Now that Kotor lacks bigger hotel capacities and better organized tourism economy, cruisers are priceless, said Mr Rade Ćoso who has recently submitted his doctoral dissertation on the subject “Importance of nautical tourism for the development of tourism in Montenegro”.
He paid special attention to the ways in which cruise tourism can improve the offer of the town and produce positive economic effects. He also carried out a survey on the opinion of the economy and the residents of Kotor on the role and importance of cruise tourism.
“The results have shown that cruise tourism is recognized as an important type of tourism in Kotor that can help Montenegro become world tourist destination. However, cruise tourism isn’t developed enough and the respondents see the need for the enhancement of this sector”, reports Radio Kotor.
Economic benefits have been recognized as the most important positive effects of cruise tourism. As for the social and cultural benefits, meeting new cultures and presenting our own traditional and customs are seen as the most important positive effects.
“Most apparent negative effects include degradation of natural resources. In order to maximize positive effects of cruise tourism and minimize negative ones, the respondents think that the state assumes most responsibility as it needs to increase legislative measures. In addition, importance of the education about the cruise tourism and intensifying the dialogue between interested parties are crucial”, said Mr Ćoso’s mentor, Mr Slobodan Čerović.
Mr Ćoso pointed out that the whole cruise tourism story was spoiled by the material accumulated after the demolition of “Fjord” hotel, lack of ropeway and alike.
“When they see the former “Fjord”, people who come to visit Kotor ask if there has been a war here. I can’t believe that local administration is unable to do something about this”, says Mr Ćoso.
High-end tourists can ensure brighter future for Kotor.
“We must draw on the experience of others in order to create the best we can. The money msut be invested in the town”, says Mr Ćoso.
According to the plan of the Port, around 500 ships are supposed to arrive.
“I don’t like that mass tourism. Montenegro must maintain high level. Experts should voice their opinion, nautical experts as well. With the aim of preserving Montenegro and its coast”, said Mr Ćoso.
He cited pollution as one of the negative effects of cruise tourism as only one cruiser emits harmful gases as 2000 cars would.
He also pointed out the need for respecting the interests of fishermen as well as the need for carrying out study on the environment protection and advantages and disadvantages of cruise tourism.
If we acted smart and everything is done for good measure, combined with cruising, ramparts of Kotor would become cash cow, concludes Mr Ćoso.
