Traditional wooden motor-sailers with crew and chef. The ideal way for larger groups to cruise the Croatian Adriatic in style.
A gulet (pronounced "goo-let") is a traditional wooden motor-sailing vessel originally built for sponge diving and coastal trading in the Eastern Mediterranean. Today, gulets have been adapted for leisure cruising and are one of the most popular ways to explore Croatia's coastline with a larger group.
Modern charter gulets are beautifully finished vessels with polished wood decks, comfortable cabins with en-suite bathrooms, large communal dining areas, and sunbathing decks. They come with a professional crew including a captain and a chef who prepares fresh meals on board.
Gulets are the go-to option when you have a larger group — families travelling together, milestone birthday celebrations, corporate retreats, wedding groups, or any gathering of friends. A typical gulet has between 4 and 16 cabins, accommodating groups of around 8 to 34 guests.
Because you charter the entire vessel, the itinerary is yours. The captain will work with you to plan a route that suits your group, whether that's a leisurely cruise through the Dalmatian islands or a more ambitious voyage from Split to Dubrovnik.
Gulet charters are typically sold on a half-board basis, which includes breakfast and lunch prepared by the on-board chef. Dinner is usually taken ashore at local restaurants along the route, giving you a chance to experience Croatian cuisine at harbourside konobas (tavernas).
Crew, fuel, port fees, and basic water sports equipment (snorkelling gear, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards) are usually included in the charter price, though arrangements vary by vessel. We will confirm exactly what's included when you enquire.
Gulets in Croatia are typically graded into categories based on their age, condition, cabin size, crew quality and overall standard of fittings:
Most gulet cruises in Croatia operate along the Dalmatian Coast between Trogir/Split and Dubrovnik, visiting islands such as Hvar, Brač, Vis, Korčula and Mljet. One-way itineraries (northbound or southbound) are common, allowing you to see a broad stretch of coastline without backtracking. Return cruises that loop through the islands and return to the starting point are also available.
Cabins: 4–16 per gulet
Guests: 8–34
Crew: Captain, chef, deckhand
Meals: Half board (breakfast & lunch)
Season: April – October
Charter type: Private (whole vessel)
If you're looking for a cabin-by-cabin cruise on a small ship with a set itinerary (rather than chartering a whole gulet), visit our main site.
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