What do you need to sail in Croatia?

To go sailing in Croatia, you need a lake sports boat license or you can rent a yacht with a professional skipper. Make sure you bring with you the required documents, such as the valid boating licence, booking document, and other travel documents. You might need to prepare some cash in a different currency, in Croatia they use Kuna. Other essentials to bring on your trip are the right sailing clothing, toiletries, and sunscreen.

Which boat to rent in Croatia?

Sailboats and catamarans are very popular with holidaymakers in Croatia. But also motorboats, houseboats, gulets and ribs can be rented. For a family holiday, the most suitable sailboat is the Bavaria Cruiser 37 and the most suitable catamaran we would recommend a Catamaran Lagoon 40. If you're planning a holiday with friends, the perfect choice would be Catamaran Fountaine-Pajot Lucia.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Croatia?

The prices to rent a boat in Croatia vary based on the type of boat and season. They usually start with 35 Euro per day for a Speedboat. For a Sailboat with 2 or more cabins prices start at 800 €/week and for a Catamaran with 3 or more cabins prices at 2000 €/week. Of course, it depends on the year the boat was produced, when the booking is made and how many cabins would you need to have on your boat.

Do I need a boat licence for a yacht charter in Croatia?

Yes and no. If you charter a yacht in Croatia with a skipper, you don't need a licence. If you want to drive the boat yourself, you need a valid boat licence (eg ICC) and a VHF radio licence.

How much does it cost to charter a yacht in Croatia?

A speedboat rental in Croatia or a RIB charter can cost as little as 30 € per person per day. If you are looking at a more luxurious yacht charter in Croatia, like a modern and spacious catamaran, it will cost around 460 € per person per day. Looking for a cheaper boat? On average it costs 62 € per person per day to rent a motorboat in Croatia. A gulet charter in Croatia will cost around 75 € per person per day. The cost of chartering a boat in Croatia will also depend on the amount of people travelling, the number of rooms and amenities, as well as the time of year, as prices during high season can be higher.

How much are the marina fees?

Your first & last night in the marina are included in the charter price, but any additional marina fees are paid extra. During high season (July/August) in Croatia, a 42ft catamaran can cost you €100 - €150 per night.

How much does the fuel cost?

The fuel can cost between 150-400 € per week, depending on the size and type of the boat, the route you sail and the overall duration of your trip.

How much do you tip your skipper?

Usually, a skipper gets tipped between 10-20%. However, the amount can also vary depending on the duration of your trip, the amount of people on board and the itinerary.

How do we arrange shopping for our charter?

There is usually a supermarket at the marina, that is often more expensive. However, most marinas will have a local supermarket that is reachable via a short taxi ride. Here you can purchase all your groceries for the week. You can also find local supermarkets during your charter in other locations. Most charter companies also offer a provisioning service where they will arrange all your groceries for you. This is usually done via a link sent by the charter company. The charter will make sure all your shopping is delivered to your boat in time for your check-in.

Croatia Boat Rental ⛵ ► Affordable Yacht Charter

The Borrow A Boat Difference

50,000 Boats Worldwide

Find your perfect boat from our extensive fleet. We offer everything from small day boats to weekly sailing rentals and luxury yachts.

15% Down Payment Only

Start your boating journey with just 15% down. Flexible payment options available for all budgets.

200,000 Happy Customers

Join our community of satisfied boaters. Rated 4.8/5 based on thousands of verified reviews.

100% Insured and Verified

Every boat in our marketplace is fully insured and verified for your peace of mind. Additional insurances available.

You Are in Good Company

Book Your Boat in 3 Easy Steps

Booking a boat online has never been easier. Follow these simple steps to secure your dream boat today. Our team of experts ensures you get the boat you want; quickly and efficiently.

Select Your Ideal Boat Type

Three Ways to Sail in Croatia

Explore Croatia with our yacht charters and boat rentals suited for all experience levels. From bareboat options for seasoned sailors to skippered and fully crewed experiences, plus license-free boats for beginners, we offer the perfect vessel to discover Croatia's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their Croatia yacht rental experience.

•Complete control over sailing itinerary around Croatia
•Privacy and intimacy for your group
•Opportunities to improve sailing skills in Croatia's waters
•Cost-effective boat rental option for larger groups

Show all bareboat rentals in Croatia

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in Croatia.

•Professional navigation and safety with local Croatia expertise
•Local knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems in Croatia
•Relaxed sailing experience in the beautiful waters of Croatia
•No license required for your Croatia yacht charter adventure

Show all skippered rentals in Croatia

Fully Crewed

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in Croatia with full professional service.

•Complete relaxation and comfort throughout your Croatia boat journey
•Professional crew service tailored to your needs
•Gourmet dining experience featuring local Croatia cuisine
•Personalized itinerary planning to explore the best of Croatia

Show all crewed charters in Croatia

Discover the Magic of Croatia with a Boat Charter

Croatia's stunning Adriatic coastline, with its 1,200+ islands and crystal-clear waters, offers one of Europe's most spectacular sailing destinations. From historic coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split to hidden coves and charming fishing villages, a boat charter in Croatia lets you experience the perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty at your own pace.

Why Book With Us?

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans
Book your Croatian sailing adventure with confidence thanks to our flexible payment options, including a convenient 3-installment plan with just 15% down payment. Select boats offer free cancellation up to 30 days before departure, and we regularly feature exclusive discounts on charters along the Dalmatian Coast.
The Perfect Boat for Every Sailor
Whether you're dreaming of a romantic getaway on a sleek sailboat, planning a family holiday on a spacious catamaran, or organizing a group trip on a modern motor yacht, we've got you covered. Our extensive fleet ranges from affordable 32-foot sailboats to luxury catamarans, with prices starting from £150 per day during low season.
Prime Sailing Conditions and Routes
Croatia's sailing season runs from April to October, with perfect conditions featuring reliable afternoon winds and minimal tides. Popular routes from Split to Hvar and Korčula offer ideal island-hopping opportunities, while the Kornati archipelago provides a paradise of secluded bays and pristine waters.
Comprehensive Local Support
Partner with our trusted local network, including the Croatia Sailing Academy for professional skipper services and convenient airport transfers from major coastal cities. Our partnership with Sealogy ensures comprehensive charter insurance, giving you complete peace of mind during your Adriatic adventure.
Seamless Croatian Island Experience
Navigate through Croatia's most beautiful spots, from the bustling marina of Split to the peaceful Elaphiti Islands. Our local knowledge ensures you'll discover the best anchorages, traditional konobas (taverns), and hidden beaches, while our 24/7 support team is always ready to assist with any questions.

The Borrow A Boat Promise

We Make Boating in Croatia Easy

Experience the ultimate yacht charter and boat rental in Croatia with our seamless booking platform. From luxury vessels to affordable options, discover the perfect boat for your Croatia adventure today.

Secure online payments: Book your Croatia boat rental with confidence through our protected payment system, ensuring your transaction is safe and worry-free.
Avoid endless back-and-forth with brokers: Our streamlined platform connects you directly with verified boat owners in Croatia, saving you time and hassle when booking your perfect vessel.
Book your charter within minutes: Our user-friendly system lets you secure your Croatia yacht charter instantly, with immediate confirmation and all details at your fingertips.
Best offers on 1000s of boats: Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in Croatia, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.

Piqued Your Interest?

Contact us today for your perfect boating experience.

or

Croatia Yacht Charter Guide

Discover over 1,000 islands along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, offering crystal-clear waters and historic ports. Perfect Mediterranean sailing with consistent winds and short island hops.

Perfect for:

Island HoppingCultural ExplorationBeach Lovers

Information type
High and Low Season
Description
Peak season runs July to August with premium rates and busy marinas. Shoulder season offers better value with pleasant conditions. Low season from October to April has limited services but lowest prices.
Best Months to Book:
May, June, September
Information type
Marinas, Ports and Mooring
Description
Modern marinas with excellent facilities are found throughout the coast. Town quays and buoy fields provide alternative options. Advance booking essential in peak season.
Best Places to Stay:
ACI Marina Split, Marina Kornati Biograd, ACI Marina Dubrovnik
Information type
Wind & Weather
Description
Reliable afternoon Maestral wind provides perfect sailing conditions. Morning calm typically gives way to 8-12 knot afternoon breezes. Occasional strong Bora wind in shoulder seasons.
Temperature & Winds:
22°C to 30°C, Force 2-4 Beaufort
Information type
Required Licenses and Certifications
Description
ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or equivalent national certification required. Radio operator license needed for vessels with VHF radio.
Best License to Hold:
ICC with Coastal Endorsement, VHF Radio License

Currency: Euro
Season: April - October

Sailing Conditions in Croatia

Croatia's Adriatic coastline, with its 1,244 islands, crystal-clear waters, and Mediterranean climate, offers some of Europe's finest sailing conditions. The primary sailing season runs from April to October, with peak conditions from June to September. The combination of reliable winds, sheltered waters, and excellent infrastructure makes Croatia an ideal destination for both novice and experienced sailors.

Wind Conditions

•The Maestral (Mistral) is the dominant summer wind, blowing from the northwest at Beaufort 2-4, typically starting around 10:00 and dying down by sunset
•The Bora, a strong northeastern wind, can reach Beaufort 8-9 in the Velebit Channel and around Split, particularly during winter and shoulder seasons
•The Jugo (Sirocco), a warm southeastern wind, typically brings cloudy and rainy conditions, reaching Beaufort 4-6 in the open Adriatic
•The Dalmatian islands experience more moderate winds, typically Beaufort 2-4, making them ideal for summer sailing
•The Kornati archipelago sees consistent afternoon winds, usually Beaufort 3-5, perfect for day sailing
•Istria experiences milder wind conditions, typically Beaufort 2-3, with occasional stronger Bora episodes

Sea State

•The Adriatic Sea between islands typically maintains a calm to moderate state with waves of 0.5-1.5m
•Open sea passages can experience waves up to 2.5m during strong Jugo conditions
•The channels between mainland and islands can become choppy during Bora winds, with short, steep waves
•The Kornati archipelago offers protected waters with generally calm conditions
•Southern Dalmatia experiences moderate sea states with occasional swells from the open Adriatic
•The waters around Istria are typically calm, especially in summer months

Temperature

•Summer air temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C from June to September
•Sea temperatures peak at 24-26°C in August
•Spring (April-May) sees air temperatures of 15-22°C and sea temperatures of 16-20°C
•Autumn (September-October) maintains pleasant temperatures with air at 18-25°C and sea at 20-23°C
•Winter temperatures rarely drop below 5°C in coastal areas

Tides and Currents

•Tidal range is minimal, typically 30-60cm throughout the Adriatic
•A general north-south current flows along the eastern Adriatic coast at 0.5-1.5 knots
•Stronger currents can be found in channels between islands, particularly around Pag and Velebit
•The Strait of Otranto influences current patterns in Southern Dalmatia
•Local current effects can be significant in narrow channels during strong winds

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

•Beginners: The Zadar archipelago and Kornati Islands offer protected waters, easy navigation, and numerous safe anchorages. The Šibenik archipelago is also excellent for learning
•Intermediate: Split to Hvar route, exploring Brač and Vis islands, offering a mix of protected waters and open-sea crossings. The Istrian peninsula provides good challenging conditions
•Advanced: The southern Dalmatian islands (Lastovo, Mljet, and open-sea routes), the Velebit Channel during moderate conditions, and longer passages to Vis and Lastovo islands
•Expert: Open-sea passages to Italy, winter sailing in the northern Adriatic, and challenging routes around the outer islands during stronger wind conditions

Best Time to Rent a Boat in Croatia

Croatia's Adriatic coastline, with its 1,200 islands and crystal-clear waters, offers one of Europe's premier sailing destinations. The Dalmatian Coast combines perfect Mediterranean conditions with historic ports, sheltered anchorages, and consistent afternoon maestral winds, making it ideal for both novice and experienced sailors.

High Season (July and August)

Pros & advantages: Reliable maestral winds of 10-15 knots perfect for afternoon sailing between Split and Hvar; Warm sea temperatures of 23-25°C ideal for swimming and anchoring in secluded bays; All marinas and konobas (local restaurants) fully operational with vibrant nightlife in Hvar and Korčula
Cons & disadvantages: Marina prices increase by 30-40%, with popular spots like ACI Split requiring advance booking; Crowded anchorages in popular locations like Pakleni Islands require arrival before 2 PM; Strong competition for mooring buoys in sought-after bays of Vis and Brač islands

Shoulder Season (May-June and September-October)

Pros & advantages: Pleasant temperatures 20-25°C with stable winds perfect for sailing through Kornati archipelago; Reduced marina fees and greater availability of berths in premium locations like Dubrovnik; Less crowded waters allow better exploration of natural parks like Mljet and Lastovo
Cons & disadvantages: Variable weather patterns with occasional jugo winds requiring careful passage planning; Some island restaurants and facilities operate reduced hours, especially in October; Sea temperatures can drop to 18°C in October, making swimming less appealing

Low Season (November to April)

Pros & advantages: Significantly reduced charter rates with excellent deals on longer-term rentals from Split; Dramatic coastline views with snow-capped mountains and clear winter visibility; Perfect conditions for experienced sailors seeking challenging weather and empty harbours
Cons & disadvantages: Strong bora winds can reach 30+ knots, requiring advanced weather monitoring and experience; Many island facilities closed, with limited options for provisioning outside major ports; Cold temperatures 8-15°C and occasional rain make leisure sailing less enjoyable

For optimal sailing conditions and full access to facilities, plan your Croatian sailing holiday during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October. These periods offer the best balance of comfortable weather, reasonable prices, and moderate crowds. July and August provide the most reliable weather but require careful planning due to crowds, while winter sailing should be reserved for experienced crews seeking adventure. First-time visitors should strongly consider September, when the sea is warm and the summer crowds have departed.

Which Boat to Charter in Croatia?

When embarking on a yacht charter in Croatia, selecting the right type of boat is crucial to ensure your sailing experience aligns with your preferences, group size, and desired level of comfort. Here's a concise overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in Croatia:

Monohull Sailboat

Classic sailing vessels perfect for authentic maritime experiences, combining tradition with modern comfort.

•Ideal for traditional sailing enthusiasts and smaller groups
•Offers a more authentic sailing experience with excellent performance
•More affordable compared to catamarans and motor yachts

View 2088 available sailboats to rent in Croatia

Catamaran

Spacious, stable multi-hull vessels offering comfort and luxury for larger groups and families.

•Perfect for families and larger groups seeking stability and space
•Features ample living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
•Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing

View 686 available catamarans to rent in Croatia

Motorboat

Luxurious powered vessels combining speed, comfort, and high-end amenities for premium cruising experiences.

•Ideal for covering longer distances with speed and comfort
•Offers premium amenities and modern luxury features
•Perfect for exploring multiple destinations without wind dependence

View 681 available motorboats to rent in Croatia

Speedboat

Agile, open boats designed for thrilling day trips and water sports activities.

•Ideal for exciting day trips and water sports
•Perfect for quick coastal exploration
•Easy to handle with great maneuverability

View 472 available speedboats to rent in Croatia

RIB

Rigid Inflatable Boats combining speed, safety, and versatility for dynamic water activities.

•Excellent for day trips and water sports
•Superior stability and safety in various conditions
•Perfect for coastal exploration and quick transfers

View 249 available RIBs to rent in Croatia

Gulet

Traditional wooden sailing vessels offering unique charm with modern comfort, ideal for luxury charter experiences.

•Traditional wooden sailing vessels with timeless charm
•Spacious deck areas perfect for entertaining and relaxation
•Comes with professional crew for a premium charter experienc

View 85 available gulets to rent in Croatia

Power Catamaran

Twin-hulled motor vessels offering exceptional space and stability with powerful performance.

•Combines catamaran stability with motorboat speed
•Spacious layout with excellent fuel efficiency
•Perfect for comfortable long-distance cruising

View 27 available power catamarans to rent in Croatia

Houseboat

Floating holiday homes offering a unique blend of comfort and water-based living.

•Perfect for those seeking a floating apartment experience
•Ideal for calm waters and peaceful harbor stays
•Offers home-like comfort with full living amenities

View 2 available houseboats to rent in Croatia

Croatia Yacht Charter FAQ

Do I need a boat licence for a yacht charter in Croatia?
Yes and no. If you charter a yacht in Croatia with a skipper, you don't need a licence. If you want to drive the boat yourself, you need a valid boat licence (eg ICC) and a VHF radio licence.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht in Croatia?
A speedboat rental in Croatia or a RIB charter can cost as little as 30 € per person per day. If you are looking at a more luxurious yacht charter in Croatia, like a modern and spacious catamaran, it will cost around 460 € per person per day. Looking for a cheaper boat? On average it costs 62 € per person per day to rent a motorboat in Croatia. A gulet charter in Croatia will cost around 75 € per person per day. The cost of chartering a boat in Croatia will also depend on the amount of people travelling, the number of rooms and amenities, as well as the time of year, as prices during high season can be higher.
How much are the marina fees?
Your first & last night in the marina are included in the charter price, but any additional marina fees are paid extra. During high season (July/August) in Croatia, a 42ft catamaran can cost you €100 - €150 per night.
How much does the fuel cost?
The fuel can cost between 150-400 € per week, depending on the size and type of the boat, the route you sail and the overall duration of your trip.
How much do you tip your skipper?
Usually, a skipper gets tipped between 10-20%. However, the amount can also vary depending on the duration of your trip, the amount of people on board and the itinerary.
How do we arrange shopping for our charter?
There is usually a supermarket at the marina, that is often more expensive. However, most marinas will have a local supermarket that is reachable via a short taxi ride. Here you can purchase all your groceries for the week. You can also find local supermarkets during your charter in other locations. Most charter companies also offer a provisioning service where they will arrange all your groceries for you. This is usually done via a link sent by the charter company. The charter will make sure all your shopping is delivered to your boat in time for your check-in.

Need additional help?

Did not find what you were looking for? We are here waiting for you to contact us!