Construction work on the new maritime passenger terminal in Vela Luka on the island of Korčula has been completed. The spacious terminal situated in front of the former "Jadranka" factory should replace the port in the historic centre of town, as a modern ferry landing.
The works began in the spring of 2021, and were aimed at the construction of three ferry berths – two 70 meters long and one 150 meters long – and one auxiliary 30-meter berth. The large draft depth between 8 and 13.5 meters, supported by an 18,000 square meter open area for embarkation and parking, allows large ferries to dock without leading to port congestion and crowds on the shore.
More than 12 million euros have been allocated for the construction of the maritime passenger terminal from the Operational Programme Competitiveness and Cohesion (OPCC). The OPCC programme, within the priority axis managed by the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, responds to the transport needs of island communities by investing in port infrastructure that serves regular transport between the mainland and the islands.
Eight Adriatic ports have already been successfully reconstructed under the auspices of OPCC and the Ministry. However, the terminal in Vela Luka managed to be the first new, i.e. relocated, port whose construction was completed with the support of EU funds.
Before issuing the operating permit, the terminal must still be connected to the sewage system and the power grid. In addition, installation of prefab facilities for the ticket office, waiting room, public toilet and port administration premises continues. The opening of the new gates of Korčula is planned in June, at the start of the tourist season.
Moving the port activity outside the town center will help Vela Luka to preserve its idyllic picture-postcard appearance.