New boat regulations in Croatia: vacationers now have to be careful!

The distances that boats have to adhere to coasts and bathing areas are clearly defined. Boats over 30 meters have to keep a distance of 300 meters, while boats have to keep a 150 meter distance between 15 and 30 meters. Smaller boats under 15 meters, on the other hand, are only allowed to dare to the coast to 50 meters. Motorized sliding vehicles such as motor boats and jet skis may only be driven to the coast from 300 meters. In addition, anchoring is only permitted if no part of the boat is more than 50 meters away from the shore. Anchoring at a distance of less than 150 meters to natural bathing areas is prohibited, which could harm some popular anchor places, as these are often in small bays.

reactions by the boat driver

The reactions to the new regulations are mixed. While some boat drivers find the regulations exaggerate and restrictive, others welcome the initiative to increase security on the water. Discussions on social media show a split picture. Some votes indicate that such measures have already been introduced in other Mediterranean destinations to avoid environmental damage from wild anchors.

In addition, the new regulation also regulates the behavior of personal watercraft, such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. These are allowed to drive up to 300 meters from the coast during the day, but must be careful with organized bathing areas. Subsiders may move up to 500 meters from the mother ship if they are not registered.

definitions and restrictions

The regulation also defines the term “organized bathing beach” as a beach with infrastructural facilities and a buoy line. Anchoring and mooring on the coast is regulated more strictly to avoid dangers to humans and the environment. Finding is prohibited in areas with anchor ban and near underwater cables and lines, which should ensure greater security for all road users. Boats are not allowed to approach a diving marker than 50 meters unless they accompany a diver.