Name: Vanda Belamarić
Nationality: Croatian
Position: Chief steward/ess
Position details: Chief Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Vanda was born in Croatia and grew up in Šibenik on the Dalmatian coast, where she developed a deep appreciation for the sea and the summer season. She holds a diploma in General Adult Nursing and has spent most of her career in healthcare, working in acute hospital settings in both Croatia and the United Kingdom, where she moved with her family. She spent a decade in the NHS before seeking a new challenge and transitioning into the yachting industry, bringing with her a wealth of transferable skills. With extensive experience working under pressure, managing multiple tasks, and providing exceptional service, she is highly adaptable and thrives in fast-paced environments. Having lived abroad, Vanda embraces new cultures and perspectives, making her a natural team player with strong communication skills. She remains calm under pressure and approaches every task with professionalism, discretion, and a problem-solving mindset. When not on board, she enjoys swimming, fitness, and traveling. Hard-working, optimistic, and a dedicated team player, Vanda is excited to bring her skills and enthusiasm to the yachting industry and is a valuable addition to the crew.
Name: Marko Smolic
Nationality: Croatian
Position: Deckhand
Position details: Deckhand
Languages: Not specified
Description: Marko was born and raised in the coastal city of Šibenik, Croatia, where his connection to the sea began at an early age. Inspired by time spent on his grandfather's boat, he developed a passion for maritime life and started sailing when he was just nine years old. This lifelong enthusiasm led him to pursue a professional career at sea, culminating in his graduation from the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split in 2023. Following his studies, Marko initially started to work as a skipper on charter sailing catamarans before transitioning into yachting. His experience on both sailing and motor yachts have provided him with a broad understanding of yacht operations, guest service, safety procedures, and teamwork at sea. On board, Marko is recognized for his positive attitude, professionalism, and strong work ethic. His calm and dependable nature, combined with a genuine passion for the ocean, make him a valued asset onboard. Marko believes that every day at sea presents an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether assisting with deck operations, maintaining the yacht to the highest standards, or helping guests make the most of their time on board, he approaches every task with dedication and enthusiasm. His hardworking, loyal, and reliable character ensure that guests can enjoy a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience throughout their time on board.
Name: Magdalena Ogribic
Nationality: Croatian
Position: Stewardess
Position details: Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Magdalena grew up on the Adriatic coast, where life by the sea naturally influenced her interests. With a background in pharmaceutical studies and midwifery, she brings a thoughtful mix of precision, care, and calm professionalism to her role. Curious and motivated by new experiences, she enjoys exploring new places and continually developing her skills. She began her maritime journey on small boats running day trips in Croatia, and what started as a seasonal job soon became a true vocation, inspiring her to progress toward larger vessels. A defining moment came when she accepted a last‑minute opportunity to join a yacht in the Bahamas—an experience that strengthened her adaptability and confidence, and remains one of the highlights of her career. Magdalena is known for her strong sense of responsibility, her positive attitude, and her attentive approach to guest service. A supportive and reliable team player, she takes pride in maintaining high standards and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere on board. Hard‑working, friendly, and detail‑oriented, she adapts smoothly to changing situations and always strives to deliver her best. She is now looking forward to bringing her energy and professionalism to DAWO, contributing to memorable and enjoyable charter experiences for all guests.
Name: Ivan Kolobarić
Nationality: Croatian
Position: First Officer
Position details: Chief Officer
Languages: Not specified
Description: Ivan is from Split, Croatia. After completing his secondary education at a tourism school and starting a career in the tourism industry, he decided to further his education in the maritime field and trained to become a seafarer. He secured his first yacht position in 2015 and has since advanced to first officer. His roles on board have allowed him to travel extensively and experience diverse cultures. Over the years, he has progressed from deckhand to first officer, taking on a wide range of responsibilities and adapting to different working environments. His experience has helped him develop a versatile skill set and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Passionate about his work, he continuously seeks growth and learning. Experienced in handling technical challenges, he remains calm and resourceful under pressure, ensuring smooth operations on board. When not at sea, he enjoys diving, water sports, cycling, football, and tennis. A dedicated family man, he balances his career with his role as a husband and father. Known for his responsibility, honesty, and teamwork, Ivan is a valuable asset to DAWO.
Name: Tomislav Sakic
Nationality: Croatian
Position: Chief engineer
Position details: Chief Engineer
Languages: Not specified
Description: Tomislav (“Tomi”), originally from Croatia, discovered his passion for engineering at a young age, inspired by his uncle. This early fascination soon shifted toward ships leading him to pursue a career in marine engineering. After graduating from Maritime High School in 2016, he earned a Bachelor’s degree at the Maritime University in Zadar and had his first experience in the Croatian Navy before making the move into the yachting industry. His yachting career began as third Engineer on a 65m yacht, and he rapidly moved on board DAWO as Chief Engineer. Tomi appreciates teamwork spirit and is known for his positive outlook, discipline, and organizational skills. He believes staying calm and logical under pressure is key to overcoming unexpected situations at sea. Outside of work, Tomi lives in Split with his wife. Together they enjoy traveling, while he also pursues outdoor activities that bring an adrenaline rush—particularly sport shooting and hunting. Tomi brings energy, dedication, and a friendly spirit to the DAWO crew, ensuring smooth operations and unforgettable charter experiences for all guests.
Name: Mate Bedrica
Nationality: Croatian
Position: Captain
Position details: Captain
Languages: Not specified
Description: Mate hails from Croatia and was born in Sibenik, nestled in a beautiful bay along the Dalmatian coast. Like many of his fellow citizens, he was drawn to the sea from a young age and practised rowing during his teenage years for 6 years. Initially considering a career in the merchant navy, he discovered his passion for yachting while practising sailing on a 15m monohull during his studies. This experience inspired him to become a skipper instead. With a degree in mechanical engineering, Mate possesses strong technical skills, which he further honed with a BA from the Maritime University, confirming his qualifications to become a captain. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, eventually commanding a couple of yachts before leading the owner’s 27m DAWO. He now commands the owner’s brand new yacht, a 37m Benetti Motopanfilo, also named DAWO. Mate’s extensive knowledge of his home country allows him to introduce guests to his favourite places, immersing them in the local culture. When not on board, Mate sings in an acapella group in Croatia which register part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Name: Marijeta Plenca
Nationality: Croatian
Position: Chef
Position details: Chef
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born in Šibenik, Croatia, Marijeta developed a love for food, the sea, and travel early on. After completing her studies in chemical engineering in Split, she entered the yachting industry at just seventeen, beginning as a hostess on smaller yachts where she discovered her passion for cooking. That early experience inspired her to pursue a culinary path at sea, blending her enjoyment of hospitality with a life spent around boats. Over the years, she has worked as a sole chef on several yachts gaining strong charter and private service experience. Marijeta brings a calm, reliable, and optimistic presence to the galley, combining creativity with a deep understanding of nutrition, food intolerances, and allergies thanks to her background in chemistry. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, sports, and music, having played the clarinet for more than a decade. Known for her creativity and guest‑focused approach, she looks forward to bringing her skills and warm personality to DAWO.
Vanda Belamarić — Chief steward/ess (Croatian)
Vanda was born in Croatia and grew up in Šibenik on the Dalmatian coast, where she developed a deep appreciation for the sea and the summer season. She holds a diploma in General Adult Nursing and has spent most of her career in healthcare, working in acute hospital settings in both Croatia and the United Kingdom, where she moved with her family. She spent a decade in the NHS before seeking a new challenge and transitioning into the yachting industry, bringing with her a wealth of transferable skills. With extensive experience working under pressure, managing multiple tasks, and providing exceptional service, she is highly adaptable and thrives in fast-paced environments. Having lived abroad, Vanda embraces new cultures and perspectives, making her a natural team player with strong communication skills. She remains calm under pressure and approaches every task with professionalism, discretion, and a problem-solving mindset. When not on board, she enjoys swimming, fitness, and traveling. Hard-working, optimistic, and a dedicated team player, Vanda is excited to bring her skills and enthusiasm to the yachting industry and is a valuable addition to the crew.
Marko Smolic — Deckhand (Croatian)
Marko was born and raised in the coastal city of Šibenik, Croatia, where his connection to the sea began at an early age. Inspired by time spent on his grandfather's boat, he developed a passion for maritime life and started sailing when he was just nine years old. This lifelong enthusiasm led him to pursue a professional career at sea, culminating in his graduation from the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split in 2023. Following his studies, Marko initially started to work as a skipper on charter sailing catamarans before transitioning into yachting. His experience on both sailing and motor yachts have provided him with a broad understanding of yacht operations, guest service, safety procedures, and teamwork at sea. On board, Marko is recognized for his positive attitude, professionalism, and strong work ethic. His calm and dependable nature, combined with a genuine passion for the ocean, make him a valued asset onboard. Marko believes that every day at sea presents an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether assisting with deck operations, maintaining the yacht to the highest standards, or helping guests make the most of their time on board, he approaches every task with dedication and enthusiasm. His hardworking, loyal, and reliable character ensure that guests can enjoy a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience throughout their time on board.
Magdalena Ogribic — Stewardess (Croatian)
Magdalena grew up on the Adriatic coast, where life by the sea naturally influenced her interests. With a background in pharmaceutical studies and midwifery, she brings a thoughtful mix of precision, care, and calm professionalism to her role. Curious and motivated by new experiences, she enjoys exploring new places and continually developing her skills. She began her maritime journey on small boats running day trips in Croatia, and what started as a seasonal job soon became a true vocation, inspiring her to progress toward larger vessels. A defining moment came when she accepted a last‑minute opportunity to join a yacht in the Bahamas—an experience that strengthened her adaptability and confidence, and remains one of the highlights of her career. Magdalena is known for her strong sense of responsibility, her positive attitude, and her attentive approach to guest service. A supportive and reliable team player, she takes pride in maintaining high standards and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere on board. Hard‑working, friendly, and detail‑oriented, she adapts smoothly to changing situations and always strives to deliver her best. She is now looking forward to bringing her energy and professionalism to DAWO, contributing to memorable and enjoyable charter experiences for all guests.
Ivan Kolobarić — First Officer (Croatian)
Ivan is from Split, Croatia. After completing his secondary education at a tourism school and starting a career in the tourism industry, he decided to further his education in the maritime field and trained to become a seafarer. He secured his first yacht position in 2015 and has since advanced to first officer. His roles on board have allowed him to travel extensively and experience diverse cultures. Over the years, he has progressed from deckhand to first officer, taking on a wide range of responsibilities and adapting to different working environments. His experience has helped him develop a versatile skill set and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Passionate about his work, he continuously seeks growth and learning. Experienced in handling technical challenges, he remains calm and resourceful under pressure, ensuring smooth operations on board. When not at sea, he enjoys diving, water sports, cycling, football, and tennis. A dedicated family man, he balances his career with his role as a husband and father. Known for his responsibility, honesty, and teamwork, Ivan is a valuable asset to DAWO.
Tomislav Sakic — Chief engineer (Croatian)
Tomislav (“Tomi”), originally from Croatia, discovered his passion for engineering at a young age, inspired by his uncle. This early fascination soon shifted toward ships leading him to pursue a career in marine engineering. After graduating from Maritime High School in 2016, he earned a Bachelor’s degree at the Maritime University in Zadar and had his first experience in the Croatian Navy before making the move into the yachting industry. His yachting career began as third Engineer on a 65m yacht, and he rapidly moved on board DAWO as Chief Engineer. Tomi appreciates teamwork spirit and is known for his positive outlook, discipline, and organizational skills. He believes staying calm and logical under pressure is key to overcoming unexpected situations at sea. Outside of work, Tomi lives in Split with his wife. Together they enjoy traveling, while he also pursues outdoor activities that bring an adrenaline rush—particularly sport shooting and hunting. Tomi brings energy, dedication, and a friendly spirit to the DAWO crew, ensuring smooth operations and unforgettable charter experiences for all guests.
Mate Bedrica — Captain (Croatian)
Mate hails from Croatia and was born in Sibenik, nestled in a beautiful bay along the Dalmatian coast. Like many of his fellow citizens, he was drawn to the sea from a young age and practised rowing during his teenage years for 6 years. Initially considering a career in the merchant navy, he discovered his passion for yachting while practising sailing on a 15m monohull during his studies. This experience inspired him to become a skipper instead. With a degree in mechanical engineering, Mate possesses strong technical skills, which he further honed with a BA from the Maritime University, confirming his qualifications to become a captain. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, eventually commanding a couple of yachts before leading the owner’s 27m DAWO. He now commands the owner’s brand new yacht, a 37m Benetti Motopanfilo, also named DAWO. Mate’s extensive knowledge of his home country allows him to introduce guests to his favourite places, immersing them in the local culture. When not on board, Mate sings in an acapella group in Croatia which register part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Marijeta Plenca — Chef (Croatian)
Born in Šibenik, Croatia, Marijeta developed a love for food, the sea, and travel early on. After completing her studies in chemical engineering in Split, she entered the yachting industry at just seventeen, beginning as a hostess on smaller yachts where she discovered her passion for cooking. That early experience inspired her to pursue a culinary path at sea, blending her enjoyment of hospitality with a life spent around boats. Over the years, she has worked as a sole chef on several yachts gaining strong charter and private service experience. Marijeta brings a calm, reliable, and optimistic presence to the galley, combining creativity with a deep understanding of nutrition, food intolerances, and allergies thanks to her background in chemistry. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, sports, and music, having played the clarinet for more than a decade. Known for her creativity and guest‑focused approach, she looks forward to bringing her skills and warm personality to DAWO.
