First cruise brings American visitors to Vukovar, record season ahead

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)

The first cruise ship of the season, AmaVerde, docked in Vukovar this morning, bringing around 140 passengers, mostly from the United States.

The arrival was warmly welcomed by Mayor Ivan Penava, Head of the Department of Economy Martina Prepunić, and the Director of Vukovar’s Tourist Board, Marina Sekulić.

This marks the first of an impressive 389 announced cruise ship arrivals for 2025, solidifying Vukovar’s growing status as a key destination for river tourism.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)

The passengers, travelling from Budapest to Giurgiu in Romania, will explore the Vukovar City Museum and the Vučedol Culture Museum during their visit.

Strong Year Ahead for Vukovar’s River Tourism

Mayor Penava highlighted the importance of cruise tourism for the city’s economy, emphasising that the Danube remains Vukovar’s greatest asset.

“We anticipate an excellent season, with 389 cruise ship arrivals expected. Last year, Vukovar welcomed over 54,000 guests from a record-breaking 366 cruises. We remain optimistic about continued growth,” said Penava.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)

He also announced upcoming infrastructure projects, including the demolition and reconstruction of Hotel Dunav, which will further enhance the city’s hospitality offering.

Additionally, work is in progress on the right bank of the Danube, where a major development project is underway. This includes a new river embankment, four passenger ship docks, a marina, and a 700-metre-long breakwater.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)

“These projects will significantly improve Vukovar’s infrastructure, particularly in river tourism. Visitors often comment on the cleanliness and beauty of our city, and we are committed to maintaining and improving that standard,” Penava added.

Record Cruise Arrivals Expected in 2025

Tourist Board Director Marina Sekulić noted that the start of the cruise season in Vukovar is traditionally celebrated with a warm welcome featuring local products such as rakija, sausages, and kulen.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)

“The season will run until 1st January 2026, with a record 505 planned dockings, including 389 passenger cruises. Around 50% of our cruise visitors come from the United States, and today’s guests will explore the city centre and our museums. We hope they leave with great impressions,” said Sekulić.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)

She also highlighted positive trends in tourism, with a 5.5% increase in cruise arrivals in 2024 compared to the previous year. Overall, Vukovar recorded 52,996 tourist arrivals and 86,794 overnight stays in 2024, marking an increase in both categories.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar)