Planning a yacht charter in Croatia? Knowing a few local words can go a long way! Whether you're exploring charming seaside towns, ordering food, or communicating with locals while sailing, a little Croatian will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

In this guide, we’ll share the 10 most common Croatian words and phrases every tourist should know, followed by 10 nautical or sailing-related phrases that could be useful during your time on the sea.

10 Most Common Croatian Words & Phrases for Daily Use

  1. Dobar dan – Good day / Hello
    Polite and universal. Use it when entering shops, restaurants, or meeting someone.
  2. Hvala – Thank you
    A simple way to show appreciation. “Hvala lijepa” means “Thank you very much.”
  3. Molim – Please / You’re welcome / Excuse me
    Super versatile: use it when asking for something or responding to "hvala".
  4. OprostiteExcuse me / Sorry
    Great for getting someone’s attention or apologizing politely.
  5. Govorite li engleski? – Do you speak English?
    Very useful when approaching locals. Many Croatians speak English, especially along the coast.
  6. Koliko košta? – How much does it cost?
    Handy when shopping or checking prices in markets and stores.
  7. Gdje je...? – Where is...?
    Use this to ask for directions (e.g., "Gdje je luka?" – Where is the port?).
  8. WC / Toalet – Toilet / Restroom
    "Toalet" or "WC" is understood everywhere in Croatia.
  9. Račun, molim. – The bill, please.
    A polite way to ask for your check at restaurants or cafes.
  10. Lijepa zemlja! – Beautiful country!
    A nice compliment you can say to locals – and it’s true!

10 Useful Croatian Words & Phrases for Nautical Tourists

If you're sailing the Adriatic, these words will help you connect with crew, marina staff, or locals in small coastal villages.

  1. Luka – Port / Harbor
    You'll see signs for “luka” in every coastal town.
  2. Privez – Mooring
    As in “privezati brod” – to moor the boat.
  3. Sidro – Anchor
    “Baciti sidro” means to drop anchor.
  4. Marina – Marina
    Same word as in English. “Gdje je najbliža marina?” – Where is the nearest marina?
  5. Vjetar – Wind
    Important for sailors! “Koji vjetar puše?” – What wind is blowing?
  6. Valovi – Waves
    “Ima puno valova” – There are a lot of waves.
  7. Kapetan – Captain
    Show some respect to your skipper! 😉
  8. Bova – Buoy
    Often used in mooring or swimming zones.
  9. Jedrilica – Sailboat
    If you’re chartering one, this is the word.
  10. Plovidba – Navigation / Voyage
    “Sretna plovidba!” – Have a safe voyage!

Bonus Tip

Even just trying a few words in Croatian can earn you a smile and better service. Locals appreciate the effort, especially in smaller towns or traditional konobas (taverns).

Ready to Sail Croatia?

Now that you’re equipped with some basic Croatian, you’re one step closer to an unforgettable yacht charter experience. If you're planning your sailing trip, check out our routes, boats, and tips to help you plan the perfect Croatian getaway.

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