New rules planned to get a boat licence in Croatia 

Croatia is preparing a significant overhaul of its maritime licensing system, including the introduction of mandatory practical training for boat skippers, as part of wider reforms aimed at improving safety at sea.

The changes are being developed by the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure and will apply to all categories of maritime qualifications, from small boat operators to long-distance captains, HRT reports.

The Adriatic Sea sees extremely high traffic levels each year, with around 700,000 vessel movements recorded annually.

During peak summer months, particularly July and August, approximately 150,000 vessels are present along the Croatian coast, the majority of which are leisure boats up to 18 metres in length.

Industry stakeholders have raised concerns about the current licensing system, particularly the ease with which individuals can obtain a B-category boat licence.

Charter company owner Leo Pavela told HRT that for around €100, individuals have been able to obtain permits allowing them to operate vessels of up to 30 gross tonnes, often without sufficient practical knowledge.

He said this lack of training has contributed to a number of accidents at sea, with some operators unfamiliar with basic navigation, storm procedures, or anchoring techniques.

Officials from the ministry emphasise that the reform is not a response to recent incidents but part of a long-term review of the system.

Siniša Orlić stated that the proposed rulebook is a comprehensive 400-page document covering all maritime qualifications. A public consultation is expected to take place in the autumn, with current examination procedures described as outdated.

One of the most significant changes will be the introduction of compulsory practical training for those applying for the standard boat skipper licence. The number of required sea hours for higher-level certificates will also be increased.

Until now, it was sufficient to pass a theoretical exam, but in the future, candidates will also have to undergo practical training. 

Speaking from the industry perspective, Sara Douzzan said that a licence alone is not sufficient to ensure safe operation, stressing that real experience at sea remains essential in professional charter operations.

An additional challenge highlighted by stakeholders is the growing number of foreign sailors arriving in Croatia with licences issued in different European countries, including Switzerland, Germany, Austria and Italy. Concerns have been raised over the difficulty of quickly verifying the validity and competency standards of these certificates.

Alongside the proposed training reforms, stricter penalties and enhanced inspections by maritime authorities and port police are also expected.

The overall aim of the reform is to reduce maritime accidents and ensure that individuals operating vessels in Croatian waters possess stronger practical skills and experience.