Decarbonizing the Bay of Kotor: Preliminary Electrification Concept of a Ferry

A preliminary concept for an electric ferry designed to decarbonize maritime transport in the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, demonstrates significant potential for reducing onboard emissions. The study, based on operational data from the most energy-demanding ferry operating in the bay over the past decade, proposes a short route suitable for electric propulsion, addressing a gap where domestic ferries have not yet faced regulatory scrutiny despite global decarbonization efforts. The analysis evaluates the ferry's operational profile and design parameters, weighing advantages such as reduced emissions against challenges like battery technology readiness. This work contributes to broader discussions on alternative fuels—including batteries, hydrogen, and ammonia—and offers actionable insights for regions balancing environmental protection with maritime transport needs.

Kalajdžić, M., Momčilović, N., Mijatović, L.,. (2023). Decarbonizing the Bay of Kotor: Preliminary Electrification Concept of a Ferry. Časopis Pomorskog Fakulteta Kotor - Journal of Maritime Sciences, 24(1), 22–35. https://doi.org/10.56080/jms230503