Boat Safety Guide
Essential guidelines for a safe and enjoyable boat trip in the Adriatic.
Safety is Priority One
Licensed skippers in Hvar know these waters well, and charter boats must meet Croatian safety standards and carry the required equipment. But safety is a team effort - following these guidelines helps ensure everyone has a great time.
Good news: Boat trips in Croatia are very safe when basic guidelines are followed. The Adriatic is relatively calm, licensed skippers know the local conditions, and coast guard coverage is excellent.
Safety Guidelines
Before You Board
- Tell your skipper about any medical conditions or allergies
- Take seasickness medication 30-60 min before if prone
- Wear appropriate footwear (non-slip, ideally white-soled)
- Apply sunscreen before boarding - reapply regularly
- Bring sun protection: hat, sunglasses, cover-up
- Eat a light meal beforehand (not empty, not heavy)
Safety Equipment
- Life jackets available for all passengers
- First aid kit on board
- Fire extinguisher on board
- VHF radio for emergency communication
- Flares and signaling equipment
- Licensed skipper trained in safety procedures
On the Boat
- Listen to the safety briefing - it's quick but important
- Always hold on when moving around - boats rock unexpectedly
- Keep hands and feet away from anchor and ropes
- Stay seated when boat is in motion at speed
- Never stand on the bow while boat is moving
- Store loose items securely to prevent injury
Swimming Safely
- Wait for the skipper's "all clear" before entering water
- Never swim when engine is running or could start
- Stay near the boat - don't swim out of sight
- Use the ladder to re-board (never climb over side)
- Non-swimmers: use life jackets, stay in shallows
- Never dive headfirst into unknown water depths
Sun & Heat Safety
- UV doubles on water due to reflection - use SPF 50+
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming
- Wear a hat and sunglasses at all times
- Stay hydrated - drink more water than you think you need
- Seek shade during peak sun (12-3pm)
- Watch for heat exhaustion signs: dizziness, nausea, headache
Emergency Procedures
- Know where life jackets are stored
- Follow the skipper's instructions immediately in emergencies
- If someone falls overboard: shout "man overboard" and point
- Stay calm - panicking increases danger
- In case of fire: alert the skipper, move away from flames
- Emergency numbers: 112 (general), 195 (coast guard)
Warning Signs to Watch
Heat Exhaustion Signs
- • Heavy sweating or no sweating at all
- • Cool, pale, clammy skin
- • Fast, weak pulse
- • Nausea or vomiting
- • Muscle cramps
- • Dizziness, headache, fainting
➜ Move to shade, drink water, cool skin. If severe, alert the skipper immediately.
Seasickness Signs
- • Nausea and cold sweats
- • Dizziness
- • Pale skin
- • Loss of appetite
- • Yawning excessively
- • Vomiting
➜ Look at horizon, stay on deck (fresh air), stay hydrated. Prevention is key.
Emergency Contacts
112
General Emergency
Police, Fire, Medical
195
Coast Guard
Maritime emergencies
194
Ambulance
Medical emergencies
Safety FAQs
Are life jackets required on boat tours?
Croatian law requires life jackets to be on board for every passenger. Wearing them is strongly advised for non-swimmers and children, and optional for confident swimmers in calm conditions. Your skipper will advise based on conditions.
What if there's an emergency on the boat?
Licensed charter boats in Croatia must carry the required safety equipment, including a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, flares, and a VHF radio. Licensed skippers are trained in emergency procedures. In serious emergencies, coast guard response is typically 15-30 minutes.
Is it safe to swim from the boat?
Yes, when following guidelines: swim only when the boat is anchored and motor off, stay near the boat, use the ladder to re-board, and never dive into unknown water. Your skipper will indicate safe swimming stops.
What weather conditions cancel a boat trip?
Strong winds (Bora or Jugo), storms, and rough seas may lead to rescheduling. Your skipper monitors the weather constantly. Safety always comes first - a good skipper will reschedule rather than take risks.