For those planning to spend their summer holidays cruising in Croatia, it is essential to stay updated on the local regulations and comply with the new rules to avoid penalties and ensure a safe, environmentally respectful sailing experience. In this article, we detail the main points of the new Croatian Maritime Safety Regulation.

Published in the Croatian Official Gazette on 21 March 2025 and effective from 29 March, the new Regulation on the Safety of Navigation in Inland Waters and the Territorial Sea of the Republic of Croatia introduces significant changes for the upcoming yachting season.

Key updates concern minimum distances from the coast, speed limits, anchoring restrictions, and tender operations. Vessels between 15 and 30 metres must now keep at least 150 metres from the shoreline, while boats under 15 metres must stay at least 50 metres away. Within 300 metres from the coast, the maximum allowed speed is 8 knots.

Regarding anchoring, it is now prohibited within 150 metres of natural beaches and in areas specifically designated by local port authorities. This measure aims to protect both the marine environment and the safety of swimmers.

Important new rules also affect the use of tenders: they are allowed to navigate freely only within 500 metres of the mother ship. If used beyond this limit and exceeding 2.5 metres in length or 5 kW in power, tenders must be separately registered and carry their own documentation.

Specific regulations are also introduced for personal watercraft such as paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis, which are permitted to operate only from sunrise to sunset, within 300 metres from the coast, and are strictly prohibited from entering designated swimming areas.

Croatian authorities emphasized that the purpose of these new provisions is to enhance maritime safety, protect bathing areas, and preserve the marine environment, especially in light of increasing nautical tourism.

The Croatian Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure further announced that coastal patrols will be strengthened over the coming months, particularly in the most frequented tourist areas, with the deployment of new high-speed patrol units and the installation of coastal surveillance systems.