Shipping activity in Bulgaria has grown strongly during the last five years. Overall maritime traffic increased by almost 40 percent during this period. This rise shows the growing importance of sea transport for Bulgarian trade and the national economy.
The figures also clearly show a major change in the type of vessels used. The number of steamships has increased steadily, while the number of sailing vessels has declined. This change reflects modern developments in shipping, as steamships are faster, more reliable, and able to carry larger quantities of goods Guided Istanbul Tour.
Classification of Shipping by Flag and Vessel Type
In the statistical tables covering the last two quinquennial periods, shipping and coastal services are classified according to two main criteria. These are the national flag under which the vessels sail and the type of vessel, such as sailing ships or steamers. This method allows a clear comparison between Bulgarian and foreign shipping activity.
Bulgarian and Foreign Shipping in the First Period
During the first quinquennial period, vessels sailing under the Bulgarian flag represented 44.97 percent of the total tonnage of sailing ships. This shows that Bulgaria already played an important role in its own maritime transport.
However, foreign vessels still formed a large share of shipping. During this period, foreign ships accounted for 55.03 percent of the number of vessels and 77.74 percent of the total tonnage. This means that although Bulgaria had many ships, foreign vessels were generally larger and carried heavier cargo.
Among foreign flags, the Turkish flag held the leading position in terms of shipping importance. It was closely followed by the Greek flag, which also played a significant role in Bulgarian maritime trade.
Changes during the Second Period (1900–1904)
During the second quinquennial period, from 1900 to 1904, the situation began to change. Foreign shipping declined, while Bulgarian shipping gained importance. The share of foreign sailing vessels fell to 41 percent of the total number of ships.
At the same time, the tonnage of foreign vessels increased to 78 percent. This may seem surprising, but it shows that foreign countries started using larger ships when trading with Bulgaria. This change was made possible by the construction of new and improved Bulgarian harbours, which could receive bigger vessels.
Another important development was the rise of Austro-Hungarian shipping. During this period, Austro-Hungarian vessels took the leading position, not necessarily by number, but clearly by total tonnage.
In conclusion, Bulgarian maritime trade experienced strong growth and modernization. Steamships replaced sailing vessels, foreign ships became larger, and Bulgarian shipping gained a stronger position. These changes reflect improved port facilities and Bulgaria’s growing role in international sea trade.