Accessibility on Sailing Yachts

In Croatian harbours and marinas, yachts usually moor stern-to, with the back of the yacht against the quay. You board over a passerelle, a narrow gangway from the stern to the quay. It moves as the yacht moves, it may not have a handrail, and its angle changes with the height of the quay.

At anchor or on a buoy, getting ashore means a tender, a small inflatable boat. You step down from the yacht's stern or swim platform into a boat that moves under you, then step out onto a beach, rocks or a small jetty.

Both need balance, some leg strength and the ability to grip. The crew can steady you and pass bags across, but cannot lift guests on and off safely.

This guide is part of our safety information for sailing weeks.

On most yachts, the cockpit is a step or two down from the stern, and the cabins are below deck, reached by a companionway: a steep set of steps you usually climb down backwards, holding the rails.

Inside, passages are narrow and there are raised door sills. Under sail, a monohull heels (leans) to one side, so the floor is often at an angle and moving about takes both hands. Even at anchor, the yacht moves with wind and passing wash. The side decks are narrow, with ropes and fittings underfoot.

Cabins are compact. Berths are often shaped to fit the hull, and you may need to climb up into them or crawl in from the end. Storage is limited, and there is little room to stand and turn.

The bathroom, called the heads, is small. Most combine the toilet, washbasin and shower in one space, with a step or sill at the door. Toilets are marine toilets that work by hand pump or electric pump. Grab rails exist on some yachts but are placed for holding on at sea and may not suit accessibility needs. Our guide to cabins, bathrooms and space on board describes typical layouts.

A catamaran can be easier for some needs. The saloon and cockpit are on one level, the boat stays almost flat under sail, and there is more space to move and sit. Boarding is often from a wider stern step.

The cabins on a catamaran are down in the two hulls, usually reached by a few steep steps, so it is not step-free. A monohull usually has a deeper companionway and heels under sail, but some guests find it steadier in a swell. Read catamaran vs monohull for a fuller comparison.

• Medical conditions and medication. Bring enough medication for the week plus spare. If you need medicine kept cold, ask about fridge space. Islands have local clinics, but serious cases may need transfer to the mainland.
• Sensory needs. Safety briefings are given in person on the first day. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, or blind or partially sighted, tell us so the briefing and alarms can be explained in a way that works for you.
• Seasickness and fatigue. Some conditions and medicines make these worse. Ask your doctor or pharmacist, and read our seasickness guide.
• Diet. See food and drink on board for how meals usually work.

We would rather explain the limits honestly before you book than have you arrive at the marina and find the yacht does not work for you.

Contact us at info@croatiasailingweek.com before you book and tell us what you need. Useful things to cover:

• How you manage steps, ladders and moving surfaces
• Whether you need a particular cabin position or berth type
• Bathroom access and any equipment you would bring
• Medication, storage and any medical support you may need
• Whether you will travel with a companion who can assist you

Ask for any arrangements we agree to be confirmed in writing. It is also worth checking that your travel insurance covers any existing conditions. You can also reach us through the contact page.