Split has become a yachting hub thanks to the inaugural CROYA Charter Show, a business fair showcasing the most prestigious yachts available for charter in Croatia. Over 40 luxury yachts created an impressive display in the city, attracting around 200 charter agents from around the world who came to personally explore the fleet of motor yachts, sailing yachts, gulets, and catamarans, ranging from 20 to 55 meters in length.
‘Split is an exceptional destination in itself and was our first choice for hosting the show,’ said Stipe Petričević, president of CRO.Y.A., the association of Croatian charter and maritime agencies that organized the event. ‘The most discerning guests embark and disembark here year-round. Our main goal is to strengthen our position alongside the French Riviera, Mallorca, Greece, and Turkey. I am confident that we will succeed.’
Croatia boasts one of the largest charter fleets in the world, however, the offering of luxury crewed yachts is significantly smaller. This is a niche segment catering to high-net-worth individuals who rent yachts through charter agents. The introduction of the CROYA Charter Show and positioning Split on the map of charter shows is crucial for establishing our coast as a premium yachting destination for discerning clientele.
‘Participants had the opportunity to explore a wide range of vessels, meet captains and crews, and sample the yacht’s culinary offerings. In other words, they could form their own well-founded opinion about the yachts and the destination itself, which is invaluable when selecting vessels for charter guests. Additionally, this was an excellent opportunity for providers of products and services for luxury yachts to introduce themselves to owners, agents, captains, and other international visitors, professionals in the sector,’ emphasized Maja Ban, a member of the show’s organizing committee.
Among the yachts at the CROYA Charter Show, the standout is Scorpios, a luxurious 52-meter motor sailer. Built at the Radež shipyard and launched in 2023, its weekly rental, including all expenses, costs €215,000. This impressive luxury sailing yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests in six luxurious cabins, with a crew of 10 ensuring a top-tier sailing and onboard experience.
With a deck jacuzzi, full fitness equipment, and a spacious sun deck featuring a bar and lounge area, Scorpios offers ultimate comfort and entertainment. The interior combines classic and contemporary design, and the stunning salon offers panoramic views and a balcony that opens above the sea.
Another yacht drawing considerable attention from agents is the charming 49-meter motor sailer Lady Gita, which stands out for its perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and adventurous spirit. It hosts up to 12 guests in six spacious cabins, while a crew of nine ensures their stay in the Adriatic is truly unforgettable.
With a spacious sun deck featuring loungers, a jacuzzi, and comfortable relaxation areas, Lady Gita is ideal for enjoying the sun and sea. To complete the experience, guests can enjoy a variety of water toys and recreational equipment daily.
Also presented to international agents is the 40-meter motor yacht Happy Me, which stands out for the level of luxury it offers its guests. Built in the renowned Italian shipyard Benetti in 2020, it costs around €310,000 per week in season, including all expenses. It can accommodate up to 11 guests in five luxuriously appointed cabins, including a master suite with a private office and steam shower on the main deck.
A crew of seven takes care of the guests, and numerous amenities are available, including a jacuzzi, massage room, fitness equipment, and a rich collection of water toys. Unique features of the yacht include a sky lounge on the upper deck that can be transformed into a nightclub, complete with a bar, karaoke system, laser lighting, and smoke effects on the dance floor, as well as an onyx bar. On the outdoor part of the deck, there is also a billiards table and table football.
The CROYA Charter Show is part of the Split Sailing Festival, under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Croatia, in partnership with the Croatian National Tourist Board. The project partners also include the City of Split, the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board, Split’s Tourist Board, and the Split-Dalmatia County Port Authority.
Photos Mario Jelavić, CROYA Charter Show
