Port of Durrës Sees Surge in Passenger Traffic as Double Ferry Crossings Resume on Bari Route

 The Port of Durrës is experiencing a significant increase in passenger traffic as Albania enters the peak of the summer tourism season. To accommodate the growing demand, ferry operators have resumed double daily sailings on the Durrës–Bari route, while port authorities expect passenger numbers to be approximately 10% higher than during the same period last year.

 Vehicles line up in orderly rows at the Durres Port to board passenger ferries during the peak summer tourism season. The port is experiencing an approximate 10% surge in passenger traffic, with weekend volumes reaching up to 5,000 travelers per day.

According to Taulant Allka, Captain of the Port of Durrës, this weekend marks the return of double ferry departures following the steady rise in travelers and vehicles.

"We have seen around a 10% increase in passenger traffic compared to the same period last year. One of the main innovations this summer is the deployment of larger-capacity ferries, enabling operators to accommodate more passengers and vehicles. At the same time, additional freight-only sailings have been introduced to improve truck transport and reduce delays," Allka said.

In addition to Albanian expatriates returning home for their summer holidays, the port is welcoming an increasing number of international tourists choosing sea travel to visit Albania. Port officials also note that mid-July traditionally marks the beginning of the return of Albanians living and working in Switzerland, who generally travel earlier than those residing in Italy and Germany.

"The number of foreign visitors has increased considerably. Mid-July is when many Albanians from Switzerland begin arriving for their holidays. During weekends, passenger traffic reaches around 5,000 travelers per day, while on regular weekdays it ranges between 2,500 and 3,000 passengers daily," Allka added.

On average, up to 3,000 passengers pass through the Port of Durrës every day, with weekend traffic exceeding 5,000 travelers. To manage the seasonal surge, ferry companies have introduced larger vessels, while port authorities have expanded staffing levels and increased the number of service counters to speed up passenger processing and minimize waiting times.

The Port of Durrës remains Albania's busiest maritime gateway and plays a crucial role in connecting the country with Italy during the busy summer travel season, serving both tourists and members of the Albanian diaspora returning home.