Owner Interview: Antonio Ivanisevic talks about the brand-new 52m Croatia charter yacht SCORPIOS
Antonio Ivanisevic is the proud owner and the 1st Officer of the 52m newly-built luxury yacht SCORPIOS which is due to be launched this Spring. Thanks to his passion and dedication, the yacht is expected to be one of the most successful luxury charter yachts on the Croatian market, hosting up to twelve charter guests in six beautiful cabins, while being looked after by a highly-professional and meticulously chosen crew of ten. In the below interview, the owner expresses his true dedication, not only to this magnificent vessel but first and foremost to his customers as well as his home country, Croatia, rich both in natural beauty and history.
How did you come to work at sea?
Growing up by the sea in Krilo – the birthplace of our yachting industry – I was always passionate about Croatia and its history. But it wasn’t until I started working as a tour guide and Cruise Director for Sail Croatia aboard mini cruisers, that my love for this incredible country grew. For 6 years I had the privilege of showing guests the best of Croatia and its culture. In this role, I saw myself as an Ambassador for Croatia and was always looking for new ways to create memorable experiences for my guests. After many years, taking this passion to the next level just made sense, this is why I’ve entered the luxury yachting sector with Scorpios.
What is the inspiration behind Scorpios?
We wanted to bring something new to the market; our three guiding words for Scorpios were Luxury, Innovation, and Excellence. I drew inspiration from the many years I have spent around yachts, a prior build, talking to yacht owners, and visiting yacht shows. We were determined to bring even more innovation to the design and create an unparalleled yachting experience.
“We wanted to bring something new to the market; our three guiding words for Scorpios were Luxury, Innovation, and Excellence.”
How is Scorpios Different?
We spared no expense in the design and details of Scorpios. Working with designer Natasha Orlovic – who previously worked for Hot Lab, we have designed a yacht with the guest experience in mind. Knowing how guests use the sundeck, we designed an extra-large sundeck with numerous entertainment options – a jacuzzi, bar, grill area, sunbeds, and outdoor dining table. Our large swim platform is at sea level for guests to enjoy swimming, watersports, and even dipping their feet in the water while sipping their favourite cocktail. We added an extra lounge area here too, so the swim platform becomes a ‘beach club’ feature. And the foldout terrace off the main deck gives guests another unique area to enjoy. We wanted to ensure that Scorpios had plenty of space for guests to enjoy, but at the same time, feels warm and comfortable, like a home away from home.
This is the design aspect, but what is even more important to me is the ‘soul’ of the boat – the crew. All the crew are local, have known each other for years, have years of experience in yachting or hospitality, and are passionate about growing within the industry. It’s also a family affair – with me plus my two brothers working aboard. I am passionate about taking care of my crew and creating a positive team culture because I know, ultimately, this impacts the guest experience.
Another way we are different, and standing behind our philosophy of excellence, is that we are working with a hospitality consultant who has 20 years of experience in restaurants and yachts, she is training the crew to ensure the highest standards of service.
And, as part of our philosophy, we are committed to sustainability, from working with local farms and fishermen to using bio-friendly products. I believe all this combines to give our guests the best experience in yachting and Croatia.
What is your family history at Sea?
While it seems like we are new to the industry with our immediate family not owning yachts, I and my two brothers have been working on yachts for years and our family history goes back even further than that. In local history books, our family – Ivanisevic – dates back 13 generations to this area. My great-great-grandfather was the local senator, he invested in the community and infrastructure, including the Krilo Port. He didn’t keep that wealth for himself and in doing so, he left a lasting legacy – to build up your people and community. This is a driving force for me. Scorpios isn’t just about having a luxury yacht, it is about creating jobs for locals, giving back to the community, and proudly showing guests our country.
“Scorpios isn’t just about having a luxury yacht, it is about creating jobs for locals, giving back to the community, and proudly showing guests our country.”
You built Scorpios with the new Luxury Yacht Company – Tramontana, tell us about that.
Tramontana is the company I founded with my business partners, with the vision to build quality luxury yachts here in Croatia. I believe there is a hole in the market to create quality and competitive luxury yachts, this is our goal, and Scorpios is the first yacht to be fully built by Tramontana. The plan is to build for others and grow our own fleet; plans for a new yacht are already underway – but I won’t talk about that yet…
Growing up by the sea, sustainability is important to me, which is why we are looking at building more eco-friendly yachts in the future. Hybrid engines will be the next step, implementing new technologies and innovations to reduce energy consumption and waste. In everything we do, we are looking at the larger picture; as I mentioned above, giving back to the community is also important to us, and Tramontana gives us the ability to provide more opportunities to talented locals. Croatia has a wealth of maritime skills and expertise; Tramontana is our way to showcase this to the world.
What keeps you passionate about Croatia and Tourism?
I truly believe Croatia is a unique sailing destination. With its rich history, culture, traditions, food and wine scene, and incredible nature, Croatia is the perfect holiday destination. I’ve been sailing Croatia for years and never tire of seeing our coast and still love creating memorable experiences for my guests. Another aspect that isn’t often talked about is that if you charter a yacht in Croatia, you will find that 99.9% of the crew are Croatian, why is this important? I think it adds an extra level of authenticity to the experience, as no one can show you a place like locals. On most yachts in the Mediterranean, you will probably find an international crew which undoubtedly delivers excellent service, but here, we have people truly connected to the land and sea. They are passionate about service AND showing off their country, and I think this is a truly special and unique experience for luxury yachting.
Tell us a little more about the Crew
I may be biased, but I believe we have an exceptional crew. We feel very privileged to have Filip Jakir, the previous owner and captain of Tajna Mora as our captain. With his passion and wealth of experience, we are all looking forward to working with and learning from him. I and my brother Daniel have been at sea for years as Cruise Directors, and last year aboard Clase Azul as 1st and 2nd Officer. This year, our younger brother Gabriel joins us too. Gabi has been working on the luxury yacht Dalmatino for the last 4 years and is working towards becoming a Captain. Kristina has a long history in hospitality, for the last 7 years, she has been working in Germany where she became the Manager of a 4-star restaurant. Lara is new to yachts but brings four years of hospitality experience from bars and high-end seafood restaurants. Tina has been working in housekeeping on mini-cruisers and is ready to further her career by joining Scorpios. Our head chef is still to be confirmed, but we have some exciting prospects… we also have a Sous Chef, Ivan, who will support the Head Chef and take care of crew meals. Altogether, we have a passionate and professional team with years of experience in hospitality and yachting. I think there is nothing more exciting than being part of something new; the whole team share my passion and vision, and we can’t wait to get started.
If you are interested in finding out more about the beautiful yacht Scorpios or enquire, continue here…
Classic 50m Feadship super yacht EMERALD (ex Legacy V) is renamed after refit
Now super yacht EMERALD the 50m Feadship originally known as Legacy V has been relaunched after an incredible 16 month refit at Balk Shipyard. Now sporting an Orion green hull, which is the inspiration for her new name, she was originally built in 1990 and has been meticulously maintained over the years.
As part of this major refit, her hull has been extended by nearly 3m to create an impressive aft cockpit with steps down to the swim platform making her more suited to the owner’s current lifestyle. Other luxury additions include a large jacuzzi on the sun deck joining the cosy seating area and wet bar. Upgraded teak decking across all her exterior spaces and a fresh new pearl white finish on the superstructure have raised the bar on this beautiful classic yacht.
Having been stripped back and restyled, the interiors now boast monochrome looks from design studio Design Unlimited who worked closely with the owners to create a rich and sophisticated space throughout the salons and staterooms. She has six staterooms comprising an owner’s suite, a VIP, two doubles and two twins and can accommodate up to 14 people. Her VIP suite was moved up to the main deck during this refit so creating more space for the 12 crew across the lower deck.
As a fellow Dutch company, Balk Shipyards is a familiar partner to Feadship allowing the project to run smoothly despite the challenging timeline. Noteworthy technical upgrades during the refit include refurbished engines and the addition of a Quantum extendable stabilisation system adding greater levels of comfort for guests.
A thoughtful and well executed refit and addition of modern features such as swim platforms, stabilisers and a jacuzzi will increase the interest in any yacht and add to that a classic dual-colour paint upgrade and EMERALD now sits comfortably in the super yacht category. She will be welcoming charter guests soon but in the meantime you can view a selection of classic super yachts currently for charter, curated by the team at CharterWorld.
First ever Sunseeker Ocean 90 luxury yacht WYLDECREST available for charter in the Mediterranean
Super yacht WYLDECREST is the first ever Sunseeker Ocean 90 – 27.10 metres (88′ 11″) – available on the charter market and is ready to welcome guests around the Mediterranean. The spacious, contemporary yacht is bursting with fabulous features to rival much larger yachts.
At the waters edge the Ocean Club offers over 20m2 of open space from where guests can spend time with the great selection of water toys. The aft deck is extended by innovative ‘X-Tend’ reclining sun loungers, a new design concept on this model. The al fresco dining area on the flybridge gives views out to sea with a retractable canopy offering a choice of sun or shade.
Top of the range Sonos sound systems throughout and an outdoor cinema keep guests entertained allowing them to relax with a favourite movie against the ocean backdrop. The sociable entertainment space continues inside in the open main salon which boasts a semi-open galley, dining room and lounge.
The wide beam and plum bow create exceptional interior volume evident in the 4 spacious suites which can accommodate up to 8 guests. The fabulous master stateroom is full beam with an amazing ensuite with his and her sinks and walk-in shower with waterfall showerhead. Guests will be kept comfortable thanks to the at anchor and underway stabilisers.
The Mediterranean is a hugely popular charter location and the French Riviera is the place to see and be seen where you can visit beautiful marinas with a choice of great restaurants, shops and bars or quieter beaches and coves to make the most of the amazing beaches and water toys.
JUST LAUNCHED: 90m superyacht Project 1601 from Lürssen
Lürssen have announced the launch of 90m (295’2”) super yacht PROJECT 1601 from their shipyard in Rendsburg Germany. With construction beginning back in 2018, little is known about this striking superyacht.
What we do know is that her angular exterior with unique bow shape was designed by Espen Øino International with Lürssen taking the lead with her naval architecture. Dölker + Voges GmbH collaborated with the project management team from Cornelsen & Partner to create interiors which echo the overall design and there is a huge interior to consider, as the volume is expected to exceed 3,600 GT.
With over 130 years of experience, Lürssen is known for building some of the most exciting superyachts in the world and has established a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and for pushing the boundaries of yacht design and engineering. PROJECT 1601 is no exception as are the other projects currently underway including 122m (44′) super yacht JAG due to be launched later this year and 142m (468’5’’) mega yacht ALIBABA who will be ready to hit the water in 2024.
Lurssen’s spectacular 145.0m (475’9″) mega yacht Luminance designed by Espen Oeino launched
The 145.0m (475’9″) mega yacht Luminance is the latest and one of the largest superyachts built and launched by the renowned German shipyard, Lurssen Yachts; a true masterpiece of naval engineering. With its sleek and modern design, luxurious interiors, and state-of-the-art technology, Luminance is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance.
The exterior of the yacht is designed by Espen Oeino, one of the world’s leading yacht designers, and features a clean and minimalist look. The large decks provide ample space for outdoor living and entertainment, and other features such as a large swimming pool, a gym, and a helipad are present. The yacht’s beam of 18.0m (59’1″) meters provides ample space for her guests, including a huge saloon, a formal dining room and other areas to socialise and relax.
The interiors of the Luminance 145m are designed by Zuretti Interior Design with the accommodation designed to accommodate the owner and guests in a number of luxurious staterooms.
Additional technical details about the yacht might be known in the future, however, projects of this calibre often remain shrouded in secrecy.
In conclusion, superyacht Luminance is a true masterpiece of naval engineering by the yard’s in-house team, offering guests the ultimate in style, comfort, privacy and performance.
Luxury yacht VERVEINE available for charter in Turkey and the Eastern Mediterranean
Motor yacht VERVEINE is a fabulous 35.8m (126’3”) Sanlorenzo SD118, a tri-deck model from the prestigious Italian shipyard rarely available on the charter market. Built in 2022 she is the perfect choice for those looking for a unique yacht to charter around the Eastern Mediterranean as she resonates with style and elegance.
Sanlorenzo are well known for their innovative design and original features are in abundance on board. A fold out balcony on each level creates the indoor/outdoor flow ideal for the Mediterranean climate and on the swim platform, fold out platforms on either side extend the space creating a huge waters-edge beach club. From here the crew will launch the selection of water toys including two jet skis, two Seabob scooters plus an inflatable dock.
Guest comfort has been considered throughout, from the contemporary deck furniture and comfortable sun pads to the welcoming neutral décor in the salon, sky lounge and cabins spaces plus the well-equipped marble bathrooms with matt black tapware and light oak cabinetry.
Three deck levels ensure there is plenty of space for guests to spread out or gather together to enjoy a leisurely al fresco dinner on the upper or main deck aft. Lovers of sunbathing are catered for across all the decks, with a combination of built in sun pads and moveable sun loungers offering comfortable places with sun shades an option.
The five luxurious staterooms include a full-beam main deck master with walk-in wardrobe, lounge space, beautiful ensuite plus private direct access to the lounge on the foredeck. There are four suites on the lower deck providing private sanctuaries for everyone on board.
The addition of zero speed stabilisers and air conditioning means guests will all get a comfortable night’s sleep, waking refreshed and ready to cruise to the next exciting destination. Bespoke itineraries can be arranged by one of our experienced local charter brokers, who understand how to create individual charter vacations in Turkey or anywhere else in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Baglietto T52 superyacht ‘HULL 10238’ is launched from Spezia
After years in design and construction Baglietto has finally launched superyacht ‘HULL 10238’, the first in its T52 range. With seven more currently in-build it looks set to be one of their brightest new stars.
This inaugural T52 tri-deck yacht is a collaboration between the shipyard, Francesco Paszkowski and Margherita Casprini with Baglietto CCO Fabio Ermetto commenting “Seeing one of our vessels touch the water is always incredibly exciting for us, but when this happens with the first one in a new line, the excitement is even greater.”
He also referred to Baglietto’s commitment to sustainable yacht building describing how the T52 is the first series to be fitted with hybrid propulsion allowing more efficient cruising and a reduced environmental impact.
Away from her sustainable credentials HULL 10238 has a split level beach club and aft deck with a pool which can be covered with a moveable floor, a 24m sun deck and beautiful interiors. She can accommodate up to 12 guests in five ensuite staterooms including a full beam main deck master, two doubles and two twins with additional pullman bunks.
When operating in her electric diesel mode, she has a range of 7,600 nautical miles, and batteries can support her systems for up to 10 hours at anchor. The twin MTU 16V2000M86 engines can achieve a maximum speed of 17 knots and a range of 3,600 nautical miles in traditional power mode.
Iconic motor yacht KOKOMO II back on the water after an extensive refit
Rivergate Marina and Shipyard have been looking after classic motor yacht KOKOMO II for the past 7 months as they worked on an extensive refit which included an extension to the transom, full exterior repaint and modernisation of the engine room among other upgrades.
Originally built in the late 1980s, KOKOMO II has been carefully maintained by her owner, who is known to enjoy a range of water sports with their family, while cruising around Australia, Fiji and the South Pacific. This love of the water was the original catalyst for the idea to upgrade the transom creating an up-to-date platform for launching toys and swimming.
The owner has been delighted, describing the upgrade as “the perfect addition to an already perfect boat”. The elegant vessel is truly unique and retains the charms of a former era of luxury yachts. She’s now been reunited with her owner who will be showing her off around the harbour and waterways of Pittwater and Hawkesbury River in Sydney in the coming weeks.
Whether you’re new chartering or experienced and looking for a new adventure, the warm waters, vibrant landscapes, and diverse cultures of Australia and South Pacific make for a truly unforgettable charter vacation.
Horizon Yachts launches luxury yacht ISSIMO with a custom four stateroom layout
Horizon Yachts have just launched 27.45m (90’1″) luxury yacht ISSIMO, an FD100 Skyline model with a customer four stateroom layout, requested by the new owner. She is now on her way to Florida for pre-delivery checks.
As well as the accommodation layout, which presents a huge main deck master and three fabulous VIP staterooms, the new owner also included a few other customisations. There is now a wet bar in place of the starboard staircase on the aft deck as well as a full bar, L-shaped seating and dining space and luxury jacuzzi on the bridge deck.
As yet, we don’t have any details of ISSIMO’s interior design, but Horizon always deliver unique, client-led concepts to the highest standard.
Once she is delivered to her owner, she will likely be cruising the charter grounds of Florida, the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, a popular destination known for its warm weather, turquoise waters, pristine beaches and a blend of culture, history and recreation. On board a luxury charter yacht visitors can enjoy activities like snorkelling and diving by day, with a breath taking natural backdrop and at night, explore the divers local restaurants and nightlife. It is no wonder that the Caribbean is a top destination for charters from around the world with a choice of luxury motor and sailing yachts available.