Montenegro has rapidly become a leading yachting hub in the Adriatic, offering world-class marinas, competitive tax policies, and streamlined yacht registration procedures. Whether you’re a private yacht owner or operating commercially, the Montenegrin flag is an attractive choice — offering flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effective advantages for European and non-European boaters alike.
This article provides an in-depth guide to registering your yacht under the Montenegrin flag and understanding your options for annual berthing fees in 2025.
Why Choose Montenegro for Yacht Registration?
Montenegro’s yacht registry is renowned for its accessibility and advantages:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: You don’t need to be a Montenegrin resident or own a local company to register your yacht.
- Low VAT (7%) on marine services, with access to duty-free fuel and minimal bureaucracy.
- Fast Turnaround: Registration typically takes 2–4 weeks, or faster with an agent.
- Strategic Location: Montenegro offers easy cruising access to Croatia, Italy, and Greece.
Who Can Register a Yacht in Montenegro?
Montenegro permits the registration of private or commercial yachts ≥ 7 meters LOA that are “intended and equipped for longer stays at sea.” Basic requirements include:
- Cabin space
- Galley/kitchen
- Water/fuel tanks
- Communication equipment (e.g., VHF radio)
Step-by-Step Yacht Registration Process
1. Prepare Your Documentation
You’ll need:
- Completed registration form (in Montenegrin)
- Owner’s passport or company registration
- Proof of ownership (Bill of Sale or Builders Certificate)
- Deletion certificate (if previously flagged elsewhere)
- Insurance certificate (liability cover)
- Power of attorney (if using an agent)
2. Registration Fees (Based on LOA)
| Yacht Type | Fee per meter |
|---|---|
| Sailing yacht | €20 |
| Motor yacht/Catamaran | €30 |
Example: A 12-meter sailing yacht = €240 registration (valid for 3 years).
3. Technical Survey
A surveyor from the Montenegrin Administration of Maritime Safety will inspect the yacht for seaworthiness and safety compliance.
- Initial or periodical survey: €7 / meter
- Occasional check: 20% of initial fee
Example: 12 m = €84
4. Administrative Charges
- MMSI and Call Sign Allocation: €3
- Registration Decision Issuance: €3
5. Provisional & Permanent Certificate
- Provisional Certificate: Issued immediately after inspection; valid for 3 months
- Permanent Certificate: Issued once the survey and radio licence are complete; valid for 3 years
Additional Legal Requirements & Costs
▸ Tax on Use of Vessels
This one-time fee is based on the yacht’s size and engine power. It can range from €10 to €3,000. Discounts of up to 50% apply for older yachts.
▸ Vignette (Navigation Permit)
This is compulsory for cruising beyond the marina:
| Yacht Length | Weekly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 12 m | €24 | €72 |
Annual cost for 12 m = €864
▸ Radio Licence
- Temporary Licence: €100
- Full-Term Licence: €200 + radio inspection
▸ Translations
Documents not in Montenegrin require a sworn translation. Budget around €100–€200 depending on volume.
Estimated First-Year Budget (12 m Sailing Yacht)
| Expense | Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee (3 years) | 240 |
| Technical Survey | 84 |
| Admin Taxes | 6 |
| Radio Licence (Full-Term) | 200 |
| Vignette (12-month) | 864 |
| Contingency (agent, translations) | 600 |
| Total (Excluding Berthing) | 1,994 € |
Annual Berthing Fees in Montenegro (2025 Overview)
Montenegro is home to some of the most luxurious marinas in the Mediterranean. Here are the key options:
1. Portonovi Marina – Herceg Novi
| Yacht Size | Annual Fee (2025) |
|---|---|
| 6 m | €2,200 |
| 12 m | €3,223 |
| 15 m | €5,490 |
| 30 m | €19,300 |
- Includes 21% VAT
- Duty-free fuel dock
- Winter & summer packages available
2. Luštica Bay Marina – Trašte Bay
| Yacht Size | Annual Fee Range (2025) |
|---|---|
| 6 m – 40 m | €2,490 – €32,705 |
- Offers a 10% discount to property owners
- Ideal for residential yacht owners
- Close proximity to Tivat Airport
3. Porto Montenegro – Tivat
- Highly tailored pricing model
- 15 m sail yacht: €5,000 – €8,000
- 40 m motor yacht: €20,000+
- Long-term berth leases available (with resale rights)
- Premium facilities: crew club, helipad, Platinum THYA rating
First-Year Total: Sample Budget (12 m Private Sailboat)
| Item | EUR |
|---|---|
| Registration & Legal | 1,994 |
| Annual Berthing (Portonovi) | 3,223 |
| Total | 5,217 € |
Expert Tips for Yacht Owners
- Hire a Local Agent: They can fast-track the process, assist with inspections, and reduce turnaround to under 2 weeks.
- Consider Long-Term Berth Contracts: You may secure better rates and resale value at places like Porto Montenegro.
- Plan for Radio Compliance: Yachts without modern VHF/DSC equipment may require upgrades before licensing.
- Fuel Strategy: Montenegro offers duty-free fuel once a boat is cleared out — ideal before heading to Croatia or Italy.
Getting Started
Ready to flag your yacht in Montenegro?
📧 Email: registar.jahti@pomorstvo.me
📞 Phone: +382 30 313 240 (Registry Office – Bar)
Or contact any registered maritime agency in Tivat, Kotor, or Herceg Novi to begin the process today.
Registering your yacht in Montenegro is not only affordable and efficient — it’s a gateway to cruising the Adriatic with fewer constraints and lower operational costs. With world-class marinas, professional support, and a welcoming yachting culture, Montenegro is an ideal base for both private and commercial yachting adventures.
Whether you own a 10-meter sailboat or a 40-meter superyacht, the Montenegrin coast offers the infrastructure, service, and value you need to enjoy seamless Mediterranean cruising.