Locals before tourists: New ferry boarding pilot project begins 1 July

Jadrolinija

From 1 July, island residents from Cres and Lošinj will be given boarding priority on the Valbiska–Merag state ferry line, as part of a new pilot scheme introduced by Jadrolinija and the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure.

The initiative was sparked by a proposal from local high school students and aims to ensure islanders can board ferries during the busy summer season, even when crowds of tourists fill the ports.

Many residents have previously missed vital appointments, shopping trips, or work and school obligations due to long queues and lack of space on ferries.

The pilot will be trialled on the frequently operated Valbiska–Merag route, which currently boards passengers on a first-come, first-served basis.

Jadrolinija confirmed it fully supports the initiative, noting that island ID cards will be used to verify eligibility. However, the final logistics of boarding and traffic organisation fall under the authority of local port authorities.

Local officials from other islands have expressed interest. Dr. Anita Jančić Lešić, mayor of Lastovo, told Dubrovački Vjesnik the move is promising and hopes similar schemes will be introduced elsewhere, though she emphasises each ferry line has its own logistical challenges.

Lastovo already has reserved ticket allocations (alotmani), which the Valbiska–Merag line currently lacks.

Teofil Bogdan, a businessman from the Elaphiti Islands, welcomed the idea, noting similar measures already exist for foot passengers on the Postira ferry.

Postira

Meanwhile, Đivo Market, mayor of Mljet, voiced strong support for vehicle boarding priority on his island, where many residents must travel to the mainland by car.

He stressed that, although ferry capacity is generally sufficient, prioritisation would prevent rare but significant disruptions during peak months.

The success of the pilot will determine whether the scheme is extended to other island routes.

Authorities are evaluating infrastructure readiness and coordination with local port management before any wider rollout.

Island communities across Croatia are hopeful this initiative could pave the way for fairer and more reliable access to essential mainland connections.