Charter boom in Croatia
Following a spike in charter activity in Croatia, SuperyachtNews.com spoke to Dorijan Dujmic, managing partner at BWA Yachting about the catalyst for this upturn.…
A recent influx of charter activity in Croatia signals continued growth for this conglomeration of Adriatic outcrops. The country offers over 1,500 gulfs and ports on both its islands and on the mainland. SuperyachtNews.com spoke to Dorijan Dujmic, managing partner at BWA Yachting about where this charter activity has come from.
“I think Croatia has always been the top destination in the summer season here in the Mediterranean,” he commented. Key to Croatia’s progression in the charter market is the acceptance of the VAT rate that was introduced last year, which was set at 13 per cent for charters starting in Croatia. In addition, Croatian-flagged yachts and EU-flagged yachts can charter in Croatia. And finally, 'third country flagged' yachts (non-EU with registered length over 40m) can only perform charters if they obtain a charter license.
Dujmic explained, “There used to be fear in regards to regulations and authorities, but now, people have understood that they just have to pay VAT on the charters and do not see this as a big issue. They just need to register and fill out the paperwork and that is the reason why we have increased charter activity in Croatia.”
Dujmic was optimistic looking forward, commenting that he thought next year would be even better for the industry, with more and more yachts finding solace in this area of the Mediterranean as yachting infrastructure grows. “Croatia is slowly improving, new marinas are being built, especially D Marin Marina and Šibenik,” he said.
He continued, “Croatia offers a mixture of everything - natural beauty, culture and thousands of islands. And these are still not as crowded as other countries, you can still find a small bay and enjoy your day.”
Charter availability in Croatia has certainly increased for the summer. To name a few, M/Y Berzinc, M/Y Beachseeker, M/Y Zamolxis have been advertised for charter. With over 15,000 Brits alone heading to Croatia for sailing trips, Croatia is sure to be booming in this sector.
“I think Croatia has always been the top destination in the summer season here in the Mediterranean,” he commented. Key to Croatia’s progression in the charter market is the acceptance of the VAT rate that was introduced last year, which was set at 13 per cent for charters starting in Croatia. In addition, Croatian-flagged yachts and EU-flagged yachts can charter in Croatia. And finally, 'third country flagged' yachts (non-EU with registered length over 40m) can only perform charters if they obtain a charter license.
Dujmic explained, “There used to be fear in regards to regulations and authorities, but now, people have understood that they just have to pay VAT on the charters and do not see this as a big issue. They just need to register and fill out the paperwork and that is the reason why we have increased charter activity in Croatia.”
Credit: Croatia National Tourist Board
Dujmic was optimistic looking forward, commenting that he thought next year would be even better for the industry, with more and more yachts finding solace in this area of the Mediterranean as yachting infrastructure grows. “Croatia is slowly improving, new marinas are being built, especially D Marin Marina and Šibenik,” he said.
Credit: Croatia National Tourist Board
He continued, “Croatia offers a mixture of everything - natural beauty, culture and thousands of islands. And these are still not as crowded as other countries, you can still find a small bay and enjoy your day.”
Charter availability in Croatia has certainly increased for the summer. To name a few, M/Y Berzinc, M/Y Beachseeker, M/Y Zamolxis have been advertised for charter. With over 15,000 Brits alone heading to Croatia for sailing trips, Croatia is sure to be booming in this sector.
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