Rent a Boat in Croatia: A Guide to Gulet Cruises, Family-Friendly Catamarans, and Luxury Yacht Charters with Examples and Prices
In this Article, We Answer These Questions + Provide Examples with Prices
Gone are the days of slogging through confusing rental processes and wondering if you’ve just been ripped off or if the boat is really in the same condition as in the photos.
Now, renting a boat in Croatia is as simple as a few clicks, with tons of verified yachts, transparent prices, guaranteed quality and service, and secure transactions.
Though you can choose from various types of charters (bareboat charter, skippered yacht charter, or crewed yacht charter), an increasing number of visitors are opting for crewed charters. The reason? They offer a remarkable value proposition. When compared to a hotel stay, crewed charters are not only competitively priced, but they also add incredible value with personalized service, gourmet meals prepared onboard, and access to secluded spots off the beaten path.
Most yacht rentals are based in the historic ports of Dubrovnik or Split, each offering a large and diverse yacht fleet with easy flight connections.
From here, you can sail along the stunning Dalmatian coast with options for both river cruises, offering a unique view of Croatia’s inland beauty—we are talking lush greenery and waterfalls, and island-hopping itineraries to stunning destinations like Hvar, the serene Peklini Islands, or the Kornati National Park. You are in for a treat!
Types of Boat Rentals in Croatia
Gulet Cruise Croatia
Renting a Gulet 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.
But 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.
What Does a Gulet Rental Cost in Croatia?
Pricing for Gulet charters varies widely based on the Gulet’s size, luxury level, and charter duration, ranging from about €15,000 to over €100,000 per week.
These vessels typically have between 4 and 10 cabins and can accommodate groups of 8 to 20+ guests, making them perfect for both intimate and larger gatherings.
Just check out the beautiful Carpe Diem 7, a very popular 98-foot Gulet Charter with accommodation for 9 guests and 4 crew, a jet ski, and raving reviews! This Gulet costs only €18,500 per week.
Or, if you are looking to splurge a little more, a great option is Corsario, a 157-foot Gulet with accommodation for 12 guests and 6 crew, a Jet Ski, AND a Jacuzzi on deck for a price of €65,000 per week.
Catamaran Charter Croatia
Renting a Catamaran for your next adventure is not just a smart move; it’s a cost-effective one, too.
The catamaran evolution has been soaring, with renowned brands like the Lagoon, the Sunreef, and Fountaine Pajot introducing new models that rival motor yachts in amenities and luxury, such as Jacuzzis, spa rooms, fully stocked bars, and large selections of water toys. Yet, they come at a significantly lower price, making them a savvy choice for those who want more for their money.
One of the main advantages of a Catamaran is its two-hull design, which makes it more stable and spacious than a monohull. They are relatively low and have a swimming ladder, which makes it very easy to access the water and launch water toys.
A Catamaran rental is an ideal choice for families and larger groups for a luxury boat trip, and Croatia happens to have one of the largest fleets of catamarans and power cats in the Mediterranean!
What Does is Cost to Rent a Catamaran in Croatia?
The price range for a charter catamaran in Croatia is wide, starting at around €10,000 per week and reaching over €450,000 for a high-end luxury charter catamaran (such as ‘This is It’, a 2024-built 143-foot Tecnomar) with a large crew and all the facilities of a superyacht.
One of our most popular low-end catamaran charters in Croatia is Mala, a 57-foot Lagoon (€13,900 per week). Mala has amazing client feedback and several return clients.
Another great option is the brand-new Seazen II, a 70-foot Sunreef with a Jet Ski and Jacuzzi, priced at €30,000 per week.
Note that these charters are nothing compared to a simple catamaran rental, where you have to do and know everything yourself. A crewed catamaran charter in Croatia is a next-level vacation stay with a captain, chef, cleaner, and knowledgeable guide, all included! It’s a dream vacation!
Luxury Yacht Charter Croatia
In recent years, we have seen our clients favoring larger motor yachts for their Croatia yacht charter. Responding to this demand, the fleet of these bigger and more luxurious vessels is rapidly growing.
There are many advantages of motor yachts, mainly ultimate luxury and speed. They allow for more extensive itineraries, seeing more and going further, of course, at the expense of larger fuel consumption, which significantly increases the price.
In our experience, Croatia luxury yacht charters are the most luxurious way to explore the wonders of the Dalmatian Coast and its major island chains.
Croatia motor yachts are typically locally owned, and often captained by the owner himself or the owner’s son. This is a huge benefit, guaranteeing a top charter experience based on extensive experience and local knowledge.
The number of crew members depends on the size and price of the charter yacht. Crewed yacht charters in Croatia include, at minimum, a captain and at least 1 stewardess.
On larger yachts, the number of crew can be higher than the number of guests (including engineers, bosun, additional stewardesses, and sometimes specialized staff like masseuses, gym trainers, and dive instructors)
Also, check out our 10 Best Yacht Charters for Large groups (12+) in Croatia
What Does is Cost to Rent a Motor Yacht in Croatia?
Price Range | Description |
---|---|
€10,000-€20,000 | Under 75 ft: Smaller motor yacht rentals or speedboats with essential features. |
€20,000-€50,000 | Under 120 ft: Mid-sized motor yachts with more comfort and space. |
€50,000-€100,000 | Under 160 ft: Large motor yachts with luxurious amenities. |
€100,000-€200,000 | Under 175 ft: Premium motor yachts with extensive features and services. |
€200,000-€500,000 | Under 300 ft: High-end motor yachts offering ultimate luxury and personalized services. |
€500,000+ | Under 400 ft: Mega motor yachts with exceptional luxury, extensive crew, and bespoke experiences. |
Where to Rent a Boat in Croatia?
Boat Rental Split Croatia
Renting a boat in Split allows you to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline from one of its most vibrant cities. Marina Split – ACI is the main hub for boat rentals in the area, featuring a diverse fleet ranging from small motorboats to luxurious yachts and catamarans. The marina is conveniently located near Split’s city center, making it easily accessible by public transport or taxi from any part of the city.
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.
Attractions in Split
Split itself is teeming with attractions, with the most notable being the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Roman architecture and history.
The palace houses several shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for both sightseeing and relaxation. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the bustling Marmontova Street, known for its variety of shops offering everything from high-end brands to local crafts.
Where to go from Split?
Setting sail from Split, the central Dalmatian archipelago offers excellent destinations, including the nearby islands of Brač, Hvar, and Vis.
Each island offers its own unique charm, from Brač’s famous Zlatni Rat beach, known for its distinctive shape and crystal-clear waters, to Hvar’s lively nightlife and rich cultural heritage and Vis’s secluded coves and stunning natural beauty.
These islands are easily reachable within a few hours of sailing from Split, making them ideal for short-day trips or longer explorations.
Dubrovnik Boat Charter
Attractions in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik itself is a hotspot for cultural and recreational activities. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering narrow streets filled with history and stunning architecture.
For shopping, there are various boutiques and markets like the Gundulićeva Poljana Market, where you can find local crafts and food products. High-end fashion can be found at places like Maria Store, which features international designer brands.
Overall, whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, enjoying local cuisine, or setting sail to nearby islands, Dubrovnik provides a rich and varied experience that combines the best of land and sea activities.
Where to go from Dubrovnik?
Once you’re set up with your boat, you have a wealth of sailing destinations to choose from. Popular spots include the tranquil Mljet National Park, the charming island of Lokrum, and the historic town of Korčula.
Each location offers unique attractions, from ancient monasteries and lush greenery to sandy beaches and quiet coves, perfect for relaxation or a bit of snorkeling.
Unique Croatia Yacht Charter Experiences
YACHT PARTY CROATIA
Host a memorable party on the Adriatic Sea!!
Have your next big party on a yacht in Croatia. Find sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts with room for a big gathering and party amenities such as fully stocked bars and bartenders, Jacuzzis, prime sound systems, DJs, and Dancefloors!
Wedding Charters ✭
Birthdays ✭
Anniversaries ✭
Parties just to Party ✭
✭ Visits to Historical Sites
✭ Wine Tours & Tasting
✭ Onboard Fine Dining
CROATIA RIVER CRUISE
Embark on a Croatia River Cruise on the Danube River through Croatia’s heartland. Glide along calm waters, past medieval towns, vineyards, and lush wilderness. Our river cruises offer comfortable lodging, dining options with local cuisine, and guided excursions to historic sites and wine tours.
Where to Go on a Croatia Catamaran Charter?
A typical Croatia catamaran yacht charter will start at Split International Airport. Cosmopolitan, colorful Split has a rich history and culture, boasting of over 20 museums and galleries. Most of the marinas lay on the West from the city of Split, a very short distance from the airport. Marina Baotić, Marina Agana and ACI Marina Trogir are charter specialized marinas.
The Kornati Archipelago (home of the Kornati National Park and other mountain ranges), off the coast of Croatia in the Adriatic Sea, is one of the densest island clusters in the Mediterranean, consisting of over 150 islands, most of them very small and very close to one another. Note that to visit the Kornati National Park, every visitor needs to obtain a ticket in advance for the particular time and duration of the visit. Tickets can be purchased online and at mobile reception desks at key points of the park, and their price can range from 20 euros to several thousand, depending on the size of the sailing yachts.
Mainland Croatia also has a lot to offer, among which the medieval city of Dubrovnik, Trogir, a Unesco World Heritage site, which, for reasons that will become obvious at first sight, is also called the Little Venice of Dalmatia.
Check out our Most Popular Croatia Yacht Charter Itineraries:
- 7 Days Croatia Yacht Charter Itinerary: Trogir-Hvar-Korcula-Lastovo-Vis-Maslinica-Solta-Trogir
- Best 8-Day Charter Itinerary to the Kornati Archipelago
OUR FAVORITE SPOTS
Here are some of the MUST-VISIT destinations for a Croatian Yacht Charter, including Hvar, Dubrovnik, Split, and the Mljet National Park. Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, from the lively nightlife of Hvar to the rich history of UNESCO World Heritage Site Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Split offers a great mix of ancient architecture and modern amenities, while the National Parks provide secluded anchorages and stunning landscapes.
Check out our recommended Sailing Itineraries:
Kornati National Park
The Kornati archipelago is a must-visit destination for Croatia yacht charters. With numerous secluded bays, crystal-clear waters, and untouched nature, the Kornati Islands offer a unique sailing experience. Many of the islands are uninhabited, providing a pristine and peaceful environment.
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Charter Insights & Inspiration Written by Sailors
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Who are We?
At DMA Yachting, we are proud to have a team of individuals who have real on-water experience. Many of our brokers have worked or lived on yachts themselves and crossed oceans.
This firsthand experience allows us to truly understand life at sea in both the shoes of crew and guests and the details that make a luxury yacht charter an exceptional experience.
We closely inspect yachts and meet in person with captains and crew to ensure every element of the charter meets our high standards.
Our yearly participation in yacht shows like the EMMYS, and MEDYS helps us stay on top of industry trends and client needs.
We are here to guide you through every step of your charter, from the moment you reach out to the moment your yacht charter ends.
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Chuck
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Jun 16, 2024
Alex was outstanding
Alex was outstanding. He was always very responsive to emails and texts with my many questions.
The boat he recommended for my group was perfect.
I would use DMA again.
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Malloy Tulsa
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Jun 11, 2024
An incredible experience
Very professional, communicated clearly and planned an amazing trip for us. Louis Lamprell did an amazing job connecting us with the unbridled yacht and crew. It was a trip of a lifetime. Our family highly recommends both DMA yachting and the unbridled charter. Everything was perfection!
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Dana Terrell
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Jun 4, 2024
This was a trip of a lifetime
This was a trip of a lifetime! We booked with Nadja at DMA yachting and she made sure the entire process was easy and no problems. Our charter was with Zuri3 and our Captain Andre and First Mate Jana made our trip amazing! They made sure everything was taken care and treated us like royalty. This is not just a vacation this is an experience of a lifetime.
RS
Ryan Shirley
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Feb 9, 2024
Louis was great from beginning to end and walked me through the whole process. He helped me find a great boat that fit within our time and cost preferences. He explained the differences between the different builds and the pros and cons. Once we selected the boat, he explained and walked me through the whole booking process and answered all my questions. Finally, he checked in with me before, during, and after the charter to make sure everything met our expectations. I can’t recommend Louis enough if you are planning a charter, and I will definitely be in touch for our next trip!
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