FAQ

Frequently asked questions

The rental price for the vessel includes:

  • Using a vessel for the agreed period
  • Standard equipment according to the inventory list (safety equipment, navigation, kitchen utensils, etc.)
  • Bed linen and towels (one set per person)
  • Vessel and crew insurance
  • Auxiliary vessel (dinghy/dinghy)
  • 24/7 Support during navigation

Not included (depending on the offer and conditions):

  • Fuel and costs of berths in marinas
  • Tourist tax
  • Skipper, hostess or chef (can be arranged for an additional fee)
  • Final cleaning (unless otherwise stated in the offer)
  • Accessories (SUP, Wi-Fi, outboard motor, etc.)

The exact list of included and additional costs is always stated in the offer and rental agreement — we recommend that you read it carefully before confirming your reservation.

In addition to the basic price of renting a vessel, certain additional costs are charged at the charter base, which may vary depending on the type of vessel and rental conditions.

The most common additional costs are:

  • Final cleaning – mandatory fee (amount depends on the size of the vessel and the number of weeks)
  • Tourist tax – paid per person and per day
  • Security deposit – a refundable amount left before taking over the vessel (in case of damage or loss of equipment)
  • Early boarding or late disembarkation - available upon prior arrangement.
  • Skipper, Hostess, or Chef – Available as an Add-On Service
  • Outboard motor, SUP, kayak, Wi-Fi – additional equipment available for an extra fee.
  • Fuel and Marina Fees During Your Voyage – Costs Not Included in Your Rental Price

The exact amount and list of additional costs are outlined in the quote and rental agreement. We recommend reviewing these details before confirming your reservation.

To operate a vessel in Croatian territorial waters, you need a valid boat captain's license issued by authorized authorities (eg, maritime offices). Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure of the Republic of Croatia.

Depending on the type and size of the vessel, one of the following permits is required:

  • Skipper License Category B – Required for most sailboats, motorboats, and catamarans up to 30 GT.
  • Category C Boat Captain – For Larger Vessels and Professional Management
  • Internationally recognized permits (ICC – International Certificate of Competence) are accepted if issued by the relevant authority of a member country.

To operate a vessel, you'll need a skipper's license along with a VHF radio license, which is required for managing the boat's radio communications.
You can verify the validity of your license at the following link: Certificates issued by the competent authorities of other states

If you don't have the necessary license, we can arrange for a professional skipper to ensure a safe and relaxing sailing experience.

Yes, you can rent a vessel even if you don't have a boating license. In that case, hiring a professional skipper is a must.

Our experienced skipper takes charge of the vessel and ensures the safety of the crew. With in-depth knowledge of local routes, anchorages, and marinas, they can recommend the best itineraries tailored to your preferences.

The advantage of hiring a skipper is that you can fully enjoy your vacation without worrying about navigation, anchoring, or weather conditions.

If you choose to rent a vessel with a skipper, please note that an additional fee for the skipper will be added to the base rental price.

Common additional costs include:

  • Skipper services typically range from €200 to €250 per day, depending on the size of the vessel and the season.
  • Food and beverages for the skipper are provided by the crew, or can be arranged for an additional fee.
  • Skipper Accommodation on Board – The skipper typically sleeps in one of the cabins.
  • Tipping is not mandatory, but it's a common practice if you're happy with the service. We recommend showing your appreciation if you enjoyed your experience and give a tip of 5–10% of the skipper's fee.

Yes, you can rent a boat for a shorter period than the standard weekly schedule (Saturday to Saturday), but this depends on the season and the availability of the vessel.

Rental conditions for stays shorter than 7 days typically include the following:

  • During the pre-season and off-season months (like April, May, and October), shorter charters are available without restrictions, offering you the flexibility to choose your boarding and disembarkation days.
  • During the high season (June to September), weekly charters (Saturday to Saturday) are the standard. Shorter rentals are possible, but only if there is an open slot between two bookings or if the boat is not reserved a few days before departure.

The daily rate for shorter charters may be slightly higher than the weekly rental price, as it includes preparation and cleaning costs for the vessel. If you have flexibility with your dates, reach out to us! We'd be happy to check availability and find the best option for a shorter trip.

The Zadar region is one of the most attractive starting points for sailing in the Adriatic. With its numerous islands, hidden coves, and national parks, it's easy to explore all the beauty this area has to offer in just a week of sailing.

Based on your experience, preferences, and rental duration, here are some of the most popular routes we recommend:

1. Northern Route – Dugi Otok, Molat, Silba, Premuda
This route is perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway and unspoiled nature.
Set sail from Zadar and head towards Dugi Otok, a gem known for its stunning Sakarun Bay and the breathtaking Telašćica Nature Park.
After that, you can set sail for the islands of Molat, Silba, and Premuda—perfect spots for relaxation, swimming, and anchoring in stunning coves.


2. Southern Route – Kornati and Murter
The route through Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park offers one of the most stunning sailing experiences in the Adriatic.
Your journey can include the stunning islands of Žut, Kornat, and Levrnaka, with the option to stop at charming marinas or seaside restaurants along the way.
We recommend a weekly rental to give you plenty of time to soak in the beauty of the islands.


3. Short Route – Ugljan and Pašman
For a quick getaway or a weekend sailing adventure, the perfect route takes you through the Zadar Channel and the stunning islands of Ugljan and Pašman.
The close proximity of shorelines and numerous anchor points ensures smooth sailing, easy logistics, and plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim or enjoy lunch at local taverns.


All routes can be tailored to suit the weather conditions, rental duration, and your preferences—whether you're seeking an adventurous sailing experience or a relaxing getaway in secluded coves. Our team is here to help you plan your itinerary before you set sail.

Absolutely, sailing is a safe and perfect choice for families with children, as long as you follow basic safety guidelines and heed the instructions from your skipper or charter base.

Sailing the Adriatic offers calm waters, short distances between islands, and plenty of sheltered bays—creating the perfect backdrop for a family vacation. To ensure a pleasant and safe experience, we recommend:

  • Choosing calmer routes and shorter daily sailing segments
  • Stay overnight in sheltered bays or marinas with reliable moorings and top-notch amenities.
  • The Importance of Life Jackets (Especially for Kids)
  • Extra sun protection – hats, sunscreen, refreshing drinks, and plenty of shade.
  • Constant supervision of children while on deck

When sailing with young children, we recommend choosing a boat with a protected cockpit and safety netting along the guardrails. For added peace of mind, you can also hire an experienced skipper to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Family sailing offers a unique experience of togetherness, exploration, and connection with nature—making it a favorite vacation choice for many families year after year.

For a comfortable and carefree sailing experience, we recommend packing lightweight and practical gear, as space on board is limited. It's best to use a soft bag instead of a hard suitcase. Be sure to bring your personal documents, such as your passport or ID, your reservation confirmation, and your boat captain's license if you have one. For your comfort, pack lightweight and breathable clothing, swimsuits, a jacket or windbreaker for the evenings, a hat, and sunglasses. Don't forget footwear with a soft, non-slip sole!

It's also essential to pack some basic protection and hygiene items: high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent, your personal toiletries, and any medications you regularly take. A travel first-aid kit with band-aids, disinfectants, and anti-nausea tablets is also highly recommended. Feel free to bring along a daypack for excursions, snorkeling gear like a mask and fins, books, music, or even some board games. A good amount of food and drinks for your first evening can be helpful, while the rest can easily be picked up at the marina or during your sailing adventure. The most important thing is to bring what you really need for a comfortable and relaxing getaway. Everything else will be taken care of by our crew or charter base.

Yes, you can easily fly into Zadar Airport, which is well-connected to numerous European cities. After landing, you can collect your luggage and head straight to the marina in Zadar. The most practical option is a taxi or private transfer, especially if you're traveling with luggage or kids. It's quick and convenient, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. If you're up for it, public transportation is an option! Just keep in mind that it might involve some transfers or a bit of waiting time.

For maximum comfort and a worry-free arrival, we recommend booking your transfer in advance. Sunturist Charter can take care of all the details for you. This way, you can skip the waiting and unexpected costs, allowing you to set sail right away!

If weather conditions worsen while you're out on the water, the most important thing is to stay calm and follow the guidance of your skipper or the advice from the charter base. Sailing plans are made with the weather forecasts in mind, and our boats are equipped for safe navigation, no matter if the winds pick up or the rain starts to fall. In such situations, it is possible to shorten the route, find a sheltered cove, or dock at a marina to wait for the weather to improve.

Sunturist Charter keeps a close eye on real-time weather conditions and sends alert messages to our clients via WhatsApp if any dangerous weather is on the horizon. Our messages also include recommendations for the nearest harbor or cove to seek shelter, ensuring your sailing experience remains safe. This way, the crew can respond promptly and feel safe and secure, even in the face of sudden weather changes. We recommend downloading the WhatsApp app on your mobile device.

Most skippers have experience navigating the changing conditions of the Adriatic, and the safety of both the crew and the vessel is always a top priority.

Yes, you can pre-order food delivery before your check-in. At our Base Info station, we've prepared two delivery options for you, so you can choose the one that suits you best and enjoy a meal right upon your arrival on board.

For the latest weather conditions and forecasts, be sure to check reliable meteorological services or apps. Trusted sources like the National Weather Service and popular weather apps such as Windy can help you stay informed and plan your sailing adventures with confidence and local marinas also often provide up-to-date information for vessels.

At every check-in at our charter base, all clients receive a weather forecast for the next 3 days and an overview for the next 7 days. We recommend checking the weather forecast multiple times a day during your charter. This way, you'll stay informed about any changes and can plan your sailing adventures safely.