site.btaVarna Port Karantinata Receives Blue Flag Award for First Time

Karantinata, a port in the Varna region, has received the international Blue Flag award for the first time in 2026.

Lyudmila Todorova of Port Karantinata told BTA that the initiative to apply for the distinction came from the port's director, Lachezar Bratoev. Todorova prepared the required documentation and noted that the criteria for obtaining the award are numerous and require extensive preparation.

According to Todorova, the requirements for ports differ from those applied to beaches. She said that support from the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds had made a significant contribution to the successful application. Data provided by the organization show that 53 bird species can be found within a one-kilometre radius of the port, including 15 species listed in Bulgaria's Red Data Book.

Todorova also noted that the port is able to demonstrate the good condition of its waters, as the Institute of Oceanology carries out regular monitoring of water quality. Strict requirements are also observed regarding the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products for port facilities.

At the outset, berth holders at the port were not familiar with the Blue Flag application, but later came to regard the distinction as a source of pride because they understood the high standards it requires, Todorova added.

She said the port has also committed to developing environmental education activities. One of the ideas under consideration is a joint programme with the Recycling Art Academy in Varna aimed at children and young people. Plans include organizing creative workshops using waste materials, with the resulting works to be presented in an exhibition.

Receiving the award does not mean that the modernization of the port has been completed, Todorova stressed. She said a project has been prepared for the construction of a protective breakwater to reduce silting in the harbour area. Other improvements are also being discussed with a view to enhancing services for vessels and strengthening Port Karantinata's role as an important maritime hub for the region.

BTA will present all 32 Bulgarian beaches and ports awarded with the Blue Flag in 2026 by the international jury of the Copenhagen Programme. The first Blue Flag in Bulgaria was raised on Sunny Beach on July 4, 1995.