VIDEO: Croatia’s first-ever ferry service launched 66 years ago today
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
(Photo credit: Muzej Grada Crikvenica)
Sixty-six years ago today, Croatia launched its first ferry service along the scenic Adriatic coast, forging a historic link between its mainland and islands.
On April 12, 1959, the ferry “Bodulka” set sail on its first trip, kicking off a new chapter of travel and trade between Croatia’s islands and mainland.
The first-ever ferry service connected Crikvenica on the mainland with Šilo on the island of Krk.
Stretching 26 meters long, the “Bodulka” could carry 12 vehicles and up to 140 passengers, cruising at a steady five knots.
Running year-round, the ferry was a lifeline for Šilo locals and nearby Krk communities.
It carried workers to Crikvenica, shoppers to markets, and farmers who brought their goods to sell to visitors.
In the busy summer months, it made 13 daily trips, with each two-mile journey lasting about 20 minutes.
Sadly, in 2009, the ferry—renamed “Rovinjka”—sank in Rovinj’s harbor after sitting docked for two years.
This loss fell on the exact 50th anniversary of Croatia’s proud ferry service, marking a bittersweet moment in its history.
Jadrolinija catamaran
Today there are over 200 regular ferry and catamaran routes operating across the country. The main operator, Jadrolinija, runs a significant portion of these, alongside private companies like Krilo and TP Line.
Check out the video below.
