"We want to try something new this summer instead of the usual apartment rental, beach days, and evening walks along the promenade," a local told us recently.

"It feels completely different, and splitting the cost shouldn't be too bad. We don't need a mega-yet, we'll save that for when we get rich (laughs), but we found some decent offers," he said.

However, a few days later, he admitted that he and his friends had overlooked a few details while dreaming about a week-long cruise along the Adriatic Sea coast. For instance, you need a valid license to captain a motor yacht.

"We actually knew we needed a license and that we'd have to hire a skipper, which costs at least 200 to 250 euros a day, adding another 1,500 euros to the bill. The base rental price isn't that high until you add the extras."

Hidden costs add up quickly

Besides a captain's license or a licensed skipper, you also need a permit for a marine radio station, essential for safety communications at sea.

Rental agreements usually include a "charter package" covering final cleaning, diver inspections after the trip, cooking gas, basic kitchen and bathroom supplies, and optional gear like SUP boards, diving equipment, or sun platforms. On top of that, you must budget for fuel and marina berthing fees.

All these extras significantly increase the base rental rate.

"We haven't decided yet; we're calculating the total cost, but we'll likely rent a yacht in mid-July or August," our source said.

Peak season runs from April to October

We checked several online platforms (Boataround, Croatia Yachting Charter, Click&Boat, Titarosa) for the approximate cost of a one-week motor yacht rental with three cabins (six berths) in mid-July and August.

We looked at base rental prices only, excluding extra services. Prices depend on vessel type, size, age, and timing. The charter season on the Adriatic Sea runs from April to October, with peak prices in July and August.

Weeks start from 1,500 euros

In mid-July, a small motorboat around ten meters long can be rented for as little as 1,500 euros per week. Mid-sized motor yachts, about 15 meters, range from 1,800 to 23,300 euros.

Most mid-sized yachts available in mid-July cost between 2,000 and 4,000 euros weekly, with fewer options between 5,000 and 7,000 euros.

In mid-August, weekly rentals for most yachts range from 3,000 to 7,000 euros. Mega-yachts start at 30,000 euros per week and go up from there.