
Quite what to expect here is difficult to say – other than the Eurovoyager most of the above named are in regular service. There have been a couple of casualties from the area in 2010 already in the Sara 1 and Euroferrys Atlantica but with a reportedly disappointing Summer perhaps there is scope for some further cutbacks. The most likely vessel perhaps, other than the Eurovoyager, might be the oldest – COMANAV’s Bni Nsar has created a notably negative public reputation but has, however, remained in service beyond 30 September.
Both Moby and Corsica Ferries have been able to add capacity seemingly at will in recent years, and the latter’s elderly ladies seem equally secure – for now. The Sardinia Vera and sister Corsica Marina Seconda, the Sardinia Regina and sister Corsica Victoria plus the Corsica Serena Seconda all appear in the Summer 2011 timetables.
The Marko Polo will be upgraded over the Winter to meet the new safety requirements but it seems inevitable that the Liburnija will henceforth be restricted to domestic use – if anything. She was Jadrolinija’s first car ferry of any real size and ever since her introduction in 1965 has been lovingly looked after. Now quite antiquated one can only wonder if she will return in 2011 and, if so, what route a ship with cabin accommodation would be suitable for if not the coastal/international lines.


Alongside her in the picture above is Ventouris Ferries’ Rigel (ex-Bore I). This ship and her three quite elderly Adriatic fleetmates (average age – 35) seem set to continue to operate – the Polaris is presently having a not insignificant refit with her place, for now, being taken by Agoudimos’ Ionian King.
The Veronica Line has again gone into hibernation for the Winter but the Red Star I and Ionian Spirit continue to sail. Whilst this route has a history of sudden disappearances the latter two seem quite secure for now. The Veronica Line may be a casualty of the Stockholm Agreement but there is every chance we won’t know about it until she fails to reappear for 2011.

The Express Santorini (ex-Chartres) and the Scotia Prince (ex-Stena Olympica, top picture) have also arrived in the area recently – they are both now at Drapetsona. The former ship is scheduled to carry out relief sailings through the Winter and a further Summer on charter in the Azores apparently awaits in 2011. For the Scotia Prince the future has to be less certain – she had a heavy refit before the 2010 season which she spent on charter to Marmara Lines for service between Italy and Turkey. It would be great news if this was repeated, but will Marmara Lines be back for 2011?
Will the Veronica Line sail again? I doubt it!! The supposed owners – Medglory Shipping – cannot be found (no website trace etc.). She was reported as ‘broke her moorings’ in a gale very recently and blown onto the shore? Must have damage that is not worth repairing. If she sails in 2011 I MUST get out to ride her one last time….and to photgraph all I can of her——my favourite ‘Free Enterprise’!!!
I have just returned from Southern Croatia and I can happily report that the classic, 1963-built, Postira is still faithfully serving in her vital role servicing the Elaphite Islands from Gruz, Dubrovnik.
Having spent many wonderful holidays in Jugoslavija, and now Croatia both my wife and I would be very sad if the historic Postira were to be scrapped and I think that many British people would share the same view! The Postira is an elegantly proportioned and extremely seaworthy little ship and a pleasure to use.
For a growing number of people – she is becoming a tourist attraction in her own right! Jadrolinija should celebrate the continuing life of this ship by placing a large brass plaque upon her – celebrating her history – especially her survival of the war!
On hot summer days it is an absolute pleasure to sit on her aft open top deck under the flapping canvass sun-shade – feeling a cooling breeze whilst you photograph the islands of Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan – and perhaps the odd giant cruise-liner berthing at Gruz. The Postira is a ship enthusiasts dream and a still-operational link back to the days of elegant travel. She certainly isn’t a fast-cat with all of the passengers forced to stay inside – she is an unhurried ship that always sticks to her time-table and performs her function superbly! I hope that Jadrolinija realise that this historic ship now has a latent value to all visiting ship enthusiasts.
Long live the Postira!
If you can, email Jadrolinija at Rijeka, and plead with them not to scrap the Postira.