Question 1

What happens when I book one of your gulets?

Accepted Answer

Once we confirm the availability of your chosen gulet and you’re ready to book, you will sign a charter agreement—either our standard contract or a MYBA agreement (used for the most luxurious vessels).

*MYBA is the Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association and sets the standards for everyone in the industry to adhere to. The agreement will also include any additional charges and taxes that may apply to your choice of itinerary.

To officially secure your gulet, a 50% deposit of the charter fee is required, along with the signed agreement. Around two months before departure, the remaining balance and any pre-arranged extras are due—and that’s when we dive into planning the details of your trip.

Learn more about the step-by-step booking process here.

Question 2

Can I design my own route when chartering?

Accepted Answer

From the moment you get in touch, we’ll work with you to shape an itinerary that matches your travel style, interests, and pace.

Of course, your final itinerary may be shaped by a few factors—like the gulet’s range, weather conditions, and the captain’s expert advice. Safety always comes first, and sometimes marina availability can also influence your overnight stops.

To get inspired, take a look at our sample itineraries—they’re a great starting point for building a journey that’s truly your own.

Question 3

Is early booking of a gulet necessary?

Accepted Answer

If you want the best selection, early booking is highly recommended. The most popular gulets with top crews and service often get booked up to a year in advance, especially for peak summer dates.

While it’s sometimes possible to find something last-minute (around 2–3 months before departure), options are limited and tend to go fast as the season approaches.

Not sure what’s still available? Talk to our charter broker and we’ll gladly check the latest options for your preferred dates.

Question 4

When should I visit Croatia on a gulet charter?

Accepted Answer

Croatia’s Mediterranean climate makes it a great gulet destination from spring through autumn, with each season offering a different experience. Here’s what to expect:

Low Season: Spring (April – May)

Ideal for travelers who enjoy mild temperatures, quiet bays, and lower rates. The sea is cooler, but the scenery is lush and the towns are peaceful.

Mid-Season: Early Summer (June) & Late Summer (September)

A perfect balance—warm weather, swimmable seas, and lively towns without peak-season crowds. This is one of the best times for a gulet charter.

High Season: Peak Summer (July – August)

The height of the sailing season, when Croatia buzzes with energy. Croatia is hot, sunny, and full of energy. Marinas are bustling, nightlife is in full swing, and popular gulets book out fast—so early planning is key.

Low Season: Autumn (October)

A quieter, more relaxed experience with warm days and calm seas. Some seasonal spots may begin to close, but it's perfect for those seeking privacy and space.

Question 5

Do I have to tip the crew at the end of my charter week?

Accepted Answer

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a well-established custom in the charter world and always appreciated by the crew. If you’re happy with the service, a gratuity of 10% to 15% of the charter fee is considered appropriate.

Tips are usually given to the captain at the end of the trip, who then distributes the amount fairly among the entire crew.

Question 6

What currency does Croatia use and can I pay with a card?

Accepted Answer

Croatia’s official currency is the Euro. For payments onboard, you should carry some cash with you.

While most shops, restaurants, and services on land accept card payments, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or local spots.

Need to withdraw money? ATMs are widely available in all major towns and ports, so accessing cash is easy during your trip.

Question 7

Does the boat crew speak English?

Accepted Answer

All of our crews are fluent in English. In fact, many crew members are multilingual, often speaking Italian, German, or Spanish in addition to English.

Compared to other gulet destinations, like Turkey, where English fluency can sometimes be limited, Croatia stands out for its excellent communication and guest-friendly crews.

Question 8

What if I do not find a boat to my liking?

Accepted Answer

No problem—we’re here to help beyond what you see online. Our team constantly updates the fleet with the latest and best gulets available, including new builds and newly added vessels. If you don’t see your perfect match on our site, just let us know what you’re looking for.

We have a full overview of the Croatian charter market and thanks to our extensive partner network, we can also source top-quality gulets in other leading destinations like Turkey, Greece, and Montenegro.

Question 9

Is spending the night in a secluded natural bay possible in Croatia?

Accepted Answer

Spending the night anchored in a peaceful bay is one of the most memorable parts of a gulet charter in Croatia. However, a few things should be considered:

Weather conditions and safety always come first, so the captain will have the final say on overnight anchoring
During peak season, finding a truly secluded spot can be more difficult, and quiet hours after midnight are expected in natural bays
If you're planning a celebration or music late into the night, let the captain know in advance to find a suitable location

Question 10

Who are private gulets suitable for?

Accepted Answer

Private gulet charters are perfect for anyone looking for a more personal, flexible way to travel. They’re ideal for:

Families wanting to enjoy quality time together in a private and safe setting
Couples seeking a romantic escape with stunning views and sunset dinners
Groups of friends looking for a fun, shared adventure on the water
Corporate retreats combining work, team-building, and relaxation
Active travelers who want to mix sailing with exploration, swimming, or hiking ashore

The beauty of a gulet charter is its flexibility—it can be shaped entirely around your group’s interests, pace, and occasion.

Question 11

What are the additional costs that I need to keep in mind?

Accepted Answer

In addition to the base charter fee, there are a few extra costs to consider when booking a gulet charter:

Food & Drinks

Most gulets charge separately for meals and beverages. At a minimum, a half-board meal plan and a non-alcoholic drinks package are mandatory for all guests. These are usually paid in cash on embarkation day. Full-board or à la carte upgrades and alcoholic beverages are also available on request.

Port Fees & Tourist Taxes

These vary depending on your route and overnight stops (marinas vs. anchorages). We’ll estimate these costs during the planning stage so there are no surprises.

Water Toys

Use of motorized water sports equipment (e.g. jet skis, water skis) often incurs additional charges, depending on the gulet.

Gratuities

Tipping the crew is not mandatory but is customary—typically 10–15% of the charter fee, based on your satisfaction with the service.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

Croatia applies a 13% VAT. This is usually already included in the price of traditional gulets but may be added separately for more luxurious vessels.

If you’re unsure about any extras, reach out with your questions, we are happy to walk you through the details.

Question 12

Are food and drinks included in the charter price?

Accepted Answer

No, food and drinks are not included in the base charter fee.

Each gulet offers its own food and beverage packages, which are usually paid in cash upon embarkation.

Here’s how it works:

Food packages are typically offered as:

Half board (breakfast & lunch)
Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Drinks packages vary by gulet and usually include:

All-inclusive non-alcoholic beverages
All-inclusive domestic alcoholic package (local wine, beer, spirits)
All-inclusive international package (includes non-alcoholic, local, and imported alcoholic drinks)

*Please note: at minimum, a half board meal plan and a non-alcoholic drink package are required for all guests.

For the most luxurious gulets, expenses are managed through an APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) system instead of set food and drinks packages.

*APA is a pre-paid allowance (usually around 30% of the charter fee) used to cover extra costs like meals, drinks, fuel, marina fees, motorized water toys, and other onboard services. It’s handled by the captain throughout the trip.

If you don’t spend the full APA, the remaining balance will be refunded.
If expenses go over, you’ll be asked to settle the difference before disembarkation.

We’ll always clarify the specific setup for your chosen gulet during the booking process.

Question 13

Should I plan my itinerary in advance?

Accepted Answer

While part of the charm of a gulet holiday is the freedom to explore spontaneously, we do recommend outlining a preliminary itinerary in advance.

Planning ahead helps ensure that the places and the experiences are realistic within your charter timeframe. It also gives the captain and crew time to prepare the best route, anchorages, and timing based on your interests.

Of course, there’s always room to adjust along the way, and your captain will offer advice based on weather, local events, and marina availability to help make the most of your journey.

Question 14

Can I customize my charter experience?

Accepted Answer

Private gulet charter is highly customizable. You can tailor everything from the itinerary and dining style to onboard activities and special events - the crew will work with you to shape an experience that suits your style.

To make everything run smoothly, we recommend sharing your preferences and any special requests before your trip—that way, the crew can plan ahead and deliver a seamless experience from the moment you step aboard.

Question 15

What are the sleeping arrangements?

Accepted Answer

Gulets come with a variety of cabin layouts to suit different group sizes and preferences. Most cabins have private en-suite bathrooms and are designed for comfort. Typical cabin types include:

Master Cabins – Spacious rooms with king-size beds and en-suite facilities
Double Cabins – Comfortable en-suite cabins with queen- or king-size beds
Twin Cabins – Smaller cabins with two separate beds or one double bed
Triple Cabins – Available on select gulets, ideal for families or kids

Every gulet is different, so layout and cabin types vary.

Wondering what your gulet’s layout looks like? Get in touch with us—we’ll be happy to walk you through the options.

Question 16

Do all gulets have a crew?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all gulets come with a dedicated professional crew.

A standard crew typically includes a captain, a chef, and one or more crew members, depending on the size of the vessel.

They handle everything from sailing and navigation to preparing meals and keeping things running smoothly onboard.

Question 17

What level of service can I expect on a crewed boat?

Accepted Answer

On a crewed gulet charter, you can expect a high level of personalized, attentive service. The crew is there to take care of you throughout your journey, so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying the experience. Typical services include:

Navigation & Route Planning – The captain handles all sailing and logistics, ensuring smooth travel and adapting to weather and preferences.
Onboard Dining – A professional chef prepares fresh, delicious meals based on your dietary needs and requests.
Housekeeping – Your cabin and common areas are regularly cleaned and tidied by the crew.
Activity Coordination – The crew can arrange water sports, shore excursions, or celebrations, tailored to your interests.

Question 18

What supplies are included on board?

Accepted Answer

Gulets are well-equipped to provide a comfortable and hassle-free experience. You’ll find:

Linens & Towels – Fresh, high-quality bedding and bath towels (some gulets also provide beach towels)
Basic Toiletries – Shampoo, soap, and other essentials (depending on the vessel)
Entertainment Systems – Audio systems, TVs, or other onboard entertainment depending on the boat’s setup
Recreational Gear – Snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and sometimes kayaks and other water toys
Safety Equipment – All mandatory life vests, first-aid kits, and safety gear as per regulations

Each gulet differs slightly, so we’ll walk you through exactly what’s included on your selected boat.

Question 19

Do gulets have water toys?

Accepted Answer

Yes—many gulets come equipped with a range of water toys to make your time on the water even more fun. While equipment varies by boat, you can often expect:

Snorkeling gear
Kayaks and paddleboards
Water skis, wakeboards, and ringos
Jet skis (available on some luxury gulets — note: a valid license is required to operate them in Croatia)
Seabobs and inflatable slides on select high-end vessels

If there’s something specific you’re hoping to have onboard, let us know during the booking process—we’ll help you find the perfect gulet with the right setup for your group.

Question 20

Do I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory for visiting Croatia, but we strongly recommend it.

While we don’t sell or partner with any travel insurance providers, we’re happy to recommend reputable companies if you need help finding the right coverage.

Smart Spirit

What’s included in the price?

INCLUDED

Cabins and Accommodation

Layout

Comfort & Entertainment

Crew & Hospitality

Possible Itineraries

Frequently Asked Questions

Ratings & Reviews

Francesca G.

Andrew Potts

Michelle Abramovich

Keith Walker

Familia Rancel

Emily Thompson