If you love the idea of speed but do not want the boat to lean, a power catamaran is your sweet spot. Wide, stable and surprisingly economical for their size, power cats are made for island-hopping in Croatia. From Split, Trogir, Šibenik or Zadar you can glide from bay to bay in comfort, with plenty of deck space for family and friends and almost no rolling at anchor.
Why Choose a Power Catamaran in Croatia
Croatia is a natural playground for power catamarans. Distances between islands are short, the sea is usually calm, and there are countless bays where a catamaran can tuck in close to shore. With two hulls and a wide beam, a power catamaran feels steady underfoot even when motor yachts and monohulls are rocking nearby.
Compared with traditional planing motor yachts, most power cats cruise efficiently at moderate speeds. You still move much faster than a sailing catamaran, but with lower fuel burn than a heavy planing yacht. For many families this balance of comfort, speed and economy makes the power catamaran the ideal charter boat.
Space, Stability and Comfort
On a power catamaran, almost every square metre is usable living space. The saloon flows into the cockpit, cabins are spread out in the two hulls for privacy, and the foredeck and flybridge become natural social zones. When you anchor in a bay, the boat barely moves – children, older guests and anyone sensitive to motion usually feel much better on a cat than on a narrow monohull.
Fast Island-Hopping with a Soft Ride
Modern power cats in Croatia cruise most economically at 9–12 knots, with the option to go faster when conditions allow. That means Split to Hvar in a little over two hours, or Split to Brač in about one. At the same time the wide hull spacing softens the motion in small waves, so the ride feels calmer than on many mono-hull motor yachts at similar speed.
Where a power catamaran wins
- A sailing catamaran's space and stability without anyone having to sail it.
- Far better fuel economy than a planing motor yacht: two efficient hulls at 8–12 knots, not one hull forced onto the plane.
- Shallow draft (about 1.1–1.3 m) reaches the same quiet bays a sailing cat does.
- No mast, no winches, no reefing — the whole crew can be non-sailors and nothing changes.
- Big flybridge and a level cockpit-to-saloon deck: the best boat aboard for a group that mostly wants to be at anchor.
Where it does not
- Croatia's power-cat fleet is small, so choice is limited and July/August books out very early.
- You pay a catamaran's marina surcharge without a sailing cat's option of using the sails.
- Weekly rates run about double a sailing catamaran's of the same length.
- You are running engines every travelling day — there is no free propulsion when the Maestral fills in.
- At 20+ knots the fuel advantage disappears; the economy is real only at displacement speeds.
Power Catamaran vs Sailing Catamaran vs Motor Yacht
If you are not sure whether to choose a sailing catamaran, a power catamaran or a motor yacht, it helps to think about your priorities. All three options exist in the Croatian charter market, and SkipperCity works with each category – from classic catamarans and sailboats to motor yachts and luxury yachts.
A sailing catamaran is perfect if you love sails, do not mind slower passages and want the lowest fuel costs. A classic motor yacht is ideal if you want high cruising speeds and the feeling of a traditional motor boat. A power catamaran sits in between: more speed than a sailboat, more stability and living space than a mono-hull yacht, and a modern, relaxed vibe on board.
Who Will Enjoy a Power Catamaran Most?
Power cats suit families, mixed-age groups and friends who value comfort over pure nautical tradition. If you want level decks, big cabins, lots of shaded seating and the ability to move quickly between islands without worrying too much about the sails, a power catamaran is likely your best choice.
Best Regions in Croatia for Power Catamarans
The whole Adriatic coast can work beautifully for power catamarans, but a few regions stand out because of their island density and the number of quiet anchorages.
Split & Trogir – Central Dalmatian Classics
Trogir and Split hold the biggest share of the small power-cat fleet, with Šibenik close behind. From here you can build an easy route that includes Šolta, Brač, Hvar, Vis and the Pakleni islands – with short legs and many alternative bays if the wind changes. The marinas are well organised, provisioning is simple and transfer times from the airport are short.
If you prefer a slightly calmer atmosphere, Trogir is a great base. The old town is within walking distance of the marina, and Split Airport is only about ten minutes away by car or taxi.
Dubrovnik & the Southern Islands
Starting from Dubrovnik gives you a different flavour of Croatia, though only the odd power cat lies there – most crews reach the south from Split. The Elafiti islands, Mljet and the southern tip of Korčula are all within comfortable reach for a power catamaran. Longer legs are easy to handle thanks to your speed and stability, and there is always a quiet bay waiting at the end of the day.
Zadar, Šibenik & Kornati National Park
Further north, the Zadar and Šibenik area opens the door to the Kornati archipelago and nearby national parks. This is a dream area for slow exploring: glide between rocky islets at low speed, then use the extra power of your catamaran to reach the next region quickly if you wish. Calm anchorages, good marinas and plenty of natural beauty make this area ideal if you prefer nature to nightlife.
A power cat's day: the same islands, comfortably before lunch
| Leg from Split / Trogir | Distance | At 10 knots |
|---|---|---|
| Split → Milna, Brač | 11 nm | 1 h 10 m |
| Split → Hvar Town | 22 nm | 2 h 15 m |
| Hvar → Vis Town | 14 nm | 1 h 25 m |
| Vis → Korčula Town | 42 nm | 4 h 10 m |
| Split → Kornati (Žut) | 45 nm | 4 h 30 m |
Times at 10 knots, the speed where a power catamaran is most economical. That is roughly twice a sailing catamaran's pace and half a planing motor yacht's — which in Croatia, where the islands are close, is usually the right compromise.
Types of Power Catamarans You Can Charter
The Croatian charter fleet includes a growing number of power catamarans – from compact two-cabin boats for couples up to large, luxurious motor cats with full crew. The right yacht depends on your group size, budget and expectations around comfort and service.
Compact Power Cats for Couples & Small Families
Smaller power cats offer two or three cabins and are easy to handle, especially with a professional skipper. They are perfect for couples, small families or two friendly couples travelling together. You get the stability and deck space of a catamaran without paying for size you do not really need.
Family-Size Power Catamarans
The largest group are family power cats in the 40–50 ft range. These usually come with four cabins, a bright saloon and several outdoor zones – cockpit, flybridge and foredeck. They strike a good balance between price, comfort and fuel consumption, and lie at several bases along the coast.
Luxury Power Catamarans with Crew
If you want a more premium experience, consider a larger power catamaran with crew. On these yachts you often have a captain, hostess and sometimes a chef. Cabins feel like hotel rooms, there is plenty of storage for toys like SUPs and snorkelling gear, and the crew takes care of navigation, mooring and daily housekeeping.
Bareboat vs Skippered vs Crewed Power Catamarans
As with other yacht types in Croatia, you can choose between bareboat, skippered and fully crewed power catamarans. Your licence, experience and stress tolerance will decide which option is realistic.
When Bareboat Power Catamaran Charter Works
Bareboat is possible if you have a valid skipper licence, VHF certificate and recent experience with twin-engine boats or catamarans. Manoeuvring a wide cat in tight marinas takes practice, especially in wind. If you are not fully confident, it is smarter – and more relaxing – to add a skipper.
Skippered Power Catamaran Charters
Booking a skipper is often the best solution. You still have the privacy and flexibility of your own yacht, but a Croatian skipper handles navigation, berthing and communication with marinas and restaurants. Most skippers are happy to let you drive under supervision when conditions are calm, so you still get the fun of being at the helm without the stress.
Fully Crewed Power Catamarans
On larger power cats a full crew transforms the trip into a floating boutique hotel experience. A hostess keeps cabins tidy and serves drinks and snacks, and a chef can prepare fresh meals from local ingredients. This is an excellent option for multi-generational families or groups who want maximum comfort and minimal logistics.
Example 7-Day Power Catamaran Itinerary from Split
Here is a sample route for a week on a power catamaran starting in Split or Trogir. It is only a framework – adapt it to the weather and to what your crew actually enjoys once you are on board.
Day 1 – Split / Trogir → Šolta
Arrival, provisioning and handover in the marina. Short afternoon hop to a bay on Šolta. First swim, first sunset on board, dinner either on the boat or in a small konoba.
Day 2 – Šolta → Hvar (Pakleni islands)
Cruise across to the Pakleni islands near Hvar. Swim stops along the way, then choose between a quiet buoy in the archipelago or an evening visit to Hvar town by taxi boat.
Day 3 – Hvar → Vis
A longer but very comfortable leg to Vis island. Depending on conditions you can visit the Blue Cave or simply explore bays on the south side of the island before entering Vis or Komiža.
Day 4 – Vis → Korčula
Run eastwards towards Korčula. With your power cat you can cover this distance quickly, leaving time for a swim stop on the way and a relaxed afternoon exploring Korčula town.
Day 5 – Korčula → Pelješac / Mljet
Flexible day. Depending on your mood, either quiet bays around Pelješac peninsula or the green landscapes and lakes of Mljet National Park.
Day 6 – Pelješac / Mljet → Brač
Head back towards Brač, maybe stopping in one of the quieter anchorages on the north side of Hvar along the way. Enjoy long swims and a final dinner on board.
Day 7 – Brač → Split / Trogir
Short return leg to your base marina. Refuel, final checks and an unhurried coffee in town before departure.
Power Catamaran Charter Prices in Croatia
Prices for power catamaran charter in Croatia depend on size, age, season and whether crew is included. As a rough guide at list rates, a 36 ft, three-cabin power cat runs about 3.500–6.500 € a week from mid-April to the end of May, 2.300–5.100 € in October, 4.700–7.900 € in June and September and 6.500–8.700 € in July and August; a 40–45 ft, four-cabin boat about 8.000–13.200 €, 6.200–10.000 €, 8.000–15.400 € and 11.800–17.900 €. The fleet is small, so one boat moves these ranges. Larger, crewed motor cats easily go above 20.000 € per week plus expenses.
Fuel costs will be higher than on a sailing catamaran but generally lower than on a comparable mono-hull motor yacht, especially if you choose moderate cruising speeds. Before you confirm a booking, check the boat page's extras and the table below so there are no surprises later.
Power catamaran prices in Croatia, per week (boat only)
| Season | About 36 ft · 3 cabins | 40–45 ft · 4 cabins |
|---|---|---|
| Early season · mid-April to end of May | 3.500 – 6.500 € | 8.000 – 13.200 € |
| Shoulder · June and September | 4.700 – 7.900 € | 8.000 – 15.400 € |
| Peak · July and August | 6.500 – 8.700 € | 11.800 – 17.900 € |
| Late season · October | 2.300 – 5.100 € | 6.200 – 10.000 € |
List rates across the Croatian fleet for 2027, boat only. The fleet is small, about 30 boats, so a single boat moves a range, and discounts often bring a week below these figures. Fuel adds about 180–450 € a week at 9–10 knots, the speed these boats are designed around; push a 44 ft power cat to 18 knots and the same week costs three to four times as much in fuel.
What’s Included & Extra Costs
The base charter price normally includes the yacht with standard equipment, basic dinghy, insurance and support from the charter base. Obligatory extras such as transit log, final cleaning and outboard engine are listed separately in the price list.
Fuel is always paid according to actual consumption, so if you spend more time at anchor and cruise at moderate speed your total cost will be lower. Mooring and marina fees depend on yacht size and chosen ports. National park entrances, private moorings and restaurant buoys are usually paid directly on the spot.
For skippered and crewed charters, the charter company's crew is included in the price or listed as an extra; our own skipper, on a bareboat with a real cabin for the skipper, costs from 2.100 € a week plus food. Gratuities are not obligatory but are customary if you are happy with the service, typically 5–15% of the charter fee depending on yacht category.
The numbers that decide between the three
- Draft
- 1.1 – 1.3 m
- Cruising speed
- 9 – 12 knots
- Fuel vs planing yacht
- About one third
- Marina berth
- Catamaran surcharge, like a sailing cat
- Crew skill needed
- None beyond the licence
- Fleet size in Croatia
- Small — book early
Why Book Your Power Catamaran with SkipperCity
SkipperCity is a charter agency with its team in Split and Trogir and a simple goal: the right boat for your crew, not just any available yacht. We know the local fleets, the marinas and the less obvious bays where a power catamaran really shines. If a certain boat or itinerary is not a good fit, we will tell you honestly.
Because we also work with monohull motor yachts, sailing catamarans and classic sailboats, we can help you compare options across all main yacht types. The wider fleet overview on the Fleet We Charter page makes it easy to see how power cats sit in the bigger picture.
From your first enquiry through the main Yacht Charter Croatia page to the moment you step off the boat, we are only a message away – a person in Split answers questions about the route, getting to the marina, provisioning and anything else that comes up along the way.
How to Book Your Power Catamaran
The easiest place to start is our online boat search tool: view available power catamarans in Croatia. Choose “Power catamaran” as the boat type, add your dates and group size, and you will see a list of available yachts from different bases.
If you would rather not search yourself, simply fill in the enquiry form with your dates, preferred departure area and approximate budget. Within minutes you get the boats that fit from the whole Croatian fleet, each checked live, so you can compare several good options side by side.
Once you have chosen your yacht, hold it online with a free option – or ask us and we place it for you – while you organise flights and finalise plans with your crew. When you book, the charter company’s payment plan applies – typically 50 % at booking and the rest before the charter. Closer to departure a person in Split answers your questions about the crew list, getting to the marina and the route.
FAQ – Power Catamaran Charter Croatia
Do I need a special licence for a power catamaran?
In Croatia, the same skipper licence and VHF certificate rules apply to power catamarans as to other motor yachts. If you charter bareboat, your licence must be recognised by the Croatian authorities and your recent experience should match the size and type of yacht you are taking.
Is a power catamaran more comfortable than a motor yacht?
For many guests, yes. The wide beam reduces rolling at anchor and underway, cabins are more spread out for privacy and there is usually more outdoor space on the same length of boat. Classic mono-hull motor yachts may offer higher top speeds, but power cats win on stability and living areas.
How much fuel will we use on a power catamaran?
Fuel consumption depends on yacht size and cruising speed. At moderate speeds, power cats are often more efficient than similar-length mono-hull motor yachts. The running-costs table above gives the range; your speed decides where in it you land.
Are power catamarans good for children and older guests?
Yes. Level decks, wide walkways and reduced rolling make power cats very family-friendly. There is usually plenty of shaded seating and safe swimming platforms close to the water. Safety nets and children's life jackets can be ordered from the charter company.
What is the best time of year to charter a power catamaran in Croatia?
The season runs from mid-April to the end of October. July and August are warmest and busiest, while June and September offer slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. For power catamarans, the shoulder months are excellent – the sea is warm enough for swimming, but marinas and bays are more relaxed.
Can I combine a week on a power catamaran with a land stay?
Absolutely. Split, Trogir and Dubrovnik are each worth a few nights before or after your charter.
