SHIREEN

With extensive experience in yacht charter, sailing and boat management, Captain Josip Eljuga brings a professional and hands-on approach to every journey aboard SHIREEN. Josip has been working as a professional skipper since 2016, with experience across leading charter companies in Croatia, including Waypoint Charter, Navigare Yachting, Sunsail, Sail Croatia, Moorings and Dream Yacht Charter. He has been responsible for guests and crew on 7- and 14-day voyages throughout the Adriatic, as well as yacht transfers across the Mediterranean. Holding a Master of Science in Maritime Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Marine and Yacht Engineering, Josip combines strong nautical knowledge with practical experience in navigation, yacht handling and voyage planning. Calm, adaptable and solution-oriented, he is particularly skilled at handling unexpected situations while maintaining a high level of safety, service and guest comfort. His experience as a skipper instructor has further strengthened his communication, leadership and seamanship skills. Josip is passionate about sailing and rowing and is an active member of Sailing Club JK Zenta in Split. Captain Josip looks forward to welcoming guests aboard SHIREEN and creating a safe, relaxed and memorable cruising experience along the Adriatic.

Chef Ivan Vrbanec brings over 15 years of culinary excellence to the yachting industry, combining fine dining expertise with extensive luxury hospitality experience. Recognized as the Best Student of the Year at the Ban Josip Jelačić Culinary School, Ivan has built an impressive career in some of Croatia’s most acclaimed restaurants, luxury hotels, exclusive resorts, and charter yachts. Throughout his career, Ivan has worked in renowned establishments including Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants such as ManO, Tač, and Apetit City, as well as the internationally celebrated Hiša Franko in Slovenia, where he further refined his culinary techniques under the mentorship of world-renowned chef Ana Roš. He also had the unique opportunity to work alongside Mauro Colagreco during The Grand Gelinaz Shuffle, one of the culinary world’s most prestigious collaborative events. As an Executive Chef, Ivan has successfully led large kitchen teams in luxury hotels, resorts, and highend catering operations, developing innovative menus, managing food sourcing, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and guest satisfaction. His experience ranges from intimate fine dining experiences to large-scale productions for international film and television crews, including Netflix and MTV productions. Passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean cuisine, Ivan creates bespoke menus tailored to each guest’s individual preferences. His culinary style blends Croatian coastal traditions with contemporary international influences, resulting in beautifully presented dishes that are both refined and approachable.

Sara Nerlović is an experienced and dedicated stewardess with a strong background in guest service and hospitality aboard luxury catamarans. Her previous experience includes welcoming and caring for guests, preparing and serving meals and beverages, maintaining the yacht’s interior, assisting with itinerary planning and supporting the crew during navigation and docking. With a warm and attentive approach, Sara is highly responsive to guests’ individual needs and enjoys creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere on board. She has experience preparing daily menus in cooperation with guests and the booking manager, organising special occasions such as birthdays, engagements and anniversaries, as well as managing provisions and the yacht’s petty cash. Sara holds a Master’s degree in Kinesiology and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. Her background in fitness and sports contributes to her energetic, positive and active approach to life on board. Sara is passionate about fitness, movement and an active lifestyle, with previous professional experience as a fitness instructor. She brings a positive attitude, excellent communication skills and a strong sense of teamwork to the crew. Sara looks forward to welcoming guests aboard SHIREEN and contributing to a relaxed, elegant and memorable experience throughout their stay.