We have plenty of those too - I am unaware of the breakdown of Balkan origins but we get a fair idea now with the published number of forced deportations for foreign, convicted criminals and to where, an action that has resulted from a recent referendum here. Literally, one strike and you're out - of the country. On the other hand, the media have been restricted in reporting the ethnicity of apprehended suspects.
It has been disseminated from the Croatian Ministry of Finance since acceptance as 'EU Candidate Status' that yachts of 8 years old or less would qualify for VAT payment on accession. Best to check though, as at the same time the rate was planned to be the full one at 25%, which clearly has changed - as could the qualification year. However, with a 1987 built yacht (if you can prove it) you are well out of the net.
Vignettes can be applied - as long all EU registered vessels (including Croatian ones) are treated the same way, and pay the same dues.
). He seems quick and efficient with his fingers in all the right pies, the survey was adequate but everything was processed quickly and efficiently. 
Yes, of course they can introduce the vignette system to ALL leisure craft but it will create a large measure of resentment with local boaters who never before had such onerous taxation on their hobby. Not to mention difficulties in implementation and policing at a time of overloaded administration with the EU transition.
Which is only for the asking (and paying) for any non-Croatian registered yacht at any port of entry. Do not resident, non-Croatian-registered yachts need a vignette?
I'm sure all that is true, however, obtaining a vignette is a 15 minute, trivial procedure that I do every time I enter Croatia every year - well, nearly every year - along with thousands of others. All it needs is money and a host of documentation proving ownership, competence, insurance, etc. Add to that the further documentation regarding registration, Bill of Sale, Builder's Certificate, Survey, etc., etc.. Oh, and more money.
Casually, is the word! At present, as Tranona recognised, only Portugal and Spain have circulation taxes. I haven't checked all the Baltic countries yet.
Actually, in 15 minutes one can only introduce the subject. And to pull people in you have to play it for laughs with a few dramatic pictures. The big deal is the session afterwards at the Cruising Association stand, when we'll have a Q & A session, and arrange a (far more detailed) email distribution on the subject. Also, we hope to learn a lot from listener's recent real experiences, often different from the legal reality!
