Project summary
The project has increased the capacity, quality, and safety of vessel berthing in the Port of Sali. It has also improved the drainage and water supply systems in the surrounding area and resulted in the successful rehabilitation and refurbishment of the quayside zone.
The project has extended the port by constructing 149 metres of new shoreline with a consistent draft of 4 metres. The new quay rests on 72 reinforced concrete piles with a diameter of 800/870 mm. Adjacent areas have been rehabilitated, and a 116-metre main breakwater has been built to protect against wave action, supported by 18 drilled reinforced concrete piles with a diameter of 1300/1380 mm.
The expansion of the port, the addition of new operating shoreline, and the construction of the breakwater have significantly improved conditions for safer maritime traffic and vessel berthing. The newly built shoreline and the inner side of the main breakwater are now used for mooring public transport, recreational, and nautical tourism vessels. Additionally, the outer side of the breakwater enables temporary mooring of various vessels during the summer season and in fair weather, increasing port functionality and capacity.
Project results
The project has increased the safety of maritime traffic in the port of Sali and ensured year-round transport services, significantly improving the connection between Dugi otok and the mainland. As a result, the local population now benefits from more sustainable, modern, safe, and regular transport services, which enhance access to employment, education, and essential services for island communities.
As a result of the project, the port of Sali now meets safety requirements for accommodating vessels even in extreme weather conditions. The existing breakwater provides protection from eastern and southeastern wave action, while the newly constructed breakwater ensures protection from remaining directions, making the port fully sheltered. This investment has secured the smooth operation of regular liner and catamaran services, contributing to reliable year-round connectivity for the island.
The development of maritime infrastructure is positively impacting the quality of life and demographic trends on Dugi otok. With the population heavily reliant on dependable connections to the mainland, the upgraded port infrastructure ensures regular and high-quality transport services, reducing isolation and supporting year-round accessibility. By addressing transportation challenges, the project helps to mitigate out-migration and supports the social and economic sustainability of the island community.
The project “Upgrade of port Sali” has enabled:
- Better quality of public maritime transport
- Greater passenger safety
- Long-term sustainability
- Improved overall quality of life
- Better transport connection of the island with the mainland
- Improved mobility
- Positive effects on economic development.
