AD ASTRA

Experienced and versatile First Officer with a lifelong connection to the sea and a strong background in luxury yachting. Began sailing solo in an Optimist at age 7, developing a deep understanding of winds, currents, and life at sea. Started his career on the yacht Morning Star as a Bosun, with additional experience as a Deckhand, and now effectively oversees operational and navigational responsibilities as First Officer, thanks to his experience, expertise, and completed training. Alongside yachting, he has extensive experience in the hospitality industry, delivering exceptional service to guests in luxury environments. Graduated in Maritime Electrotechnics and Information Technologies, further strengthening his technical skills and versatility. Krešimir is a reliable, professional, and indispensable crew member, ready to contribute to flawless operations and exceptional guest experiences on the yacht Ad Astra.

Highly motivated and detail-oriented hospitality professional with a natural passion for guest relations and luxury service. Born and raised in Split, a prominent Mediterranean maritime hub, I possess an innate understanding of the tourism and yachting industries. Fluent in English and multilingual, I excel in fast-paced team environments, ensuring seamless operations and an exceptional guest experience. Fully certified, maritime-ready, and dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of service and discretion onboard.

A highly articulate and dedicated hospitality professional with a lifelong connection to luxury tourism. With a degree in Pedagogy and Art History, combined with formal training in Hospitality and Tourism, she brings a unique blend of cultural knowledge, strong communication skills, and a natural understanding of refined service. Her educational background has shaped her ability to connect with people, anticipate different needs, and create an atmosphere that feels both elegant and relaxed. Multilingual and adaptable, she is comfortable working with international guests and within diverse crew environments. Creative, organized, and approachable, she brings a thoughtful presence on board and takes pride in maintaining high standards while ensuring that every detail of the interior contributes to a welcoming and harmonious

Born and raised in Split, Duje developed a deep-rooted connection to the sea from an early age. A graduate of both the Electrotechnical High School and the Maritime College, he combines a solid technical foundation with extensive hands-on maritime experience. His diverse background spans work on crude oil tankers and marine research vessels, as well as roles as a speedboat skipper, jet-ski instructor, dayworker, and deckhand on various yachts. This versatile experience has equipped Duje with exceptional seamanship, high adaptability, and a premium approach to guest relations. Energetic, hardworking, and safety-conscious, he is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience on board. Outside of his professional life, Duje maintains an active lifestyle through football, tennis, hiking, and free solo climbing, complemented by a passion for literature and cinema.

Domagoj Trgo is an experienced yacht captain with 18 years in the yachting industry. He comes from a family with a long maritime tradition and has been connected to the sea from an early age, spending his childhood sailing, swimming, and playing water polo. Domagoj’s journey into the yachting industry began with a strong technical foundation. He started his education at a vocational high school, specializing in shipbuilding technology. His academic pursuits continued at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Naval Architecture in Split, where he earned the title of naval architect. This comprehensive technical knowledge equips him with a deep understanding of vessel design, navigation, and safety, enhancing his skills as a yacht captain. Domagoj's professional journey in the yachting industry began as a crew member on yachts in Croatia. His practical experience and learning from highly experienced captains prepared him to become a skilled and reliable captain. He previously commanded the luxury sailing yacht Love Story, where his cheerful attitude, professionalism, and attentive service ensured that every charter was a memorable experience for guests. Today, as the captain of Ad Astra, he continues to bring his expertise, dedication, and passion for the sea to every voyage, creating unforgettable experiences for all on board. When Domagoj is not at sea, he enjoys spending quality time with his family. His wife, who shares his passion for the ocean, has worked alongside him in the yachting industry. This shared passion and professional collaboration have further deepened their bond. Outside of work, Domagoj finds joy in reading and playing football, striking a balance between his professional life on the water and his personal life with his loved ones. With nearly two decades of maritime experience, Domagoj Trgo combines technical knowledge, hospitality, and a lifelong love for the sea to ensure safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable sailing experiences for all guests. His unwavering commitment to safety is a cornerstone of his service, ensuring guests feel secure and well cared for throughout their voyage.

Ana Martinović is an experienced and dynamic chef stewardess with a strong background in luxury yachting and hospitality. Skilled in delivering impeccable service on board, she combines professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail to ensure exceptional guest experiences. With years of experience in high-end hospitality, Ana is fluent in English, familiar with Italian, and has honed her skills in luxury service, culinary presentation, and interior design. Her previous roles include working in fine-dining and luxury yachting environments, as well as internships in interior and custom design, reflecting her versatile skill set. Known for her cheerful and adaptable personality, Ana thrives in fast-paced, high-standard environments and is passionate about exceeding expectations. She also brings international experience, having lived and worked in London and Jersey City, making her highly adaptable to diverse teams and guest needs. Ana Martinović is ready to bring her dedication, creativity, and professionalism to luxury yachts, ensuring seamless service and memorable experiences for every guest.

For Bože Vugdelija, great cooking begins with exceptional ingredients.  Inspired by the Adriatic and the culinary heritage of Dalmatia, his cuisine is clean, elegant, and deeply seasonal, allowing each ingredient to express its natural character with clarity and balance. Blending Mediterranean traditions with contemporary European techniques, Bože creates menus that feel both authentic and refined.  Fresh seafood, premium meats, handmade pasta and carefully selected local produce form the foundation of his cooking, while every dish is defined by precision, restraint and thoughtful presentation. No two charters are alike, and neither are his menus. Each dining experience is tailored to the guests—their tastes, dietary preferences and the rhythm of life on board. Whether serving a leisurely breakfast at anchor, a relaxed lunch with family and friends, or an elegant multi-course dinner under the stars, his focus remains the same: delivering cuisine that feels effortless, personal, and memorable. Beyond the galley, Bože is a passionate fisherman whose connection to the sea continues to shape his culinary perspective. Calm, intuitive, and meticulous by nature, he brings the same level of care to every detail, creating an atmosphere where exceptional food and genuine hospitality come together seamlessly.

Bože Gabrić is a composed and reliable culinary professional with a strong foundation in hospitality and professional kitchen operations. His experience at AC Hotel by Marriott, combined with his formal education in hospitality and tourism, has shaped his disciplined approach to preparation, organization, and maintaining consistency in a fast-paced culinary environment. With roots in the Dalmatian culinary tradition, Bože has a genuine appreciation for simple, quality ingredients and well-balanced flavors. As Sous Chef, he works closely with the Head Chef, providing essential support in daily galley operations, preparation, and service, while ensuring that every detail is carefully executed. Recognized for his calm character, practical mindset, and dependable approach, Bože brings stability and focus to the team. He thrives in a structured environment where cooperation, precision, and respect for the craft are central to successful onboard cuisine.

A dedicated and energetic yachting professional with six years of experience in the maritime industry, Barbara combines a strong background in high-end hospitality with experience from the aesthetics field. This combination has shaped her refined sense of presentation, precision, and understanding of the standards required in luxury environments. Barbara takes pride in creating a well-organized and welcoming interior, with a focus on maintaining a comfortable atmosphere and consistent standards throughout daily operations. Her experience has strengthened her ability to adapt quickly, work with discretion, and remain composed in the dynamic environment of a yacht. Fully certified in maritime safety, Barbara brings a positive attitude, cultural awareness, and a cooperative spirit to the crew. She enjoys working as part of an international team and approaches her role with professionalism, care, and genuine commitment to her responsibilities on board.

With over 10 years of experience on board private and charter superyachts ranging from 40m to 100m+, Ivan brings extensive operational knowledge and a strong understanding of high-level yacht standards. Having spent the past five years as a Deck Leader, he has gained valuable experience in coordinating deck operations, mentoring crew members, and ensuring the flawless presentation and functionality of the yacht’s exterior areas. Practical, composed, and highly dependable, Ivan has a natural ability to anticipate operational needs and maintain efficiency behind the scenes. His broad experience on large yachts, combined with his hands-on approach and strong seamanship skills, makes him a valuable asset to any professional crew. yacht experience.