Boat Transfers In Croatia: Best Options For Your Trip

Croatia's thousands of kilometres of coastline and hundreds of islands make it a great place to explore by boat. There are many options for boat transfers, from water taxis to yacht charters. Some of the most popular routes include transfers to and from Split Airport to islands like Hvar, Vis, Brač, Korčula, and cities like Dubrovnik or Trogir.

If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, you can opt for a private boat transfer or charter a yacht to explore the islands at your own pace. These options offer unmatched comfort, privacy, and flexibility to customise your itinerary.

For a more affordable option, you can choose a water taxi or a hop-on-hop-off taxi boat service, which allows you to explore multiple islands independently.

When choosing a boat transfer service, consider your budget, the level of comfort and privacy you desire, and whether you prefer a pre-planned itinerary or a more flexible trip.

Speedboat transfers

Advantages of Speedboat Transfers

• Speed and Efficiency: Speedboats are the fastest way to reach your destination, helping you save time and avoid the hassle of crowded ferries or public transport.
• Comfort and Privacy: With a private speedboat transfer, you can travel in comfort and style, enjoying the panoramic views of the coast and islands. You'll have ample space for your luggage and can avoid the rush of busy ferry terminals.
• Flexibility and Customisation: Speedboat transfers allow you to customise your itinerary and travel on your own schedule. You can opt for a mini-tour, exploring the stunning Adriatic waters and admiring Croatia's mesmerising coastline.
• Safety and Peace of Mind: From the moment you land until you arrive at your hotel, speedboat transfers offer a safe and secure travel option. You'll be met by a professional skipper who will ensure your journey is smooth and enjoyable.

Popular Speedboat Transfer Routes

Some of the most popular speedboat transfer routes in Croatia include:

• Split Airport to Hvar: A fast and reliable transfer option, with comfortable and spacious boats offering panoramic views of Split and the surrounding bays and islands.
• Hvar to Split Airport: A private speedboat transfer from Hvar to Split, where you can unwind and enjoy complimentary drinks while taking in the coastal views.
• Split to Hvar: Chartering a private boat allows you to avoid the crowds and travel directly from Split to Hvar, with the convenience of departing from a port nearest your hotel or the airport.
• Dubrovnik to Hvar: A private speedboat transfer that offers an unforgettable experience, combining stunning coastal views with the option to snorkel in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea.
• Split to Brač Island: A private water taxi transfer that includes pick-up from the airport or hotel in Split, followed by a boat ride to Brač Island, where you'll be dropped off as close as possible to your final destination.

Choosing a Speedboat Transfer Service

When choosing a speedboat transfer service in Croatia, consider the following:

• Reputable Companies: Opt for well-established companies with positive reviews and a good safety record.
• Licensed and Insured: Ensure that the company and skipper have the necessary licences and insurance to operate speedboat transfers.
• Comfort and Safety: Look for companies that prioritise your comfort and safety, providing well-maintained boats, experienced skippers, and necessary safety equipment.
• Flexibility and Customisation: Choose a company that offers flexible itineraries and customised experiences to suit your preferences and travel schedule.
• Customer Support: Select a company that provides excellent customer support, both before and after your transfer, to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Whether you're looking for a quick transfer between islands or a mini-tour to explore the beauty of the Adriatic, speedboat transfers in Croatia offer a fast, efficient, and memorable way to travel.

Private water taxis

Another advantage of private water taxis is the convenience and flexibility they offer. For example, Explore Dubrovnik offers private boat transfers across Croatia, providing a stress-free and punctual travel experience. They turn transfers into 'mini tours', allowing passengers to admire the mesmerising Croatian coastline as they travel to their destination.

Additionally, private water taxis can be a great option for larger groups. Companies like Adriatic Express can accommodate large groups with several speed boats, ensuring that each passenger travels in comfort. This can be especially useful for events such as weddings, birthdays, or team-building activities.

Overall, private water taxis in Croatia offer a seamless, comfortable, and personalised travel experience. With companies like Adriatic Express and Explore Dubrovnik, you can easily travel between popular destinations and even customise your own tours, making your trip a memorable one.

International boat lines

• Rovinj
• Poreč
• Pula
• Mali Lošinj
• Rab
• Novalja (Pag)

There are also several private companies operating international boat lines in Croatia, usually during the high season. These companies offer transfers to Italy from ports such as Trieste, Venice, Cesenatico, and Pesaro.

When planning your trip, it is important to consult the timetables and availability of these boat lines, as they can change drastically. Schedules are typically divided into three seasons: peak season (July 1 - August 31), before and after the season (June 1 - June 30 and September 1 - September 30), and off-season (October 1 - May 31).

In addition to the national and private ferry companies, there are also water taxi and private boat transfer services available in Croatia. These offer a more personalised and flexible travel experience, allowing you to travel in style and comfort.

Local ferries and catamarans

Croatia has over 5,000 kilometres of coastline and more than 1,000 islands, so ship traffic is frequent. Local ferries and catamarans connect important ports with most Croatian islands. The national ferry company is called Jadrolinija, and it operates in five districts: Rijeka, Zadar, Šibenik, Split, and Dubrovnik. However, several private companies also operate in Croatia, some throughout the year and others only during high season. When planning your trip, it is important to consult the timetables as availability can change.

Rijeka District

Local routes in the Rijeka area include:

• Brestova – Porozina (Cres)
• Mali Lošinj – Ilovik – Susak – Unije – Martinšćica – Cres – Rijeka
• Mali Lošinj – Unije – Vele Srakane – Susak
• Prizna – Žigljen (Pag)
• Rijeka – Rab – Novalja (Pag)
• Valbiska (Krk) – Lopar (Rab)
• Valbiska (Krk) – Merag (Cres)

Zadar District

Local routes in the Zadar area include:

• Biograd – Tkon (Pašman)
• Zadar (Gaženica) – Rivanj – Sestrunj – Zverinac – Molat – Ist
• Zadar (Gaženica) – Brbinj (Dugi took)
• Zadar (Gaženica) – Ist – Olib – Silba – Premuda – Mali Lošinj
• Zadar (Gaženica) – Ošljak – Preko (Ugljan)
• Zadar (Gaženica) – Bršanj (Iž) – Rava – Mala Rava
• Zadar – Mali Iž – Veli Iž – Mala Rava – Rava
• Zadar – Molat – Brgulje – Zapuntel – Ist
• Zadar – Rivanj – Sestrunj – Zverinac – Božava – Brbinj

Šibenik District

Local routes in the Šibenik area include:

• Šibenik – Zlarin – Obonjan – Kaprije – Žirje
• Šibenik – Zlarin – Prvić Luka – Šepurine – Vodice

Split District

Local routes in the Split area include:

• Drvenik – Sućuraj (Hvar)
• Orebić – Dominče (Korčula)
• Ploče – Trpanj (Pelješac)
• Split – Bol (Brač) – Stari Grad (Hvar) – Jelsa (Hvar)
• Split – Hvar – Vela Luka (Korčula) – Ubli (Lastovo)
• Split – Milna (Brač) – Hvar – Vis
• Split – Rogač (Šolta)
• Split – Stari Grad (Hvar)
• Split – Supetar (Brač)
• Split – Vela Luka (Korčula) – Ubli (Lastovo)
• Split – Hvar (luka Vira)
• Sumartin (Brač) – Makarska
• Trogir (Soline) – Drvenik Mali – Drvenik Veli

Dubrovnik District

Local routes in the Dubrovnik area include:

• Dubrovnik – Koločep – Lopud – Suđurađ (Šipan)
• Dubrovnik – Korčula – Hvar – Bol – Split
• Dubrovnik – Lopud – Suđurađ (Šipan)
• Prapratno (Pelješac) – Sobra (Mljet)

Advantages of Boat Transfers

Travelling by boat transfer offers perks such as hassle-free travel, comfort, and punctuality. It is a great way to explore the Adriatic waters and admire Croatia's mesmerizing coastline. Boat transfers also provide flexibility and autonomy, allowing travellers to avoid crowded public transport and traffic jams.

Private Boat Transfers

In addition to local ferries and catamarans, private boat transfers are also available in Croatia. These transfers offer an exclusive and luxurious travel experience. Private transfers are typically more expensive than local ferries, but they provide a personalized and convenient service. They are often used for airport transfers, island hopping, and customized tours.

Yacht charters

Types of Yacht Charters

There are several types of yacht charters available in Croatia, including crewed motor yachts, crewed catamarans, bareboat sailing yachts, and gulets. Crewed motor yachts offer luxury, speed, and excellent service, while crewed catamarans provide ample space and stability, making them ideal for families and groups. Bareboat sailing yachts are also available for a more independent sailing experience. Gulets are traditional wooden sailing yachts that offer a cost-effective alternative to luxury charter yachts.

Popular Destinations

Croatia has many popular destinations for yacht charters, including the Dalmatian Islands (Hvar, Pakleni Islands, Mljet, Trogir, Vis, Korčula, Brač), the mainland (Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, and neighbouring Tivat and Montenegro), and the Far North - Istria Region (Pula, Kornati Archipelago). These areas offer a range of attractions, such as picturesque harbours, secluded coves, golden beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for yacht charters in Croatia is typically between late May and early October when the weather is pleasant, and the seas are calm. However, the peak season falls in July and August, so expect higher charter fees and more crowded marinas during these months.

Itineraries

There are several suggested itineraries for yacht charters in Croatia, ranging from 6 to 8 days. These itineraries include island-hopping around Croatia, exploring the historical hotspots, and cultural adventures through the country.

Yacht Charter Costs

The cost of chartering a yacht in Croatia varies depending on the type of yacht and the duration of the charter. For motor yacht rentals, prices can range from $32,000 to $1.8 million per week plus expenses. For luxury sailing yacht rentals, prices can go from $32,363 to $582,882 weekly plus expenses. Gulet charters, a more cost-effective option, can be found for around €13,500-€15,000 per week, including food and cruising.

Yacht Charter Companies

Several companies offer yacht charter services in Croatia, including IYC, Boatbookings, and YachtCharterFleet. These companies provide a range of luxury yachts for charter and can help create bespoke itineraries for your trip.

Frequently asked questions