VIDEO: Watch Croatia’s largest ferry battle 6-metre waves

(Screenshot/Morski.hr)

The Marko Polo ferry, Croatia’s largest passenger ship currently sailing under the national flag, encountered significant challenges on a recent voyage due to rough weather.

Operated by Jadrolinija, the ferry connects the Dalmatian cities of Zadar and Split with Ancona, Italy.

According to a report from Morski.hr, high waves caused substantial delays this week, with the ferry arriving in Split nearly six hours behind schedule.

Readers described the voyage as extremely difficult, with one stating:

“Marko Polo changed course to avoid the risk of vehicles overturning in the lower deck due to the severe weather. Thankfully, everything ended safely, but many passengers felt unwell during the journey.”

Built in France in 1972, the ferry initially sailed under the names Peter Wessel, Zeeland, and Stena Nordica. Jadrolinija acquired the vessel in 1988, and it has since become a key link for trans-Adriatic travel.

The Marko Polo offers a range of amenities for passengers. It boasts 158 cabins with a total of 574 beds, a large café with a dance floor (seating 368), a children’s play area, a restaurant (222 seats), a lounge (80 seats), an aperitif bar (60 seats), and even a small chapel.

Despite the treacherous conditions, the Marko Polo safely docked in Split. While the incident caused considerable discomfort for passengers, the crew’s handling of the situation ensured a safe outcome.

Check out the video below.