ADRIATIC42 I
tic42 is renowned for its dedication, experiand quality. As a fresh face on the repair efit scene, the shipyard is experiencing an fgrowth and development. Chairman of tic 42 & CEO of Drydocks World Captain Antolović, PhD, and Marketing Consultant a Žutković discussed the latest develops, during an in-depth interview with Inside e. Report by Imogen Ward.
Adriatic42 officially opened its doors in October 2022, on the grounds of a former shipyard. Despite the rich history of its location, Adriatic42 set to work with its sights firmly focused on the future.
“With the birth of Adriatic42, the yachting industry in Montenegro entered a new phase of development, and the country acquired a unique facility to repair and refit mega yachts,” explained Chairman of Adriatic 42 & CEO of Drydocks World Captain Rado Antolović, PhD. “Our primary objective was – and still is – to provide the foundations for the shipbuilding industry’s rebirth with a focus on transformation towards a new sustainable ethos.”
Strategic development
Located in the prime location of Boka Bay, Montenegro (also known as one of the world’s safest ports), Adriatic42 is keen to take advantage of the country’s recent surge in development.
“Montenegro has grown significantly over the past ten years, with the opening
of numerous resorts and state-of-the-art marinas,” said Captain Antolović. “The two that are most significant to our shipyard are Porto Montenegro and Portonovi. Our proximity to these marinas puts us in a superior position when compared to other yards.”
With industry rebirth at the heart of its commitments, it was not long before Adriatic42 began the development of its infrastructure to facilitate this objective.
“So far, we have completed the first part of this investment, and we are currently working on the second,” said Captain Antolović. “With each completed phase, we acquire more space for boats on the hardstand and people onsite (employees and subcontractors). This has afforded us more opportunities, and the remaining investment will enable us to take on larger projects and increase our production capacity.”
Arguably the most important asset currently available at the shipyard is its floating dock. Measuring in at 180m by 37m, this dock can lift 10,000 tonnes –ensuring the largest yachts in the world can be accommodated.
“We have also invested in a new travel hoist that has a capacity of 720 tonnes,” said Marketing Consultant Jelena Žutković. “This is currently the largest in the area. Also, at our disposal are 100,000 square metres of hardstanding and 8,000 square metres of warehousing and workshops.”
“With these state-of-the-art facilities, and the experience of our staff, we are well-equipped to handle any project, big or small,” added Captain Antolović.
A portfolio of excellence
These facilities have enabled Adriatic42 to take on several impressive projects, including the vessel that started it all: the Black Pearl.
More recently, however, the company has provided an array of services for Heesen (a 47-metre-long full-displacement yacht), including cleaning, painting, and propellor and shaft refitting. The entire project took just over a month to complete and resulted in a very happy customer, captain and crew.
These examples are two in a long list of successful Adriatic42 projects – each one just as important as the next.
“Every project is unique and significant to us,” commented Captain Antolović. “Each vessel that comes into our shipyard receives our attention, with even the smallest details being considered. Currently, we are running at full capacity, and every vessel is special in its way.”
While client satisfaction is essential to Adriatic42, safety standards and environmental protection are also of equal importance. The company adheres to the strictest safety and environmental protocols. On top of this, the shipyard also invests in the latest, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies and is committed to using renewable and cleaner energy sources.
A collaborative effort
Everything that Adriatic42 has achieved so far, would not have been possible without the support of its amazing suppliers and partners. The company collaborates with many companies to guarantee the delivery of high industry standards and hopes to expand its list of trusted partners on a more frequent basis.
“We would love to grow the list daily, and we are making great efforts to achieve that goal by entering into commercial agreements with numerous OEMs,” said Captain Antolović. “We also owe a debt of gratitude to Drydocks World Dubai and Porto Montenegro, our partners and investors, for their unwavering belief in us and their continuous support.
“Our job would not be possible without their vision and support above all else , and we thank them for making Montenegro a preferred destination in the world of yachting.”
When it comes to working with OEMs, Adriatic42 frequently opens its premises and remains present, supplying workspaces, offices and warehouses for
“With these state-of-the-art acilities, and the experience of ur staff, we are well-equipped to handle any project, big or small”
- Captain Rado Antolović, PhD -
the personnel, suppliers and equipment of these companies.
“We would especially like to draw attention to one local company, Prento Yacht, which has so far successfully fulfilled each of our demands on time,” added Captain Antolović. “The company has demonstrated a strong dedication and professional work ethic.”
Another way that Adriatic42 intends to expand its network, is by attending events and exhibitions. This year, the company intends to take part in both the Monaco Yacht Show and the Cannes Boat Show as partners of Porto Montenegro Marina.
“Our goal is to introduce as many people as possible to the existence and possibilities of the shipyard, whilst also attracting new potential clients,” explained Ms Žutković. “Through these events, we also hope to expand our supplier network and collaborate with new brokers.
“Another added benefit is the ability to showcase our luxury yacht services and establish ourselves as a reputable player in the industry. We are excited about the
opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and highlight the unique offerings of Adriatic42.”
Onwards and upwards
As Adriatic42 continues to advance an industry-wide rebirth, it is also committed to achieving its own goals. The refit expert intends to become recognised in the Mediterranean refit yacht market as a desirable destination.
“We want everyone visiting or travelling through the region to see us as a valuable resource for high-quality yacht repairs and refits,” said Ms Žutković. “In line with this, our overarching goal is to become a leading shipyard in the region, offering top-quality services to our clients.”
As Adriatic42 continues searching for new ways to advance these goals, it intends to do so with caution and great conviction.
“Adriatic42 is like a newborn: it needs to be guided in the right direction,” said Captain Antolović, in conclusion.
“Consequently, each day presents a unique set of challenges as we strive to continuously improve and advance our goals by taking on new tasks.
“Making anything from scratch – and attempting to do so correctly – is certainly challenging, but it also serves as motivation to work hard every day.” n
