beaches. called Trsteno (N 42.2816658, E 18.782638) and Ploce (N 42.2692133, E 18.7809657), known for their daytime parties which are awesome option for younger groups on board. As you sail ahead, you will come to bay of Traste, where is smaller bay Bigova, where are located several great restaurants, and you can have great food experience there. Other place which Traste is known for will open this summer - Lustica Bay marina, which is residential village with marina and all other services and offers with it. As you go on you will set sails in marina in Herceg Novi, first town in entrance of Boka bay, where you can take a walk around old town, visit some of many festivals that are held in this town during summer, organize yourself a night out or a simple tasty dinner with family and friends.

Marina Herceg Novi

DAY 3 - HERCEG NOVI - PORTO MONTENEGRO

As you wake up in Herceg Novi, you can go to beautiful fisherman village across bay, called Miriste. You can spend most of your day there since there is one of most beautiful beaches in Montenegro, Zanjice (N 42.3989554, E 18.5777177) surrounded with beach bars and famous restaurant Ribarsko selo (Fisherman Village), known for their one of a kind sea food specialities.

Zanjice beach

When you decide to go on, you enter bay and slowly (speed limit is set to 10 knots, in Kumbor channel and the strait of Verige to 6 knots) and then berth in one of world best marina - Porto Montenegro. You will find plenty of thing there, exclusive branded boutiques, huge pool area, five star hotels and restaurants, beautiful promenade, world class night clubs. Currently yachting place number one in Montenegro. All things that can be found there may suit anyone needs for sure.

Porto Montenegro

DAY 4 - PORTO MONTENEGRO - KOTOR

Fourth day of our itinerary is fully located in bay of Boka, crown jewel of Montenegrin yachting tourism, natural landscapes, calm water, slow pace of whole ambient will make your relax. Across Tivat there is wonderful bay and beaches aroud Island of Sveti Marko and Ostrvo Cvijeca (Island of flowers), perfect for morning swimming.

Island Ostrvo Cvijeca and Island Sveti Marko

After you can go through Verige strait to other part of Boka Bay. Old town Perast, prehistoric mosaics, and huge cultural heritage around town of Risan, delicious meals in restaurants where food is served in traditional ways as it was prepared in Montenegro, man mad islands with church built on it are just part of it.  

Old town Perast

As a cherry on top, old town of Kotor where you can settle yourself for night in marina Kotor, visit old fortress, beautiful old town, go out in one of largest indoor night clubs. Weather you are family or group of friends looking for fun, in Kotor you will find all kinds of entertainment.

Marina Kotor

As you spend your night in marina, in morning you can leave further on your journey with feeling that every moment spent in Montenegro was perfect. Also you can refuel yourself with duty-free diesel in Porto Montenegro and then go further exploring other parts of Adriatic.

Useful information for yacht crew and yacht owners on arrival at Montenegro

If you decided to visit Montenegro this summer, this information will help you to enter Montenegro territorial waters and sail through safely.

1. Mandatory check-in system

Maritime Safety Department of Montenegro has introduced a mandatory check-in system for all vessels entering and leaving the Vessel Traffic System-VTS (42°01'N 18°54'E) responsibility of 12 nautical miles or reporting to Montenegrin VTS in Dobra Voda (VHF: Ch 11 87).

When the vessel in the area of international navigation intends to sail into the VTS area, it is necessary to prepare the following information: name of the vessel, international call sign, position, speed, destination and estimated time of arrival (ETA) 15 minutes in advance and at the latest when the vessel enters the area.

2.Pilotage

If you are entering one of the Montenegro marinas (Marina Bar, Marina Porto Montenegro - Tivat, Marina Kotor, Port of Zelenika) and your vessel is 1000 BT or more, pilotage is mandatory. Pilots are 24/7 at your disposal. It is necessary to request pilotage 24 hours prior the arrival to the marina and you do that via the radio station.VHF channels: 16/17 Ch for Boka Bay, and 12 Ch for Port of Bar. 

The exception is that they are exempt pilotage captains who are more than five times the same ship sailed to the same port or marina.

3.Necessary documents

After entering the nearest port or marina, and after doing border control procedures, it is necessary to obtain vignette. In order for the Harbour Office or its branches to be able to issue a vignette (proof of eligibility for the navigation of a foreign ship or yacht in the territorial waters of Montenegro) the following proof must be submitted:

- a request for obtaining a vignette,

- the certificate of registration of the vessel,

- certificate of the ability of the person operating the boat or yacht (Master’s/Skipper’s-Certificate, GMDSS certificates, the certificates of the rest of the crew)

- the insurance policy against liability for damage caused to third parties, for the minimum of € 800,000.00.

- proof of ownership or a notarized power of attorney to manage the yacht,

- proof of payment of fees for the use of navigational safety and administrative fee.

If you do not have necessary documents your request for obtaining vignette will be denied, and you will have to live Montenegro territorial waters in time frame decided by Harbor Masters Office or Harbor Branch Office.

4. Tourist tax 

Each foreign vessel (ship or yacht with built in beds that are used for vacation, sports, recreation, leisure, cruising...), who happens to be in the territorial waters of Montenegro is obliged to pay the tax. Residence tax for vessels on the period of their stay in Montenegro and the length of the vessel. 

Residence tax may be taken out for a period of 7, 15, 30, 90 days and for a period of one year, depending on the period for which the vignettes are taken. The minimum amount of the fee is 5 euros, maximum 120 euros.

5. Speed limit

When you are entering Boka Bay it is necessary that you are aware of the speed limit for this area. For all vessels sailing Boka Bay speed limit is 10 knots, and while in Kumbor strait (channel) and the strait of Verige speed limit is 6 knots. These speed limits are mandatory for all vessels: cruisers, mega yachts, yachts, speed boats, boats, ski-jets, sail boats, catamarans, trimarans, etc.

6. VHF Channels

Bar – 12 Ch

Budva - 08 Ch

Porto Montenegro - 71 Ch

Kotor - 16, 17, 68 Ch

Zelenika - 16, 17 Ch

If you need any additional information, or you need an agent during your stay in Montenegro you can contact Yacht Agent Montenegro by contact form, or by phone +382 67 55 22 87, available 24/7.

Speed limit for all vessels sailing in Boka Bay

Porto Montenegro, Luštica Bay and Portonovi are new build marinas in Montenegro and indicators of how much we are focused on developing yachting industry in last several years. Evident increase in number of yachts and cruisers sailing into Montenegro territorial waters shows rising popularity of Montenegro as European touristic destination. 

Boka Bay is the most popular sailing destination in Montenegro. With a significant growth in traffic during summer season, we also have growth in security measurements. Vessels are controlled on daily basses by Coast Guard and Harbor Master Office representatives.

If you are planning to visit Boka Bay marinas (Porto Montenegro-Tivat, Marina Kotor, Marina Risan, Port Zelenika, Marina Herceg Novi) it is mandatory to have vignette (permit for sailing), and you have to pay attention to the speed limit for sailing Boka Bay.

Vignette for foreign vessels is necessary to obtain in first Harbor Masters Office or Branch Offices after you enter Montenegro territorial waters. Vignette is necessary to be on display. The easiest way to obtain a vignette is to contact Yacht Agent Montenegro. 

For all vessels sailing Boka Bay speed limit is 10 knots, and while in Kumbor strait (channel) and the strait of Verige speed limit is 6 knots. These speed limits are mandatory for all vessels: cruisers, mega yachts, yachts, speed boats, boats, ski-jets, sail boats, catamarans, trimarans, etc.

Yours truly,

Yacht Agent Montenegro

The procedures for entering the Port of Bar and Marina Bar

Port of Bar and Marina Bar

The captain who operated a foreign yacht, and entering the waters of Montenegro is obliged to sail to the port of destination open for international traffic, for carrying out border checks, obtaining a vignette and list of crew and passengers, if there is any.

The captain of the vessel can be operated prior to arrival, by email, fax, or via the port agent to submit copies of documents for obtaining a vignette and endorsement of crew and passengers. Border control includes measures and actions that are carried out at the border crossing during or immediately after completion of crossing the state border in order to control the legal entry of persons in Montenegro.

For vessels that are over 1000 GT when entering or leaving to/from the territorial waters of Montenegro pilotage is required. The exception is that they are exempt pilotage captains who are more than five times the same ship sailed to the Port of Bar.

After a successful border control, the person who manages the vessel is obliged to obtain a vignette. To obtain a sticker, issued by the Harbour Master's Office or Branch Office Bar, submitted the following evidence:

1) a request for obtaining a vignette;

2) Certificate of Registration;

3) a certificate of ability of the person who manages a foreign yacht and crew members (GMDSS);

4) of certification of the insurance scheme from liability for damages caused to third parties (at least 800 000, 00EUR);

5) certificate of ownership or notarized power of attorney to use;

6) certificate of payment of fees for the use of navigational safety and administrative fee.

Vignette includes the auxiliary vessel (tender) which are located on the yacht. 

Exemption: The yacht, which is due to exposure to the boat show or participating in a sport competition, does not have to possess a vignette, for a period of 48 hours before and after the fair or competition, provided that the organizer reported the arrival of her Master's Office or Branch Office Bar.

The next step is the registration of vessels in the register, which performs the Harbour Master's Office, and registration must be carried out for vessels that are permanently or predominantly retained in the Montenegrin waters. To enter it is necessary to submit: a general statement, crew list, passenger list. Navigation permits issued after the registration of vessels in the register.

Visa Regimes-Montenegro

Citizens of the following countries may enter, pass through the territory and stay in Montenegro up to 90 days with a valid passport without a visa: Andorra, Argentine Republic, Aruba, Australia, the Republic of Austria, Kingdom of Belgium, Bermuda, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Federal Republic of Brazil , Brunei Darussalam, the Republic of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Chile, Denmark, the Republic of Estonia, the Republic of Finland, the French Republic, the Republic of Guatemala, the Hellenic Republic, the Republic of Honduras, Republic of Croatian, Ireland, the Republic of Iceland, the Italian Republic, the State of Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Cyprus, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of Costa Rica, the Republic of Latvia, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Republic of Lithuania, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Republic of Hungary, the Republic of Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, the United Mexican States, Principality of Monaco, Republic of Nicaragua, Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Netherlands Antilles , the Kingdom of Norway, New Zealand, Federal Republic of Germany, the Republic of Panama, Republic of Paraguay, the Republic of Polish, Portuguese Republic, Romania, the Republic of El Salvador, the Republic of San Marino, Seychelles, the Republic of Singapore, the United States, the Slovak Republic, the Republic of Slovenia, the Republic of Serbia, the Holy See, the Kingdom of Spain, the Kingdom of Sweden, Swiss Confederation, Republic of Turkey, Ujedinjuenih Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Eastern Republic of Uruguay and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, as well as holders of valid travel documents issued in the Special administrative Region of Hong Kong People's Republic of China and the Special administrative Region of Macao.

Citizens of the following countries may enter, pass through the territory and stay in Montenegro up to 30 days with a valid identity card or other document which proves their identity and citizenship: the European Union, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco, the Republic of San Marino, the Holy See and the Swiss Confederation, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Serbian, Croatian Republic, the Republic of Macedonia and Kosovo.

Citizens of the following countries may enter, pass through the territory and stay in Montenegro up to 30 days with a valid passport without a visa: Albania, the Republic of Ecuador, the Republic of Cuba, the Republic of Peru, the Russian Federation and Ukraine.

Opening hours Harbour Master's Office Bar is 00-24h.

Port and Yacht Agents in Bar Harbor:

Yacht Agent Montenegro;
La Pinta;
Allegra Montenegro.

The procedures for entering the Port of Kotor and Marina Kotor

Port of Kotor and Marina Kotor 

The captain of the ship or yacht which plans to sail into the port of Kotor first of all has to check whether there is an available berth in Kotor port or marina.

The captain of the ship that comes in the port of Kotor is obliged to report the arrival 24 hours in advance and to confirm the arrival of the ship again 12 hours before. If the vessel is late for some reason, one hour delay is tolerated.

Port of Kotor and Marina Kotor 

For vessels which have over 1000 GT when entering the port or leaving from ports and marinas of Montenegro, pilotage is compulsory.

The exception is that the pilotage is not necessary for the captains who sailed more than five times with the same ship into the Port of Kotor, and have the approval of Port Authority Kotor or some of its outposts.

After entering the territorial waters of Montenegro, Captain is obligation to report to the nearest Harbour Master (Kotor, Bar) or the Harbor Master's Office (Zelenika, Tivat, Budva, Ulcinj). While signing up, some of the tasks to be performed are: border control, issuing vignette, providing the list of all crew members and passengers.

Border checks can be carried out at sea or after docking the vessel. These checks will establish whether all members of the crew and passengers fulfil the conditions for entry into/exit from Montenegro (possession of valid travel documents, visas and residence permits).

Prior to arrival at the Port of Kotor, the commander of the ship can e-mail or fax copies of documents required for the issuance of vignettes and crew and passenger lists. All of these tasks can be performed through an authorized person - Port Agent.

During the berthing operations of the yachts of over 1000 GRT in the Port of Kotor or marina Kotor, the Port Agent services are compulsory.

Vignette – In order for the Harbour Office or its branches to be able to issue a vignette (proof of eligibility for the navigation of a foreign ship or yacht in the territorial waters of Montenegro) the following proof must be submitted: 

• A request for obtaining a vignette, 
• The certificate of registration of the vessel, 
• Certificate of the ability of the person operating the boat or yacht (Master’s / Skipper’s Certificate, GMDSS certificates, the certificates of the rest of the crew) 
• The insurance policy against liability for damage caused to third parties, for the minimum of € 800,000.00. 
• Proof of ownership or a notarized power of attorney to manage the yacht, 
• Proof of payment of fees for the use of navigational safety and administrative fee. 

Exemption: The yacht, which is due to be presented at a nautical fair or participate in a sport competition does not have to possess a vignette in the period of 48 hours prior and 48 hours after the event or competition, provided that the organizer of the competition or fair reports its arrival to the Harbour Office or its branch. The vignette is not needed for a foreign yacht placed for safekeeping or repair in a port or other approved location.

Crew List and Passengers List - The master or skipper of a foreign yacht is obliged to deliver the list of crew and passengers to the relevant authorities. The list shall be submitted during customs clearance. In the list you must enter the name, date of birth, nationality, number and type of travel document and, if necessary, the number of visas of the passengers and crew. If you have a change of crew and passengers, these procedures will be executed before the vessel leaves the port, and shall be certified by the Harbour Office or its branch.

The ship or yacht cannot leave the port area before the payments of all accrued charges for your stay in port are settled.

In order to save valuable time and avoid unnecessary queuing, port agents can carry out all necessary formalities with representatives of port authorities, police and customs of Montenegro.

Port and Yacht Agents in Port Kotor:

Yacht Agent Montenegro

BCM

KotorMar

Vignette in Montenegro

Foreign yacht needs to have a vignette displayed on a prominent position. Validity period of a vignette varies from 24 hours to up to one year from the issue date. Master or skipper of a foreign yacht, whose request for a vignette was refused by the Harbour Master’s Office or Branch Office, shall leave the Republic with the vessel following a specified route and within the period determined by the Harbour Master’s Office or Branch Office.

Foreign yacht, moored or undergoing repairs in a port or other approved location, is not required to have a vignette. Foreign yacht taking part in a sport competition or attending a nautical fair is not required to have a vignette, provided that organizers of the sport competition or nautical fair have notified Harbour Master’s Office or Branch Office at least 48 hours prior to the beginning of the competition or fair. Organizers of sport competitions or nautical fairs shall also submit a list of persons aboard a foreign yacht.

Documents required for issuing the vignette for motor yacht:

1. Notice of arrival;
2. Registration and seaworthiness certificate;
3. Master’s and crew’s appropriate certificates of qualifications in accordance with national regulations of the country that they are coming from, but without violating the STCW convention or regulation of the Montenegro ( Master/Skipper licence and GMDSS Certificate);
4. Crew and passenger list endorsed by Harbour Master’s Office or Branch Office;
5. Insurance against liability for damage caused to third parties  of minimal amount of 800.000,00 EUR;
6. Ownership or authorization for use;
7. Proof of payment for the usage of navigable waterways.
8. For animals aboard a yacht it is necessary to produce veterinary certificates issued by the authorized institution of the domicile state of the animal’s owner.

      Fees payable for the use of navigable waterways are as follows:

Yacht for personal use:

By meter of length	24 h	7 days	1 month	3 months	6 months	1 year
Boat up to 7 m	0,50 €	1,00 €	2,00 €	3,00 €	4,00 €	6,00 €
Sailing yacht	1,00 €	2,00 €	6,00 €	12,00 €	15,00 €	18,00 €
Motor Yacht	3,00 €	7,00 €	12,00 €	20,00 €	25,00 €	30,00 €
Catamaran	3,00 €	7,00 €	12,00 €	20,00 €	25,00 €	30,00 €
Motor Yacht of over 24m of length regardless of the type of drive and hull	15€+ length x 1€	360€ +  leng. x1,5€	460 € + length x2€	560 € + length x3 €	660 € + length x4 €	760 € + length x5 €

Yacht for commercial use:

By meter of length	24 h	7 days	1 month	3 months	6 months	1 year
Boat up to 7 m	5,00 €	15,00 €	25,00 €	35,00 €	45,00 €	60,00 €
Sailing yacht	10,00 €	25,00 €	40,00 €	80,00 €	120,00 €	150,00 €
Motor Yacht	15,00 €	30,00 €	50,00 €	100,00 €	150,00 €	200,00 €
Catamaran	15,00 €	30,00 €	50,00 €	100,00 €	150,00 €	200,00 €
Motor Yacht of over 24m of length regardless of the type of drive and hull	15,00 € x length	70,00 € x length	100,00 € x length	150,00 € x length	200,00 € x length	250,00 € x length

 Additional TAX in the amount of 5,00 € must be paid for all vignettes.

     Yacht Agent Montenegro provides vignette for the all kinds of yachts and sailboats in the shortest possible time, as well as clearance procedures assistance on arrival or departure.

      Please contact us 24 hours before arrival in order to get vignette as soon as possible.