How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Crewed Catamaran in Croatia?

Understanding Crewed Catamaran Charter Prices in Croatia

Chartering a crewed catamaran in Croatia is the ultimate way to explore the Adriatic Sea in comfort and style. Unlike bareboat charters, a crewed charter provides a professional crew ensuring that every detail of your sailing vacation is taken care of, from navigation and docking to gourmet meals and daily cleaning.

The cost of such an experience varies widely, depending on the yacht model, size, season, and included services. Understanding the pricing structure can help you plan and budget effectively.

Below are estimated costs for a crewed catamaran charter, based on a weekly rate. Croatian VAT 13% is included in the rates. 

What’s Included in a Crewed Charter

When you charter a crewed catamaran, you’re not just paying for the boat; you’re paying for a complete sailing experience:

Professional crew: A skipper handles navigation, itinerary planning, and safety, while a hostess or chef prepares meals and maintains the yacht.

Fully equipped yacht: Air conditioning, water maker, generator, and safety equipment are standard on premium and luxury crewed yachts. 

Water toys: Many yachts include SUPs, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and sometimes more advanced toys like seabobs.

Luxury and comfort: Spacious cabins, premium linens, and daily cleaning ensure a hotel-like experience at sea.

Lagoon 55 "Agenda", one of the best-equipped catamarans in her range

Additional Costs to Consider

Even with a crewed charter, there are extra expenses to budget for:

• APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)*: Usually 30% of the base charter price, covering food, drinks, fuel, marina fees, and other operational costs.
• VAT: 13% on the base charter price. For the above-listed yachts, Croatian VAT of 13% is included in the charter rate.
• Crew gratuities: Typically 10-15% of the charter fee, depending on satisfaction.
• Tourist tax: Approximately €1.33 per adult per day (can be paid from the APA)
• Final cleaning: in some instances, it`s included in the charter rate, but not for all. In any case, these costs will be specified in the offer. (Can be paid from the APA)
• Yacht relocation fees, e.g., if you charter a one-way sailing trip from Split to Dubrovnik or vice versa.

*What is APA?

APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance, and it is a standard part of all crewed charters in Croatia (and globally).
It is an on-board expense fund paid in advance so the crew can provision the yacht and cover all variable costs during your trip.

Typically, APA is 30% of the charter rate.

• Is APA refundable?
  Yes. Any unused balance is fully refunded to you at the end of the charter. If not all of the budget was spent, the remaining amount is returned before disembarkation.
• What happens if we spend more than the APA amount?
  If the actual expenses are higher than the prepaid amount, the captain will inform you in advance. The difference is then settled onboard near the end of the trip. This typically only happens if:
  
  - You select premium marinas every night,
  
  - Request luxury alcohol brands or high-end provisioning,
  
  - or choose long-distance cruising routes.
• Who manages the APA during the charter?
  The captain manages the APA and keeps a transparent log of all expenses. You may request a cost overview at any time (daily or mid-week), so you always know how your budget is being used.
• Can we choose which food and drinks are purchased?
  Absolutely. Before departure, the crew will ask for your preference sheet — your food habits, dietary requests, favorite drinks, wines, snacks, allergies, etc. The chef provisions the yacht based on this list.
  The APA simply covers the cost of the provisioning.
• Is fuel included in APA?
  Yes. Fuel for the yacht, generator, tender, and water toys is included within APA. If you sail more than average or decide to cruise long distances, fuel consumption may be slightly higher.
• Are restaurant meals included in APA?
  Only onboard dining is covered by APA.
  If you dine at restaurants during the trip, those meals are paid separately (directly to the restaurant), not from the APA fund.
• What about marina and mooring fees?
  Marina and mooring fees are included within APA. Guests who prefer quiet bays and anchorages usually spend less, while those who stay in premium marinas (like Hvar, Korčula, Dubrovnik) may pay a bit more.
• When do we pay APA?
  APA is usually paid with the final charter balance, about 4–6 weeks before boarding, so the crew has time to provision the yacht before your arrival.

Why Choose a Crewed Catamaran?

Chartering a crewed catamaran in Croatia is perfect for travelers who want luxury without the hassle. You can relax, enjoy the stunning coastline, explore hidden bays, and dine on freshly prepared meals while the crew takes care of every detail.

Crewed charters are ideal for:

• Families seeking stress-free holidays
• Couples wanting a romantic, all-inclusive escape.
• Groups of friends celebrating special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries...
• Luxury travelers who value comfort, service, and privacy.

Planning Your Trip

Seasonality plays a significant role in pricing and availability:

High season (July–August): Most expensive, busiest marinas. Book early.

The truth is that you might get a better deal for a last-minute booking, but for yachts in high demand during the high season, it's unlikely you will find a suitable yacht.

Mid-season (June, September): Slightly lower prices, fewer crowds, still great weather.

If you can adjust your vacation dates, we recommend sailing in shoulder season.

Low season (April–May, October): Best value, quieter sailing, cooler temperatures.

Non-Saturday (Monday - Monday or Wednesday - Wednesday) departures can also reduce costs and give access to quieter marinas and anchorages, offering a more relaxed sailing experience.

Chartering a crewed catamaran in Croatia offers a unique combination of freedom, luxury, and expert service. While costs may seem high at first glance, the full-service experience, including amenities, and the ability to explore the Adriatic stress-free, make it worthwhile.

Ready to book your dream crewed catamaran in Croatia?

Contact us today to explore available yachts from Split, Trogir, and Dubrovnik, and start planning your unforgettable sailing adventure.