book2sail-charter a boat in Croatia

When planning your yacht charter Croatia one area you must be sure to include is the Island of Cres.  Located in the Kvarner Gulf of the Adriatic Sea, Cres is the second largest of the 79 Croatian islands by area, yet relatively small in terms of its population (3079 in 2011).  However, being small is all part of the island’s charm.

History of Cres Island

book2sail-yacht charter croatia cres

source: Croatia Week

According to folklore, Cres is the island in which Jason and the Argonauts migrated to with the Golden Fleece.  Two of the main tourist towns on Cres are Osor and Cres Town.  Both offer a serene and historical ambience in which to explore as part of your yacht charter. Dotted around you’ll find many picturesque villages and cosy little restaurants to grab a bite to eat.  Cres Town features a relatively small harbour with a mass of tiny courtyards and alleys scattered around.

Cres has a lot to offer in terms of unspoilt beauty and history.  In the middle of the island lies a lake called, Lake Vrana.  As well as being a source of drinking water for Croatians, it’s also said to be covering the remains of a castle deep, down, beneath the waters.  For those of you who enjoy a little adventure, Cres has a topography perfect for the avid hiker.  With more than 300km of walking trails covering caves, hamlets, and beaches, there really is something for everyone to discover on this charming little island.

Isolation and natural beauty in Croatia

book2sail-boat charter in cres meli beach croatia

source: Stancija Plat

If you’re looking for somewhere to get some much-deserved rest and relaxation than Cres has some incredible beaches along the shore.  While many of them are lined with white pebbles and gravel, there are some secluded bays that have the most stunning sandy beaches.  And travelling by boat is an ideal way to reach these hidden gems on your yacht chartering in Croatia.

The island of Cres is very rich in plant life and for that reason alone makes it a beautiful place to simply walk and explore its unspoilt natural beauty.  Wild herbs and olive trees grow freely on the island, and trees are laden with apples and sweet chestnuts, creating tantalizing aromas wherever you go.  It’s also one of the last habitats of a very rare bird – the griffon vulture, and for that reason, there’s a dedicated ornithological reserve in place to protect them.

The Island of Cres – One of the true highlights of sailing in Croatia

book2sail-rent a boat Cres Croatia

Source: Crosummer

In terms of history, the island has lots to offer.  It is home to remains of ancient towns and Catholic churches and monasteries.  Some old villages remain intact and unspoiled by modern society while a walk beneath these facades is like taking a step back in time.  Furthermore, there is also some 15th and 16th-century architecture lingering in the alleyways of the centre which offer a ready-made excuse to take a break from the yacht and start exploring the land.

Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet, or want to visit somewhere that’s bursting with culture and history, the island of Cres can accommodate your needs.  So just make sure you include it in your itinerary when planning your next sailing adventure in Croatia.

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

Latest news

Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.