Have you rented a boat in Croatia and are wondering how much more budget you might need after covering the cost of the boat rental and professional skipper? We’re here to help! While we don’t want to scare you, it’s good to be aware of the additional costs you might encounter during your vacation in Croatia.
Mooring Fees
One of the inevitable costs is mooring fees. Whether you’re staying on a buoy, in a marina, or at a town harbor, it will come at a price. The cost depends on factors like the size and type of the boat (sailboat or catamaran), its length and width, as well as the location. Prices vary from island to island and from town to town. Unless you’re anchoring or staying on an unattended buoy, expect to pay for overnight mooring. On the bright side, marina fees often include amenities like water supply, shore power, restroom facilities, and more. To plan ahead, visit marina websites to check prices for your specific travel dates.
Refilling Fresh Water Tanks
Another potential expense is refilling fresh water tanks, especially if your boat doesn’t have a water maker. If you run out of water and aren’t near a marina, refilling is an option but comes at a cost. Since many islands don’t have their own water sources and rely on supply ships, water is a limited and priced resource.
Food and Drink Costs
Food and drink costs depend on the size of your group and the type of provisions you choose, but eating and drinking are, of course, essential. A tip: try to stock up on the mainland, where prices are generally lower, and the selection is wider compared to islands like Vis, Hvar, or Korčula.
Fuel Costs
Fuel expenses are another factor to consider. Most charters don’t include fuel in the rental price, so you’ll need to budget for it separately. Fuel costs depend on your boat’s size and engine setup. For instance, a 42-foot sailboat might use between €150 and €300 worth of fuel, depending on the distance traveled and speed.
Gratuities
A smaller but still relevant cost is gratuities—a token of appreciation for services like marina staff who assist with mooring, or crew helping you secure a buoy. A tip of €10 to €30 is customary but entirely up to your discretion.
Damage or Loss Fees
One less frequent but possible cost is damage or loss fees. If you lose a cushion, damage a fender, or cause similar issues, these costs will likely fall on you. However, if you have a skipper onboard, they will be responsible for any damages they cause. Be mindful that certain incidents, like a clogged toilet caused by improper use, might incur a fee ranging from €100 to €300, depending on the charter’s policies.
Water Toys and Extras
Don’t forget the extra costs for water toys like paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Seabobs, eFoils, or jet skis. These are usually not included in the charter price and need to be arranged with your booking agent or the charter company directly.
We hope this breakdown helps you better plan your budget for a Croatian sailing holiday. At the end of the day, these costs are small compared to the unforgettable memories you’ll create while exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline.
Thank you for reading, and until next time—calm seas and fair winds!
