Boat Rental · House rules

Boat Rental — Important Rules

We want you to have fun and stay safe. Six short sections cover everything that matters before you leave the harbour.

Section 1

Fuel & Maintenance

  • The boat leaves with a full tank. Please return it with a full tank.
  • Fuel stations are in Hvar, Stari Grad, Vis and Komiža. Marina Palmižana refills on request.
  • Diesel/petrol type is labelled at the filler cap — ask before first refill if unsure.
  • If the engine behaves oddly, stop and call us on WhatsApp before continuing.

Tip: keep the receipt of your last refill — helps us if we ever need to check consumption.

Section 2

Speed Zones

  • Low-speed zones are marked on the chart on board and with buoys on the water.
  • Inside harbours, anchorages and near swimmers: 3 knots maximum.
  • Croatian maritime police patrol actively — fines under national laws are real and significant.
  • When in doubt, slow down. A slow passage protects swimmers, other boats and the hull.

Low-speed zones exist because of national laws and safety — not our preference. Respect them always.

Section 3

Safety & Equipment

  • Life jackets for every passenger (adult + child sizes) are on board. Show your guests where they are before you leave.
  • First-aid kit, flares and fire extinguisher are in the labelled locker.
  • VHF radio: channel 16 for emergencies. Coast guard: 195. All-purpose emergency: 112.
  • Anchor + fenders are included — short instructions are printed on board.

Section 4

Damage Policy

  • Security deposit is held at check-out and returned if the boat comes back in the same condition.
  • Minor cosmetic wear (salt marks, small scratches from normal use) is covered.
  • Propeller, hull and engine damage are the renter’s responsibility up to the deposit amount.
  • If anything happens on the water: take photos, stay calm, call us on WhatsApp before you return.

We prefer honest reporting over surprises. Tell us early and we always find a fair solution.

Section 5

Alcohol & Smoking

  • The skipper/person at the helm may not drink alcohol — the same rules as driving a car apply on the water.
  • Guests can enjoy drinks responsibly. Glass bottles are fine on the deck.
  • Smoking is only allowed outside the cabin, never inside. Use a closed container for ashes.
  • Please bring all rubbish back to the harbour — there are bins at the dock.

Section 6

Return Process

  • Return on time. Late returns may carry a fee because the next guests are waiting.
  • Checklist before you return: full tank, anchor stowed, fenders secured, cabin tidy.
  • We take before/after photos together. Takes 2 minutes and protects both sides.
  • Deposit is released once the boat is checked and fuel is confirmed.

Explore by land too

Scooter Rental Hvar

You have seen the coast from the water. Now explore the island. 6 scooters available — pick up at Hvar Harbour, same spot as your boat tour. Perfect for Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa and the lavender fields.

€50

Full day

€40

Half day (PM)

€30

Half day (AM)

  • 6 scooters available — book early in peak season
  • Valid driver’s license required (car licence accepted for 50cc)
  • Pickup at Hvar Harbour, same meeting point as the boat tours
  • Helmets and basic safety briefing included

Common questions

Rental FAQ

What if I run out of fuel?

Call us on WhatsApp — we can arrange a fuel delivery or tow. A fuel gauge is on board; watch it and refill in good time to avoid ending the day early.

Can I take the boat to Italy?

Not without an international licence and prior arrangement. Our standard rental covers Croatian waters only.

What happens in bad weather?

If the forecast turns unsafe, we reschedule or refund — your safety matters more than the day on the water. Don't push out against a strong wind warning.

Can I hire a skipper if I change my mind?

Yes. A skipper can join on short notice — message us on WhatsApp and we will confirm availability. Many first-time guests in Croatian waters prefer this.

What licence do I need?

A valid boat licence (Croatian Boat Skipper or recognised international equivalent) plus a VHF licence for boats above the regulated threshold. Bring the originals to check-out.

Can I swim from the boat?

Yes — anchor in a safe cove, turn off the engine and always keep one person on board. Never swim near a running propeller.

Questions?

Call Nikola Before You Leave

Anything unclear? Anything odd about the boat? Message us before you set off — we always reply fast.