As I sit outdoors, relishing a refreshing cocktail while gazing at the breathtaking sunset, it's impossible to ignore the awe-inspiring fleet of superyachts moored in the marina. The likes of the Black Pearl and other magnificent vessels pique our curiosity, leading us to indulge in an extensive bout of superyacht Googling, a newfound obsession that will captivate us for days to come.
Montenegro, with its alluring appeal, has become a magnet for these opulent superyachts. The port in Porto Montenegro boasts the capacity to accommodate even the largest among them. As the world's inaugural Platinum-status marina, Porto Montenegro has earned the prestigious TYHA Platinum Marina Award and the remarkable 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accreditation. This state-of-the-art marina offers unparalleled facilities, making it an idyllic cruising destination for the season. With flexible berthing packages and the added advantage of tax-free fuel, it caters to the discerning needs of yacht owners. Currently, the marina can house 460 berths, with ambitious plans underway to expand in phases, ultimately providing up to 850 berths. Among them, 315 berths will be specifically designated for superyachts. Alongside the new adjacent Adriatic 42 superyacht repair facility, this expansion will solidify Porto Montenegro's position as the largest full-service marina in the Mediterranean.
Montenegro, renowned for its pristine beauty, boasts a stunning coastline stretching 295 kilometres. It is home to 117 diverse beaches and enjoys over 280 days of sunshine each year. The country's unspoiled charm is accentuated by its five national parks, four World Heritage sites, including the Bay of Kotor, and the largest freshwater lake in Europe. The majestic mountains provide a haven for skiing enthusiasts. Porto Montenegro has transformed the coastal region into a thriving hub for international yachting, attracting entrepreneurs, inward investments, and local businesses. This has contributed to Montenegro's rapid economic growth, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in the Balkans and the second-fastest-growing travel and tourism economy globally.
Nestled in the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor, Porto Montenegro boasts world-class facilities, including a picturesque marina village, the opulent five-star Regent Porto Montenegro Hotel, premium residences, and a vibrant international fashion and dining scene. It has become the quintessential Mediterranean destination, captivating visitors from near and far.
Furthermore, Porto Montenegro serves as an ideal base for venturing out to the country's finest beach clubs. From Ribarsko Selo, a beach destination where fishermen bring in the freshest catches of the day, to the world-famous Nikki Beach, which has recently graced the Bay of Tivat with its stylish presence, there is no shortage of exquisite options. Culture enthusiasts can explore the medieval fortified town of Kotor, with its limestone cliffs and winding streets, or visit the Roman Catholic Church, Our Lady of the Rocks, situated on a captivating islet off the coast of Perast.
Once completed, Porto Montenegro will encompass five interconnected and distinctive neighbourhoods, each contributing to the destination's growth and appeal. The current neighbourhood, South Village, offers classic and elegant waterfront living, dining, and shopping. It boasts over 50 boutique stores, three boutique business club office facilities, more than 400 private apartments, and the Regent Hotel & Venezia Residences Porto Montenegro. The latter introduces the new Regent Pool Club Residences, which comprise 129 managed residences spread across the AQUA and BAIA buildings. Additionally, the Elena Residences building offers 50 apartments, all overlooking Porto Montenegro's unrivalled superyacht marina.
Boka Place, a new urban village currently under development and set for completion in 2024, will introduce a five-star health and wellness lifestyle concept hotel and fitness hub called SIRO. This revolutionary project comes from industry leaders Kerzner International, renowned for their creations such as One&Only Resorts, Atlantis Resorts and Residences, and Rare Finds unique hospitality and entertainment destinations, including Bab Al Shams in Dubai.
Synchro, featuring the Porto Montenegro Yacht Club, is another neighbourhood currently undergoing enabling works and final design. It will offer a luxury hotel and spa set in a beachfront setting, along with a major events and entertainment centre that will host a diverse lifestyle and leisure program. Synchro promises to be a neighbourhood bursting with cultural vibrancy and creative fulfilment, complemented by a collection of enchanting spaces designed to nurture self-enrichment and soothe the soul.
North Village, designed as a tennis-centric village, will transform the former naval dockyard's sports and tennis centre. It will serve as an active but relaxed lifestyle hub, ideal for sporting breaks and small tournaments. This village will feature residences, retail outlets, and a range of dining options. Meanwhile, Park Gardens is envisioned as a resort-style oasis, a tranquil haven surrounded by lush jungle landscapes and a network of swimmable waterways.
Recognised as the premier marina in the Mediterranean and one of the world's finest, Porto Montenegro has recently expanded its retail offerings. The introduction of over 10 new international stores has elevated the shopping experience. Additionally, new restaurants and the esteemed gourmet supermarket Voli, Montenegro's beloved luxury grocery store, add to the culinary delights. Forza Porto caters to food enthusiasts, offering authentic Boka delicacies with a modern and sophisticated twist. Sister restaurants Marea, situated on the village Town Quay, and Panorama at the PMYC Pool combine traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a fusion of Northern Montenegrin-inspired culinary specialities, mouth-watering meat dishes, and specially curated wines. For a more relaxed dining experience, visitors can head to Navale, a waterfront café run by a local family, located along Porto's prestigious promenade.
With a variety of events throughout the year, this summer, Porto Montenegro will host an unmissable programme of creative experiences and artistic performances, Rubix Festival, set against the waterfront backdrop of the vibrant, nautical village and state-of-the-art superyacht marina.
As this was my first visit to Montenegro, I was super impressed with the developments in the area and I really enjoyed experiencing the culture and meeting the friendly people of this small nation. I can’t wait to return to see the above developments transform the area into an even more exciting hotspot, as I truly believe the destination offers something for everyone to discover - shopping, epicurean delights, and natural beauty - or even discovering who owns the best super yacht - thanks Google.
Back
header.all-comments