Question 1

How do I book a yacht through TideCharter?

Accepted Answer

Send us an enquiry with your dates, preferred base, crew size, and budget. A Croatia charter specialist will review your request and reply within a few hours with the best available options and rates. Once you confirm, we handle the reservation directly with the operator.

Question 2

Is there a fee for using TideCharter?

Accepted Answer

No. Our service is completely free for sailors. We earn a small commission from the charter operator when a booking is confirmed, but this does not increase the price you pay. In many cases we can secure rates below what the operator publishes directly.

Question 3

Why can your rates be lower than other sites?

Accepted Answer

We compare the same week across multiple trusted operators, pick up live discounts quickly, and check the total with mandatory extras in mind. That means we are not locked to one published weekly rate from one source, and in many cases we can steer you to a better-value operator, sister yacht, or departure base.

Question 4

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

For peak season in July and August, we recommend booking 4 to 6 months ahead. The best yachts in popular bases like Split, Dubrovnik, and Trogir sell out early. For June, September, and shoulder season, 6 to 8 weeks is usually fine.

Question 5

What's typically included in the charter price?

Accepted Answer

The charter rate usually covers the yacht for the agreed period, the onboard equipment listed for that yacht, standard safety inventory, operator liability cover, and the normal handover process. We make those inclusions explicit before you confirm.

Question 6

What usually sits outside the charter price?

Accepted Answer

Most Croatia charters still have extra costs on top of the yacht rate. The most common ones are transit log or end cleaning, tourist tax, fuel, paid moorings during the trip, skipper or hostess fees, and optional add-ons such as transfers or provisioning. We flag the mandatory and optional extras early so the total is clear.

Question 7

What is the transit log or end cleaning fee?

Accepted Answer

This is a standard operator charge that often covers final cleaning, laundry, gas, check-in paperwork, and local technical preparation. Some operators split it into separate line items and others bundle it together. We call it out clearly because it is one of the main reasons a low weekly rate can be misleading.

Question 8

What is a security deposit?

Accepted Answer

Most charters require a refundable security deposit, typically around €1,500 to €5,000 depending on the yacht. It is usually pre-authorised or blocked on a credit card at check-in and released after the charter if the yacht is returned without damage or missing inventory.

Question 9

Can I get a skipper if I'm not confident sailing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A professional skipper can be arranged for most yachts. Expect roughly €150 to €250 per day depending on the boat and season, plus food or a cabin where required by the operator. We confirm the exact skipper cost before you commit.

Question 10

When do I pay and how does the payment schedule work?

Accepted Answer

Most operators require a deposit after booking confirmation, with the balance due closer to departure, often 4 to 6 weeks before embarkation. Exact timing varies by operator and season. We confirm the payment schedule, how much is due at each stage, and the accepted payment method before you proceed.

Question 11

Can I cancel or change my booking?

Accepted Answer

Cancellation and modification rules depend on the operator and the exact booking terms. Some allow partial refunds if you cancel well in advance, while others are much stricter close to departure. We explain the specific cancellation terms before you pay and strongly recommend travel insurance that covers charter cancellation.

Question 12

Do I need a sailing licence to charter in Croatia without a skipper?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Croatia requires a valid sailing certificate plus a VHF radio operator licence for bareboat charters. If you do not have the right paperwork or simply want a more relaxed week, adding a skipper is the cleanest option.

Everything you need to know

Rates, booking, and quotes

What is included and what is extra

Skipper, payment, and cancellation

Still have questions?