More American families are choosing Croatia for summer holidays, and many of them want help with the children while they are here. Finding the right nanny in a country you do not know can feel daunting. This guide covers the basics.
Start early
July and August are peak season on the coast. Experienced, English-speaking nannies are in short supply, so begin your search as soon as your dates and itinerary are confirmed.
Know what you need
Before you start, write down:
Your dates and where you will be: the marina you sail from, your route, and how many nights the nanny will be on board.
The children's ages, routines, allergies and anything else a nanny should know.
The hours you need: full days, evenings only, or living aboard for the week.
Languages spoken at home.
Interview by video before you arrive
Always meet a nanny on a video call before confirming. Ask about their experience with children the same ages as yours, how they handle water safety, what they do when a child will not sleep, and whether they have spent time on boats.
Check references
Ask for references from families they have worked for and follow up. A good nanny will be happy to share them.
Agree the details in writing
Put the dates, hours, daily rate, overtime, accommodation, meals and travel costs in writing before the trip, so there are no surprises at the marina.
Paying your nanny
With a referral service like ours, the family hires and pays the nanny directly. We find, interview and introduce suitable nannies, and you agree the terms with the nanny you choose.
Bringing your own nanny from home
Some families bring their regular nanny from the US. If you are planning this, check the current entry and work rules for Croatia well before you travel, as non-EU nationals generally need permission to work there.
Ready to start? Tell us about your trip and we will introduce nannies who fit. Read more about Split and Dubrovnik.
Plan childcare for your charter
Mediterranean Yacht Nannies is a referral service. We match families with experienced, English-speaking nannies for yacht charters and superyachts in Croatia, Monaco and the French Riviera, Italy and Spain. Families hire and pay their nanny directly, and we handle the search, the video interviews, the reference checks and the introductions.
Email us or message us on WhatsApp with your dates, marina and the ages of your children.
