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 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.

CURRENT COVID-19 MEASURES IN MONTENEGRO

Due to the favorable trend of the epidemiological situation, the Government of Montenegro has adopted new liberalized measures, which are valid from March 11, 2022 to March 25, 2022.

Entry to Montenegro

* Montenegrin citizens and foreigners can enter Montenegro without any restrictions.

* All ports and marinas are open for entry of the yachts and vessels from all countries 

* Airports Tivat and Podgorica are open for the arrival of both private and commercial flights.

* All land border crossings are open for arrival.

Marina Bar

General restrictions

• Masks are obligatory in all closed spaces

• Bars and restaurants work until 01:00 AM

• Supermarkets, markets, shopping malls, boutiques, beauty salons, hairdressers and similar, have no limitations in working hours

• Private gatherings, celebrations, parties, weddings are allowed.

These are current measures in our country summed up to ease your plans for arrival or stay in our country. New, liberalized measures are valid until 25th March 2022.

If you are planning to come to Montenegro and need detailed information, help or assistance feel free to contact the Yacht Agent Montenegro.

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.

MAXIMUM ALLOWED SPEED IN THE BOKA BAY

While navigating through Montenegro’s internal waters, a yacht is obliged to proceed at a safe speed so as not to endanger and harm other vessels at sea.

Boka Bay (Bay of Kotor) is the popular nautical destination in Montenegro. The sea traffic, especially during the summer season is busy. Therefore, it is important to obey speed limitations.

The speed of navigation in the entire Bay of Boka is limited.

The speed limit for vessels over 24 m

The safe speed limit within Boka Bay shall not exceed 10 knots, and while in the Strait of Kumbor, the Strait of Verige maximum speed is 6 knots.

These speed limits are mandatory for all vessels longer at 24 m: super yachts, mega yachts, yachts, sail yachts, catamarans, trimarans, cruisers, etc.

The speed limit for yachts up to 24 m

For vessels with a length less than 24 meters, the maximum speed in the Bay of Boka is 14 knots, and while in Kumbor Strait (channel) and the Strait of Verige speed limit is 10 knots.

The speed limit for vessels in the Bay of Kotor 

⛵ Speed in the Strait of Kumbor is restricted between coordinates:

1) 42˚26,1’N 018˚36,6’E

2) 42˚25,47’N 018˚36,26’E

3) 42˚25,85’N 018˚34,63’E

4) 42˚26,47’N 018˚35,01’E

⛵ Speed in the Strait of Verige is restricted between coordinates:

1) 42˚28,65’N 018˚41,41’E

2) 42˚28,77’N 018˚41,11’E

3) 42˚27,65’N 018˚40,15’E

4) 42˚27,46’N 018˚41,02’E

PERFECT COMBINATION OF STONE AND SEA - PERAST

GPS Coordinates: 42°29'14.8"N 18°41'47.5"E

Opposite the narrow Verige strait, at the foot of the hill of St. Elijah and at the place where the Bay of Kotor and Risan separate, you must see and experience the town of Perast. As far as is known, it is the oldest human habitat on the shores of the Bay of Kotor. Remains of Neolithic culture (3500 BC), as well as numerous archaeological finds, testify to a continuous settlement from Illyrian, Roman and early Christian times to the present day.

Perast

Perast, we observe through a unique whole of the city, islands and sea. These elements are united in both the physical and the spiritual dimension of the city. The UNESCO-protected town with its impeccably preserved Venetian Gothic waterfront buildings has a magnificent past. Iconic postcard images of Perast and the two famous nearby isles of Our Lady of the Rocks and St George are amongst the best know tourism images of Montenegro.

Lady of the Rock and St. George
 Photo: Iva Radic

The artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) was created by throwing stones and sinking ships on an underwater rock. The people of Perast chose this place to build a church on it because sailors saw an icon with the image of Mary, mother of Jesus on July 22, 1452. Every year on this date a memorial is held and sails to the island on boats where new stones are thrown from ritual and for practical reasons, to compensate for the stones carried away by sea. The church was built in 1630, and it was painted by the famous Baroque painter Tripo Kokolja from Perast. In addition to his frescoes, the church is adorned with 2,000 silver plaques donated by sailors as a token of gratitude that God kept them on their voyages.

Another island not far from Our Lady is called Saint George (Sveti Đorđe). There is also a church on this island. Originally, there was a city cemetery, which was moved to the northern part of the city in 1866, as well as a church from the 12th century, destroyed during the earthquake in 1667. Today, there is a new church built on the site of the old one. Throughout history, this island has had a military defense function, because it is located in the heart of Boka and near the narrowest part of the bay - Verige, so it protected Perast and Risan from external attacks from the sea.

Perast prospered in the Venetian period when its defensive towers and the Fortress of St. Cross were built above the town. The city grew to include over 20 baroque palazzi (palaces), 18 churches, and an important maritime school. This explains why the village has a distinctly Venetian feel to it even today, and an unusually high concentration of churches for what is now a much smaller village than it used to be.

What to do:

⚓ Exploring the narrow streets and alleyways that stretch back from the water.

⚓ St Nicholas' church dominates the central town square. It is a Catholic church with a 55-meter-high bell tower. The entrance fee for the tower is 1 Euro and the views from the top overlooking the bay and towards the two islands are magnificent.

⚓ A visit to the Nautical Museum will bring you closer to the history and culture of the place. The museum itself is located in a beautiful, well-preserved old house by the bay with a marvelous view of the sea.

⚓ Visiting the church and museum located on Our Lady of the Rocks.

Where to eat:

Restaurant Catovica Mlini

⚓Restaurant Conte - with authentically Boka interior, stone and wood offering traditional meals and has access from the sea with the possibility of berthing (buoys and moorings) in front of restaurant terrace for smaller yachts but for bigger yachts and sailboats the restaurant has a tender (10 seats) to offer your guests free transfer from the anchorage.

⚓ Ćatovića Mlini - about 5 nautical miles from Perast, with our assistance, restaurant tender is at your disposal to pick up guests from your yacht directly from anchorage in Morinj to the restaurant.

Fun facts about Perast:

⚓ At its peak, in the middle of the 18th century, the Perast fleet consisted of about 100 larger ships. At that time, Perast was the main maritime city in the Bay of Kotor, celebrated on all seas. Perast ships sailed all over the Mediterranean, entering the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, all the way to England and the Netherlands.

Perast
Photo by Jovan Skakic

 ⚓On one occasion, a "rumor" reached Perast about a large number of pirates coming to plunder the city. The captains of Perast came up with a plan for the defense. In the narrowest place, they make an obstacle from chains (chains), from one side of the shore to the other. Chains were gathered around Perast and the surrounding places, from which a long defensive chain was made. Perast and the rest of Boka were defended. And so, the narrow passage in front of Perast was named Chains. People from Perast and the rest of Boka, chains and padlocks are not associated with slavery, but with great freedom.

 ⚓ Keeping the war flag called "Serenissima", for the full 377 years that the Venetian Republic ruled in this area, eight of its guards gave their lives, defending it! After the fall of the Veneto Republic, after Napoleon conquered Perast and Boka, the war flag was buried with a ceremony in Perast. To date, it has not been found.

The last of the three guards who buried the flag in secret, when asked to say where it was buried, answered - that the dead should not be disturbed.

Info for captains: 

The main docks in Perast are located under the church bell tower. These docks, just like the two smaller docks to the west and east of this one, are full of boats, most of them transporting passengers to Our Lady of the Rocks (there is a small dock on the island too). In the summer, you can only find a place to berth on the ‘main’ dock in the evening, when those boats stop sailing to the island. During bura winds, anchor closer to the eastern end of the town, and in sirocco, anchor at the beginning of the Bay of Risan.

 Fasinada Cup

Today, Perast is an extremely peaceful town, and the turbulent life, wealth and glory of Perast and the people of Perast are history. However, with its beauty, Perast attracts modern sailors, travelers, artists, dreamers, eager for beauty and peace.

HERCEG NOVI - A CITY OF SALT WITH 100 001 STEPS

GPS Coordinates:42°27'11.02" N 18°32'15.00" E

Located between the entrance to the Bay of Kotor and the high mountain Orjen you will be warmly welcomed in the biggest, sunniest and youngest city in the Bay of Boka - Herceg Novi. A city that has been ennobled by poets and painters over the centuries.

Although it is one of the youngest settlements on the Adriatic, it had a very turbulent history, and every one of the numerous conquerors had left a mark on the city, making it one of the most picturesque towns on the Montenegrin coast.

Fortress Kanli Kula, Source: Tovougerbust

A city that has been destroyed and rebuilt nine times during its turbulent history. Rarely do any cities have a known founder, year and reason for existence. Herceg Novi was founded in May 1382 by the Bosnian king Tvrtko the First, between Dubrovnik and Kotor who were already considered as big and important towns. The reason why Tvrtko choose this geographical corner for his new city is that Novi is the most magnificent amphitheater of nature. A town on the slope of a high hill, between forests, palm trees, oranges and other southern flora.

It is enough to enumerate only the peoples who ruled this city and understand its value. Before Tvrtko Kotromanić here were: Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and then Turks, Spaniards, Venetians, Austrians, Russians, French...The city was destroyed and rebuilt nine times.

WHY THE CITY OF SALT? The city was founded for the development of the salt trade and then it was named Sveti Stefan (yes, like the "current" Sveti Stefan-about fifty kilometers to the south). The old town lies just above the town’s marina. And this reminds that Herceg Novi has another nickname – the City of Stairs. To reach the old town from the seaside, you’ll need to go with one of the 100 001 stairs of town.

WHAT TO SEE? It is well known spa and health center, with nearby Igalo being abundant in healing sea mud called “igaljsko blato” (Igalo mud) and mineral water springs called “igaljske slatine” (Igalo water springs). The most famous tourist attractions in Herceg Novi are:

⚓ Old town - The Herceg Novi old town is amazing. It is on a fairly steep hill that leads all the way down to the sea. Wandering through the small stairways to the various plazas and fortresses is many hour adventures. There are both Orthodox and Catholic churches that are well worth visiting. Free.

Monastery Savina, Photo: Yuya Matsuo 

⚓Kanli Kula - (Old Town). The Kanli Kula fortress dominating the old town doubles as an open-air theatre and is worth visiting mainly for the splendid views of the town and the Boka Kotorska bay.

⚓ Espanola — The Španjola fortress located higher up the mountain (170 meters above sea level) dates back to the 16th century. Take a small street going upwards across from the Kanli Kula fortress. The entrance is free and you can freely climb the walls.

⚓Savina Monastery — The Savina monastery, approximately 2 km east from the city center has three beautiful Orthodox churches and splendid views of the bay.

The city itself is not a major destination for sunbathing, but there are many attractive beaches reachable by boat. It's just a few nautical miles away from beaches Zanjic, Miriste, Lustica...

A city that has a thousand-year-old authentic cultural heritage, especially 89 sacral gems, churches built from the 9th to the 19th century from which 75 Orthodox and 14 Catholic.

Tavern Feral, a family tavern is one of the restaurants that has been manage to preserve traditional food for over thirty years with a lot of love.

The konoba restaurant "Krušo" offers a wide choice of local and international dishes and a selection of the finest wines.

WHY? We concluded that Herceg Novi is worthy to stand next to its neighbors Dubrovnik and Kotor and that built its uniqueness and recognizability based on position, history and character.

Local Winery Savina, Source: Castelsavina

RESTAURANTS YOU CAN REACH FROM ANCHOR:

Perla Portonovi restaurant & cafe bar is situated in the heart of the exclusive resort community Portonovi - Montenegro essence.

Adriatica restaurant by the beach is unique in its own right and will offer its guests a cozy setting with a relaxed vibe, right after the ferry in Kamenari.

If you, however, find your self walking on the streets of Herceg Novi we would recommend you to check out traditional taverns like Tavern Krušo or Tavern Feral with great food and traditional coastal atmosphere.

Info for Captains:

Anchorage:

Anchorage is permitted west and east from the port, in Meljine beach(this anchorage is very safe, even in south winds), near the port of Zelenika, or in front of Igalo (Topla beach). It is important to say that the end of this beach is shallow.

Marina Herceg Novi, Photo: Vuk Ilic

Port of Herceg Novi:

⚓ the length of the coast is 250 m,

⚓ depth along the coast is from 3m-9m,

⚓ the port has 40 berths,

⚓ the maximum length of mooring yachts is 30 m,

⚓ has 8 service cabinets for water and single-phase electricity 220 V, 50 Hz,

⚓ if necessary, there is a diver,

⚓does not perform repairs or take wastewater from the vessel,

⚓ no maritime pilotage required,

⚓ petrol pump for boats (Euro diesel, Eurosuper 95 and all types of lubricants)

⚓ no tax-free fuel.

CURRENT COVID-19 UPDATE FOR ARRIVAL IN MONTENEGRO ON 2. 3. 2021.

Here is brief information related to the arrival and entry of foreign citizens in Montenegro with yachts.

All ports and marinas in Montenegro are open for entry of the yachts and vessels from all countries. Crew members and guests are allowed to come with some limitations depending on their passport and the countries they spent time before arrival to Montenegro.

Airports Tivat and Podgorica are open for the arrival of both private and commercial flights but not all the lines are back running as usually.

All land border crossing are open for arrival.

Porto Montenegro

Passport holders of the following countries and/or citizens who stayed in the following countries prior to their arrival in Montenegro and obliged to have negative PCR test not older than 72 hours: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the United States of America, France, Spain, Malta, South Africa, Portugal, the Netherlands, Lebanon, Israel, Denmark, the Republic of Ireland, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Brazil, Republic of India, Bahrain, Lebanon, the Republic of San Marino, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Principality of Andorra, the Slovak Republic, the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of Botswana.

Even if you are a passport holder of the abovementioned countries but you have stayed with your yacht in one of the countries that are considered “safe” and that is not on the list, or you spend it in navigation on the sea before arriving in Montenegro you do not need PCR test for entry.

If a person does not have a PCR test and it is required for them from the mentioned measures then a self-isolation measure is demanded on their vessel or in their accommodation. After six days isolation can be suspended if a negative PCR test is provided.

Masks are obligatory in all closed spaces and in open if there is more then one person together.

There is lockdown measure in all Montenegro everyday from 21:00 until 05:00 meaning that no one may leave their home, yacht, hotel or any kind of accommodation without special permission.

Several Montenegrin cities are in strict lockdown, meaning that no cafes, restaurants, or public gathering places are allowed to work. Only supermarkets, gas stations, bakeries and pharmacies are open. Any kind of gathering, both in open or closed spaces, even private homes, except for close family members. Going out from these cities is not allowed for their residents.

Cities under lockdown at this moment are Tivat, Budva, Herceg Novi.

In some other cities like Podgorica, Ulcinj, Kotor, Cetinje, Niksic are enforced mild measures meaning that only food and drink services are not allowed as well as any kind of public gathering. Non-hospitality services are working from 07:00-18:00 but it is not allowed for residents to leave territories of these municipalities.

During weekends (from Friday 21:00 until Monday 05:00) it is not allowed to go from one city to another without having permission from authorized personnel.

Marinas have also adopted best practice guides to prevent the spread of the virus and respect social distancing on land which shall be consulted.

These are current measures in Montenegro summed up to ease your plans for arrival or stay and Yacht Agent Montenegro with this season coming up will keep you updated on any changes regularly. You can as well contact us for any information, help or assistance related to arrival with your yacht and we will be eager to help you anytime.

Update Greece - August 5, 2020

Entry to Greece:

1. Is allowed for Greek citizens, regardless of their country of origin, on the condition that they have a Greek passport or a special identity card for expatriates;

2. Citizens and residents of the European Union (EU);

3. Citizens and residents of the EU+. This includes Schengen countries that are not in the EU (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Lichtenstein) plus Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Romania, Ireland and the UK. Non-EU passport holders with EU permanent residence permits may enter Greece. Contact the Greek Embassy in the country of your residence to verify your residency documents and they will permit you to enter Greece;

4. Citizens and residents of the following non-EU countries: Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay.

All sea connections between Greece and Turkey, Greece and Albania will remain closed until August 14th!

As from 16 July, member states should gradually lift the travel restrictions at the external borders for residents of the following third countries: 

Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay, China, subject to confirmation of reciprocity.

Regarding the epidemiological situation, third countries listed should meet the following criteria, in particular:

1. Number of new COVID-19 cases over the last 14 days and per 100 000 inhabitants close to or below the EU average (as it stood on 15 June 2020);

2. The stable or decreasing trend of new cases over this period in comparison to the previous 14 days;

3. The overall response to COVID-19 taking into account available information, including on aspects such as testing, surveillance, contact tracing, containment, treatment and reporting, as well as the reliability of the information and, if needed, the total average score for International Health Regulations (IHR). Information provided by EU delegations on these aspects should also be taken into account.

Schengen associated countries (Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) also take part in this recommendation.

NOTE: Entry into Greece regardless of nationality is allowed for all crew members on private or charter vessels. Upon entry of the passenger who will be staying on the private or charter yacht the measures apply as for Greek and foreign nationals listed in the text above.

New measures on developments in Montenegro regarding Covid-19

The National Coordination Body for Infectious Diseases has made a new decision on opening the borders of Montenegro in accordance with the policy of the highest level of protection of citizens, foreigners living in our country and tourists. The new measures come into force on June 21, 2020. at 24h.

In accordance with the adopted principles, three lists of countries have been formed depending on: the number of active and new cases of coronavirus infection, the trend of the number of infected persons and the overall response of a country to a pandemic, as well as information on aspects such as testing, treatment, contact monitoring and reporting.

Countries whose residents can enter Montenegro without restrictions are: Algeria, Angola, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Brunei, Bulgaria, Bhutan, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Fiji , Philippines, Finland, Gambia, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Greenland, Georgia, Guyana, Guinea, Netherlands, Croatia, Indonesia, Ireland, Iceland, East Timor, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, South Sudan, Cambodia, Cameroon, Kenya, China, Cyprus, Kyrgyzstan, Comoros, Congo, Costa Rica, Cuba, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Hungary, Malawi, Malta, Malaysia, Mali, Morocco, Mauritius, Mauritania, Mexico , Myanmar, Monaco, Mongolia, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Nicaragua, Germany, Norway, New Zealand, Ivory Coast, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Slovakia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Senegal, Slovenia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Switzerland, Saint Lucia, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Tajikistan, Thailand, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Countries whose residents can enter Montenegro with a negative result of PCR test on SARS-CoV-2 accredited laboratories, aged no more than 48 hours are: Italy, Albania, Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Israel, Poland, Romania and Ukraine.

The third group are foreign nationals who enter Montenegro from some of the countries that are not on the list and are sent to quarantine for 14 days.

NOTE: It is mandatory to wear protective masks in public indoor facilities.

These measures also apply to passengers and crew entering one of the Montenegrin marinas.

If you are planning to visit Montenegro and want to get timely information about all current measures, feel free to contact the Yacht Agent Montenegro team.

UPDATE: ENTRY OF FOREIGN VESSELS INTO MONTENEGRO FROM THE 1ST OF JUNE 2020

Having in mind the implementation of the "Plan for the reception and management of foreign vessels and their crews in the ports of Montenegro, enabling unloading, embarkation and transit of foreign seafarers, as well as the management of foreign vessels entering the ports of Montenegro for fuel", we want to inform you about the mitigation of measures adopted by the Ministry of Transport and Maritime Affairs.

Namely, from the 1st of June foreign vessels entering Montenegro and coming by water from countries with a lower active rate of 25 per 100000 inhabitants can freely enter all ports and marinas of Montenegro.

Boka Bay

If your last port of residence was in Croatia, Greece, Slovenia, Albania, Malta, Cyprus or Monaco upon arrival of the crew and passengers are free to stay in Montenegro without staying in quarantine for 14 days. And if the owners, guests or crew are citizens of the following countries and come to Montenegro by land or air they are not obliged to stay in self-isolation or quarantine, those countries are:

Slovenia, Iceland, Croatia, Slovakia, Georgia, Switzerland, Albania, Austria, Monaco, Kosovo, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Denmark, Lithuania, Latvia, Luxembourg, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Israel, Czech Republic, Finland, Estonia...

If you enter Montenegro from countries with a higher active rate of 25 per 100000 inhabitants, the crew and passengers are assigned a measure of self-isolation or quarantine for a period of 14 days. The measure of self-isolation and quarantine is abolished after 14 days for persons who have a negative coronavirus test result.

Tax-free diesel: All vessels that intend to enter Montenegro in order to supply duty-free fuel, entry is allowed, with the mandatory departure from Montenegro territorial waters immediately after the bunker. Tax-free diesel fuel is available at: Port of Bar, Marina Bar and Porto Montenegro.

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

If you are planning to come to Montenegro and need detailed information, feel free to contact the Yacht Agent Montenegro team. Welcome to Montenegro!