Rara Avis

Crew Profile

ČASLAV RELJIĆ - CAPTAIN
From the first moment you come aboard Rara Avis you will feel you are in a safe and hospitable hands of Časlav, young 34 years old captain who has spent last 12 years of his life connected with sea.
Soon after finishing high school, he has realized his love is not commercial and marketing but sea and the boats. He started working as a sailor on different boats and patiently he sailed his way to become a captain. Experience that he gathered in meantime has made him an excellent host who can provide his guests the most memorable cruise. Časlav has been showing enthusiasm and love for the nature all of his life so when he is not sailing, he spends his free time on the mountains.
For him this is ideal way of recharging his batteries and connecting with nature and his family. He is married, has two children and his wife shares his love for this job as she comes from the family that has been working in nautical tourism for few generations now. Časlav has very friendly and cheerful nature and you will like him from the first moment you meet him especially as he takes his job very seriously and he wants to provide his client’s complete experience.
He enjoys meeting new people from all over the world and he feels it is his mission to show them all the beauties of h is country.
This is why his main goal is happy and completely satisfied client. He speaks Croatian and English.

Filip Brekalo
Captain II.

Filip Brekalo was born in Split, Croatia, on February 9, 1985. From a young age, he was drawn to the sea, which set the course for his future career. Over the years, Filip has built an impressive reputation as a skilled and dedicated captain with over a decade of experience commanding motor sailing yachts and mini cruise ships along the picturesque Adriatic coast and across the globe.
Filip's expertise in yacht transfer is a testament to his ability to navigate and manage vessels in diverse conditions and locations. His leadership and management skills, honed through years of overseeing sailing duties, crew recruitment, and tourist hosting, instill confidence in his ability to handle any situation. His fluency in English and basic proficiency in Italian further enhance his ability to interact with a wide range of clients and crew members.
His career highlights include serving as the captain of several notable vessels. From 2013 to 2022, he captained small cruise ships such as the m/s Pacific, m/s Amalia, and m/s President along the Adriatic coast. In 2022 and 2023, he led the motor sailing yacht MSY Life is Good, performing worldwide sailing duties and handling extensive managerial responsibilities.
Filip's dedication and exceptional performance have earned him accolades, notably the 2019 award from the Sailing Croatia Agency for the best crew of mini cruise ships for his work on the m/s Pacific. His educational background includes qualifications as an officer of the navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more and a Yacht-Master Category B for yachts up to 500 GT.
Outside of his maritime career, he has achieved personal success in various fields. He is married and the proud father of one child. As a Croatian national representative in rafting, he earned a silver medal at the European championship. He is also an experienced football referee and an instructor in skiing and rafting, showcasing his versatility and passion for life beyond the sea.

ROKO ERCEGOVIĆ - DECKHAND
Roko is the youngest crew member on Rari Avis. Although he is only 19 years old, his colleagues say that he is hardworking, enjoys the sea, and is gaining experience working as a deckhand.
He was born in Split, where he graduated from maritime school, and after this sea season he will continue his education at the Maritime Faculty. Among foreign languages, he speaks English, and in his free time he likes to play football the most.

Matelj Reljić
Deckhand

Matej was born in February 2nd 2000, which makes him the 2nd youngest member of Rara Avis crew.
He graduated from Maritime High School in Split as a technician for marine engineering. Since his early age he was always helping out on boats as he resides in a small village, city of Split outskirts, Krilo Jesenice, which has been famous for many years, as a place in Croatia with the biggest number of boat builders and owners.
It was very clear for Matej what career he will dedicate his life to. Before he joined the crew on Rara Avis, he has had some experience already working as a hand on deck and as a waiter on another charter ship. He speaks active English.
This young man, eager to learn and to be of service is doing the best he can with a big great smile on his face. In his free time, Matej is doing some serious fishing and also is a permanent volunteer for city of Omiš Fire Department.

MARKO MATIĆ - CHEF
Born and raised in the historical city of Sinj, where the antient battles for Croatia took place, chef Marko has that fighting spirit and the will to give the best that he can in everything he does.
And he does food, he is doing it with such legerity and enthusiasm. Marko has mastered cooking skills as a chef in several well-known and praised a la carte restaurants along the Dalmatian coast as well as on some other yachts. As a young chef, he has wider views in sense of being more familiar with new cooking ideas and ways of cooking, new flavors and very large spectrum of groceries selection.
His dedication to food preparation has made him not only a great cook but an amazing food decorator. His meals tell an authentic Mediterranean gourmet story that will enchant your flavor buds as much as your eyes.
Chef Marko takes special pride in rustic style meat & fish dishes preparation combined with modern cuisine tricks. Speaks English, very friendly and open to any menu suggestions from the guests as his only wish is to complete the cruising experience with terrific dining. His eagerness to please is very visible and tasteful in his food creations.

KRISTIAN VUČIĆ - BARTENDER
The latest addition to the Rara Avis team is Kristian Vučić, a 28- year-old waiter and a former professional Croatian basketball player.
Before entering the yacht industry, Kristian worked as a waiter and barista at some of the most acclaimed Croatian restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, where he obtained his 5-year-long hospitality experience. He brings an eclectic hospitality background to Rara Avis, and the Rara team and guests are truly fortunate to have him on board in season 2023.
His former colleagues describe him as a great team player and hardworking yet easy going. In his spare time, Kristian enjoys sports and spending quality time with his family and friends.

Mirna Kozina
Hostess

Mirna Kozina was born in Split, Croatia, on July 2, 1998. Her journey into the workforce began in her teenage years. She began seasonal work at Ciprianis, a local establishment known for its delectable ice cream, pancakes, and bakery products. This experience laid the foundation for her future career in the culinary industry, as she honed her sales and customer communication skills, proficient in Croatian and English.
After completing her secondary education, Mirna pursued further studies in graphic design at the School of Design, Graphics, and Sustainable Construction in Split. This educational background equipped her with valuable technical skills, which she would later integrate into her professional endeavors.
Throughout her career, Mirna demonstrated versatility and a solid commitment to excellence. From her early roles as a salesman at Bobis Riva and later at Sugarin Ice Cream Production, she immersed herself in artisanal ice cream, mastering the art of production and decoration while ensuring impeccable cleanliness and customer service standards. Her journey continued with roles at Pumparela Gelateria and Zvijez D.O.O., where she further refined her abilities in sales, supply management, and customer interaction. Mirna's dedication to her craft led her to Slastičarnica Voćni Trg, where she specialized in producing and selling artisanal ice cream.
Beyond her professional achievements, Mirna's personal qualities shine through. She is described as communicative, adaptable, and highly motivated, with a strong sense of ethics and a readiness to embrace challenges. Her proficiency in English, technical skills, and interpersonal strengths position her as a valuable asset in any workplace.

Sample Menu

 
BREAKFAST

BEVERAGES: WATER, COFFEE, TEA, FRESH SQUEEZED JUICE, GOAT AND COW MILK, FRESH FRUIT & VEGETABLE SHAKES, YOGURTS
COLD DISHES: COOKED HAM, BAKED HAM, HOMEMADE SMOKED SAUSAGES AND BACON, HARD SALAMI, TURKEY HAM, MORTADELA SLICES
SELECTION OF CHEESE: EMENTAL CHEESE, GOUDA CHEESE, EDAMER CHEESE, HOMEMADE YOUNG CHEESE
SPREADS: BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER, SELECTION OF FRUIT JAMS, CREAM CHEESE, FRESH CREAM, TUNA PATE
WARM DISHES: BOILED EGGS, SUNNY SIDE UP FRIED EGGS, POACHED EGGS, VARIOUS OMELETS, GRILLED VEGETABLES, FRIED BACON, TOASTS, CROISSANTS AND VARIOUS BUN ROLLS
SELECTION OF CEREALS: CORN FLAKES, OAT FLAKES, CHOCOLATE CEREALS, FRUIT CEREALS
SELECTION OF FRESH SEASON FRUIT

MENU I.

*
Cold Appetizer 
Smoked Sea Bass Mousse with Bruschetta
(paired with Honey, Mustard and Lemon Cream)
Warm Appetizer
Stuffed Ravioli
(Shrimps, Curd, Prosciutto)
Red Sauce 
(Shrimp, Sundried tomatoes, Cognac)
Main Course 
Monkfish with Vegetables 
(Spring Potatoes, Cherry Tomatoes, Black Olives and Pine Nuts)
Dessert 
Dry Figs with Almonds and Dark Chocolate Glaze

*
Cold Appetizer 
Steak Tartare with Butter and Bone Marrow Gel
Warm Appetizer 
Veal Shank Risotto with Porcini Mushrooms and Gratinated Sheep Cheese
Main Course 
Lamb Cutlets with Polenta and Baby Spinach
(Garlic, Olive Oil and Parsley Emulsion)
Dessert 
Flamed Apple Puree 
(Roasted Almonds, White Chocolate and Cinnamon)

*
Cold Appetizer 
Adriatic Shrimps with Sour Apple Sorbet
Warm Appetizer 
Cream soup
(Roasted Champignons, Prosciutto and Spinach)
Main Course 
Sea Bass Rolls
(served with White Wine Caper Sauceand Vegetable Cream)
Dessert 
Raspberry Champagne Cake 
(Stracciatella Cream, Milk Chocolate, Caramelized Cotton Candy)

*
Cold Appetizer 
Fois Gras 
(Truffle Ice Cream,Sheep Cheese, Focaccia with Herbs)
Warm Appetizer 
Hokkaido Gnocchi
(paired with White Truffle Sauce and Pumpkin Oil Foam)
Main Course
Beef Steak Tagliata 
(Arugula and Cherry Tomatoes, Grana Padano, Toasted Pine Nuts) 
Dessert 
Dark Chocolate Souffle 
(Homemade Vanilla, Orange Ice Cream, Almond and Cherry Crumble)

*
Cold Appetizer 
Cesar Salad with Lobster 
(paired with Caramelized Dalmatian Bacon, Spicey Croutons & Olive Oil 
& Rosemary, Saffron Sauce)
Warm Appetizer 
Dalmatian Traditional Stew with Adriatic Mussels and Spaghetti in White 
Wine and Garlic Sauce
Main Course 
Sashimi Tuna Steak with Vegetables
Dessert 
Semifreddo

*
Cold Appetizer 
Roast Beef with Arugula, Capers and Pickled Onions
(served with Acetto BalsamicoSauce)
Warm Appetizer 
Lamb Soup with Broad Beans, Carrot and Poached Egg Yolk
Main Course 
Wellington Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Truffles 
Dessert 
A selection of Cheese, Jams & Nuts

*
Cold Appetizer 
Roasted Squid Salad with Crispy Black Flavoured Polenta & Sturgeon 
Caviar
Warm Appetizer 
Breaded Shrimp Dumplings in Turmeric Sauce
Main Course
Grilled Salmon Fillets with Pistachio
(Paired with Sweet Potato Puree & White Vine PistachioSauce)
Dessert 
Cheese Pralines with White Chocolate, Raspberry and Rum, Coconut 
Cream

MENU II.

*
Cold Appetizer 
Stuffed Quail eggs
(Adriatic Sardines and Anchovy’s Pate) 
Warm Appetizer 
Farfalle in Tomato and Ricotta Sauce
Main Course 
Fish & Mussels Stew with Homemade Polenta
Dessert 
Hazelnut and Chestnut Stuffed Rafioli
(Paired with Caramel Sauce and Orange Cream)

*

Cold Appetizer 
Stuffed Crust pastry 
(Curd, Truffle Cream, Black Olive Powder)
Warm Appetizer 
Creamy Pottato Arugula Soup 
Main Course 
Confit cock with butternut and chilly cream
Dessert 
Orange Walnut Cake with Coffee & Cognac Cream

*
Cold Appetizer 
Marinated Salmon Mousse
(Served with Salted Sardines & Cherry Tomatoes)
Warm Appetizer 
Baby Octopus Salad with Olives, Garlyc Mayonnaise & Chicory 
Main Course 
Adriatic Prawns in Cognac, Shrimp Tomato Sauce
Dessert 
Forest fruit with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

*
Cold Appetizer 
Beef salad 
(Beef, Red Beans and Chickpeas, Balsamic-Mustard Sauce) 
Warm Appetizer 
Creamy Porcini Mushroom Soup 
Main Course 
Beefsteak with Istrian Handmade Pasta 
Dessert 
Pistacchio Cheesecake 

*
Cold Appetizer 
Mix salad 
(Roasted Beetroot, Feta Cheese, Chili and Thyme Vinegar Sauce) 
Warm Appetizer 
Spinach taglliatele
(paired with Dalmatian Smoked Ham and Broad Beans & Gorgonzola White 
WineSauce)
Main Course 
Wild Trout Fillet with Toasted Almond Bread 
(served with Lemon and Dill White Wine Sauce)
Dessert 
Pear Pie
(Red Wine, Homemade Vanilla, Rose Ice Cream)

*
Cold Appetizer 
Deer Pate
(paired with Toasted Bread, Dalmatian Smoked Ham, Peaches & Mozzarella) 
Warm Appetizer 
Tomato Celery Soup
Main Course 
Grilled Chicken Fillet Stuffed with Mozzarella and Oregano 
(served with Creamy ChanterelleSauce)
Dessert 
Tiramisu
(Cherries, Cheese Cream, Mint and Dark Chocolate)

*
Cold Appetizer 
Tomatoes Stuffed with Tuna Pate, Parmesan and Olives with Toasted Bruschetta 
Warm Appetizer 
Black Gnocchi in Shrimp, CheeseSaffron Sauce
Main Course 
Swordfish Filet with Grilled Vegetables 
In Soy-Sesame Sauce
Dessert 
Crispy Blueberry Pie 
(Blackberry Wine, Cinnamon, Homemade Orange Ice cream)

VEGETARIAN MENU

Day 1

Lunch

Cold Appetizer

 Marinated Artichokes in Tomato Sauce

(stuffed with Pea Cream, Garlic and Olive Oil)

Warm Appetizer

Gnocchi with Truffles and Porcini Mushrooms

Main Course

Warm salad

(Toasted Goat Cheese, Walnuts and Pear & Vinegar, thyme and olive oil sauce)

Dessert

Apple and Blackberry Crumble

(with Homemade Vanilla and White Chocolate Ice Cream)

Afternoon snack:

Fresh Figs with Cashew Cream, Sweet Cream and Honey

Dinner

Cold Appetizer

Puff Pastry Cheese and Chives Baskets

Warm Appetizer

Spinach and Garlic Pie with Turmeric Sauce

Main course

Chickpea Croquettes

(paired with Dried tomatoes, Spinach and Almonds Aromatic Sauce)

Dessert

Chocolate Muffin with Peach and Mascarpone Cream

Day 2

Lunch

Cold Appetizer

Puff Pastry Rolls

(stuffed with Avocado Cheese Cream)

Warm Appetizer

Stuffed Ravioli with Ricotta and Spinach

(served with Tomato Eggplant Sauce)

Main Course

Grilled Vegetables and Tofu Marinated in Pumpkin Oil and Herbs

Dessert

Stuffed Cannoli with Pistachio and Strawberry Cream

Afternoon snack

Selection of Dalmatian Cheese with aromatic crispy Focaccia and Olives

Dinner

Cold Appetizer

Fig and Radicchio Salad in Orange Sauce

Warm Appetizer

Grilled Asparagus in Saffron and Parmesan Sauce

Main course

Baked Chickpea, Rusk Tomato Stew

Dessert

Croatian Fritters with Forest Fruit and Cinnamon Cream

Day 3

 Lunch

Cold Appetizer

Quail Eggs stuffed with Saffron Cream

(served with Hollandaise Sauce)

Warm Appetizer

Polenta and Vegetable Tart

(served with Roasted Peppers and Pumpkin Oil Sauce)

Main course

Breaded Pancakes Stuffed with Baby Spinach and Goat`s Curd

Dessert

Baked Apple Puree

(with Toasted Almonds, White Chocolate and Cinnamon)

Afternoon snack

Fruit salad

(Watermelon, Orange, Mint, Cinnamon, Lemon Juice, Sage, Honey)

Dinner

Cold appetizer

Basil, Pine Nut & Olive Oil Pesto

(paired with Fresh Burrata Cheese and Black Olive Powder)

Warm appetizer

Pasta with Asparagus and Mushrooms

Main course

Grilled Zucchini and Eggplants in tomato sauce

Dessert

Crispy Blueberry Pie with Homemade Orange Ice Cream

Day 4

Lunch

Cold Appetizer

Mix Salad

(Olives, Tomatoes, Feta Cheese, Croutons)

Warm Appetizer

Red Lentil Smoky Chickpea Soup

(served with toasted Pumpkin and Sunflowers Seeds)

Main course

Homemade Zucchini Burger

 (Potato Chips Arugula, Sesame sauce)

Dessert

Apple Cream Cheese Cake

(served with Cranberry, Red Wine and Cinnamon Sauce)

Afternoon snack

Selection of Fresh Fruit and Vegetables

Dinner

Cold appetizer

Mix salad

(Roasted Red Peppers, Beans and Quinoa Salad)

Warm appetizer

Orzo with Mushrooms and Caramelized Pumpkin

Main course

Puff Pastry Stuffed with Vegetable Ragout

(served with roasted purple carrots and vinegar cream)

Dessert

Tiramisu 

Day 5

Lunch

Cold Appetizer

Bruschetta with Marinated Tomatoes and Pepperoncini

Warm Appetizer

Mushrooms stuffed with Garlic and Rosemary

Main course

Buckwheat Tortilla filled with Vegetables and Chili Sauce

Dessert

Pumpkin Pie with Spicy Orange and Ginger Cream

Afternoon snack

Homemade Bread with Nuts and Dried Figs, Cheese and Aromatic Herbs 

Dinner

Cold appetizer

Zucchini Rolls Filled with Ricotta

Warm appetizer

Parmigiano Soup with Shallots

(served with Focaccia with Cherry Tomatoes and Rosemary)

Main course

Baked Potatoes stuffed with Vegetables and Sour Cream & Chive Foam

Dessert

Plum Dumplings 

Day 6

Lunch

Cold Appetizer

Dandelion, Arugula and Caper Salad

(with Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Mustard & Dill Mayonnaise Sauce)

Warm Appetizer

Caramelized Carrot with Purple Onion and Honey

Main course

Vegetable Lasagna

Dessert

Marzipan Balls Filled with Raspberry Cream & Glazed with Dark Chocolate

Afternoon snack

Marinated tofu

(with Olives and Mashed Potatoes & Chili Herb Sauce)

Dinner

Cold appetizer

Cold Pasta Salad with Vegetables, Sour Cream, Thyme and Olive Oil Sauce

Warm appetizer

Stuffed Sushi Rolls

(filled with Carrot, Avocado and Cucumber)

Main course

Tomato Parsley Tart with baked Goat’s Cheese

(served with Tomato and Eggplant Sauce)

Dessert

Homemade Raffioli

(stuffed with Carob, Orange and White Rum)

Day 7

Lunch

Cold Appetizer

Red Lentil and Chili Pate with Grilled Polenta and Spinach Scones

Warm Appetizer

Baked Sweet Potato with Peppers, Red Beans and Cheddar Cheese

Main course

Tofu and Vegetables Stew

Dessert

Walnuts and Honey Pralines in Chocolate and Caramel Sauce

Afternoon snack

A selection of vegetable chips

Dinner

Cold appetizer

Cold Cucumber and Greek Yogurt Soup with Herbs

Warm appetizer

Buckwheat Spaghetti in Tomato, Garlic and Oregano Sauce

Main course

Crispy chickpea and white bean dumplings

(paired with tomato, cucumber, purple onion and dill salsa)

Dessert

Cheese and Hokkaido Squash Cake

(served with prune sauce)

More Locations Details

Summer Operations
Croatia

Winter Operations
Croatia