Some considerations on the analysis of port centrality in the Adriatic basin for tourist transport purposes

Maritime tourism is constantly evolving and moving towards more sustainable solutions. Scientific literature emphasizes that the choice of mode of transport in medium-sized port basins is variable and often depends on the specific characteristics of the port basin. In addition to sustainability, there is a need to better investigate connectivity and, above all, centrality, which can be derived from network theory. In relation to the Adriatic basin area, it must be emphasized that several strategies and projects are underway to improve environmental performance and efficiency through telematic solutions. This study evaluates the centrality within the system of passenger ship connections in the northern Adriatic (Croatia, Slovenia and central-northern Italy) and concerns the turnover through the services offered by ferries and catamarans, taking into account the relevant data for 2023. In general, this work confirms that the faster and more efficient means of transport are more suitable for a shorter holiday, even at the cost of limiting the possibility of internal travel to the place reached. The comparison of centrality indicators shows that some of the analyzed areas have a low seasonality (such as the area between Rijeka and Zadar) and are limited to some locations, unlike others which are characterized by a very pronounced seasonality. In this sense, it is reasonable to assume that the reasons related to holiday/leisure prevail in these connections. These results therefore form the basis for the definition and application of measures and strategies aimed at handling services in the areas studied, as well as for management by local authorities and port authorities.