Croatia Gulet Charter: An Authentic and Luxurious Family Vacation for €22k/week

A Croatia Gulet Charter is hands down one of the coolest, most authentic ways to experience cruising in Croatia. It’s hard to match the experience of a Gulet charter, where you get the perfect mix of modern amenities and traditional charm. It is also one of the most affordable ways to have a luxurious charter vacation in Croatia.

What is a Gulet?

A Gulet is a traditional wooden sailing vessel originally used for fishing and cargo along the coasts of the Mediterranean, mainly Turkey. Today, Gulets are primarily used for charter trips, popular for their blend of luxury and tradition.

Gulets have broad, beamy hulls, which provide spacious decks and large, comfortable cabins. They are generally able to accommodate very large groups (12+), which makes them a good option for people on a budget, as they can rent a larger vessel with a split bill.

These days, Gulets are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, water toys, and sometimes Jacuzzis and other spa facilities.

Who is a Gulet Charter for?

A Croatia Gulet charter is perfect for families, friends, or even corporate groups wanting to explore Croatia in a unique way. We see that our clients especially love the very photogenic Gulet setting for celebrating life’s big moments: weddings, birthdays, or just an excuse to get everyone together.

And the crew? They’re pros at making your trip unforgettable. We have talked to crew who have organized elaborate treasure hunts, glitzy casino nights, romantic dinner proposals at remote beaches, and live onboard concerts and magic shows. There is no limit to the fun.

Gulets are super family-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to run around, shaded spots for relaxing, and water toys like paddleboards and kayaks to keep everyone entertained. We recommend routes like Dubrovnik, Split, or the quieter Kornati Islands, where you can swim in crystal-clear bays, explore charming villages, and indulge in freshly prepared meals onboard.

Where to Start Your Croatia Gulet Charter?

The central hub for Croatia gulet charters is around Split/Trogir and Dubrovnik. Here, you have easy access to most of Croatia’s hotspots, with short distances between the islands, making it easy island hopping. The north coast of Croatia has some wonderful destinations too, but the distances are a little too far for one-week gulet charters.

Starting Your Croatia Gulet Charter in Split

Split is the ultimate starting point for a Croatia gulet charter. It’s perfectly located near some of the Adriatic’s most stunning islands, like Hvar, Brač, and Vis, making it easy to dive straight into the best spots. The historic Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets and Diocletian’s Palace, sets the tone for an unforgettable journey. Plus, Split’s marina is well-equipped, ensuring your gulet is ready for smooth sailing.

For travelers flying in, Split Airport is the closest air gateway, located about 24 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi, or even arrange for a car rental to reach the marina directly, which takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Starting Your Gulet Charter in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the crown jewel of Croatia and a magical place to begin your gulet charter. The UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its iconic medieval walls, served as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, making it a bucket-list destination for fans of the series.

Starting in Dubrovnik gives you access to the Elafiti Islands, the stunning Mljet National Park, and Korčula, blending rich history, breathtaking views, and idyllic island escapes.

If Dubrovnik is a must for you, we suggest you start here, as it is too far to reach from Split on a one-week charter without being rushed and burning an incredible amount of fuel. (If you want to do this itinerary, you should charter a motor yacht instead.)

To get there, Dubrovnik Airport is the nearest international airport, approximately 20 kilometers from the marina. It offers a shuttle bus service that stops at key points in Dubrovnik, including near the marina, making it easy to reach once you land​.

Our Favorite Gulet Charters in Croatia