Rent a Boat in Croatia: A Guide to Gulet Cruises, Family-Friendly Catamarans, and Luxury Yacht Charters with Examples and Prices

↓ Jump to Gulet Cruise Croatia

↓ Jump to Catamaran Charter Croatia

↓ Jump to Luxury Yacht Charters 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.

See All Croatian Sailing Yachts & Gulets

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!

See All Croatia Catamaran Rentals

See Our Top 10 Catamaran Rentals in Croatia for 2024-2025

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?

See All Croatia Motor Yacht Rentals

See Our Top 10 Luxury Yacht Rentals in Croatia for 2024-2025

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​.

Also Read: How Much Does a Yacht Charter Croatia Really Cost: Booking Tips & Hidden Costs?

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.

Pakleni Islands

Located near the island of Hvar, the Pakleni Islands are a stunning archipelago with hidden coves and beautiful beaches. Sailing around these islands allows you to discover secluded spots for swimming and relaxation. If you are visiting Croatia, add this to your list!

Mljet National Park

This park, situated on the island of Mljet, is known for its two interconnected saltwater lakes. Charter yachts can anchor in the sheltered Pomena Bay and explore the park, including the tranquil lakes and the small island of St. Mary with its Benedictine monastery.