Introduction
After the changes introduced in 2025, which we covered in the article Boating in Croatia 2025: What’s Changing?, the good news for 2026 is that no major changes are expected, only fine adjustments to last year’s rules.
👉 The aim of the 2025 regulation is to prevent large yachts from completely blocking small bays.
This applies to anchoring setups where a vessel is secured with lines ashore and is based on two key updates: an increased allowable distance from the shore and a clearer definition of how that distance is measured, improving practical application, particularly in busy anchorages during the peak season.
What Changed in 2026
For 2026, a new regulation, expected to come into force before the summer season and recently announced by the Minister of Maritime Affairs, introduces changes related to anchoring.
The permitted distance is expected to increase from 50 meters to 70 meters from the shore.
This change did not happen by accident. Feedback from local boat operators was taken into account, as many pointed out practical limitations during 2025. Larger vessels and yachts were often outside the permitted anchoring area, making compliance difficult.
How the New Rule Works in Practice
The regulation originally defined that the distance from the shore included the entire anchoring system, including the anchor, chain and vessel position. However, this was clarified during the 2025 season by the competent ministry. The distance is measured from the shoreline to the point where the anchor chain enters the sea.
This interpretation is expected to remain the standard going forward.
When anchoring, there is no need to consider where the anchor lies on the seabed or the vessel’s swing radius. The only thing that matters is where the chain enters the water. If that point is within the permitted 70 meters, the rule is considered complied with.
This clarification is particularly important in areas with rapidly increasing depth or where conditions require a longer anchor chain. In such cases, the previous interpretation was often restrictive or unclear, whereas the updated approach allows for safer and more practical anchoring without unnecessary guesswork.
What Has Not Changed
The basic anchoring rules are expected to remain unchanged and continue to provide the foundation for safe anchoring.
While some Mediterranean countries are gradually restricting anchoring methods that involve running lines ashore, Croatia has chosen a different approach by improving regulation and clearly defining the rules to ensure a high level of safety.
At the same time, environmental protection remains essential. Vessels are prohibited from mooring in a way that damages coastal vegetation.For example, attaching shore lines to trees or otherwise damaging coastal vegetation and marine ecosystems is not permitted.
Navigation Permit and Tourist Tax 2026
Nothing is expected to change here for 2026, so the same requirements should continue to apply.
For navigation in Croatian waters, all vessels longer than 2.5 meters or with an engine output above 5 kW, including yachts and tenders, are still required to hold a valid navigation permit.
If you plan to stay overnight on board, vessels longer than 7 meters are also subject to a tourist tax.
If you want to keep things simple and avoid dealing with paperwork, we can handle the entire process for you quickly and efficiently through our service via the LINK.
Conclusion
For 2026, anchoring rules in Croatia are not expected to become more complicated. Instead, they are being refined to better reflect real conditions at sea.
One anticipated change and one already clarified interpretation remove most of the confusion from last season. Instead of estimating the entire anchoring system, the focus is on a single, measurable point, with slightly more room to operate.
In practice, this should result in less uncertainty and easier decision-making at anchor.
FAQs
What is expected to change in 2026?
The anchoring distance is expected to increase to 70 meters, measured from the point where the chain enters the sea.
Has the new rule already come into force?
It has been announced and is expected to come into force before the summer season.
Is the anchor position on the seabed still relevant?
No, it is no longer relevant for measuring the distance.
Will the rule be easier to apply?
Yes, because there is a clear and visible reference point.
Who will benefit the most from this change?
Larger vessels and yachts, as well as anyone anchoring in busy peak season conditions.
