
To charter a bareboat in Croatia, you'll need to obtain a VHF radio license, which requires a basic knowledge of the English language.
The minimum age requirement to charter a bareboat in Croatia is 18 years old, and you'll need to provide proof of this when you arrive.
You'll also need to show a valid passport and a return ticket, as well as proof of medical insurance that covers you for the duration of your charter.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it's recommended that you have a sailing experience of at least 100 days, although this can be waived if you're accompanied by a skipper.
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Croatia Bareboat Charter Requirements
When chartering a boat in Croatia, you'll need to meet certain requirements. Charter is always done weekly, from Saturday to Saturday.
Exceptions can be made, but only off-season or in a last-minute option. This means you can't charter for a short-term period during peak season.
To ensure a smooth charter experience, you'll need to have the necessary documents and certificates. These include a valid nautical certificate of competence (ICC), a VHF radio certificate, and a valid ID document.
Here are the exact charter requirements for Croatia:
- Valid nautical certificate of competence (ICC)
- VHF radio certificate
- Valid ID document
Short Term Boat Charter
Short Term Boat Charter can be a bit tricky in Croatia, and it's essential to understand the rules.
Charter is always done weekly, from Saturday to Saturday, which means you'll have to plan your trip accordingly.
Exceptions to this rule can be made, but only off season or in a last minute option.
Even if you get an offer for short term charter, the price will probably be calculated on a weekly basis.
Exact Charter Requirements
To charter a boat in Croatia, you'll need to meet the exact requirements set by the authorities.
First and foremost, you'll need a valid nautical certificate of competence, also known as an ICC (International Certificate of Competence). This is a must-have for any bareboat charter in Croatia.
A VHF radio certificate is also required, as it's essential for safe communication while on the water.
And, of course, you'll need a valid ID document to prove your identity.
Licenses and Certifications for Croatian Skippers
To charter a boat in Croatia, you'll need to have a valid nautical license and a VHF license. These licenses are essential for any type of boat, and without them, you won't be able to rent a boat without a crew, even if you have experience.
The Croatian law is strict about these licenses, so make sure you have them before arriving in Croatia. Anyone from your charter group can have the license, as long as both licenses are present.
Here's a list of the licenses and certifications required for bareboat charter in Croatia:
- Sailing license or certificate from an accredited sailing association
- International Certificate of Competence for Pleasure Craft (ICC)
- International Proficiency Certificate (IPC)
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)
- VHF Restricted Operators licence or short range GMDSS radio certificate
Some certifications have specific operational scopes in Croatian waters. For example, the ISPA Certifications: Day Skipper Bareboat Sail and Power (DS), Coastal Navigator (CN), Coastal Skipper Bareboat Sail and Power (CSAS), Yachtmaster Offshore A (YM), and Yachtmaster Ocean B (YMO) enable the operation of bareboat chartered boats and chartered yachts up to 30 Gross Tonnage (GT) in Croatia.
Specific Requirements

When sailing in Croatia, it's essential to know the specific requirements for bareboat charter. You'll need a valid nautical certificate of competence, also known as an ICC.
To rent a bareboat in Croatia, at least one person on board should have a valid nautical license and a VHF license. These licenses are issued by the Port Authorities.
You'll also need a crew list, which should include the name, date and place of birth, passport numbers, nationality, and place of residence of all your crew members. This will speed up the embarkation process.
Here's a quick rundown of the accepted licenses for bareboat charter in Croatia:
- Valid nautical license (ICC)
- VHF license
- Valid ID document
Keep in mind that these licenses are required by law, and you'll need to bring the original documents with you on board.
The ICC Inland + Coastal Waters is a valid certificate for bareboat charter in Croatia, covering boats up to 30 GT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a US boating license work in Croatia?
Yes, a US boating license is recognized in Croatia, as long as it was issued by a state that meets Croatia's requirements. Check your state's boating certification to see if it's valid for use in Croatia.
Sources
- https://www.croatia-yachting-charter.com/en/sailing-in-croatia/frequently-asked-questions
- https://improvesailing.com/destinations/bareboat-charter-requirements-croatia
- https://lighthousesailing.com/en/sailing-tips/bareboat-crewed-or-skippered-catamaran-charter
- https://www.yachtico.com/which-boating-license-needed-for-bareboat-charter-croatia
- https://navaboats.com/blog/boating-tips/guide-for-bare-boat-charter-in-croatia-3281
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