In the summer of 2025, a new seasonal ferry service is set to connect Port Trieste (Italy) with key destinations in Croatia, marking a significant enhancement in maritime connectivity across the Adriatic. Designed to strengthen transport links and provide convenient travel options for both tourists and residents, the route underscores the region's commitment to fostering seamless travel between popular destinations.
The service, which will also include a stop in Piran (Slovenia), will originate and conclude in Trieste, with additional calls at Porec, Rovinj, and Mali Losinj in Croatia. The proposed schedule features 2 weekly departures for each of the 4 routes: Trieste–Piran–Porec–Rovinj, Trieste–Rovinj–Mali Losinj, Trieste–Porec–Piran, and Trieste–Piran–Rovinj.
Operations will span from June 26th to early September, with the initial contract extending over 3 summer seasons from 2025 to 2027, and an option for renewal in 2028.
The Italian government will provide financial backing for the initiative, demonstrating a commitment to reviving a tradition of maritime links between Trieste and Istria that dates back to 1963. Historically, these connections began with the motor vessel Edra, which served all major towns along Istria's western coast. While the service evolved over time, it continued until the early 1990s, with the last regular ferry, Dionea, ceasing operations in 1990.
The new ferry service represents both a nod to the region's maritime heritage and a modern solution to enhance accessibility between Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia, offering a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and tourism.
In 2023, Croatia welcomed ~19.5 million tourist arrivals, marking a 9.7% increase compared to the previous year. Among its destinations, the capital city of Zagreb stood out as the most visited, attracting 1.3+ million tourists, while Rovinj emerged as the leading destination within the County of Istria. These figures underscore the country's growing appeal as a premier travel destination in the Adriatic region.
Italy, meanwhile, reported ~57.3 million international tourist arrivals in 2023, securing its position as the fourth most visited country in the world. Tourism and travel made a significant contribution to Italy's economy, accounting for 10.5% of the nation’s GDP during the year.
By December 6th, 2024, Italy's tourism figures were estimated to have reached 62.2 million arrivals, reflecting a robust recovery from the pandemic's impact on the sector. This growth signifies a steady return to pre-COVID levels, reaffirming Italy's enduring allure as a global travel destination renowned for its cultural, historical, and natural treasures.