Zora Nua

Luka

Chef

Born in 2001 in Osijek, in the heart of Slavonia, Luka developed a deep love for food from an early age. Growing up between different regions and culinary traditions of Croatia, he was introduced early to the richness and diversity of local cuisine. With roots stretching from Slavonia to Lika through his mother’s side, while his father comes from Livno, and much of his family connected to the Dalmatian coast, food was always an important part of family life and identity. These influences shaped his understanding of hospitality and inspired the culinary philosophy he carries today blending the flavors, traditions, and character of Croatia’s different regions into his own style of cooking. After graduating from culinary school, Luka began working in professional kitchens at the age of 15, dedicating himself fully to mastering his craft. Over the years, his journey led him through Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as some of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia, where he refined his skills and developed a strong appreciation for precision, discipline, and high-quality ingredients. Today, Luka’s cooking style is a balance between the simplicity and soul of Mediterranean cuisine and the technique and artistry of French gastronomy. His philosophy is rooted in honesty no shortcuts, no compromises and a deep respect for every ingredient that reaches the plate. Whether preparing fresh seafood, handmade pasta, or refined tasting menus, he believes that exceptional food comes from patience, dedication, and genuine passion. What truly defines Luka as a chef is his approach to hospitality. Influenced by his Slavonian roots, he believes guests should always feel welcomed, cared for, and fully satisfied. For him, cooking is not only about creating beautiful dishes, but about sharing generosity, warmth, and memorable experiences through food. He finds his greatest motivation in the enjoyment of his guests and constantly pushes himself to deliver the highest standard in every service. Known for his precision, attention to detail, and obsessive cleanliness in the kitchen, Luka combines professionalism with a calm and approachable personality onboard. Fluent in both Croatian and English, he is dedicated to creating a relaxed yet elevated dining experience that reflects the beauty, flavors, and hospitality of the Adriatic lifestyle.

Marijana Kurtović

Hostess

Marijana Kurtović approaches hospitality with warmth, intuition, and attention to detail. She enjoys creating experiences that feel both effortless and personal, believing that true luxury is defined not only by beautiful surroundings, but by how people are made to feel throughout their journey. Marijana has been painting for many years, and colors are an important part of her life. She naturally strives for visual balance and harmony while avoiding anything too sterile or generic. She always enjoys adding a personal touch and appreciates when people notice it. She wants guests to feel that they truly received value from their experience and to return to their “real world” carrying memories that stay with them long after the journey ends. Marijana completed an intensive yacht hostess training program in Trogir, including ŠKMER culinary training, food and wine pairing, and cocktail service education. Her background in healthcare, after years of working as a nurse, also gave her a strong sense of responsibility, hygiene awareness, and resourcefulness in unexpected situations. Through experience, she learned early that good organization is half the job. She is fluent in Croatian and English, with basic Czech and growing Spanish knowledge, and genuinely enjoys connecting with people from different backgrounds and cultures. What first attracted Marijana to yachting was the freedom that comes with a lifestyle not tied to one place. The sea is truly her passion—in many ways it calms and restores her. She believes there is something special about having travel become part of everyday life. One of her favorite personal mottos is “Samo nek’ se kreće,” as one Croatian travel writer beautifully said.