Longer term berths in Croatia

The Berth Situation in Croatia: An Overview

Croatia is one of the most popular sailing and motorboating destinations in the Mediterranean. With over 1,200 islands and a diverse coastline, the country offers numerous berths—both in the water and on land. In addition to daily berths in marinas, there are summer, winter, and annual berths, which vary in availability and price depending on the region and season. A key alternative to water berths is dry storage on land, which is particularly cost-effective for winter storage or smaller boats.

Daily Berths in Marinas

Daily berths are ideal for skippers who need a short-term stop at a marina during their journey. Prices depend on the boat’s size and the season, and in peak season, they can be booked out quickly. Popular marinas, such as the ACI marinas in Rovinj or Dubrovnik, charge higher fees compared to smaller marinas in less frequented areas. Daily berth can be booked here:

Summer, Winter, and Annual Berths

• Summer berths are ideal for boat owners who want to use their boats during the warm months. These berths are in high demand during peak season and can be expensive, especially in popular sailing areas like the Kornati Islands or around Split.
• Winter berths offer a cheaper alternative since demand is significantly lower in the off-season. Many marinas provide special winter packages, including maintenance and protective services to keep boats safe during the colder months.
• Annual berths combine summer and winter mooring and are a practical option for boat owners who want to keep their boats in Croatia year-round. Larger marinas with extensive service facilities are particularly popular for this type of berth.

Dry Berths on Land

Dry berths are an alternative to water berths, especially for smaller boats or those not used during winter. These berths are either on marina grounds or in specialized dry storage facilities. The advantages of dry berths include:

• Lower storage costs compared to water berths
• Better protection from weather conditions, as the boat is not exposed to saltwater or waves
• Easier maintenance, as many dry storage facilities offer on-site workshops and services

In northern Croatia, where many boat owners come from Germany, Austria, and Slovenia, dry berths are particularly popular. Marinas in Pula or the Kvarner Bay offer numerous dry storage options. In the south, dry berths are also available, but they are less common compared to the north.

Differences Between Northern and Southern Croatia

The berth situation differs significantly between northern and southern Croatia:

• Northern Croatia (Istria, Kvarner Bay): High density of marinas with well-equipped berths and relatively moderate prices. Dry berths are more widely available.
• Southern Croatia (Dalmatia up to Dubrovnik): Higher demand for water berths due to the many charter companies. Prices tend to be higher, and dry berths are less common. However, there are more natural bays with mooring buoys as an alternative.

Conclusion

The berth situation in Croatia depends greatly on the region and season. While the north has more marinas and dry berths, water berths in the south are more expensive and harder to find. Boat owners should plan ahead, especially if traveling during peak season. Dry berths offer an interesting alternative, particularly for winter storage or seasonal boat users.