Jadrolinija magazin, prosinac 2025

BROJ/ ISSUE 3 PROSINAC / DECEMBER 2025

PR E T VOR I T E  SVOJE

U ČA ROL I J U B L AG DA N E

PR E T VOR I T E  SVOJE U ČA ROL I J U B L AG DA N E

/

Pružimo

Tomislav Trcol: tri desetljeća na moru / Three decades on the sea

Biciklom i brodom s otoka na otok /

likovnice pomažu odraslima da odrastu / Picture

Mirta Šurjak: Ljubav prema balunu i brodovima / Mirta

na brodu Dalmacija / What’s

život započne na brodu / When

Thomas Riedel: Zašto volim brodove / Thomas Riedel: Why I

Plovidba koja traje cijelu godinu /

NAKLADNIK / PUBLISHER

Jadrolinija, društvo za linijski pomorski prijevoz putnika i tereta, Riva 16, 51000 Rijeka www.jadrolinija.hr

GLAVNI UREDNIK / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Željko Žutelija

ASISTENTICA GLAVNOG UREDNIKA / ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Denis Nepokoj

IZVRŠNA UREDNICA / EXECUTIVE EDITOR Marija Zaputović Mavrinac

UREDNIŠTVO / EDITORIAL TEAM

Služba korporativnih komunikacija i marketinga Jadrolinija / Jadrolinija Corporate Communications and Marketing Department: Renata Lesica, Antonia Svetina, Iva Sušić, Jadranka Sisgoreo

VODITELJICA PROJEKTA / PROJECT MANAGER

Social G – Gordana Vukres

ASISTENTICA VODITELJICE PROJEKTA / ASSISTANT PROJECT MANAGER

Tara Kezelj

ART DIRECTOR

Igor Vranješ

GRAFIČKA PRIPREMA / PREPRESS

KON-ING, obrt za računalno programiranje i dr. usluge / Company for Computer Programming and Related Services

PRIJEVOD NA ENGLESKI / ENGLISH TRANSLATION

Tanja Kezelj Liović

LEKTURA / PROOFREADING

Kata Zalović Fišter

TISAK / PRESS RADIN PRINT d.o.o., Sveta Nedelja

FOTOGRAFIJA NA NASLOVNICI / COVER

Dražen Žuvela ISSN 3044-1765

Kontakt za suradnju / Collaboration Contact marketing@jadrolinija.hr

Plovidba u budućnost

Turizam, najvažnija hrvatska gospodarska grana, koja će –prema statističkim predviđanjima – i ove godine ostvariti prošlogodišnje rezultate, nezamisliv je bez snažne prometne povezanosti. Cestovni, zračni i pomorski prijevoz, smještajni kapaciteti, ugostiteljska ponuda i kulturno-zabavni sadržaji najvažnije su sastavnice turističkog potencijala. Da bi turistička sezona bila uspješna i produžena i na razdoblje prije i poslije udarnih ljetnih mjeseci – koji za mnoge turiste zbog gužve na cestama i plažama, ali i nesnosnih vrućina, postaju sve manje privlačni – usredotočenost na predsezonski i postsezonski turizam iznimno je strateški važan. Uspješnost turističkog poslovanja znatnim dijelom ovisi o usklađenosti svih sastavnica vodeće nacionalne gospodarske grane.

Kao pomorskoj zemlji, u kojoj je najveći dio turističkog prometa usmjeren prema obalnim i otočnim odredištima, najveća nacionalna brodarska tvrtka Jadrolinija ima važnu ulogu u prometnom sustavu kojim se vrednuje kvaliteta usluge pružene domaćim i inozemnim turistima.

Do 1. prosinca 2025. godine Jadrolinija je – otprilike kao i lani –prevezla oko 12,2 milijuna putnika i 3,7 milijuna vozila. Financijski rezultati u 2025. godini potvrđuju stabilan rast. Strateški prioriteti tvrtke u sljedećem su razdoblju znatna ulaganja u obnovu i održavanje flote te povećanje sigurnosti, kao temeljnog strateškog cilja.

Gotovo polovina ukupnog godišnjeg prometa od preko 6 milijuna putnika preveze se u sezoni, što predstavlja veliko opterećenje za posade, brodove i djelatnike u podršci. Na najfrekventnijim linijama plovi se 24 sata na dan, na vrhuncu sezone, svakodnevno je i do 600 isplovljavanja iz luka, a po potrebi uvode se i dodatne linije.

Povećanje cijena sirovina i tržišnih troškova odražava se i na povećanu cijenu održavanja brodova. Unatoč tome, Jadrolinija neprestano ulaže u sigurnost i tehničku ispravnosti svih 58 brodova u floti. Redoviti remonti, obavljaju se sustavno i temeljito. Ove poslovne godine unapređenje sigurnosti predstavlja glavni prioritet. Ulaganje u sigurnost nije samo zakonska obveza, nego i u povjerenje zaposlenika i putnika koje će osigurati dugoročnu stabilnost poslovanja. Služba pomorske sigurnosti ojačana je kadrovski, a uvedene su i dodatne mjere povećanja sigurnosti na brodovima. S inspektorima lučkih kapetanija uspostavljena je kvalitetna komunikacija između kopna i broda. Također, povećava se broj edukacija i treninga za posade i djelatnike na kopnu.

Sailing into the Future

Tourism, the most important branch of the Croatian economy, which according to statistical forecasts will once again match last year’s results, is unimaginable without strong transport connectivity. Road, air, and maritime transport, together with accommodation capacities, hospitality services, and cultural and entertainment offerings, are the key components of the country’s tourism potential.

For the tourist season to be successful and extended beyond the peak summer months—which, due to traffic congestion, crowded beaches, and extreme heat, are becoming less attractive for many visitors— strategic focus on preseason and postseason tourism is of vital importance. The success of the tourism industry depends largely on the coordination and efficiency of all sectors that contribute to this leading national economic activity.

As a maritime nation whose tourism is largely oriented toward coastal and island destinations, Croatia relies heavily on its largest national shipping company, Jadrolinija, which plays a crucial role in the transport network that defines the quality of service offered to both domestic and international passengers.

By 1 December 2025, Jadrolinija had transported approximately 12.2 million passengers and 3.7 million vehicles, roughly the same as last year. The company’s financial results confirm steady growth. Its strategic priorities for the coming period include substantial investments in fleet renewal and

U deset mjeseci 2025. godine

Jadrolinija je – otprilike kao i lani –prevezla oko 11,6 milijuna putnika i 3,5 milijuna vozila / In the first ten months of 2025, Jadrolinija transported approximately 11.6 million passengers and 3.5 million vehicles, roughly the same as the previous year

Trajekti na liniji Valbiska - Merag / Ferries operating on the route Valbiska - Merag

Osim ulaganja u sigurnost, planira se i rashodovanje starijih brodova i njihova zamjena modernijim i ekološki prihvatljivijim tipovima brodova. Jadrolinija je usredotočena na nabavu dvostranih trajekata i putničkih brodova koji koriste alternativne izvore energije temeljene na zelenoj tehnologiji, u skladu s nacionalnim i europskim ciljevima dekarbonizacije pomorskog prometa. Jadrolinijina flota trenutno broji 58 brodova prosječne starosti 27,8 godina, što je manje od europskog prosjeka koji iznosi 33 godine. Zapošljava oko 2000 djelatnika, od čega je oko 75% pomoraca. Svjesni prioriteta unapređenja sigurnoti, obnove flote i ulaganja u razvoj kadrova kao temeljnog resursa, Jadrolinija odlučno nastavlja provoditi svoju osnovnu misiju te optimistično gledati u budućnost razvoja kompanije ali i putničkog pomorskog prometa na Jadranu općenito.

maintenance, as well as in enhancing safety, which remains a fundamental strategic goal.

Nearly half of the company’s annual passenger traffic—over six million people—is carried during the summer season alone. This represents a significant challenge for crews, vessels, and shore-based staff. On the busiest routes, ferries operate 24 hours a day, and at the height of the season there can be up to 600 daily departures from ports, with additional sailings introduced when needed.

The increase in the cost of raw materials and market services has also led to higher maintenance expenses for the fleet. Nevertheless, Jadrolinija continues to invest consistently in the safety and technical reliability of all 58 vessels in its fleet. Regular overhauls are carried out systematically and thoroughly.

This business year, safety improvement is the company’s top priority. Investing in safety is not only a legal obligation but also an investment in the trust of employees and passengers, ensuring long-term business stability. The Maritime Safety Department has been strengthened with additional personnel, and new safety measures have been introduced across the fleet. Effective communication between ship and shore has been established in cooperation with harbour master inspectors, and the number of training programs and drills for both seagoing and shore-based employees continues to grow.

In addition to safety investments, the company plans to gradually retire older vessels and replace them with modern, environmentally friendly ships. Jadrolinija is focused on acquiring double-ended ferries and passenger ships powered by alternative, green energy sources, in line with national and European goals for the decarbonization of maritime transport.

Today, Jadrolinija’s fleet numbers 58 vessels with an average age of 27.8 years, which is below the European average of 33 years. The company employs around 2,000 people, approximately 75 % of whom are seafarers.

Fully aware of its priorities—enhancing safety, renewing the fleet, and investing in human resources as its most valuable asset—Jadrolinija remains firmly committed to its mission. With confidence and determination, the company continues to sail toward a future of growth and innovation, not only for itself but also for the entire passenger maritime sector of the Adriatic..

Tragom tradicije, ususret inovacijama

Godina na izmaku obilježena je uspješnim sezonskim rezultatima, razvojnim inovacijama i potvrđivanjem iznimno važne uloge nacionalnog brodara u povezivanju obale i otoka i doprinosu razvoju kvalitete hrvatskog turizma

Dok stojimo na palubi trajekta i promatramo brazdu koju ostavlja iza sebe, razmišljamo i o tragovima koji tijekom života ostaju iza nas. U Jadrolinijinu tragu u 2025. godini mnoge su aktivnosti, inovacije i iskoraci prema stalnom napretku i novim razvojnim perspektivama. U sažetom, mozaičkom obliku donosimo nekoliko malih, ali važnih trenutaka koji zajedno oslikavaju godinu koja ostaje „iza krme” Jadrolinijina broda.

Razvoj bijele flote

Na početku 2025. godine bijeloj floti pridružena su dva nova katamarana – Cvijeta i Ružica, a sredinom godine brodarsku flotu obogatila je novoizgrađena Mila. Priključivanjem tih brodova floti nastavljen je kontinuitet ulaganja, posebno u brzobrodski promet, što je dodatno unaprijedilo kvalitetu i pouzdanost usluge.

Nove veze

Ljeto je, kao i svake godine, za Jadroliniju bilo najdinamičnije poslovno razdoblje. U 2025. godini prvi je put uvedena izravna brzobrodska linija iz Rijeke preko Raba i Novalje do otoka Silbe. Ovom linijom stvorena je nova vrijednost i poboljšana povezanost otočnih zajednica, a putnicima je omogućila vikend-putovanja u turistička odredišta, dosad dostupna samo iz Zadra.

Međunarodne linije

Ljeto su obilježile i međunarodne linije, važne za one koji žele putovati vozilom, ali tako da izbjegnu duga cestovna putovanja. Brodom Dalmacija održavane su linije Bar – Bari, Dubrovnik –Bari, a brodom Marko Polo linije Zadar – Ancona i Split – Ancona. Na brodu Dalmacija predstavljena je i nova usluga aviosjedala, a kontinuirano se unapređuje ugostiteljska ponuda, kojom se kvaliteta putovanja podiže na višu razinu.

Rezultati sezone

U ljetnoj sezoni postignuti su rezultati na razini rekordne 2024. godine. Broj prevezenih vozila povećan je za oko 2 posto. Predanost naših pomoraca i pravodobno prilagođivanje dodatnim

Following Tradition, Embracing Innovation

The year now drawing to a close was marked by strong seasonal results, developmental innovations, and the reaffirmation of the national shipping company’s vital role in connecting the coast and the islands, contributing to the growth and quality of Croatian tourism.

As we stand on the ferry deck watching the wake spread behind us, we can’t help but think about the traces we leave throughout our lives. In Jadrolinija’s wake during 2025, many activities, innovations, and steps forward have shaped a constant journey of progress and new development perspectives. In this brief mosaic, we bring together several small yet meaningful moments that, taken together, reflect the year now astern of Jadrolinija’s vessel.

Development of the White Fleet

At the beginning of 2025, two new catamarans, Cvijeta and Ružica, joined Jadrolinija’s White Fleet, followed mid-year by the newly built Mila. The addition of these vessels continues the long-standing investment cycle, particularly in high-speed passenger transport, further improving service quality and reliability.

New Connections

Summer, as always, was the most dynamic business period for Jadrolinija. In 2025, for

Novogradnja Mila zaplovila je na linijama splitskog područja u srpnju 2025 godine / The newly built vessel Mila began sailing on the routes in the Split area in July 2025

Animacije u lukama tijekom ljetnih gužvi olakšavale su dugotrajna čekanja / Animations at the ports during the summer rush helped ease the long waiting times

Nastavljena je višemjesečna suradnja sa Svjetskom bankom i međunarodnom financijskom institucijom IFC vezano za financiranje novih projekata i obnove flote / A several-month collaboration is continued out with the World Bank and the international financial institution IFC regarding the financing of new projects and fleet renewal

U suradnji s udrugom Spektar postavljenje komunikacijske ploče na trajektima / In collaboration with the Spektar association, a communication board was installed on the ferries

redovito predstavljanje ponude Jadrolinije na međunarodnim turističkim sajmovima / Regular presentations of Jadrolinija’s offerings were

plovidbama jamče uspješne rezultate i zadovoljstvo putnika. Posebno se pamte trenuci kad je naš poznati Barba – na zadovoljstvo putnika – tijekom najvećih gužva u lukama dijelio vodu, zalogaje i šešire za sunce. Takve geste trajno ostaju u pamćenju putnika.

Potpora manifestacijama

Jadrolinija je i ove godine bila ponosni partner mnogih manifestacija, među kojima se posebno ističe Trag u beskraju, jedan od najspektakularnijih ljetnih događaja na Jadranu. Podržane su i

the first time, a direct high-speed route was introduced from Rijeka, via Rab and Novalja, to the island of Silba. This line created new value by improving connectivity among island communities and enabling passengers to enjoy weekend getaways to destinations previously accessible only from Zadar.

International Routes

The summer season also saw the continued operation of important international lines for travelers who prefer to take their vehicles while avoiding long overland trips. The vessel Dalmacija maintained services on the Bar–Bari and Dubrovnik–Bari routes, while Marko Polo operated the Zadar–Ancona and Split–Ancona routes. On board Dalmacija, a new airline seat service was introduced, and the onboard hospitality offering continued to evolve, raising the quality of travel to a higher level.

Season Results

The summer of 2025 matched the record-breaking success of 2024. The number of transported vehicles increased by around two percent. The dedication of Jadrolinija’s seafarers and timely adjustments through additional sailings ensured strong results and satisfied passengers. One of the most memorable moments of the season was when a well-known Barba, to the delight of passengers, handed out water, snacks, and sun hats during the busiest port hours. Such small acts of kindness remain forever in travelers’ memories.

Support for Events

This year again, Jadrolinija proudly partnered with numerous events, most notably Trag u beskraju (A Trace in Infinity), one of the Adriatic’s most spectacular summer gatherings. The company also supported a range of sports and cultural events, including CroRace, the Oldtimer Auto Rally, the 4Islands Mountain Bike race, and many others. Particular public attention was drawn to Jadrolinija’s new collectible ferry-building toy sets, a viral sensation and a sought-after souvenir both in Croatia and abroad.

Partnerships for the Future

One of the key steps forward in 2025 was Jadrolinija’s cooperation with the World Bank, focused on investments in fleet renewal and business modernization. Throughout the year, numerous

Jadrolinija je u 2025. godini prevezla više od 12,5 milijuna putnika / Jadrolinija has transported more than 12,5 million passengers in 2025

Ostvareno potpisivanje kolektivnog ugovora za djelatnike na kopnu / The signing of the collective agreement for land-based employees was completed

Osnažena suradnja s akademskom zajednicom kroz brojna održana stručna predavanja / Collaboration with the academic community was strengthened through numerous professional lectures held

sportske i kulturne manifestacije poput CroRace, Oldtimer auto rally, 4Islands Mountain Bike utrka i druge. Veliku pozornost privukle su i viralne kockice za slaganje trajekta, koje su postale tražen suvenir u Hrvatskoj i inozemstvu.

Suradnje za budućnost

Jedan od važnih iskoraka ostvaren je suradnjom sa Svjetskom bankom, s kojom se pripremaju ulaganja u obnovu flote i modernizacija poslovanja. Tijekom godine provedene su i mnoge edukacije,

educational programs, guest lectures, and collaborations with island communities were carried out. Of special note were meetings between the Management Board, led by President Robert Blažinović, and representatives of local island governments. These discussions reviewed the results of the peak season and set out recommendations for the coming period. Jadrolinija

Predstavljen novi koncept prodajnog objekta u pristaništu Žigljen / A new concept for the sales outlet at the Žigljen port was presented

gostovanja i suradnja s otočnim zajednicama. Posebno se ističu susreti Uprave, na čelu s predsjednikom Robertom Blažinovićem, s predstavnicima lokalnih otočnih samouprava. Na tim su sastancima analizirani rezultati visoke sezone i definirane preporuke za sljedeći razdoblje. Osnažene su i veze s akademskom zajednicom, osobito kad je riječ o predavanjima Jadrolinijinih stručnjaka na visokoobrazovnim ustanovama te provođenje stručnih praksa.

also strengthened its ties with the academic community, particularly through guest lectures by its experts at higher education institutions and through professional training programs for maritime students.

Innovation

Among the year’s most important innovations was the launch of a new version of the mJadrolinija mobile app. The app provides passengers with numerous benefits, including the ability to store payment cards and vehicle data, purchase tickets using saved templates, and access travel information more easily. Alongside the mobile platform, Jadrolinija is developing artificial intelligence–based technologies that passengers will have the opportunity to experience in the coming year.

The year 2025 will be remembered as another successful chapter in Jadrolinija’s history – filled with innovation, strong results, and pride in the people whose work and dedication prove every day that Jadrolinija is not just a transport company, but an essential part of the identity of the Croatian Adriatic.

Inovacije

Među važnijim novitetima objava je nove verzije mobilne aplikacije mJadrolinija. Aplikacija putnicima nudi mnoge pogodnosti, poput pohranjivanja kartica, podataka o vozilu i kupnje karata spremljenim predlošcima. Uz mobilnu aplikaciju razvijaju se tehnologije temeljene na umjetnoj inteligenciji, koje će putnici imati priliku isprobati sljedeće godine.

Godina 2025. ostat će zapamćena kao još jedno uspješno poglavlje u povijesti Jadrolinije – ispunjeno novitetima, dobrim rezultatima i ponosom na ljude koji svojim radom i predanošću svakodnevno potvrđuju da Jadrolinija nije samo prijevoznik nego i dio identiteta hrvatskog Jadrana. ~

Tradicionalna glazbena plovidba u čast Oliveru Dragojeviću ponovno oduševila / The traditional musical voyage in honor of Oliver Dragojević delighted audiences once again

U 2025. godini Jadrolinija bilježi rast od oko 2,5% u broju prevezenih vozila / In 2025, Jadrolinija recorded an increase of approximately 2.5% in the number of vehicles transported

Pružimo djeci šansu

Jadrolinija se s ponosom pridružuje onima koji povezivanjem dječje hrabrosti i društvene potpore vjeruju u promjene koje svijet mijenjaju nabolje. Udruga „Hureka“, koja se zalaže za ranu edukaciju djece s intelektualnim teškoćama, teži razvoju uključivog društva u kojem je djeci namijenjena važna uloga, a Jadrolinija je među onima koji pružaju punu potporu takvim nastojanjima

Društveno odgovorno poslovanje za Jadroliniju je iznimno važna sastavnica ukupnog poslovanja. Podrazumijeva ulaganje u zajednicu, ljude i vrijednosti koje povezuju ljude, obalu i otoke, tradiciju i budućnost. Donacijama i sponzorstvima Jadrolinija kontinuirano podupire udruge, manifestacije i inicijative koje pridonose boljoj kvaliteti života na otocima i u priobalju, ali i one usredotočene na djecu, socijalno ugrožene skupine, starije i nemoćne te projekte koji čuvaju bogatu kulturnu i pomorsku baštinu hrvatskog Jadrana. Takvi su projekti temeljna misija Jadrolinije kojom nacionalni brodar ulaže i u zajednicu koje je dio i koja je na svim razinama isprepletena s djelatnošću i Jadrolinijinim poslovanjem. U toj je poslovnoj viziji prepoznata i Hrvatska udruga za ranu edukaciju „Hureka“, čiju inicijativu „Djeca koja pomažu mijenjaju svijet“ Jadrolinija s ponosom podržava i pridonosi njezinu društveno korisnom djelovanju.

GLAS MALIH AMBASADORA

U današnjem svijetu, u kojem se često govori o preprekama i nemogućnostima, postoji mjesto u kojem dječji glasovi otvaraju vrata, a male ruke brišu granice. To mjesto stvara „Hureka“ – tim stručnjaka koji vjeruju da svako dijete ima pravo na početak kojim će svijet oko sebe promijeniti nabolje.

Giving Children a Chance

Jadrolinija proudly joins those who believe that by connecting children’s courage with community support, we can create change that makes the world a better place. The association Hureka, dedicated to early education for children with intellectual disabilities, strives toward an inclusive society in which every child plays an important role — and Jadrolinija stands firmly among those who fully support such efforts.

Corporate social responsibility is an essential part of Jadrolinija’s overall business philosophy. It means investing in communities, in people, and in the values that connect them — the mainland and the islands, tradition and the future. Through donations and sponsorships, Jadrolinija continuously supports organizations, events, and initiatives that enhance the quality of life on the islands and along the coast. The company also stands behind programs focused on children, socially vulnerable groups, the elderly, and the preservation of Croatia’s rich cultural and maritime heritage.

Such projects form the cornerstone of Jadrolinija’s mission — a mission through which the national shipping company invests not only in its operations, but in the community it belongs to, one that is intertwined with its maritime activity at every level. Within this vision, Jadrolinija recognized the work of the Croatian Association for Early Education “Hureka”, and proudly supports its initiative “Children Who Help Change the World,” contributing to its meaningful, socially beneficial impact.

THE VOICE OF YOUNG AMBASSADORS

In today’s world, where we often hear about obstacles and limitations, there exists a place where children’s voices open doors and their small hands erase boundaries. That place is created by Hureka — a team of experts who believe that every child deserves a beginning from which they can change the world for the better.

At the heart of their project are three primary school students — a nine-, ten-, and eleven-year-old, two of whom have Down

Štićenici udruge HUREKA / HUREKA association beneficiaries

U središtu je njihova projekta troje osnovnoškolaca – devetogodišnjak, desetogodišnjak i jedanaestogodišnjak, od kojih je dvoje djece sa Downovim sindromom. Njih troje, strukturiranim telefonskim razgovorima s predstavnicima hrvatskih poduzeća, izravno pozivaju tvrtke da pomognu financirati program „Snažan start“. Riječ je o petogodišnjem programu rane izobrazbe i kognitivne rehabilitacije djece s intelektualnim teškoćama.

Ova je kampanja iznimna ne samo po tome što ima jasno definiran cilj nego i način na koji se ostvaruje: djeca su ambasadori promjena, dokaz da rana, pravodobna potpora utječe na stjecanje samopouzdanja, komunikacijskih i socijalnih vještina. Djeca koja uživaju takvu potporu sposobna su preuzeti aktivnu ulogu u društvu.

JADROLINIJA VJERUJE U SNAGU DJECE

Kao nacionalni brodar, Jadrolinija već gotovo 80 godina povezuje ljude, otoke i gradove, a ovim projektom još jednom dokazuje svoju predanost društveno odgovornoj sastavnici svog poslovanja. Potpora Jadrolinije programu „Snažan start“ omogućila je jednom djetetu s teškoćama u razvoju sudjelovanje u cjelovitom petogodišnjem programu koji obuhvaća rad s logopedom, edukacijskim rehabilitatorom, psihologom, odgojiteljem, socijalnim radnikom i certificiranim Numicon trenerom. Program se temelji na provjerenim svjetskim metodama rane edukacije –Doman metodi (Doman International) i Numicon metodi (Oxford

syndrome. Through structured phone conversations with representatives of Croatian companies, these children directly invite businesses to help finance the “Strong Start” program — a five-year initiative for early education and cognitive rehabilitation for children with intellectual disabilities.

This campaign stands out not only for its clear goals but for the way it is carried out: the children themselves are the ambassadors of change, proving that early, timely support fosters self-confidence, communication, and social skills. Children who receive such support can take an active role in society.

JADROLINIJA BELIEVES IN THE POWER OF CHILDREN

As Croatia’s national shipping company, Jadrolinija has been connecting people, islands, and cities for nearly 80 years. Through this project, it once again reaffirms its commitment to social responsibility.

Jadrolinija’s support for the “Strong Start” program has enabled one child with developmental challenges to participate in

komunikaciju i svakodnevne funkcionalne vještine / Children participating in Hureka’s programs take part in structured educationaltherapeutic activities designed to support learning, communication, and everyday functional skills

University Press) – koje već nakon nekoliko mjeseci donose zapažene rezultate.

Projekt ima tri jasna cilja: opovrgnuti stereotipe o intelektualnim teškoćama i upozoriti na važnost rane edukacije, osigurati financijsku potporu za pedesetero djece čiji roditelji ne mogu samostalno financirati program te stvoriti mrežu dugoročnih partnera među tvrtkama koje će pratiti razvoj djeteta tijekom najvažnijih godina odrastanja.

Želite li podržati ovaj program i pridružiti se stvaranju ozračja pozitivnih promjena, više informacija dostupno je na mrežnoj stranici www.hureka.hr. ~

a full five-year program that includes work with a speech therapist, educational rehabilitator, psychologist, educator, social worker, and certified Numicon trainer.

The program is based on proven international methods of early education — the Doman Method (Doman International) and the Numicon Method (Oxford University Press) — which yield remarkable results within just a few months.

The project has three clear goals:

1. To challenge stereotypes about intellectual disabilities and emphasize the importance of early education.

2. To provide financial support for fifty children whose parents cannot afford the program on their own.

3. To build a network of long-term corporate partners who will accompany each child’s development during their most formative years.

If you would like to support this initiative and contribute to creating an atmosphere of positive change, visit www.hureka.hr

Tomislav Trcol: tri desetljeća

Tomislav Trcol, zapovjednik trajekta Brač, s više od tri desetljeća iskustva na moru, jedan je od Jadrolinijinih doajena i promicatelj vrijednosti na kojima se temelji poslovna strategija tvrtke – profesionalnosti, predanosti poslu i ljubavi prema moru

Svaka je posada Jadrolinijina broda malen, usklađen tim koji svakodnevno preuzima veliku odgovornost – za sigurnu plovidbu, pouzdanu vezu između kopna i mora i brigu za udobnost putnika. Na održavanju visokih standarda sigurnosti i profesionalnosti najodgovorniji su zapovjednici broda. Na njihovu znanju, iskustvu i staloženosti temelji se povjerenje koje Jadrolinija uživa među putnicima i sustavno izgrađuje već više od sedam desetljeća.

Kakav je bio vaš put od početka karijere u Jadroliniji do položaja zapovjednika trajekta Brač?

Kao i kod većine mladih pomoraca – pun entuzijazma, ali i poštovanja prema moru i ljudima koji su s njim povezani. Počeo sam kao kadet, a potom sam unaprijeđen u časnika palube. Iskustvo sam stjecao na različitim linijama i brodovima. Svaka nova dužnost značila je i veću odgovornost. Nakon godina plovidbe, školovanja i položenih stručnih ispita, 1998. godine dobio sam priliku preuzeti zapovjedništvo na katamaranu Novalja. To je za mene bio velik profesionalni iskorak. Zapovijedao sam na nekoliko brodova Jadrolinijine flote, a danas ponosno obavljam dužnost zapovjednika na trajektu Brač.

Što vas je motiviralo za pomorsku karijeru i kakav je bio vaš početak u Jadroliniji?

Odrastao sam uz more i oduvijek me privlačila ideja da ono postane moj životni poziv. Pomorstvo mi je bilo izazov, nudilo dinamiku i osjećaj slobode kakav pruža malo koji posao. Početak u Jadroliniji bio je zahtjevan – trebalo se nositi s dugim radnim danom, odgovornošću i prilagođivanjem različitim vremenskim uvjetima koji su dodatni izazov na kojoj god liniji plovite. No imao

Tomislav Trcol: Three Decades on the Sea

Tomislav Trcol, Captain of the ferry Brač, with more than three decades of experience at sea, is one of Jadrolinija’s most respected commanders and a true ambassador of the company’s core values — professionalism, dedication, and love for the sea.

Every Jadrolinija crew is a small, well-coordinated team that carries great responsibility every single day: ensuring safe navigation, maintaining reliable connections between the mainland and the islands, and caring for passenger comfort. Among them, the captains bear the highest responsibility. Their knowledge, composure, and experience form the foundation of the trust Jadrolinija has built with passengers for more than seventy years.

What was your journey from the start of your career at Jadrolinija to becoming the captain of the ferry Brač?

Like most young seafarers, I began full of enthusiasm — but also with deep respect for the sea and the people who dedicate their lives to it. I started as a cadet, then advanced to deck officer, gaining experience on different ships and routes. Every new assignment brought greater responsibility.

After years of sailing, studying, and passing professional exams, in 1998 I was given the opportunity to take command of the catamaran Novalja. That was a major milestone in my career. Since then, I’ve commanded several vessels across the Jadrolinija fleet, and today I proudly serve as Captain of the ferry Brač.

What inspired you to pursue a maritime career, and how were your beginnings at Jadrolinija?

I grew up by the sea, and from an early age I was drawn to the idea of making it my life’s work. Seafaring offered both challenge and freedom — the kind few other professions can provide. My beginnings at Jadrolinija were demanding. The days were long, the work carried great responsibility, and adapting to ever-changing weather conditions was often difficult. But I was fortunate to learn from experienced colleagues who were

sam sreću učiti od iskusnih kolega koji su uvijek bili spremni pomoći i prenijeti svoje znanje na nas mlađe.

Koje ste ključne lekcije naučili tijekom službe? Koje su vam najviše pomogle u profesionalnom razvoju?

Najvažnija je lekcija da se na moru nikad ne smiješ opustiti. Pažnja, disciplina i poštovanje pravila sigurnosti temelj su svega ostalog. Druga je lekcija važnost timskog rada – zapovjednik je odgovoran za brod, ali bez dobre suradnje i povjerenja među članovima posade, brod ne može funkcionirati. Naučio sam i da svaka odluka mora biti promišljena i pravodobna.

Kako ste doživjeli priznanje Turističke zajednice grada Rijeke za najboljeg djelatnika u pomorskom prometu?

Bila mi je velika čast primiti nagradu Riječka trešnja za najboljeg djelatnika u pomorskom prometu. Iako je nagrada uručena meni osobno, smatram je priznanjem cijelom kolektivu Jadrolinije. Naši rezultati i ugled temelje se na svakodnevnom predanom radu svih djelatnika – od posada na brodovima do kolega u uredima i tehničkim službama. Zajedno se trudimo da naši putnici putuju sigurno, udobno i s osmijehom. Ta zajednička posvećenost poslu daje tom priznanju pravi smisao. Ponosan sam što sam dio tima koji svakodnevno dokazuje da je Jadrolinija sinonim za pouzdanu i kvalitetnu uslugu. Priznanje mi je poticaj za daljnji rad i doprinos razvoju naše tvrtke.

Kako usklađujete zahtjevnost pomorskog života s privatnim obvezama i obiteljskim životom?

Nije lako, jer plovidba podrazumijeva rad u smjenama i razdvojenost od obitelji. Ključ je u toleranciji i razumijevanju. Moja obitelj zna koliko volim svoj posao, a ja svaki slobodni trenutak kod kuće nastojim što bolje iskoristiti, kako bih obitelji barem donekle nadoknadio vrijeme provedeno na moru.

Koji su najizazovniji trenuci u vašem poslu, a koji vam donose najveće zadovoljstvo?

Najizazovniji su nepovoljni vremenski uvjeti – jaka bura, jugo, loša vidljivost. Ili gužva u luci. Tada su iskustvo i staloženost najvažniji. Najveće zadovoljstvo je osjećaj kad sigurno pristaneš u luku i znaš da su putnici i brod sigurno stigli na odredište. Poseban je i osjećaj kad vidiš turiste koji prvi put doživljavaju naše otoke –tada osjećaš da je tvoj posao važna sastavnica hrvatskog turizma.

Što biste savjetovali mladim pomorcima koji tek započinju karijeru u Jadroliniji?

Savjetovao bih im da budu strpljivi i uporni. Pomorski poziv zahtijeva odricanje, ali donosi i veliko zadovoljstvo. Neka uče od starijih kolega, poštuju hijerarhiju i nikad ne prestanu ulagati u sebe, tj. izobrazbu. Na moru se iskustvo stječe polako, ali svaka smjena donosi novu poučnu lekciju.

dio

always willing to help and share their knowledge with us younger crew members.

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned during your service — the ones that shaped your professional growth?

The most important lesson is that you must never relax your attention at sea. Vigilance, discipline, and respect for safety rules are the foundation of everything. The second lesson is the importance of teamwork — a captain may hold ultimate responsibility, but without cooperation and mutual trust among the crew, a ship cannot function. And finally, I’ve learned that every decision must be carefully considered and made at the right moment.

You received the Rijeka Tourist Board award for Best Maritime Employee. How did that feel?

It was a great honor to receive the “Riječka trešnja” award for Best Maritime Employee. Although the award was given to me personally, I see it as recognition for the entire Jadrolinija family. Our success and reputation are built on the daily dedication of all our employees — from ship crews to office and technical staff. Together, we make sure our passengers travel safely, comfortably, and with a smile.

That shared commitment gives real meaning to the award. I’m proud to be part of a team that proves every day that Jadrolinija is a synonym for reliability and quality. The award is both an honor and a motivation to continue contributing to the company’s growth and success.

How do you balance the demanding life at sea with your private and family life?

It isn’t easy, because seafaring means working in shifts and being away from family for long periods. The key is understanding and patience. My family knows how much I love my work, and when I’m home, I do my best to make up for the time I spend away. Every moment together becomes more meaningful because of that.

What are the most challenging aspects of your work, and what gives you the greatest satisfaction?

The biggest challenges are adverse weather conditions — strong bura or jugo winds, poor visibility, or crowded ports. In those moments, experience and composure are crucial.

Kako vidite budućnost Jadrolinije?

Jadrolinija ima dugu i respektabilnu tradiciju, ali i obvezu modernizacije. Vjerujem da budućnost donosi više ekološki prihvatljivih brodova, digitalizaciju i bolju povezanost s otocima. Cilj je ostati okosnica hrvatskog pomorskog prometa, ali i lider u održivu pomorstvu na Jadranu.

Koji su vaši profesionalni i privatni ciljevi u sljedećem razdoblju?

Želim pridonositi sigurnosti i kvaliteti plovidbe Jadrolinijinih brodova, ali i pomagati mlađim kolegama u njihovu razvoju. Privatno želim više vremena provoditi s obitelji i nastaviti uživati u moru, ali s obale, uz dobru knjigu i s pogledom na brodove koji prolaze.

I’m proud to be part of a team that proves every day that Jadrolinija is a synonym for reliability and quality

The greatest satisfaction comes when we safely reach port, knowing that our passengers and the ship have arrived without a single issue. It’s also a special feeling to see tourists experiencing our islands for the first time — that’s when you truly realize how important our work is for Croatian tourism.

What advice would you give to young mariners starting their careers at Jadrolinija?

Be patient and persistent. Seafaring demands sacrifice but brings immense satisfaction in return. Learn from your senior colleagues, respect hierarchy, and never stop investing in your education. Experience at sea takes time to build — but every watch, every voyage, teaches you something valuable.

How do you see the company’s future?

Jadrolinija has a long and distinguished tradition, but it also carries the responsibility of modernization. I believe the future will bring more environmentally friendly vessels, increased digitalization, and even better connectivity between islands. The goal is to remain the backbone of Croatian maritime transport and a leader in sustainable navigation on the Adriatic.

What are your personal and professional goals for the coming years?

Professionally, I want to continue contributing to the safety and quality of Jadrolinija’s operations, and to help guide younger colleagues as they develop their own careers. Personally, I hope to spend more time with my family — and to keep enjoying the sea, but from the shore, with a good book and the sight of ships passing by.

Biciklom i brodom s otoka na otok

Jedinstvena biciklistička utrka 4Islands Epic, koja se održava na kvarnerskim otocima, ove godine slavi desetu obljetnicu uspješnog partnerstva s Jadrolinijom koja natjecatelje prevozi s otoka na otok i aktivan je sudionik sportskog spektakla

Ubrdskom biciklizmu rijetke su utrke koje istodobno zahtijevaju tjelesnu izdržljivost, potiču avanturistički duh i u sjećanju ostavljaju neizbrisiv trag. Još je rjeđe da sve to započne – startom s trajekta. No upravo tako svakog proljeća počinje 4Islands Epic, jedinstvena etapna utrka koja već deset godina kvarnerske otoke pretvara u pozornicu velikog sportskog uzbuđenja. Ove godine utrka obilježava desetu obljetnicu postojanja, ali i deset godina iznimne suradnje s Jadrolinijom –partnerom bez kojeg ovaj projekt ne bi mogao dosegnuti svjetsku razinu.

Kad se prvi put začuje sirena trajekta, kad se pedale počnu okretati dok valovi udaraju o bokove broda, natjecatelji znaju da je to početak pedaliranja u nešto vrlo posebno. Start utrke s palube Jadrolinijina trajekta nije samo adrenalinski uvod nego i simbol svega što 4Islands Epic predstavlja: spoj prirode i timskog duha, logističke perfekcije i potpun predanosti natjecanju. To je samo utrka i doživljaj koji se pamti cijeli život.

Utrka 4Islands nije kopija već postojećih natjecanja. Ona redefinira ideju etapnog MTB izazova. U pet dana natjecatelji prelaze četiri otoka, od kojih se svaki ističe svojom posebnošću – klimom, terenima i mirisima pa se utrka, osim na stazi, doživljava i između etapa – na moru, na vjetru, u trenucima tišine između dvaju uspona, a Jadrolinijin trajekt ključna je poveznica natjecanja.

Zato se kaže: tko nije startao s trajekta – ne zna što znači 4Islands.

Cycling and Sailing from Island to Island

The unique mountain bike race 4Islands Epic, held on the islands of the Kvarner archipelago, celebrates its tenth anniversary this year — marking a decade of successful partnership with Jadrolinija, which transports competitors from island to island and plays an active role in this sporting spectacle.

Sekunde prije starta u trajektnoj luci Merag, otok Cres / Seconds before the start at the Merag ferry port, Cres Island (Marija Piroshki)

TRAJEKT KRK

Utrka 4Islands Epic od samog je početka bila logistički izazov. Prevesti svakog dana stotine natjecatelja, njihove timove, bicikle, opremu i osoblje s jednog otoka na drugi u početku se činilo gotovo nemogućim. Cijeli se projekt temeljio na pouzdanom i čvrstom osloncu – Jadrolinijinu trajektu Krk.

Sa zapovjednikom koji poznaje svaku otočnu uvalu i članovima posade koji znaju imena barem desetak natjecatelja, trajekt Krk nije samo brod. On je servisna zona, prijevozno sredstvo i središte događanja. Sudjeluje u natjecanju od prve utrke. U deset godina postao je srce utrke, vitalni „organ“ i epicentar svih događanja.

Na početku su se koristile redovite linije, uz pažljivo tempiranje etapa. Bicikli su se slagali u redove, natjecatelji s kartama u ruci planirali su sljedeću etapu. No već nakon prve godine suradnja je prerasla u potpuni najam broda, a Krk je tijekom natjecanja

The unique mountain bike race 4Islands Epic, held on the islands of the Kvarner archipelago, celebrates its tenth anniversary this year — marking a decade of successful partnership with Jadrolinija, which transports competitors from island to island and plays an active role in this sporting spectacle.

In mountain biking, there are few races that combine physical endurance, a true sense of adventure, and memories that last a lifetime. It is even rarer for such a race to begin aboard a ferry. Yet every spring, that is exactly how 4Islands Epic begins — with the sound of a ship’s horn, the sea splashing

against the hull, and hundreds of cyclists ready to pedal through one of the most spectacular stage races in the world.

This year, the event celebrates not only ten years of racing across the Kvarner islands, but also a decade of extraordinary cooperation with Jadrolinija — the partner without whom the race could never have reached an international level.

When the ferry horn sounds and the riders start pedaling as waves crash along the sides of the ship, they know they are entering something special. The start of the race from the deck of a Jadrolinija ferry is not only an adrenaline-fueled opening — it is a symbol of everything 4Islands Epic represents: the unity of nature and teamwork, logistical perfection, and complete dedication to the challenge. It is a race — and an experience — that riders remember for life.

THE FERRY KRK

From its very beginning, the 4Islands Epic has been a major logistical challenge. Transporting hundreds of riders, their teams, bicycles, equipment, and staff from one island to another every day once seemed almost impossible. The entire project relied on a single, solid foundation — the Jadrolinija ferry Krk.

With a captain who knows every cove in the Kvarner and a crew who can name at least a dozen competitors by heart, the ferry Krk is not just a ship. It is a floating basecamp, a transport hub, and the beating heart of the race. The ferry has been involved since the very first edition, and over ten years it has become a vital part of the event’s DNA.

At the start, regular ferry lines were used, with carefully timed stages to fit the sailing schedule. Bicycles were lined up in rows, and riders holding their tickets planned their next stage while watching the sea. But after the first year, cooperation deepened — the ferry Krk became fully chartered for the race, dedicated exclusively to 4Islands Epic throughout the event.

Ove godine utrka obilježava desetu obljetnicu postojanja, ali i deset godina iznimne suradnje s Jadrolinijom –partnerom bez kojeg ovaj projekt ne bi

The ferry’s deck has witnessed first encounters, late-night bike repairs, celebrations, and nervous glances toward the horizon. Without the Krk, 4Islands Epic simply wouldn’t be the same. The ferry doesn’t just transport competitors and gear — it carries the very energy of the race from one island to the next.

FERRIES THAT TELL STORIES

Every real adventure is challenging and unpredictable — and only partly told. In its

4ISLANDS EPIC RACE

bio na raspolaganju samo 4Islands Epicu. Paluba Krka svjedočila je prvim susretima timova, cjelonoćnim popravcima bicikala, slavljima, nervoznim pogledima prema obzoru. Bez trajekta Krk 4Islands ne bi bio ono što jest. Osim što prevozi natjecatelje i opremu, s otoka na otok prenosi i energiju utrke.

TRAJEKTI PRIČAJU PRIČE

Svaka je prava pustolovina izazovna i nepredvidiva i samo dijelom ispričana priča. U deset godina postojanja 4 Islands Epic utrke, Jadrolinijini trajekti prošli su i buru i jugo, improvizacije i trijumfe. Ali u tim se trenucima rađa najjača povezanost između utrke i otoka koji nas uvijek iznova podsjećaju na negdašnji način života, toliko različit od današnjeg. Ista je samo povezanost Jadrolinijinim trajektima.

Trajekt s desecima biciklista koji se naginju preko ograde i pozdravljaju lokalno stanovništvo koje im maše s rive, glazba koja odjekuje preko razglasa, dio su tradicionalnog spektakla.

Posade koje već godinama sudjeluju u tom projektu nisu samo promatrači, mornari i prijevoznici, nego i sudionici spektakla. Sigurnost natjecatelja i posjetitelja uvijek im je na prvom mjestu. Mnogima je od njih 4Islands Epic omiljen dio posla i najljepši dio godine.

This year, the event celebrates not only ten years of racing across the Kvarner islands, but also a decade of extraordinary cooperation with Jadrolinija — the partner without whom the race could never have reached an international level.

ten-year history, the 4Islands Epic has seen Jadrolinija ferries sail through bura and jugo winds, through last-minute improvisations and hard-earned triumphs. It is in those moments that the strongest bond is formed between the race and the islands — each one a reminder of a way of life that once was, still connected today by Jadrolinija’s ships.

A ferry filled with dozens of cyclists leaning over the railing to wave at locals on the shore, music echoing through the loudspeakers — these are now traditional images of the event.

For the crews who have taken part in the project year after year, the race is not just a job. They are not only sailors and transporters, but also participants. Safety always comes first, but for many crew members, 4Islands Epic has become their favorite assignment and the most inspiring part of the year.

Ferries have always carried stories — of fishermen, farmers, goods, and travelers. Today, they carry a community of athletes who come to the islands not only to compete but also to experience something unforgettable.

A PARTNERSHIP THAT MOVES BOUNDARIES

The 4Islands Epic is both a sports spectacle and a powerful symbol of change — redefining how we see the Croatian islands and their potential. What was once the quiet pre-season, when harbors slowly awakened, is now a time when hundreds of athletes from around the world explore Kvarner’s islands on two wheels. In that transformation, Jadrolinija is the essential link.

Priprema starta s trajekta / Preparing for the start from the ferry (Sam

Trajekti oduvijek pričaju priče. Prevozili su ribare, težake, robu, turiste... Danas prevoze i sportsku zajednicu koja na otoke ne dolazi samo radi natjecanja. Jednako im je tako važan doživljaj koji će im ostati u trajnom sjećanju.

USPJEŠNO PARTNERSTVO

Utrka 4Islands Epic sportski je spektakl i snažan instrument promjena predodžbe o otocima i njihovu potencijalu. Ono što je nekada bila „tiha“ predsezona, vrijeme kad se turističke luke tek bude, danas je razdoblje kad stotine sportaša iz cijelog svijeta istražuju kvarnerske otoke – i to na dva kotača. U toj preobrazbi Jadrolinija je ključna karika. Bez nje nema povezivanja, nema prijelaza između etapa ni logistike, ni osjećaja da je more dio staze. More je poveznica, a Jadrolinija suorganizator natjecanja.

Takva suradnja mijenja turističku sliku regije. Otoci više nisu samo ljetna odredišta. Krk, Cres, Lošinj i Unije postaju outdoor arene, spremne za sportski turizam, aktivan odmor i globalnu promociju. A to nije moguće bez partnera koji razumije širu sliku i zna da svaki bicikl znači priču više i razlog je više za dolazak i povratak na otok.

Deset godina partnerstva nije samo broj. To je desetljeće prilagodbi, zajedničkih odluka, novih ideja i zajedničke misije. Trajekti su nositelji te velike priče. Dok biciklisti osvajaju otočne staze, Jadrolinijine posade osvajaju srca sportaša. Uza zahvalnost organizatora Jadrolinija ima posebno mjesto i ulogu u povijesti jedne od najuzbudljivijih utrka Europe.

Without it, there would be no movement between stages, no logistics, and no sense that the sea itself is part of the racecourse. The sea connects everything — and Jadrolinija is a co-creator of this extraordinary event.

This partnership is transforming the region’s tourism image. The islands are no longer just summer destinations — Krk, Cres, Lošinj, and Unije are becoming open-air arenas for sports, active holidays, and global promotion. None of that would be possible without a partner who understands the bigger picture — that every bicycle represents another story, another reason to come back to the islands.

Ten years of partnership is more than just a number. It is a decade of adaptation, teamwork, new ideas, and shared vision. The ferries are the vessels of that story. As cyclists conquer the island trails, Jadrolinija’s crews conquer the hearts of athletes.

With the gratitude of the organizers, Jadrolinija holds a special place in the history of one of Europe’s most exciting and inspiring races — proof that when sea and sport come together, every journey becomes an epic.

R e l a x THEBEST S EAT TO

D a l m a c i j a s h i p a w a i t s B O O K O N L I N E W W W . J A D R O L I N I J A . H R

Žena od mora

Ivana Jeličić, časnica na brodu Marko Polo, pokazuje da more, neovisno o spolu, priznaje samo znanje, umijeće i odgovornost prema zahtjevnim pomorskim zadacima. Poticajan je i inspirativan primjer za mnoge mlade djevojke koje se obrazuju za pomorsko zvanje

Pomorstvo se godinama smatralo samo muškom profesijom – otprilike kao i zrakoplovstvo – ali stvarnost opovrgava tu zastarjelu tezu, često opterećenu predrasudama. Na Jadrolinijinim brodovima sve je više žena s časničkim činovima. Iako još u manjini, žene na brodovima više nisu iznimka. Izborile su se za mjesto u zahtjevnoj i odgovornoj profesiji i opovrgavaju stereotipe o tome da pomorac može biti jedino muškarac. Jedna je od njih mlada časnica Ivana Jeličić. Jedna od mnogih „žena od mora“.

Ivana Jeličić iz Starog Grada na Hvaru odrasla je uza zvuk sirene trajekta koji pristaje u starogradskoj luci. More je, kao i kopno, njezina svakodnevica. U takvom okruženju bilo je očekivano da će svoj profesionalni put potražiti u profesiji povezanoj s morem. Danas, kao prva časnica palube na brodu Marko Polo, jednoj od perjanica Jadrolinijine flote, ova ambiciozna mlada žena (smijemo li je, napokon, zvati imenicom ženskog roda – pomorkinja?) svakodnevno dokazuje da more nije rezervirano samo za muškarce. „More je dio moje svakodnevice. Otac mi je upravitelj stroja i još kao dijete slušala sam njegove doživljaje i anegdote s broda. Pomorstvo mi je razbuđivalo maštu i osvojilo me u ranoj dobi“, kaže Ivana.

A Woman of the Sea

Ivana Jeličić, an officer aboard the ferry Marko Polo, proves that at sea, regardless of gender, only knowledge, skill, and responsibility count. Her story is both encouraging and inspiring for many young women studying for a maritime career.

For years, seafaring was considered an exclusively male profession, much like aviation, but reality has long disproved that outdated notion. On Jadrolinija ships, there are now more and more women holding officer ranks. Although still in the minority, women at sea are no longer an exception. They have earned their place in

prva

U dobi od osamnaest godina napustila je rodni otok i upisala se na Pomorski fakultet u Splitu, na kojem je diplomirala i magistrirala. Nakon završetka studija svoj profesionalni put započela je u Jadroliniji. Kadetski staž obavila je na brodu Marko Polo, a potom i na brodu Petar Hektorović, na kojem je počela raditi kao treća časnica palube. Danas obnaša dužnost prve časnice na brodu Marko Polo.

„U međuvremenu sam plovila i na brodovima Zadar, Marjan i Dalmacija. Svaki je brod nova škola, a usklađivanje s novim timom nov profesionalni izazov i stjecanje novih iskustava", ističe Ivana.

TIMSKA SINERGIJA

Radni dan rijetko joj je predvidiv. U ljetnim mjesecima raspored je zgusnut, povećan je broj putnika, a ukrcaji i iskrcaji često su popraćeni napetošću, nesnalaženjem i nervozom turista, nestrpljivih da što prije stignu na odredište. Tada je, kaže Ivana, najvažnija timska sinergija o kojoj ovisi uspješno funkcioniranje svih sastavnica plovidbe i sigurnost brodskog prijevoza.

„Svaki član posade zna svoju zadaću. Kad postoji međusobno poštovanje i dogovorena komunikacija, ni najveće gužve nisu problem“, kaže Ivana s osmijehom i samopouzdanjem.

a demanding and responsible profession, breaking stereotypes that once defined the sailor’s world as a man’s domain. One of them is Ivana Jeličić, a young officer from Stari Grad on the island of Hvar — one of many true “women of the sea.”

Ivana grew up to the sound of the ferry’s horn echoing through Stari Grad harbor. The sea, like the land, has always been part of her everyday life. It was only natural that she would chart her career course in a profession connected to the sea. Today, as First Deck Officer on the ferry Marko Polo, one of the flagships of Jadrolinija’s fleet, this ambitious young woman (may we at last use the feminine form — pomorkinja, a woman mariner) proves every day that the sea belongs to those who know and love it, not to one gender.

“The sea is part of my daily life. My father is a chief engineer, and as a child I often listened to his stories and experiences from

Danas su na brodu četiri časnice. To je golem napredak u razbijanju predrasuda i razvoju radne i opće kulture. Nije važan spol nego stručnost. Kolege me ocjenjuju prema tome kako obavljam svoju profesionalnu dužnost, a ne prema spolu. Poštovanje se ne dobiva, nego stječe...

the ship. Those tales awakened my imagination and inspired me to follow the same path,” says Ivana.

At the age of eighteen, she left her island and enrolled at the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. After graduation, she began her professional journey with Jadrolinija. She completed her cadetship on Marko Polo, later served on Petar Hektorović as a Third Officer, and today holds the position of First Deck Officer once again aboard Marko Polo.

“In the meantime, I also served on the ships Zadar, Marjan, and Dalmacija. Every ship is a new school. Adapting to a new crew is always a fresh challenge and a chance to gain new experience,” Ivana explains.

Kao žena u struci koja je godinama smatrana muškom, ne poriče da se u početku suočavala s predrasudama. Ipak, pozitivne reakcije kolega nadjačale su negativne. „Kad sam se ukrcala bila sam jedina žena na brodu. Danas su na brodu četiri časnice. To je golem napredak u razbijanju predrasuda i razvoju radne i opće kulture. Nije važan spol nego stručnost. Kolege me ocjenjuju prema tome kako obavljam svoju profesionalnu dužnost, a ne prema spolu. Poštovanje se ne dobiva, nego stječe“, kaže odlučno i samouvjereno. Dodaje kako su žene danas sve prisutnije u mnogim industrijama i rade poslove koji su se tradicionalno nazivali „muškim“. To smatra pokazateljem društvenog napretka i sazrijevanja društva.

Uspostaviti ravnotežu između zahtjevnog pomorskog i privatnog života za Ivanu nije jednostavno, ali je ipak moguće. „Planiram unaprijed, a kad sam kod kuće, svojski se trudim sudjelovati u svemu što je potrebno i što propuštam za vrijeme plovidbe. Imam veliku potporu obitelji, a i Jadrolinija pokazuje razumijevanje prema nenadanim i nepredvidivim privatnim obvezama. Zatrebaju li mi slobodni dani zbog privatnih razloga, uvijek postoji način da to uskladim s poslom“, kaže Ivana. Upravo tu ravnotežu vidi kao ključ dugoročnog uspjeha i motivacije u poslu koji zahtijeva veliku emocionalnu i tjelesnu izdržljivost. Iako već sad, kao prva časnica palube, ima veliku odgovornost, ne skriva želju da postane zapovjednica broda. „To nije samo karijerni cilj. To je položaj koji podrazumijeva potpunu odgovornost za brod, posadu i putnike. Svjesna sam težine te uloge, ali želim učiti i profesionalno se razvijati. Pomorstvo nije samo moj posao, to je moj život“, kaže Ivana.

NEPRESTANO DOKAZIVANJE

„Morala sam se dokazivati, možda i više nego neki muški kolege, ali danas me nitko ne gleda drukčije zato što sam žena. Kad izdam zapovijed na mostu, ne pita se tko govori, već se sluša zapovjednik“, kaže časnica.

Unatoč poboljšanu položaju i sve većem društvenom razumijevanju, pred ženama je još mnogo izazova. Časnice su često dugo odvojene od obitelji, izložene specifičnim radnim uvjetima, ali i povremenim predrasudama i unutar struke i u javnosti. Putnici katkad s čuđenjem zastanu kad vide ženu za kormilom.

TEAMWORK AT SEA

Her workdays are rarely predictable. During the summer season, the schedule is intense, the number of passengers increases, and embarkations and disembarkations are often accompanied by tension, confusion, and the impatience of tourists eager to reach their destinations. At those moments, Ivana says, team synergy is what keeps everything running smoothly and ensures the safety of both passengers and vessel.

“Every crew member knows their duty. When there is mutual respect and clear communication, even the busiest days are manageable,” she says with a smile and quiet confidence.

As a woman in a profession long viewed as male-dominated, she admits she initially faced certain preconceptions. However, positive attitudes from her colleagues soon outweighed the negative ones.

“When I first joined the crew, I was the only woman on board. Today there are four of us officers. That is a huge step forward in breaking stereotypes and developing a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture. What matters is not gender but competence. My colleagues judge me by how I perform my duties, not by whether I am a woman. Respect is not given — it is earned,” she says firmly.

Ivana adds that women today are increasingly present in many industries, taking on roles traditionally considered “men’s work.” For her, this is a clear sign of progress and social maturity.

Balancing a demanding maritime career with private life is not easy, Ivana admits, but it is possible. “I plan ahead, and when I am home, I try to be fully involved in everything I miss while at sea. My family is very supportive, and Jadrolinija also shows great understanding when unexpected personal matters arise. If I need a few days off for private reasons, there is always a way to make it work,” she explains.

What matters is not gender but competence. My colleagues judge me by how I perform my duties, not by whether I am a woman. Respect is not given — it is earned...

Iznenađeni su, ali najčešće ugodno. Pitaju je kako se odlučila za taj poziv, a mnogi vjeruju da je njezina uloga poticaj i nadahnuće mladim djevojkama.

U Jadroliniji je spolna ravnopravnost sastavni dio poslovne kulture, a jednake startne pozicije temelj su radne etike prema svim djelatnicima. Sve više mladih žena odlučuje se za studij pomorstva, a tvrtka im pruža priliku za stjecanje prakse i zapošljavanje na brodovima. Svaka nova časnica na palubi simbol je pozitivnih promjena u pomorstvu i potvrda da more nije rezervirano samo za muškarce.

U vrijeme kad se društvo zalaže za spolnu i radnu ravnopravnost i jednake izglede u poslovnom svijetu, Jadrolinijine časnice primjerom pokazuju da je to ostvarivo. Znanjem, profesionalnošću i upornošću one mijenjaju percepciju pomorstva i utemeljuju novi etički i radni standard. Spol ne smije biti prepreka u pomorstvu jer more priznaje samo znanje, umijeće i odgovornost prema zahtjevnim zadacima koji pomorce čekaju na svakoj plovidbi.

For her, maintaining that balance is the key to long-term success and motivation in a profession that demands both emotional and physical resilience. Although she already bears great responsibility as a First Officer, she openly admits that she dreams of one day becoming a Captain.

“That is not just a career goal. It is a position of complete responsibility for the ship, the crew, and the passengers. I know how demanding that role is, but I want to keep learning and growing professionally. Seafaring is not just my job — it is my life,” Ivana says.

CONSTANTLY PROVING HERSELF

“I had to prove myself, perhaps even more than some of my male colleagues, but today no one looks at me differently because I am a woman. When I give an order on the bridge, no one asks who is speaking — the command is heard and followed,” she says with quiet pride.

Despite the progress that has been made and the growing social understanding of gender equality, challenges remain. Female officers still spend long periods away from their families and often face demanding working conditions, as well as occasional prejudice — both within the profession and from the public. Passengers sometimes stop in surprise when they see a woman at the helm, though usually their surprise quickly turns into admiration. Many ask her how she chose this path and tell her that she is an inspiration for young girls.

At Jadrolinija, gender equality is part of the company’s culture, and equal opportunities are a foundation of its work ethic. More and more young women are choosing to study maritime professions, and the company supports them with training opportunities and employment on its ships. Each new female officer on deck represents a positive change in the maritime world and a reminder that the sea is open to everyone.

At a time when society is increasingly committed to equality in the workplace, Jadrolinija’s female officers lead by example. With knowledge, professionalism, and perseverance, they are changing perceptions of seafaring and setting new ethical and professional standards. Gender should never be a barrier at sea, because the sea recognizes only one true authority — knowledge, skill, and responsibility for the challenges that every voyage brings.

Slikovnice pomažu odraslima da odrastu

Ana Vidov: „Kapetan Toni”

Inspiraciju za slikovnicu „Kapetan Toni” autorica Ana Vidov pronašla je u ljubavi koju njezin sin Stjepan još od najranije dobi iskazuje prema trajektima. „U vrijeme kad je bio predškolac pisala sam mu priče o svemu što voli, a prva je bila o njegovoj ljubavi prema trajektima. Ubrzo nakon što je nastala priča rodila se i ideja za slikovnicu. Tragajući za sadržajima koji se bave trajektima zapazila sam da nedostaju slikovnice kojima bi se djeci objasnila posebnost i uloga tih brodova u pomorskom prometu”, objašnjava Ana. Stjepan je poželio da se u slikovnici zove Kapetan Toni. Danas mu je dvanaest godina i još je veliki zaljubljenik u brodove, osobito trajekte.

„Kapetan Toni” i „Kasus”, slikovnice Ane Vidov i Sanje Lujić Pirc koje dočaravaju ljubav prema trajektima i tegobe otočana. Iako namijenjene djeci predškolske dobi, važan su poučak i za njihove roditelje

Picture Books That Help Grown-Ups Grow Up

Captain Toni and Kasus and the Ear Shell, picture books by Ana Vidov and Sanja Lujić Pirc, capture a deep love for ferries and the challenges of island life. Although written for preschool children, they also hold valuable lessons for their parents.

Ana Vidov: Captain Toni

The inspiration for Captain Toni came from author Ana Vidov’s son, Stjepan, and his fascination with ferries from an early age.

“When he was a preschooler, I used to write him stories about the things he loved. The first one was about his love for ferries, and soon after that, the idea for a picture book was born. While searching for books about ferries, I noticed there were very few that could explain to children the importance and special role of these vessels in maritime transport,” Ana explains.

Stjepan wanted the main character to be called Captain Toni. Today, at twelve, he is still a big fan of ships, especially ferries.

The story follows a boy named Toni who lives on an island, where ferry trips to and

Slikovnica govori o dječaku Toniju koji živi na otoku, a život mu je obilježen putovanjima trajektom na kopno i obratno. Toni pomno prati svaki detalj putovanja i uživa u njemu, od trenutka pristajanja do isplovljavanja. Jednog jutra dobio je nesvakidašnju priliku: kapetan ga je pozvao na zapovjednički most da izbliza vidi kako izgleda mjesto s kojeg se upravlja trajektom. Tako je Toni svoju prvotnu želju da bude mornar zamijenio sanjarenjem da jednog dana postane zapovjednik trajekta.

Slikovnica „Kapetan Toni“ namijenjena je djeci vrtićke i predškolske dobi. U okolnostima u kojima se stvaran svijet sve češće zamjenjuje virtualnim, slikovnica teži stvarnom promatranju svijeta, usredotočena na pojedinosti koje snažno pobuđuju dječje osjećaje i maštu. Slikovnicom „Kapetan Toni“ želi se predstaviti važan dio svakodnevice otočne djece i približiti je njihovim vršnjacima koji žive na kopnu, a otoke najčešće posjećuju samo u ljetnim mjesecima.

Publika je izvrsno prihvatila slikovnicu. Promocije u knjižnicama i vrtićima pokazale su da su trajekti djeci iznimno zanimljivi, rado ih crtaju i priželjkuju da na njima plove. Slikovnica „Kapetan Toni” dostupna je u Turističkim zajednicama Kali i Preko, Narodnoj knjižnici Kali te putem Instagram profila.

Autorica slikovnice Ana Vidov rođena je u Zadru, a živi u Kalima na otoku Ugljanu. Diplomirana je povjesničarka umjetnosti i

from the mainland are part of his everyday life. He watches every moment of each voyage, from docking to departure, and enjoys every bit of it. One morning, the captain invites him up to the bridge to see how the ferry is steered. From that day on, Toni’s dream changes — he no longer wants to be a sailor, but a ferry captain.

Captain Toni is written for preschool children and encourages them to observe the real world instead of the virtual one. It highlights small but powerful details that awaken children’s imagination and emotions. The book presents a glimpse of daily life for island children and brings it closer to those who live on the mainland and usually visit the islands only in summer.

The book was very well received. Readings in libraries and kindergartens showed that children are fascinated by ferries — they love drawing them and dream of sailing on them. Captain Toni is available at the Tourist Boards of Kali and Preko, the Kali Public Library, and through Instagram.

Ana Vidov was born in Zadar and lives in Kali on the island of Ugljan. She holds degrees in Art History and French Language and Literature and works as a tour guide. The illustrations were created by Lana Cimera, an artist from Zadar who also lives in Kali.

“For next year, we are preparing a project connected to our local community, which for us always means devotion to tradition, the sea, and ships,” Ana says.

Sanja Lujić Pirc: Kasus and the Ear Shell

The island of Susak inspired Sanja Lujić Pirc, a teacher of Croatian and English language and literature, to create her own illustrated story. Besides teaching, Sanja has years of

profesorica francuskog jezika i književnosti, a radi kao turistička vodičica. Slikovnicu je ilustrirala Lana Cimera, Zadranka s prebivalištem u Kalima.

“Za sljedeću godinu pripremamo projekt vezan za našu lokalnu zajednicu, a to uvijek znači posvećenost tradiciji, moru i brodovima”, kaže Ana.

Sanja Lujić Pirc: „Kasus i petrovo uho”

Otok Susak nadahnuo je Sanju Lujić Pirc, profesoricu hrvatskog i engleskog jezika i književnosti na pisanje slikovnice. Osim što radi u školi, Sanja je dugogodišnja voditeljica odnosa s javnošću te predaje komunikacijske vještine na Sveučilištu u Rijeci. Komunikacijske teme polazište su joj za njezine edukativno-ilustrirane priče. Dosad je objavila slikovnice „Pčelica Nenica“, „Tili i čarobna školska kutija“, i „Kasus i petrovo uho“.

experience in public relations and lectures on communication skills at the University of Rijeka. These themes form the basis for her educational picture books, including The Little Bee Nenica, Tili and the Magic School Box, and Kasus and the Ear Shell.

Reading the name “Kasus” backwards reveals its secret — it spells Susak. Illustrator Laura Baranić used colors to express the island’s fairy-tale spirit. Like many Adriatic islands, Susak changes its colors and sounds between the busy summer and the quiet off-season. Many people have left the island, including Kasus’s friend who had to move to the city for school. During the winter, silence takes over, and the islanders, like Kasus, feel lonely.

When Kasus becomes sad, the colors fade away — the green reeds turn grey, the sand darkens, and the sea turns pale. During those quiet months, the ferry becomes the island’s only connection to life beyond the horizon. Jadrolinija keeps that vital link open all year round.

At the end of the story, when the ferry arrives full of passengers for the St. Nicholas Day celebration, Kasus says, “Now it will be easier to wait for the summer holidays.”

Kasus and the Ear Shell is aimed at preschool and early primary school children. It explores themes such as friendship, empathy, listening, and expressing emotions. The most valuable things are not the ones that cost the most.

Although the story mentions a magic shell, there are no real magical objects that grant wishes. True wishes come true with the help of family and friends — they are the real magic. “That’s why we should also be a little bit magical towards others,” says Sanja.

She worries about today’s world of social media, where everyone seems connected, yet loneliness is everywhere. The book’s key message is simple: “If something is important to you, it’s important to me too.” We need to find time for others, to listen, and to do something kind for them instead of just thinking about ourselves.

After reading the book, Sanja encourages children to talk about what they’ve read. “Maybe together we can change something, go back to our ‘factory settings,’” she adds.

The picture book has been warmly received in libraries and schools, sparking open and heartfelt discussions. Sanja recalls one touching moment:

“A third-grade girl shared that she tries to talk to her mother, but her mother never has time — she’s always on the phone, for work

Pročita li se ime glavnog lika unatrag, jasno je da je riječ o otoku Susku. Ilustratorica Laura Baranić simbolikom boja dočarala je bajkovitost tog otoka. Susak, kao i drugi jadranski otoci, nema iste boje i zvukove tijekom ljetne sezone i u izvansezonskom razdoblju. Mnogo je ljudi otišlo s otoka, kao i Kasusina prijateljica, koja se zbog škole morala preseliti u grad. Zimi sve utihne pa su ljudi poput Kasusa tužni i osamljeni. Kad se Kasus rastužila, počele su nestajati boje – zelena trstika je posivjela, pijesak pocrnio, a more pobijeljelo. Brod je tada jedina veza sa životom koji je za otočane u tom razdoblju – kao što bi rekao Kundera – „negdje drugdje“. Jadrolinija održava vezu s otocima tijekom cijele godine. Na kraju priče – kad brod pun ljudi dođe na feštu sv. Nikole – Kasus kaže: „Sada je lakše dočekati ljetne praznike".

Slikovnica „Kasus i petrovo uho” namijenjena je djeci predškolskog uzrasta te onima u nižim razredima osnovne škole. Cilj je u slikovnici progovoriti o temama kao što su važnost prijateljstva, suosjećanja, slušanja i jasnog izražavanja osjećaja. Vrijedne stvari nisu one koje puno stoje.

Iako se u priči spominje čarobna školjka, čarobnih predmeta koji mogu ispuniti želje zapravo nema. Želje nam mogu pomoći ostvariti dragi ljudi oko nas – obitelj i prijatelji. Oni su čarobni. „I zato i mi moramo biti baš to – čarobni prema drugima ”, ističe Sanja.

Autoricu jako zabrinjava današnji svijet društvenih mreža, u kojem svi znaju sve o svakome, svi su umreženi, a zapravo prevladava osamljenost. Glavna poruka slikovnice je „Kad je tebi nešto važno, važno je i meni!”. Moramo pronaći malo vremena za druge, pozorno ih slušati i učiniti nešto za njih, a ne samo misliti na sebe. Sanja ističe kako je nakon čitanja slikovnice važno razgovarati o pročitanom. Budući da predaje komunikacijske vještine, pokušava tu temu približiti djeci od njihove najranije dobi. „Možda zajedno uspijemo nešto promijeniti, vratiti se na ‘tvorničke postavke’”, kaže Sanja. Slikovnica „Kasus i petrovo uho” predstavljena je u knjižnicama i školama. Reakcije su bile jako dobre jer su djeca otvorena i rado pričaju o svemu, a „Kasus i petrovo uho” obiluje temama o kojima se može razgovarati.

„Jedna djevojčica trećeg razreda iskreno je podijelila svoje osjećaje s vršnjacima i rekla da pokušava razgovarati s mamom, ali da ona nikad nema vremena za nju. Neprestano je na mobitelu, u privatnim ili poslovnim razgovorima.

Pokušala sam joj predložiti da dogovore dio dana – primjerice večernje sate – bez mobitela. I da tada mama njoj ispriča kako je provela dan i sasluša kako ga je provela njezina kći. Djevojčica je odgovorila da je to pokušala i baka, ali bezuspješno”, prepričala je Sanja jedno zabrinjavajuće iskustvo s predstavljanja slikovnice.

Slikovnicu „Kasus i petrovo uho“ možete pronaći u galeriji Laurin kutak na Trsatu, u Očnoj optici Damir u robnoj kući RI, na Facebook stranici – Pčelica Nenica i Kasus i u online knjižari ZUZI shop.

Možda je vrijeme da i odrasli počnu čitati slikovnice kako bi bolje razumjeli svijet u kojem žive njihova djeca. Ali i svoj vlastiti.

Predstavljanje slikovnice Kasus i petrovo uho u Ogranku Trsat, Rijeka / Presentation of the picture book Kasus and the Ear Shell in Trsat Library, Rijeka

or chatting. I suggested they set aside part of the day, maybe the evening, as a no-phone time to talk about their day. The girl said her grandmother tried the same, but without success,” Sanja recalls.

Kasus and the Ear Shell is available at Laurin Kutak Gallery on Trsat, Optika Damir in the RI shopping center, on the Facebook pages The Little Bee Nenica and Kasus, and in the ZUZI Shop online bookstore.

Perhaps it’s time for adults to start reading picture books again — to better understand the world their children live in, and maybe rediscover their own.

Mirta Šurjak: Ljubav prema balunu i brodovima

Poznata splitska novinarka, koja je u novinarstvo zakoračila u dobi od 10 godina, profesionalno je najviše zaokupljena sportom, posebice nogometom, ali jednako su joj drage reportaže o brodovima, otocima i otočanima, najvažnijim sastavnicama mediteranskog načina života. O najuzbudljivijim trenucima svoje karijere govori sa zadovoljstvom što je u poslu ostala dosljedna svojim svjetonazorima

Što vas je potaknulo da se bavite novinarstvom i jeste li u toj profesiji pronašli ono što vas istinski zanima, motivira i zadovoljava?

Već 17 godina sportska sam novinarka i reporterka, radijska i televizijska voditeljica na HRT-u. Prvi intervju napravila sam na engleskom jeziku za regionalni program HTV Centra Rijeka, kad mi je bilo 10 godina. Na svečanoj večeri ACY Match Racea u Splitu, na kojoj sam bila s roditeljima, gostovao je američki glumac Jed Allen – tada najveća svjetska zvijezda sapunica – koji je u „Santa Barbari“ glumio C.C. Capwella. U društvu je bio i Jaroslav Kovačević, tadašnji glavni urednik TV Centra Rijeka, koji mi je rekao: „Ti si mala elokventna, napravi intervju s Allenom pa ćemo ga objaviti.“

I tako sam, bez straha i treme, s 10 godina uzela mikrofon u ruke i na engleskom jeziku napravila simpatičan intervju s tadašnjom glumačkom zvijezdom. Emitiran je u programu TV Centra Rijeka, i to je bio moj prvi javni nastup.

Znala sam što želim postati otkad znam za sebe. Uvijek sam bila svoja, moglo bi se reći „starmala“ u odnosu na vršnjake. Oni su gledali crtiće, a ja Dnevnik. Najviše me oduševljavao nogomet, balun, kako ga mi Splićani zovemo. Čak je i moja prva izgovorena riječ bila „balun“. Još kao predškolka znala sam sastave gotovo svih važnijih europskih klubova i reprezentacija. Skupljala sam sličice igrača, vodila i dnevnik sa „stručnim“ dječjim analizama utakmica Svjetskog prvenstva u SAD-u 1994. godine.

Edo Pezzi, poznati radijski komentator, često prepričava da sam u dobi od 3 godine, kad bi me mama katkad povela sa sobom na posao, trčala oko njegova radnog stola i vikala: „Barba Edo, ja ću bit sportski novinar.“ S tim sam se osjećajem – pretpostavljam – rodila. Vjerujem da se svi rađamo s određenim sklonostima, talentima i Božjim darom za nešto – neki ga osvijeste, a neki ga, nažalost, nikad ne prepoznaju.

Mirta Šurjak: A Love for Football and Ferries

The well-known Split journalist, who stepped into the world of reporting at the age of ten, has built a professional career largely centered around sports, especially football, but she is equally fond of stories about vessels, islands, and islanders, the most essential parts of Mediterranean life. With enthusiasm, she recalls the most exciting moments of her career, proud that she has remained true to her values throughout her work.

What inspired you to become a journalist, and have you found in this profession what truly interests, motivates, and fulfills you?

I’ve been a sports journalist and reporter, as well as a radio and television host on Croatian Radiotelevision (HRT), for 17 years. My first interview in English was for the regional program of HRT’s Rijeka Center

Majka mi je bila dugogodišnja urednica i voditeljicu emisije „More“. Često sam s njom odlazila na snimanja i upijala kako ona to radi. No to mi je često bila otegotna, a ne olakotna okolnost, jer sam se morala peterostruko više dokazivati od drugih, zbog uobičajenih predrasuda da mi majka pomaže. Svatko tko me imalo poznaje, zna da to nije bilo tako. Mudar savjet uvijek prihvatim, ali bila sam previše svoja da bi mi itko mogao nametnuti svoju volju.

Kao sportska novinarka pratili ste mnoge događaje. Koji vam je trenutak ili susret najviše ostao u sjećanju? Postoji li neki događaj koji vas je duboko dirnuo?

Ima toliko prekrasnih sportskih trenutaka da je teško izdvojiti samo jedan – to je kao da majku pitate koje joj je dijete najdraže. Ipak, najviše emocija u meni uvijek pobudi Hajduk, uz dužno poštovanje prema drugim sportskim kolektivima. Još čekamo titulu prvaka, a kad je osvojimo, vjerujte mi, bit će to najdraži i najposebniji trenutak u mom životu i karijeri.

Ipak bih izdvojila trenutak kad je Hajduk 2022. u Splitu osvojio Kup. Navijači su uletjeli u teren i u jednom trenutku podigli tadašnjeg trenera Valdasa Dambrauskasa i mene u zrak, noseći nas cijelim terenom. Bilo je istodobno i opasno i simpatično. Na rukama navijača našla sam se i u Ženevi, na finalnoj utakmici Lige prvaka mladih. Potpuni kaos, ali uspjela sam se javiti uživo i odlično je ispalo. Na ATP-u u Umagu „natjerala sam“ Novaka Đokovića da uživo pjeva „Moj galebe“ i „Cesaricu“ – bilo je urnebesno smiješno i opušteno. Prvi tenisač svijeta u nekom novom izdanju!

Posebno pamtim utakmicu Hrvatska – Italija 2015. na Poljudu. Bila sam zadužena za talijansku reprezentaciju, radila intervjue i simultano prevodila s talijanskog na hrvatski i obrnuto. To mi je bilo najstresnije iskustvo, iako se to vani nije vidjelo, jer nisam profesor talijanskog jezika ni prevoditelj. Sjećam se da sam rekla Antoniu Conteu, tadašnjem izborniku, i Gigiju Buffonu, kapetanu, da mi pomognu koliko mogu i da ne kompliciraju s izjavama!

when I was just ten years old. It happened during a gala dinner at the ACY Match Race in Split, where I attended with my parents. The guest of honor was American actor Jed Allan, then the biggest soap opera star, famous for his role as C.C. Capwell in Santa Barbara. Among the guests was Jaroslav Kovačević, the editor-in-chief of HRT Rijeka, who said to me: “You’re quite articulate for your age. Why don’t you interview him? We’ll broadcast it.”

And so, without fear or stage fright, I picked up the microphone and conducted my first-ever interview in English with a Hollywood actor. It was broadcast on television, and that became my first public appearance.

I’ve known what I wanted to do for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been my own person; people used to say I was older than my years. While my peers watched cartoons, I watched the evening news. Football, or” balun”, as we say in Split, fascinated me most. My very first word was balun. Even as a preschooler, I knew the lineups of nearly every major European club and national team. I collected player cards and kept a childhood journal with my own “expert analyses” of the 1994 World Cup in the USA.

Edo Pezzi, a well-known radio commentator, often tells the story of how, when I was three, my mom would sometimes take me to work. I would run around his desk shouting: “Barba Edo, I’m going to be a sports journalist!” I suppose I was born with that feeling. I believe we all come into this world with certain gifts and talents, divine sparks meant for something, but only some people discover them.

My mother was a long-time editor and host of the TV show More (“The Sea”). I often went with her on shoots and absorbed everything she did. Still, that connection sometimes made things harder, not easier, because I had to prove myself five times more due to the usual assumption that my mother helped me. Anyone who knows me knows that wasn’t the case. I’ll gladly take wise advice, but I’ve always been too independent for anyone to impose their will on me.

As a sports journalist, you’ve covered many events. Which moment or encounter has left the strongest impression on you? Was there an event that deeply moved you?

There have been so many beautiful sports moments that it’s hard to choose just one. It’s like asking a mother which child she

Kad god poslovne obveze dopuste, odem na otok – najsretnija sam kad petkom sjednem u trajekt. Posebno volim naš „Zadar”. Na njemu smo kao doma.

Naposljetku sam dobila poruku od svoje profesorice talijanskog jezika da sam bila odlična i pao mi je kamen sa srca.

Kao rođenoj Splićanki, Jadrolinija je zasigurno dio vašeg i privatnog i profesionalnog života. Kako gledate na ulogu Jadrolinije u životu splitske i otočnih zajednica? Što smatrate najvažnijim u toj povezanosti?

Jadrolinija je dio mog bića od rođenja. Živim u središtu Splita, s ponistrom i terasom s kojih se doslovno vidi Šolta i svi trajekti koji uplovljavaju i isplovljavaju iz splitske luke. Moj pokojni nono

Jadrolinija is a lifeline, the link between islanders and the mainland. I don’t even want to imagine what would happen if the vessels stopped sailing for more than two days.

loves most. Still, Hajduk always stirs the most emotion in me, with all due respect to other teams. We’re still waiting for the championship title, and when it comes, believe me, it will be the most special moment of my life and career.

I’ll never forget when Hajduk won the Croatian Cup in 2022. Fans stormed the field and, at one point, lifted both the coach, Valdas Dambrauskas, and me into the air, carrying us around the pitch. It was both hilarious and a little dangerous.

Something similar happened in Geneva at the UEFA Youth League final. It was total chaos, but I managed to report live, and it turned out great. At the ATP tournament in Umag, I even convinced Novak Djokovic to sing Moj galebe and Cesarica live on air. It was hilarious and so relaxed, showing the world’s best tennis player in a completely new light.

I especially remember the 2015 Croatia–Italy match at Poljud Stadium. I was in charge of covering the Italian team, conducting interviews and translating simultaneously between Italian and Croatian. It was my most stressful experience, even though it didn’t show on air, since I’m not a language professor or certified interpreter. I remember telling coach Antonio Conte and captain Gigi Buffon: “Please, help me out and keep your answers simple.” Later, my Italian teacher messaged me saying I did an excellent job, and that lifted a huge weight off my shoulders.

As a born-and-raised Split native, Jadrolinija must be part of both your personal and professional life. How do you see the company’s role in the life of Split and the island communities, and what do you think is most important about that connection?

Ivan, rođeni Hvaranin, znao je odoka, u ona vremena bez interneta i društvenih mreža, koji trajekt dolazi, a koji odlazi. Prenio mi je tu ljubav. Na terasi smo imali „kanočal“ – dalekozor – i promatrali splitski akvatorij. Nona više nema, ni „kanočala“, ali ja sam nastavila obiteljsku tradiciju i više-manje prepoznajem svaki Jadrolinijin trajekt koji uplovljava. U šali kažem gospođi Jeleni Ivulić, voditeljici Jadrolinijine agencije u Splitu, da slobodno ode koji dan na godišnji odmor jer je mogu zamijeniti!

Jadrolinija je linija života, poveznica otočana s kopnom. Ne želim ni pomisliti što bi se dogodilo kad brodovi ne bi plovili više od dva dana. Često bude nepovoljno vrijeme, a posade riskiraju život kako otok i njegovi stanovnici ne bi ostali odsječeni od kopna. Razmišljate o starima, nemoćnima, bolesnima, trudnicama, potrebitima – ljudima čiji život ovisi o kopnu. Jako me ljuti kad vidim „dušebrižnike“ i kapetane s kauča koji odmah počnu kritizirati na društvenim mrežama ako trajekt kasni, ne pitajući se ne kasni li možda zbog prijevoza pacijenta, trudnice ili djece. Umberto Eco lijepo je to sažeo: „Društvene mreže dale su raznim budalama jednako pravo glasa kao i nobelovcima.“

Često ste viđena gošća na brodovima Jadrolinije. Intervjuirali ste mnoge pomorce. Imate li neku priču koja vam je posebno draga i ostala u sjećanju?

Brodovi su uz balun moja ljubav. Radila sam mnogo priča s trajekata Jadrolinije. Stvarajući reportaže i javljajući se uživo, pokušavala sam gledateljima prenijeti djelić života i sudbina ljudi za čiji život kažemo da je „kruh sa sedam kora“. Iako su odvojeni od obitelji, otočani su im druga obitelj. U javnosti je poznat samo djelić humanih misija koje obavljaju – prevoze bolesnike po nevremenu, pomažu trudnicama, popravljaju putnicima automobile, reanimiraju putnike sa zdravstvenim tegobama, porađaju trudnice. Sve su to priče kojima, koliko god ih ispričala, nikad ne mogu dovoljno nahvaliti posade i iskazati zahvalnost ljudima koji pomažu potrebitima.

Postoji li situacija ili događaj kojem ste svjedočili i koji vas se posebno dojmio, a upućuje na važnost Jadrolinije za ljude i otoke koje povezuje?

Po ocu sam prva generacija Hvarana rođena i odrasla u Splitu, ali i dalje duboko povezana sa svojim otočnim korijenima. Kad god poslovne obveze dopuste, odem na otok – najsretnija sam kad petkom sjednem u trajekt. Posebno volim naš „Zadar“. Na njemu smo kao doma.

Nedavno je rođakinja dolazila na Hvar i ostavila upaljena svjetla u automobilu – akumulator se ispraznio i nije mogla upaliti vozilo. Uhvatila ju je panika, a na ukrcaju u Zadar gužva je bila velika. Ipak, časnici su pronašli kabel, spojili ga na drugi akumulator i omogućili joj da upali auto. Rekla mi je da ju je sreća gotovo zagrlila – lijepo je vidjeti da još postoje tako plemeniti ljudi. Vidjela sam i sama kako, bez obzira na fluktuaciju putnika, posade uvijek pomažu starijima, nemoćnima i ženama s malom djecom.

Posebno pamtim Veliki četvrtak uoči Uskrsa, kada je za splitsko područje bio crveni meteoalarm. Većina otoka bila je odsječena od kopna, ali Dalmacija je isplovila. Valovi su bili golemi, ali trajekt je plovio kao da je bonaca. Putnici su zapljeskali zapovjedniku kad je sišao u salon na javljanje uživo, svjesni napora i rizika – i tada shvatite da, unatoč svemu lošem u svijetu, još postoje dobri, pozitivni i lijepi ljudski trenutci zbog kojih vrijedi raditi ovaj posao.

Jadrolinija has been part of my life since birth. I live in the heart of Split, with a terrace that overlooks Šolta and all the ferries arriving and departing from the port. My late grandfather Ivan, who was from Hvar, could always tell just by sight, in those pre-internet days, which ferry was arriving and which was leaving. He passed that love on to me. We had binoculars on the terrace and watched the Split Channel together. My grandfather is gone now, and so are the binoculars, but I’ve kept the family tradition alive. I can recognize almost every Jadrolinija ferry that sails in. I even joke with Mrs. Jelena Ivulić, the head of Jadrolinija’s Split agency that she can take a few days off and I’ll fill in for her.

Jadrolinija is a lifeline, the link between islanders and the mainland. I don’t even want to imagine what would happen if the vessels stopped sailing for more than two days. The crews often risk their lives so that the islands don’t remain cut off during bad weather. You think about the elderly, the sick, expectant mothers, and those in need, people whose lives depend on that connection. It really upsets me when I see so-called couch captains on social media complaining if a ferry is delayed, without asking whether it might be carrying a patient, a pregnant woman, or children. As Umberto Eco said perfectly: “Social networks have given legions of idiots the same right to speak as Nobel laureates.”

You’re a frequent guest aboard Jadrolinija ferries and have interviewed many seafarers. Do you have a story that has stayed with you?

Ferries are my second love, right after football. I’ve done many stories from Jadrolinija vessels. Through live reports and features, I’ve tried to give viewers a glimpse into the lives of those who live what we often call “the bread with seven crusts.” Though separated from their families, the islanders are their second family. The public rarely hears about the humanitarian side of what they do, such as transporting patients during storms, helping expectant mothers, fixing passengers’ cars, resuscitating people with medical emergencies, and even delivering babies on board. No matter how many of those stories I tell, I can never praise the crews enough or express the gratitude they deserve.

Kao rođena Splićanka, Mirta Šurjak izražava svoju veliku povezanost s bijelim brodovima i plovidbom, koji su od malih nogu dio njezina života / As a native of Split, Mirta Šurjak expresses her deep connection with the white ships and seafaring, which have been a part of her life since early childhood

Is there a situation or event you have witnessed that particularly impressed you and points to the importance of Jadrolinija for the people and the islands it connects?

On my father’s side, I’m the first generation of Hvar natives born and raised in Split, but I still feel deeply connected to my island roots. Whenever my work obligations allow, I go to the island – I’m happiest when I board the ferry on Friday. I especially love our *Zadar*. On that ship, we feel at home. Recently, my cousin was traveling to Hvar and accidentally left her car lights on – the battery went dead, and she couldn’t start the car. She panicked, and there was a big crowd waiting to board the *Zadar*. Still, the officers found a cable, connected it to another battery, and helped her start the car. She told me she felt as if happiness itself had embraced her – it’s heartwarming to see that such kind people still exist. I’ve also seen for myself how, regardless of the flow of passengers, the crews always help the elderly, the infirm, and women with small children.

I especially remember Maundy Thursday before Easter, when a red weather alert was issued for the Split area. Most of the islands were cut off from the mainland, but *Dalmacija* set sail. The waves were enormous, yet the ferry sailed as if the sea were calm. The passengers applauded the captain when he came down to the salon for a live announcement, aware of the effort and risk – and that’s when you realize that, despite everything bad in the world, there are still good, positive, and beautiful human moments that make this job worthwhile.

Novosti na brodu Dalmacija

Brod Dalmacija, najprestižniji u Jadrolinijinoj floti, ove je godine putnicima ponudio gastronomske novitete, ekskluzivne autorske koktele, slatku oazu i znatno unaprijedio udobnost putovanja

SUN BAR – KOKTELI S POTPISOM

Gastronomska ponuda na brodu važan je dio plovidbenih užitaka. Svi koji su u prilici uživati u ljepotama mediteranskog krajolika i ugodi plovidbe, svoje će zadovoljstvo nastojati upotpuniti i uživanjem u gastronomskim specijalitetima posluženim na putovanju. Dalmacija, najveći i najmoderniji brod Jadrolinijine flote, neprestano obogaćuje i osvježava svoj jelovnik raznovrsnom i maštovitom ponudom. Brodski kuhari tradicionalno su na visokoj cijeni (kad bi se pitalo dobre poznavatelje brodskih kuhinja, oni bi najradije kušali ono što su kuhari pripremili sebi za marendu!), a za brod visoke kategorije biraju se oni najbolji.

What’s New Aboard Dalmacija

Dalmacija, the most prestigious vessel in Jadrolinija’s fleet, has this year treated her passengers to new gastronomic experiences, exclusive signature cocktails, a sweet oasis, and a new level of onboard comfort.

Culinary delights are an essential part of the pleasure of any voyage. Those fortunate enough to admire the beauty of the Mediterranean seascape while gliding across the blue expanse naturally wish to complement the experience with fine food and drinks served at sea. Dalmacija, the largest and most modern ship in Jadrolinija’s fleet, continually refreshes her menu with imaginative and varied dishes. The ship’s chefs have long been held in high regard, and seasoned travelers know that the crew’s own “marenda” (is often the most tempting meal on board. For a ship of this class, only the best chefs are chosen.

The summer of 2025 brought a new culinary challenge for Dalmacija. The crew called it “the sunlit chapter,” celebrating the opening of the Sun Bar on the ship’s highest deck, the one closest to the Sun. It quickly became a favorite gathering place for passengers eager to enjoy the open horizon and the deep blue sea while sipping cocktails crafted before their eyes. The rich cocktail selection blends classic recipes with creative innovation, featuring signature drinks with Jadrolinija’s unique touch such as the Barba and Jadrolinija 75, available exclusively on select vessels of the fleet.

Za brod Dalmacija ljeto 2025. bilo je novi gastronomski izazov. Posada ga je proglasila „sunčanim poglavljem“ jer je na najvišoj palubi broda, „najbližoj Suncu“, otvoren Sun Bar. Odmah je postao omiljeno okupljalište putnika koji žele uživati u pogledu na veliko plavetnilo, uz koktele spravljene pred njihovim očima.

Bogata ponuda koktela uspješno sjedinjuje klasiku i inovativnost, a posebno se izdvajaju autorski kokteli s Jadrolinijinim potpisom. Primjerice: koktel Barba ili Jadrolinija 75 koji se mogu kušati samo na nekim brodovima Jadrolinijine flote.

JADROLINIJA COFFEE & SWEETS

Sezonu 2025. obilježila je i ponuda Jadrolinija Coffee & Sweets u popularnom Sky Baru na trećoj palubi, iz kojeg se pruža spektakularan pogled na otvoreno more. Mirisima svježe kave, palačinki, vafla i kolača nova „slatka oaza“ privlači putnike. Bogatom ponudom slastica posebno su oduševljeni najmlađi putnici. Prava ljetna atrakcija bio je show cooking – kad su se slastice pripremale uživo, u ozračju smijeha, radosti i mirisa čokolade.

Brod Dalmacija, najveći u povijesti Jadrolinijine bijele flote, od proljeća 2024. godine plovi na međunarodnoj liniji koja povezuje Dubrovnik i talijanski grad Bari / Dalmacija, the largest ship in the history of Jadrolinija’s white fleet, has been sailing the international route between Dubrovnik and Bari since spring 2024

Sleeper sjedala osiguravaju privatnost i mir / Sleeper seats guarantee privacy and peace

Osim na brodu Dalmacija, koncept Jadrolinija Coffee & Sweets zaživio je i na brodu Zadar, na kojem je također dočekan pohvalama putnika. Ugođaj privlačnog ambijenta pružio je putnicima broda Zadar posve novu dimenziju doživljaja plovidbe.

MEDITERAN NA TANJURU

Noviteti pokazuju važnost suvremenog i inovativnog pristupa brodskoj kulturi ića & pića, ali tradicijska gastronomija i dalje je okosnica ponude broda Dalmacija. Self-service restoran Olive omiljeno je mjesto za obiteljske obroke u mediteranskom ozračju. Ukrašen stablima masline, restoran po pristupačnim cijenama nudi specijalitete domaće kuhinje – ribu, meso, svježe salate i jela namijenjena djeci.

Za one koji vole jednostavne zalogaje i opušteno ozračje, omiljeni su Sky Bar sa sendvičima te Grill Bar na otvorenoj palubi, na kojoj se za sunčanih dana nudi bogat izbor jela s roštilja.

Doručak u restoranu Olive je prvi na popisu nakon ukrcaja na brod Dalmacija / Breakfast at the Olive restaurant is the first thing on the list after boarding the Dalmacija

The 2025 season also marked the introduction of Jadrolinija Coffee & Sweets in the popular Sky Bar on Deck 3, where guests can enjoy a spectacular view of the open sea. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, pancakes, waffles, and cakes attracts travelers like a sea breeze. This sweet oasis particularly delights the youngest passengers. A real summer sensation was the live show cooking event, when the ship’s pastry chefs prepared desserts in front of an audience in an atmosphere filled with laughter, joy, and the scent of chocolate.

The Jadrolinija Coffee & Sweets concept also came to life aboard Zadar, where it was met with enthusiastic praise. The inviting ambiance offered passengers a completely new dimension of the voyage experience.

While Dalmacija embraces modern, innovative approaches to food and drink, traditional Mediterranean cuisine remains at the heart of her culinary identity. The self-service restaurant Olive is a favorite spot for families, decorated with olive trees and serving freshly prepared local dishes such as grilled fish and meat, crisp salads, and child-friendly meals, all at reasonable prices. For those who prefer a light bite in a relaxed atmosphere, the Sky Bar offers sandwiches and snacks, while the Grill Bar on the open deck tempts guests with a wide selection of barbecued dishes, perfect for sunny days at sea.

NOVA RAZINA UDOBNOSTI

Brod Dalmacija, najveći u povijesti Jadrolinijine bijele flote, od proljeća 2024. godine plovi na međunarodnoj liniji koja povezuje Dubrovnik i talijanski grad Bari. Izgrađen 1993. u Švedskoj, a potpuno obnovljen 2014. u Finskoj, Dalmacija (nekadašnji Oslofjord) bila je ploveći shopping centar, a danas je sinonim za ugodu, eleganciju i užitak plovidbe.

U ljeto 2025. godine udobnost putnika podignuta je na višu razinu. Na petoj palubi postavljene su dvije kategorije aviosjedala – Relax i Sleeper.

Aviosjedala Relax odlikuje ergonomski dizajn s prilagodljivim naslonima i dovoljno prostora za noge, dok Sleeper sjedalo nudi dodatnu širinu i nagib sjedala, oslonce za noge, USB priključke te svjetlo za čitanje.

Sve novosti koje su obilježile ljeto 2025. samo su nastavak neprestanog unapređenja kvalitete ponude na brodu Dalmacija. Uz bogatu gastronomiju, autorske koktele te novu razinu udobnosti, Dalmacija sigurno plovi prema sezoni 2026., u kojoj će putnike dočekati pouzdana i kvalitetna usluga, ali i mnoga iznenađenja.

INTERNATIONAL ROUTES

Dalmacija, the largest ship in the history of Jadrolinija’s white fleet, has been sailing the international route between Dubrovnik and Bari since spring 2024. Built in Sweden in 1993 and completely refitted in Finland in 2014, Dalmacija, formerly known as Oslofjord, was once a floating shopping center. Today she stands as a symbol of comfort, elegance, and the joy of maritime travel.

In the summer of 2025, passenger comfort reached a new level. On Deck 5, two categories of airline-style seats were introduced, Relax and Sleeper. The Relax seats offer ergonomic design, adjustable backrests, and generous legroom, while the Sleeper seats add extra width and recline, footrests, USB ports, and reading lights, providing everything a traveler might need for a comfortable crossing as the ferry glides across the Adriatic.

All the innovations that marked the summer of 2025 are a continuation of Dalmacija’s ongoing course toward enhancing the onboard experience. With rich gastronomy, signature cocktails, and elevated comfort, Dalmacija sails confidently into the 2026 season, ready to welcome passengers with reliable service, warmth, and new surprises on the horizon..

Priče iz Dalmacije

Srednja Dalmacija postala je odredište pripovijesti iz Dalmacije (storytelling odredište). Najzaslužnija za to je Renata Tešija, viša stručna suradnica u turizmu pri Upravnom odjelu za turizam, pomorstvo i promet Splitskodalmatinske županije. Posjetitelji više nisu samo pasivni promatrači nego i sudionici s interaktivnim iskustvom, obogaćeni upoznavanjem baštine, tradicije, legenda i mitova odredišta u kojem borave

Odakle vam ideja za projekt Dalmacija storytelling destinacija?

Projekt Dalmacija storytelling pokrenut je 2018., kad sam se zaposlila u Splitsko-dalmatinskoj županiji. Stipe Čogelja, tadašnji pročelnik Upravnog odjela za turizam i pomorstvo, zatražio je da osmislimo projekt koji će unaprijediti kulturno-turističku ponudu i pridonijeti razvoju cjelogodišnjeg turizma.

Odmah mi je bilo jasno što bih trebala napraviti, kao da sam cijeli život čekala na takvu prigodu. Inspiraciju za projekt crpila sam iz vremena provedenog u muzejima Colonial Williamsburg i Jamestown Settlement u SAD-u, gdje sam imala priliku vidjeti kako se povijest i tradicija mogu ispričati, oživjeti i doživjeti na interaktivan, osoban i emotivan način. Koncept projekta razradila sam prema stanju zatečenom na području Splitsko-dalmatinske županije i prilagodila ga našem kulturološkom i poslovnom senzibilitetu.

Koji je cilj projekta?

Unapređenje kvalitete kulturno-turističke ponude, doprinos razvoju cjelogodišnjeg i održivog turizma te promjena koncepcije „sunca i mora“ u koncepciju „Pripovijesti iz Dalmacije“. U tom slojevitom projektu sudjeluju ljudi koji kreiraju komercijalno dostupne turističke doživljaje temeljene na baštini. Sukreiramo nove turističke proizvode, upozoravamo posjetitelje

Stories from Dalmatia

Central Dalmatia has become a true storytelling destination. The person most responsible for this transformation is Renata Tešija, senior tourism associate in the Department for Tourism, Maritime Affairs, and Transport of Split-Dalmatia County. Visitors are no longer just passive observers but active participants who enjoy interactive experiences enriched by the discovery of heritage, tradition, legends, and myths of the destination they visit.

Where did the idea for the “Dalmatia Storytelling Destination” project come from?

The project was launched in 2018, when I started working for Split-Dalmatia County. At the time, the head of the Department for Tourism and Maritime Affairs, Stipe Čogelja, asked me to design a project that would enhance the region’s cultural and tourism offer and support the development of yearround tourism.

I immediately knew what needed to be done, as if I had been waiting my whole life for that opportunity. My inspiration came from the time I spent in the museums of Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement in the United States, where I witnessed how history and tradition can be told, revived, and experienced in an interactive, personal, and emotional way. I developed the project’s concept according to the situation in Split-Dalmatia County and adapted it to our local cultural and professional sensibilities.

What is the main goal of the project?

Our aim is to improve the quality of cultural tourism, contribute to the development of year-round and sustainable tourism, and transform the traditional “sun and sea” concept into one of “Stories from Dalmatia.”

The project involves people who create commercially available tourist experiences based on heritage. Together we co-create new tourism products, raise awareness among visitors, and strive to increase the quality of their experience. We aim to balance the concept of “sun and sea” with the unique characteristics of each destination. Both domestic and foreign guests

na njih i nastojimo povećavati kvalitetu turističkog doživljaja. Uravnotežujemo koncept „sunca i mora“ i odredišne posebnosti. Domaće i strane posjetitelje želimo zainteresirati za našu povijest, običaje, tradiciju, jezik i kulturu. Potičemo metodu samootkrivanja, kako bismo posjetitelje upozorili na značenje i važnost baštine, a svoj doživljaj podijeliti s drugima.

Prve aktivnosti projekta Dalmacija storytelling destinacija (DSD) započele su 2020. godine, edukacijom turističkih vodiča

Projekt Storytelling Dalmacija na jedinstven način posjetiteljima prezentira tradiciju i povijest Dalmacije / The Dalmacija Storytelling project presents the tradition and history of Dalmatia to visitors in a unique way

are encouraged to discover our history, customs, traditions, language, and culture. We promote self-discovery so that visitors can understand the value and importance of heritage and share their experience with others.

The first project activities began in 2020 with the education of tourist guides and museum professionals during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The training, conducted in cooperation with international lecturers from the organization Interpret Europe, was the first of its kind in Croatia. Creating a quality tourism product is a demanding and long process that lasts from six to twelve months with mentoring support. Split-Dalmatia County supports the development of sixty tours, created in collaboration with guides and heritage institutions, and the placement of these new products on the market.

i muzejskih djelatnika, koja se održala u jeku pandemije bolesti COVID-19. Edukacija provedena u suradnji s inozemnim predavačima iz udruge Interpret Europe bila je prva takve vrste u Republici Hrvatskoj. Stvaranje kvalitetne turističke ponude iznimno je zahtjevno i dugotrajno – traje od šest do dvanaest mjeseci uz mentorsku potporu. Splitsko-dalmatinska županija podupire razvoj 60 tura nastalih u suradnji s turističkim vodičima i baštinskim institucijama i plasiranje novokreiranih sadržaja na tržište.

Komu je namijenjen projekt Dalmacija storytelling?

Doživljaji dostupni putem www.dalmatiastorytelling.com webplatforme namijenjeni su svakomu tko posjeti odredišta u Splitsko-dalmatinskoj županiji, a želi doživjeti autentičnu lokalnu priču. Svi su proizvodi dostupni tijekom cijele godine na hrvatskom i engleskom jeziku.

Ponuda je raznolika. Posjetitelj može sudjelovati na radionici za pripremu tradicionalne torte ili soparnika, kušati maslinovo ulje ili vino, doživjeti svijet velikog Ivana Meštrovića, zamišljati život u Dioklecijanovoj palači u doba kad je car u njoj živio, uz pomoć VR naočala ući u podzemne spilje, upoznati drukčiji Split na jednoj od mnogih tematskih pješačkih tura, doživjeti kraljevske priče drevne Salone, ploviti u barci i otkrivati baštinu otokā s morske strane, doživjeti život u izvornom dalmatinskom selu ili poslušati mitove i legende naših predaka.

Koja je razlika između turističkog vodiča i digitalnog storytellera? Kako su turistički vodiči postali digitalni pripovjedači? Ovlašteni turistički vodiči i muzejski djelatnici pravi su promicatelji baštine jer na turama predstavljaju našu materijalnu i nematerijalnu baštinu. Projektom Dalmacija storytelling stječu vještine interpretacije, prezentacije i pripovijedanja priča i anegdota o baštini, odnosno uče kako svoju priču „jezikom novih naraštaja“ preoblikovati u još zanimljiviju i interaktivniju.

Te su priče mahom bile dostupne samo gostima koji bi se zatekli na njihovim turama. Jedan je od ciljeva projekta promijeniti omjer narativa u digitalnom prostoru, s koncepta „sunca i mora“ na priče iz Dalmacije.

Who is the Dalmatia Storytelling project intended for?

All experiences available on the website www.dalmatiastorytelling.com are designed for anyone visiting the destinations of Split-Dalmatia County who wishes to experience an authentic local story. All experiences are available year-round in both Croatian and English.

The offer is diverse. Visitors can take part in a workshop to prepare a traditional cake or soparnik, taste olive oil or wine, explore the world of the great sculptor Ivan Meštrović, imagine life in Diocletian’s Palace during the emperor’s reign, enter underground caves using VR glasses, discover a different side of Split through themed walking tours, relive royal tales of ancient Salona, sail in a traditional wooden boat to explore island heritage from the sea, experience life in an authentic Dalmatian village, or listen to myths and legends passed down through generations.

What is the difference between a tourist guide and a digital storyteller? How did guides become storytellers?

Licensed tourist guides and museum professionals are true ambassadors of heritage, as they present both tangible and intangible cultural assets during their tours. Through the Dalmatia Storytelling project, they gain new skills in interpretation, presentation, and storytelling, learning how to reshape their narratives into engaging and interactive stories in the language of new generations.

Željeli smo da se posjetitelji upoznaju s našim običajima, dnevnim ritualima i svakodnevicom kroz koju su se stoljećima isprepletali tradicija, legende i mitovi, s načinom života lokalnog stanovništva iz naše unutrašnjosti i otoka. Želimo poručiti da ovdje postoji i život izvan ljetnog razdoblja.

Biti digitalni pripovjedač i pripovjedač uživo vrlo su različite vještine. Naši vodiči zaljubljenici su u svoju zemlju, a ljubav prema domovini iskazuju čuvanjem nezaboravnih, autentičnih, hrvatskih emotivnih priča od zaborava, u fizičkom i digitalnom formatu. Njihova nova uloga baštinskog digitalnog pripovjedača, odnosno baštinskog influencera, poslovni je alat koji im pomaže privući nove posjetitelje.

Koji su otoci, odnosno koje su otočne priče zasad uključene kao storytelling destinacije? Jesu li uključeni svi otoci Splitskodalmatinske županije?

Naši otoci su prave storytelling destinacije. Na platofrmi www.dalmatiastorytelling.com mogu se pronaći storytelling doživljaji na Šolti, Hvaru, Visu i Braču.

These stories were once shared only with guests who happened to join a guide’s tour. One of the project’s main goals is to shift the digital narrative from the idea of “sun and sea” to that of “Stories from Dalmatia.” We want visitors to discover our customs, daily rituals, and the everyday life through which traditions, legends, and myths have intertwined for centuries, reflecting the lifestyle of people from both the islands and the hinterland. Our message is that life here continues beyond the summer season.

Being a digital storyteller and performing storytelling live are very different skills. Our guides are passionate about their homeland, and they express their love for Croatia by preserving its most memorable and emotional stories, both physically and digitally. Their new role as heritage digital storytellers, or “heritage influencers,” has become a valuable professional tool that helps them attract new visitors.

Which islands and stories are currently included in the storytelling destination project?

Our islands are true storytelling destinations. On the platform www.dalmatiastorytelling.com visitors can find storytelling experiences from the islands of Šolta, Hvar, Vis, and Brač.

Šolta

• Sandra Marie Vrandečić: Šoltanka – One Life on the Island

• Teo Tomić: A Little Story about the Sea Hvar

• Barbara Bachiocco: Hvar – War and Peace

• Klaudija Gamulin: The Philosopher’s Stone of Petar Hektorović

• Jelena Mičić: Through Selina’s Eyes –Ancient Faros

• Jakov Rubinić: Za Križen – Following the Cross

• Jakša Damjanić: Terra Arhaica – Return to the Roots Vis

• Anela Borčić: Legends of the Island of Vis

• Dora Čukušić: Fishermen’s Tales of Komiža

• Alter Natura d.o.o.: The Falkuša Boat Experience Brač

• Ivana Gospodnetić (Butižica): The Story of the Cake (Hrapoćuša) and The Story of Wine

• Katarina Eterović: Selca – The Open-Air Museum

PREGLED TURA PO OTOCIMA

ŠOLTA

• Sandra Marie Vrandečić: Šoltanka – jedan život na otoku

• Teo Tomić: Mala priča o moru HVAR

• Barbara Bachiocco: Hvar: rat i mir

• Klaudija Gamulin: Kamen mudraca Petra Hektorovića

• Jelena Mičić: Uz Selino kroz antički Faros

• Jakov Rubinić: Za Križen

• Jakša Damjanić: Terra Arhaica (Povratak korijenima) VIS

• Anela Borčić: Legende otoka Visa

• Dora Čukušić: Ribarske priče Komiže

• Alter Natura d.o.o.: Iskustvo gajete falkuše) BRAČ

• Ivana Gospodnetić (Butižica): Priča o torti (Hrapoćuša) i Priča o vinu

• Katarina Eterović: Selca – muzej na otvorenom

How do local residents respond to the project? Do they take part by sharing their own stories?

The project encourages local residents to become “story hunters,” sending us their own stories and anecdotes about local history and traditions.

Tourist boards of towns and municipalities have played a key role in helping locals discover and enjoy the history, culture, and customs of their area. The directors of local tourist boards recognized the project’s value and engaged the certified guides to organize free storytelling tours for residents.

Are the tours organized only in summer or all year round? Do visitors actively participate in them?

Experiences from the Dalmatia Storytelling Destination project are available throughout the year. Many tours are offered free of charge as part of festivals or other events, such as the “Discover Your Homeland” program organized by the Croatian Tourist Guides Association. Information about all tours is regularly published on our social media channels.

The tours are popular among domestic and foreign visitors, as well as among locals and schools. Participants often highlight how much they enjoy actively taking part in uncovering fascinating stories, while their favorite moments are the costumed reenactments of historical events.

What are the plans for the future development of the project?

The Dalmatia Storytelling Destination project continues to evolve, expanding every year based on previous experience. We are currently collaborating with the authors of the project “Return to the Roots,” developing

Kako lokalno stanovništvo reagira na projekt? Uključuju li se svojim pričama?

Naš projekt potiče lokalne stanovnike da postanu „lovci na priče“ te nam samoinicijativno dostavljaju zanimljive crtice o povijesti i običajima svojeg kraja.

Turističke zajednice gradova i općina uvelike su pridonijele tomu da lokalno stanovništvo uživa u organiziranom upoznavanju povijesti, kulture i tradicije pojedinih odredišta. Direktori turističkih zajednica prepoznali su vrijednost projekta te su angažirali vodiče iz projekta kako bi lokalnom stanovništvu omogućili besplatno vođenje.

Organiziraju li se ture samo ljeti ili tijekom cijele godine? Sudjeluju li posjetitelji aktivno u turama ili su samo pasivni slušatelji dalmatinske tradicije?

Doživljaji iz DSD projekta dostupni su tijekom cijele godine. Često su dostupne i besplatne ture u sklopu festivalskih događanja ili drugih aktivnosti, poput manifestacije „Upoznaj svoju zemlju“ u organizaciji Zajednice društava turističkih vodiča Hrvatske. Informacije o njima uvijek objavljujemo na našim društvenim mrežama. Ture su popularne među domaćim i stranim posjetiteljima, ali i među lokalnim stanovništvom te obrazovnim ustanovama. Posjetitelji najčešće ističu kako ih se dojmila mogućnost aktivnog sudjelovanja u otkrivanju zanimljivih priča, ali najviše uživaju u kostimiranim uprizorenjima povijesnih događaja.

Kakvi su planovi za daljnji razvoj projekta?

Projekt Dalmacija storytelling destinacija kontinuirano se razvija, a model se svake godine proširuje na temelju dosadašnjeg iskustva. Trenutačno surađujemo s autorima projekta „Povratak korijenima“, kreirajući nove tematske ture. Surađujemo i s lokalnim turističkim zajednicama te kreiramo proizvode koje one žele uvrstiti u svoju ponudu.

Planiramo proširiti projekt i na ljude koji nisu licencirani vodiči ili muzejski djelatnici. Cilj je da već sljedeće godine imamo prve osposobljene predstavljače baštine. S partnerskim ustanovama prijavili smo i nekoliko projekata koji bi se financirali iz EU fondova. Surađujemo i s obrazovnim ustanovama kako bismo promovirali zagovarani koncept razvoja destinacije. ~

Detalji sa storytelling tura / Highlights from the storytelling tours

new themed tours. We also work with local tourist boards to create products they wish to include in their offers.

Our plan is to extend the project to people who are not licensed guides or museum professionals, with the goal of having the first certified heritage presenters by next year. Together with our partner institutions, we have submitted several projects for EU funding. We are also collaborating with educational institutions to promote our advocated concept of destination development. ~

Posjetitelji u sklopu storytelling tura imaju priliku iskusiti i bogatu gastronomiju / During the storytelling tour, visitors also have the opportunity to experience the rich gastronomy

KRONIKA JEDNOG DRUŽENJA

Plovidba koja traje cijeli život

Brod Porozina sažetak je moje duge, cjeloživotne plovidbe, simbol prisnih susreta s pomorcima, putnicima, brodovima i morem. U taj brod kao da je utisnuto svih 78 godina Jadrolinije, dugog razdoblja u kojem je bilo i lijepih i teških trenutaka. I zato sam pohitao u Sveti Kajo, posljednje počivalište Porozine i oprostio se od dragoga prijatelja.

LJPiše/By: Marijan Žuvić

eto je 1957. godine. Na mulu u Napulju, na palubi parobroda, dječačić sa šeširićem na glavi i njegova brižna majka uređena kako i dolikuje odlasku na đitu na Capri. Ili možda u opjevani Sorrento? Ali na brodskome kolutu piše: RAB RIJEKA. Nije to Molo di Napoli, nego vez u splitskoj luci, a parobrod neće ni na Capri ni u Sorrento, nego u Milnu na Braču. Dječačić je Marijan Žuvić, a brižna majka Božena.

Bilo je to prije 68 godina. Ima li bolje i ljepše potvrde o dugotrajnosti druženja Jadrolinije i dječačića sa stare fotografije? Tko je tada mogao slutiti da će dječačić postati kroničar bijele flote, da će u dvije monografije ispisati njezinu povijest i zauvijek sačuvati sjećanje na sve brodove Jadrolinije, a istodobno se družiti s tim brodovima i njihovim posadama duboko usađenim u sjećanje? Iz jednoga davnoga trenutka, zaustavljena na crno-bijelom negativu, naviru snažne emocije.

I dok Jadrolinija obilježava gotovo 80 godina od osnutka, pridružujem se toj velikoj obljetnici sa samo nekoliko valova iz cijelog mora sjećanja i osjećanja. To je tako impozantan jubilej da mu je teško smisliti prigodno ime jer su sva srebra i zlata završila s platinom i 70. obljetnicom. S druge pak strane, u 78 godina postojanja, bilo je mnogo toga dobroga, ali ni ono loše nije se uvijek moglo izbjeći. Sve je to tako isprepleteno na samo jednoj liniji, onoj što je povezivala Milnu sa Splitom i na kojoj sam plovio od prvog dana.

DUGI TRAG CRNOGA DIMA

Te davne 1957. bilo je prestižno putovati Rabom, pa makar samo do Milne. Tada to nisam mogao znati, ali usmena predaja o Rabu i njegovu blizancu Bakru traje sve dok žive sjećanja na parobrode. Bili

A Journey that Lasts a Lifetime

The vessel Porozina is the essence of my lifelong journey, a symbol of intimate encounters with seafarers, passengers, ships, and the sea itself. It carries within it the spirit of Jadrolinija’s 78 years, a long voyage marked by both joy and hardship. That is why I hurried to Sveti Kajo, Porozina’s final resting place, to say goodbye to an old friend.

It was the summer of 1957. On a pier that looked like Naples, a little boy in a hat stood beside his elegant, attentive mother, dressed as one should be for a voyage to Capri. Or perhaps to the famed Sorrento? Yet the lifebuoy read: RAB RIJEKA. This was not the Molo di Napoli, but a berth in Split harbor, and the steamer was not bound for Capri or Sorrento, but for Milna on the island of Brač. The little boy was me, Marijan Žuvić, and the caring mother was Božena. That was 68 years ago. Could there be a better testament to the lasting friendship

su to najbolji od bijelih brodova što su nad jadranskom pučinom ostavljali dugi trag crnog dima. Staroj vladarici plavih puteva, Jadranskoj plovidbi d.d. sa Sušaka, oba su isporučena u ožujku 1931. godine u britanskom brodogradilištu J. Samuel White & Co. Ltd. u East Cowesu na otoku Wightu. Tada su bili u samom svjetskom brodograditeljskom vrhu, a i danas se ističu kao primjer brodova izvrsno prilagođenih lokalnim linijama na Jadranu.

Nakon Travanjskoga rata 1941., palube Raba, koji će promijeniti naziv u Arbe, pune su talijanskih vojnih odora. Čim je Italija kapitulirala, u rujnu 1943., prelazi pod upravu Nezavisne Države Hrvatske i vraća mu se ime Rab. No ubrzo je prepušten Nijemcima, a oni još brže ostaju bez njega. U ratnim kronikama zabilježeno je da su ga 24. listopada 1943., kod mjesta Crkvice na Pelješcu, potopili saveznički zrakoplovi.

Srećom, nije bio teže oštećen pa je bio među prvim brodovima koje je Odred za spašavanje JRM izvadio iz mora dok je još trajao rat. Bilo je to u ožujku 1945. godine. Otegljen je u Split i ubrzo je dosegnuo prijašnju prestižnost, plovio je i „dimio“ do rujna 1965., kad je, još u naponu snage, u sklopu velike likvidacije Jadrolinijine flote, odvezen u rezalište Sveti Kajo.

Kako li su samo naši otočani žalili za svim svojim brodovima koji su tada završavali u visokim pećima, a kako li su tek bili ogorčeni i ljuto zamjerali Jadroliniji! Ni svjetske kronike ne bilježe ništa slično. U samo dvije godine, od 1963. do 1965., na groblje brodova jedan je brodar poslao čak 26 svojih parobroda. Među njima

CHRONICLE OF A LIFELONG

between Jadrolinija and the boy from the old photograph? Who could have imagined that the boy would grow up to become a chronicler of the White Fleet, that he would write its history in two monographs and preserve the memory of every Jadrolinija vessel, while sailing alongside those ships and their crews who remain forever etched in memory? From that long ago moment, frozen on a black and white negative, strong emotions still rise.

As Jadrolinija nears its 80th anniversary, I join this great celebration with only a few waves drawn from a vast sea of memories. It is a grand jubilee and difficult to name, since silver, gold, and platinum have already been used for earlier milestones. Across 78 years there has been much good, though not everything could go smoothly. All of it is intertwined on a single line, the one that connected Milna and Split, a line I have sailed since the very beginning.

A LONG TRAIL OF BLACK SMOKE

In those distant days of 1957, it was prestigious to travel aboard the Rab, even just to Milna. I could not have known it then, but the legacy of Rab and her twin Bakar lived on as long as memories of the steamers themselves. They were among the finest of the White Fleet, leaving long trails of black smoke over the Adriatic horizon.

Built for Jadranska Plovidba d.d. of Sušak, they were delivered in March 1931 from the British shipyard J. Samuel White and Company in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight. They stood among the world’s best shipbuilding achievements of their time and remain fine examples of vessels perfectly suited to local Adriatic routes.

After the April War of 1941, the decks of Rab, renamed Arbe, were filled with Italian military uniforms. When Italy capitulated in September 1943, the ship came under the administration of the Independent State of Croatia and regained its original name. Soon the Germans took her over, only to lose her just as quickly. War records show that on October 24, 1943, near the village of Crkvice on the Pelješac Peninsula, Rab was sunk by Allied aircraft.

Fortunately she was not heavily damaged. Among the first to be salvaged by the Yugoslav Navy’s Rescue Division during the war itself, she was raised from the sea in March 1945 and towed to Split. Soon after, she regained her former prestige, sailing and smoking proudly until September 1965, when she was still in full strength and taken to the shipbreaking yard of Sveti Kajo as part of Jadrolinija’s large scale fleet liquidation.

54

su bili Rab i Šipan, građeni 1931., ali i Kornat iz 1891., Brač iz 1896. i Herceg Novi građen 1897. godine.

PETNAEST BRODOVA U ŠEST GODINA

Brutalno? Nipošto, tumačili su mi prije 50 godina vrsni znalci, morski vukovi s bijelih brodova. Jadrolinija je povukla jedini mogući potez: brzo i bezbolno riješila se parobroda i još poprilično zaradila. Naime, država je obilato subvencionirala svaku tonu željeza od starih parobroda. Ali iza parobroda nije ostala pustoš. Jadranom su tada već plovili novi brodovi. Znameniti pjesnici predvođeni Vladimirom Nazorom, zaplovili su od 1952. do 1955. godine, a onda su 1955. u flotu uvrštena tri manja skladna blizanca iz prve serije Gradovi – Karlovac, Ohrid i Valjevo. Te 1955. uvrštena su u plovidbu četiri jednako velika broda, iz druge serije Gradovi – Maribor, Novi Sad, Mostar i Osijek. Treća serija Gradovi – Trogir, Tuzla i Takovo, zaplovila je 1957. U samo šest godina 15 brodova. Zašto su onda otočani tako ljuto zamjerali Jadroliniji? Odgovor je uvijek bio isti – preplavile su ih emocije. Od Istre do Boke kotorske osjećaji su bili isti: „eutanazirali“ su njihove drage vapore. U naraštajima otočana stvarana je istančana veza broda i čovjeka. Nikoga nije bilo briga kad je neki brod bio građen, jer on je bio naš, dio našeg života, radosti i tuge. Kao stari nono što poteže iz lule, naš je parobrod svojim crnim dimom ostavljao trag u beskraju.

Znali su mu svaki pedalj, svaki kutak, uživali u zadimljenom salonu, tukle su po stolu karte trieštine u briškuli i trešeti. Pa što ako su iskre i mrvice gara iz ciminjera tako padale po palubi, da ni sve tende nisu mogle zaštiti djevojke u ljetnim haljinama ni turiste u bijelim jaknama? Otočanima to nije smetalo, bez gara za njih ni slika parobroda ne bi bila prava.

ZAMIJENJENI MAGISTRALOM

Nije samo brza gradnja novih brodova presudila parobrodima. Mnoge pruge, koje su bile jedina veza brojnih mjesta duž obale sa svijetom, ukinute su nakon gradnje Jadranske magistrale. Komu je više trebala pruga Rijeka – Opatija – Lovran – Mošćenička Draga ili Zadar – Biograd – Rogoznica – Šibenik, Podgora – Makarska –Split, Trogir – Kaštela – Split ili Cavtat – Dubrovnik? I komu su više trebali mali ljupki vapori? Trebali su ljudima s Jadrana, kao dio njihova kolektivnog identiteta, kao nekakav otočni DNA. Teško se boriti s emocijama!

Netko će se pitati što je meni u studenome 1988. trebalo hitati na groblje brodova u rezalište Sveti Kajo da se fotografiram uz Porozinu dok je na navozu ležala kao na odru? Posljednji pozdrav dragom prijatelju u stavu mirno. Koliko uspomena iz minulih desetljeća, koliko sjećanja na putovanja, na divne ljude njezine posade, na ćakule za šankom, na suputnike kojih više nema... Mogu li me opravdati emocije?

How deeply the islanders mourned those ships that ended their days in the furnaces, and how bitterly they blamed Jadrolinija. Even world maritime chronicles rarely record anything similar. In just two years, from 1963 to 1965, a single company sent 26 of its steamers to the ship graveyard. Among them were Rab and Šipan, both built in 1931, as well as Kornat from 1891, Brač from 1896, and Herceg Novi from 1897.

FIFTEEN

SHIPS IN SIX YEARS

Brutal? Not at all, seasoned mariners of the White Fleet explained to me decades ago. Jadrolinija made the only possible decision, to part quickly and efficiently with the steamers while earning a fair return. At the time, the state heavily subsidized every ton of scrap iron recovered from old vessels.

The end of the steamers did not mean emptiness on the Adriatic. New vessels were already sailing. From 1952 to 1955 the famous Poet series, ships named after great writers such as Vladimir Nazor, joined the fleet. In 1955 came the first series of the Cities class, Karlovac, Ohrid, and Valjevo, followed that same year by a second series, Maribor, Novi Sad, Mostar, and Osijek. The third series, Trogir, Tuzla, and Takovo, was launched in 1957. Fifteen new ships in just six years.

REPLACED BY THE COASTAL HIGHWAY

It was not only the rapid construction of new vessels that sealed the fate of the steamers. Many local routes that had once been the only link between coastal towns and the outside world were discontinued after the construction of the Adriatic Highway. Who needed any longer the routes Rijeka to Opatija to Lovran to Mošćenička Draga, or Zadar to Biograd to Rogoznica to Šibenik, Podgora to Makarska to Split, Trogir to Kaštela to Split, or Cavtat to Dubrovnik? Those charming little steamers were more than transport. They were part of the Adriatic soul, the maritime identity of coastal people. Emotions are hard to fight.

Someone might ask why, in November 1988, I rushed to the shipbreaking yard in Sveti Kajo to be photographed beside Porozina, lying on the slipway like on a funeral bier. It was my final salute to a dear friend, standing at attention before her. So many memories of decades past came flooding back, journeys, wonderful crew members, cheerful conversations at the bar, fellow travelers long gone. Can I be forgiven for being emotional?

Porozina is the essence of all my voyages, of all people, of all ships. Within her lies the reflection of Jadrolinija’s 75 years, nearly all the milestones of the White Fleet in a single vessel. For me there is no doubt. No ship can compare to Porozina.

Porozina je sažetak svih mojih plovidaba, svih ljudi i svih brodova. Kroz nju se oslikava i 75 godina Jadrolinije, gotovo svi miljokazi bijele flote u jednom su brodu. Za mene dvojbe nema: nijedan se brod ne može mjeriti s Porozinom. Oni koji su do svojih otoka putovali njezinim blizancima Perastom, Postirama ili Puntom isto će reći za te brodove. I svi ćemo imati pravo.

Bili su to članovi znamenitog Jadrolinijinog kvarteta 4P, četiri najbolja putnička broda koji su ikad plovili Jadranom. Kad su naručeni 1961. po mnogo čemu su bili ispred svog vremena. Dugi 44,6 i široki 8,1 metar mogli su primiti 450 putnika i 30 tona tereta. Pokretala su ih dva dizelska stroja Burmeister & Wain, ukupne snage 882 kilovata, po licenciji izrađena u ljubljanskome Litostroju. S lakoćom su dostizali standardnu brzinu od 14 čvorova, katkad i 15.

KVARTET BEZ MANE

Krasili su ih udobni saloni i velike palube, te nadasve skladne linije. Dok se nisu pojavili trajekti, na pramčanu palubu su se brodskim dizalicama krcali automobili za otoke. I najvažnije: 4P su bili odlični mornari, uvijek jači od fortunala. Ako se za koga na Jadranu moglo starim engleskim pomorskim žargonom kazati da je Shipshape & Bristol fashion, dakle brod bez ijedne mane, onda je to bio kvartet 4P.

Sva četiri broda zaplovila su 1963. godine: Perast i Porozina izgrađeni su u Malom Lošinju, a Postira i Punat u pulskom brodogradilištu Crvena zvijezda. Gdje god su preuzeli pruge bili su dočekani s osobitom radošću. Prije mnogo godina kolegica i vrsna fotografkinja Alemka Goleš poslala mi je povijesnu sliku Porozine što ju je u kolovozu 1963. snimila u Trsteniku. Tek izgrađeni brod tada je preuzeo prugu 807 i prvi je put noćio u toj pelješkoj luci. A kakva je samo bila ta pruga 807: Trstenik – Žuljana – Polače –Kozarica – Sobra – Okuklje – Luka Šipanska – Suđurađ – Lopud –Koločep – Dubrovnik. Jedanaest luka. Brod je iz Trstenika polazio u 3 sata ujutro, a u Gradu je bio u 7.40 sati. Porozina je od parobroda naslijedila iznimno dugu i zahtjevnu prugu 603: Split – Sutivan – Bobovišća – Milna – Bol – Jelsa – Vrboska. I na njoj smo se intenzivno družili. Putovao sam

Those who traveled to their islands aboard her sisters Perast, Postira, or Punat will say the same about theirs, and they would all be right.

They were members of Jadrolinija’s legendary 4P Quartet, the four finest passenger ships ever to sail the Adriatic. When ordered in 1961 they were ahead of their time in many ways. At 44.6 meters long and 8.1 meters wide, they could carry 450 passengers and 30 tons of cargo. Powered by two Burmeister and Wain diesel engines built under license at Ljubljana’s Litostroj, they reached a standard speed of 14 knots, sometimes even 15.

A QUARTET WITHOUT A FLAW

They were distinguished by comfortable lounges, spacious decks, and elegant lines. Before ferries appeared, automobiles were loaded onto their forward decks using shipboard cranes. Most importantly, the 4P ships were superb sailors, always stronger than the fiercest Adriatic storms. If any vessel in the Adriatic could truly be described by the old English phrase Shipshape and Bristol fashion, meaning flawless in every way, it was the 4P quartet.

All four entered service in 1963. Perast and Porozina were built in Mali Lošinj, and Postira and Punat at the Pula shipyard Crvena zvijezda. Wherever they were assigned, they were greeted with joy.

Years ago my colleague and gifted photographer Alemka Goleš sent me a historic photo of Porozina, taken in August 1963 in Trstenik. The newly built vessel had just taken over Route 807 and spent her first night in that Pelješac harbor. And what a route it was: Trstenik, Žuljana, Polače, Kozarica, Sobra, Okuklje, Luka Šipanska, Suđurađ, Lopud, Koločep, Dubrovnik. Eleven ports. The ship departed Trstenik at 3 a.m. and reached Dubrovnik at 7:40.

Porozina inherited from the old steamers the long and demanding Route 603: Split, Sutivan, Bobovišća, Milna, Bol, Jelsa, Vrboska. It was there we spent so much time together. I even traveled aboard her to Lastovo, where she proved her seaworthiness in rough seas, a true home on the water.

When I hear Ivan Slamnig’s unforgettable poem Barbara, I am back aboard Porozina.

“Barbara was white hulled, Barbara was strong and wide, Barbara was our pride, Barbara, Barbara, beautiful as a picture.”

Perhaps the poet was singing about Porozina herself.

She had excellent captains, skilled chief engineers, and devoted crews. I will not name anyone, for that would be unfair to the many dear people of Jadrolinija’s ships with whom I sailed and

Porozinom i do Lastova gdje je u fortunalu pokazivala sve vrline „kuće na moru“. Kad slušam neponovljivu „Barbaru“ Ivana Slamniga ponovno sam na Porozini. Barbara bješe bijela boka; Barbara bješe čvrsta, široka; Barbara bješe naša dika; Barbara, Barbara, lijepa ko' slika. Bit će da je i pjesnik pjevao baš o Porozini. Imala je izvrsne zapovjednike, vrhunske upravitelje stroja, dobre posade... Neću nikoga imenovati, bila bi nepravda prema svim drugim dragim ljudima s brodova Jadrolinije s kojima sam plovio i družio se. Samo onaj tko je putovao prugom 603 može znati kakva je luka u Bobovišću, koliko je skučena i koliko je znanja i vještine potrebno za uplovljavanje. I samo taj može razumjeti što znači izvesti brodski „balet“ u Bobovišću. Kad je barba bio od volje uplovio bi tako vješto i stvorio maretu da s kamenih ploča turistima pokupi rastrte ručnike. „Bravo maestro“, vikali smo mu.

OSMRTNICA ZA PRUGU 603

Danas su u Bobovišću zaboravili kako izgleda bijeli brod. Nema Porozine, ni pruge 603 ni ijedne druge. Presudio im je Zakon o zamjeni nerentabilnih brodskih pruga, novi gospodari otočnih ruta postali su stari trajekti, neusporedivi s Porozinom i njezinom braćom. U ljeto 1986. odvezena su posljednja putovanja na onome što je ostalo od pruge 603, od Splita samo do Bola i Jelse. U svojoj muci i nevolji otočani su se od linije oprostili – novinskom osmrtnicom.

Trajekte kojima su, nakon ukidanja brodskih linija, svi Bračani morali putovati u Supetar, a onda dalje na sve strane otoka, uistinu nije moguće pamtiti po dobru. Beštimali bi oni i na mnogo bolje trajekte, samo zato što su upravo Bračani najgore prošli u supstituciji. Ostali su bez stoljetnih veza sa Splitom, pa su u Sutivan, Bobovišće, Milnu, Bol, Splitsku, Povlja, Postira, Pučišća i Sumartin iz Supetra putovali neudobnim autobusima.

Stotine ljudi naguranih u otvorenoj garaži trajekta, jer je u salonu bilo jedva mjesta za starije, žene i djecu, bili su posve uobičajeni prizori vikendom. Najgore je bilo noću, po kiši ili buri, a najgori od trajekata bio je Bračanka. Sjećam se jednoga iseljenika, koji se iz garaže prepune putnika okrenuo prema mostu i stisnute šake, u nemoćnom bijesu, viknuo zapovjedniku: „U Australiji bi vas kaznili da ovako vozite ovce!“ Kad je u ožujku 1987. Bračanka izgorjela na vezu u Supetru malo je tko za njom uzdahnuo.

A Porozina? Neko vrijeme brodila je splitskim akvatorijem. Posljednja plovidba bila je ona za Drvenik u kasno proljeće 1988., a onda je u lipnju poslana na mrtvi vez u Punat. Ondje su odmah počeli s nje skidati sve što bi moglo poslužiti na tri njezina blizanca. Tegljač Aldebaran je 8. studenoga 1988. Porozinu doteglio na groblje brodova. Ondje su se silno žurili da je eutanaziraju, odmah su je izvukli na navoz i već sutradan počeli rezati. Rezači iz Svetoga Kaje, koji su dokrajčili na stotine brodova, u čudu su gledali kako nestaje kultni brod.

Požurio sam u Sveti Kajo i ondje me kolega fotoreporter Jadran Babić fotografirao uz taj omiljeni brod. Te sam fotografije 2006. godine objavio u rubrici „Finished with engines“ na britanskome pomorskome portalu River Sea International i one su, kao još jedna počast dragom brodu, obišle svijet. Povijest Jadrolinije često pišu emocije.

PLIMA NOVIH TRAJEKATA

Dio povijesti Jadrolinije pisao sam bez dodatnih emocija. Još od 1974. pratio sam u Slobodnoj Dalmaciji zbivanja u luci, u sezoni sam gotovo svaki dan bio u „novinarskoj patroli“. Turizam je

shared so many days. Only those who have traveled Route 603 know what the port of Bobovišća is like, narrow and confined and demanding absolute precision. Only they can understand what it means to perform a ship ballet in that small harbor. When the captain was in good spirits, he would execute such a graceful maneuver that the wash from the propellers would splash over the stone quay and scoop up the towels of surprised tourists. We would shout, Bravo maestro.

AN OBITUARY FOR ROUTE 603

Today in Bobovišća people have forgotten what a white ship looks like. There is no Porozina, no Route 603, nor any like it. They were brought to an end by the Law on the Replacement of Unprofitable Maritime Lines. The new rulers of island routes became old ferries, incomparable to Porozina and her sisters. In the summer of 1986 the last sailings of what remained of Route 603 ran, only from Split to Bol and Jelsa. In their sorrow the islanders said farewell to the route with a newspaper obituary.

The ferries that replaced the ships forced all Brač islanders to travel through Supetar and then onward by road to the rest of the island. They are not fondly remembered. Even if the ferries had been better, people would still have cursed them, for Brač suffered most in the substitution. They lost their century old direct connections with Split, and from Supetar had to travel to Sutivan, Bobovišća, Milna, Bol, Splitska, Povlja, Postira, Pučišća, and Sumartin by uncomfortable buses.

Weekends brought hundreds of people crammed into open ferry garages, since there was barely space in the saloon for the elderly, women, and children. It was worst at night, in rain or bura winds. The worst ferry of all was Bračanka. I remember one emigrant, furious at the sight of the packed garage, shaking his fist toward the bridge and shouting, In Australia they would fine you for treating sheep like this. When Bračanka caught fire and burned at her berth in Supetar in March 1987, few mourned her.

THE FATE OF POROZINA

Porozina continued sailing in Split’s waters for a while. Her final voyage was to Drvenik in late spring 1988, and by June she was sent to lay up in Punat. There they immediately began stripping her for parts to use on her three sister ships. On November 8, 1988, the tug Aldebaran towed Porozina to the ship graveyard at Sveti Kajo. They were in a hurry to dismantle her. She was hauled onto the slipway and cutting began the next day. The yard workers of Sveti Kajo, who had dismantled hundreds of vessels, watched in disbelief as this legendary ship disappeared before their eyes.

I rushed to Sveti Kajo, where my colleague, photojournalist Jadran Babić, captured me standing

Marijan Žuvić prilikom vađenja „Brigitte Montanari" s morskoga dna, 1988. godine / Marijan Žuvić during the salvage of “Brigitte Montanari” from the seabed, 1988

počeo bujati, svi su htjeli na otoke, a trajekata malo... Gužve, prometni kolapsi, vozači pod visokim naponom. U dane vikenda bio sam u luci do poslije ponoći, uz kolone automobila koji čekaju, uz obitelji koje znaju da se neće ukrcati.

I onda bi se oko ponoći pronio glas da stiže izvanredni trajekt. Kakvo uzbuđenje, kolika nada! Uistinu, stiže Gradac ili Komiža, možda i Lošinjanka. Ali u njih teškom mukom stane samo 30 osobnih automobila. I umornim čekačima ostaje duga ljetna noć u trajektnoj luci. Zato će ujutro biti prvi! Dakako, ako ih ne preteknu oni s propusnicama i prednošću ukrcaja. Za prisjećanje prilažem fotografiju iz kolovoza 1987. Posve desno su vaš kroničar i rukovoditelj agencije Jadrolinije Mate Matijašević: nemoćno nadgledaju mravinjak...

Srećom, to je već davna povijest. Da je tih davnih godina netko na asfaltu splitske trajektne luke rekao kako 2022. na pruzi za Supetar neće biti trajekta s manje od 140 mjesta u garaži rekli bi da mu je sunce udarilo u glavu. A da se usudio ustvrditi kako će Jadrolinijini trajekti usred ljeta ploviti do Supetra 14 puta na dan, a usred zime „samo“ devet puta, slijedila bi mu kakva žešća dijagnoza. A sve je to postalo stvarnost. Stvarnost je i šest trajektnih polazaka za Rogač na Šolti. Na otok Ugljan trajekt iz Preka za Zadar u sezoni svakoga dana isplovljava 18 puta.

Posljednjih 20 godina Jadroliniju trese prava „trajektna groznica“ i nitko od otočana ne želi joj brzo ozdravljenje. Sve je započelo još 2003. kad je u Grčkoj kupljen samo godinu dana star trajekt nazvan Tin Ujević, s nestvarnim kapacitetom od 218 vozila. Iduće ljeto označava početak plime novih trajekata s hrvatskih navoza. Te 2004. godine zaplovili su Sveti Krševan, Supetar i Cres. Već 2005. godine kreće slavna petorka, otočanima danas najomiljenijih trajekata: Hrvat, Marjan, Juraj Dalmatinac, Biokovo i Jadran. Mali predah, pa se trajektna groznica nastavlja 2014. U godinu dana zaplovili su Kornati, Brač, Krk i Mljet. Uz dvanaest novosagrađenih brodova u Jadrolinijinu flotu ulazi i dodatnih pet trajekata „iz druge ruke“, kupljenih u Grčkoj. Sveukupno 18 velikih trajekata u 19 godina.

Ima li za najveću brodarsku tvrtku u Hrvatskoj, za njezin 75. rođendan, ljepšeg dara?

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beside my beloved ship. Those photographs, later published in 2006 in the column Finished with engines on the British maritime portal River Sea International, circled the world as a tribute to Porozina. The history of Jadrolinija, I have learned, is often written through emotion.

THE TIDE OF NEW FERRIES

Not all of Jadrolinija’s history is emotional. Since 1974 I have followed the port of Split daily for Slobodna Dalmacija. During the summer seasons I was on reporter patrol almost every day. Tourism was booming, everyone wanted to reach the islands, but ferries were few. There were crowds, traffic chaos, and impatient drivers. On weekends I stayed in the port past midnight, among the lines of cars waiting to board, families realizing they would not make it. Then, around midnight, word would spread that an extra ferry was coming. What excitement and hope. Sometimes it was Gradac or Komiža, maybe even Lošinjanka. But those small ferries barely held 30 cars. For the weary travelers another long Adriatic night awaited in the ferry port, waiting to be first in line at dawn, unless someone with a priority pass jumped the queue. I include here a photo from August 1987. On the far right are your chronicler and Jadrolinija agency manager Mate Matijašević, helplessly overseeing the chaos.

Fortunately that is distant history now. Had someone, back in those days on the asphalt of Split’s ferry port, said that by 2022 no ferry to Supetar would have fewer than 140 garage spaces, people would have thought the sun had baked his brain. And if he had claimed Jadrolinija ferries would sail to Supetar 14 times a day in summer and only nine times in winter, they would have sent him straight to the infirmary. Yet all that became reality. Today there are six daily ferry departures to Rogač on Šolta. To Ugljan, the ferry from Preko to Zadar sails 18 times a day in summer.

Over the past twenty years Jadrolinija has experienced true ferry fever, and no islander wishes for a cure. It began in 2003, when a nearly new Greek ferry was purchased and renamed Tin Ujević, with a capacity of 218 vehicles. The following summer marked the beginning of a new tide of Croatian built ferries. In 2004 came Sveti Krševan, Supetar, and Cres. In 2005 the famous five, now the islanders’ favorites, joined the fleet, Hrvat, Marjan, Juraj Dalmatinac, Biokovo, and Jadran. After a short break the ferry fever returned in 2014, when Kornati, Brač, Krk, and Mljet entered service. Alongside twelve new vessels, Jadrolinija also acquired five second hand ferries from Greece. In total there were eighteen large ferries in nineteen years.

Could there be a more fitting gift for Croatia’s largest shipping company on its 75th anniversary?

Djelatnici Jadrolinije –bogatstvo interesa

Svestranost, kreativnost i predanost nekih Jadrolinijinih djelatnika izvan radnog vremena inspirativna je kao i njihova profesionalnost na radnom mjestu. Ta svestranost, kreativnost i predanost izvan radnog vremena jednako nas inspirira kao i njihova profesionalnost na radnom mjestu. Veseli nas upoznati drugu stranu naših djelatnika – ljude koji svojim hobijima, trudom i strašću čine Jadroliniju bogatijom zajednicom.

Predstavljamo četvero kolega čiji su interesi toliko različiti, a opet povezani zajedničkim nazivnikom – ljubav prema poslu i životu. Borena Emili Miculinić slastičarka je u duši, Ivica Pavičić trener i predsjednik nogometnog kluba, Dinko Brautović, zaljubljenik u zvijezde, a Tomislav Grbić vrsni vinar.

Borena Emili Miculinić SLATKE STRASTI

Kako je započeo vaš profesionalni put u Jadroliniji?

U Jadroliniji sam od 1994. godine, a tijekom karijere prošla sam nekoliko „paluba“. Sve je počelo u agenciji u Rijeci, a onda sam uplovila u tehničku službu, u odjel koji se bavio pomorskim nesrećama. Taj je posao bio vrlo stresan i zahtjevan. Svako istraživanje nesreća nalikovalo je na detektivsku istragu. Danas sam u odjelu osiguranja brodova, u kojem se bavimo analizama i prevencijom nesreća. U svakoj etapi rada u Jadroliniji naučila sam nešto novo jer su različiti poslovi uvijek bili novi izazov.

Osim redovita posla u Jadroliniji, poznata je i vaša ljubav prema slasticama…

Pećnicu sam zavoljela kad mi je bilo petnaest godina i od tada traje ta slatka priča. Iako je moje formalno obrazovanje tehničko, oduvijek sam težila kreativnom izražavanju, uvjerena da imam tu neku stvaralačku crtu, u mom slučaju usmjerenu prema slastičarstvu.

Među gotovo 2000

Jadrolinijinih djelatnika mnogo je onih koji se uz odgovorno obavljanje profesionalnih zadaća strastveno posvećuju svojim hobijima. Predstavljamo njih četvero čiji dodatni interesi i njih i Jadrolinijinu zajednicu obogaćuju novom kvalitetom

Jadrolinija Employees –A Wealth of Interests

Among nearly 2,000 employees of Jadrolinija, many are not only dedicated professionals but also passionate hobbyists. We introduce four of them whose additional pursuits enrich both their lives and the Jadrolinija community.

The versatility, creativity, and dedication of some Jadrolinija employees beyond working hours are as inspiring as their professionalism on board and on shore. We are delighted to get to know the other side of our colleagues – people whose hobbies, effort, and passion make Jadrolinija an even richer and more connected crew.

We present four colleagues whose interests are wonderfully diverse yet share the same compass – a love for their work and for life itself. Borena Emili Miculinić is a confectioner at heart, Ivica Pavičić a football coach and club president, Dinko Brautović a stargazer, and Tomislav Grbić a skilled winemaker.

Najprije osmislim ideju, potom je nacrtam i tek onda prelazim na izvedbu. Svaka slastica mora imati poseban oblik, strukturu i ravnotežu, a pritom izgledati privlačno. Moje su torte zapravo mali tehnički projekti – ujedno i vrlo ukusni! Najviše se veselim izvedbi, od prve zamisli do trenutka kad netko zagrize i s osmijehom kaže: „Ovo je savršeno.“ Osobito volim ukrašavanje – svaka linija šlaga, svaki detalj ima svoje mjesto i smisao.

Imate li neke favorite na koje ste osobito ponosni?

Ponosna sam na ideju personaliziranih keksa za posebne prigode, koje sam osmislila i s vremenom razradila. Ti su keksi mali darovi na vjenčanjima ili krštenjima, a svaki je unikatan – bojom, motivom i detaljima koji ovise o temi događaja. Osim toga, povremeno organiziram male radionice za prijateljice. To su opuštena druženja na kojima uvijek nešto novo naučimo, a naposljetku odlazimo ispunjena srca i s punim rukama kolača. Lani sam završila i tečaj za slastičarku te ovaj hobi i službeno dodala svom profesionalnom zvanju.

Kako usklađujete posao i „slatku strast“? Hoćete li se jednog dana potpuno posvetili slastičarstvu?

Moje slastičarsko radno vrijeme počinje kad kuća utihne. Noć je moje vrijeme – tada kuhinja postaje moj svijet, a brašno, šećer i čokolada moji kolege i suradnici. Posao i hobi nisu u savršenoj

Borena izrađuje torte raznih motiva, a posebno ju veseli oni morski / Borena creates cakes with various designs, and she especially enjoys making ones with marine themes

Borena Emili Miculinić SWEET PASSIONS

How did your professional voyage with Jadrolinija begin?

I joined Jadrolinija in 1994 and during my career I’ve sailed across several “decks.” Everything started in the Rijeka agency, and later I transferred to the technical department, dealing with maritime accidents – a demanding and intense role. Every investigation was like a detective mission. Today I work in the ship insurance department, where we analyze incidents and develop preventive measures. Each stage of my service has taught me something new; every post brought fresh challenges and new horizons. Outside of your regular duties, you’re wellknown for your love of sweets… I fell in love with the oven when I was fifteen, and the story has been unfolding ever since. Although my formal education is technical, I’ve always had a creative spark – and confectionery became my way of expressing it. I always start with an idea, sketch it out, and only then move to execution. Every cake must have the right form, texture, and balance – and, of course, look delightful. My cakes are actually small technical projects – only much tastier! My favorite moment is the final one: when someone takes a bite and says with a smile, “This is perfect.”

Do you have any favorites you’re especially proud of?

I’m particularly proud of my idea for personalized cookies made for special occasions such as weddings or christenings. Each cookie is unique in color, motif, and detail, tailored to the theme of the event. I also organize

small baking workshops for friends – relaxed get-togethers where we learn, laugh, and always leave with full hearts (and hands full of pastries). Last year I even completed a certified pastry course, officially adding confectionery to my list of professional skills. How do you balance your job and your ‘sweet passion’? Do you see yourself turning to confectionery full-time?

ravnoteži, ali kad nešto voliš, ni poneka neprospavana noć nije problem. Zasad se ne mogu potpuno posvetiti svom hobiju, ali možda jednog dana slastice ipak dobiju glavnu ulogu u mom životu.

Ivica Pavičić

NOGOMETNO SRCE OTOKA

Na kojem ste radnom mjestu u Jadroliniji i kako se razvijala vaša karijera?

U Jadroliniji sam od 2005. godine. Počeo sam kao sezonski radnik, a nakon 13 godina rada na šalteru ponuđeno mi je da preuzmem dužnost voditelja agencija Stari Grad, Hvar i Jelsa. Završio sam upravno pravo i to je savršeno odgovaralo mom obrazovnom profilu i ambicijama. Otac mi je cijeli radni vijek proveo kao poslovođa, pa mi je ponuda da preuzmem veću odgovornost bila veliko priznanje i dodatna motivacija. Znao sam da će biti zahtjevno, ali volim izazove i posao sam prihvatio s puno entuzijazma. Danas ponosno mogu reći da vodim vrijedne i profesionalne ekipe u sve tri agencije te da funkcioniramo skladno i uspješno.

Osim posla, poznati ste i po nogometu?

Nogomet je moja životna ljubav. Aktivno sam počeo igrati kad mi je bilo 17 godina. Nakon Domovinskog rata obnovila su se igrališta

My pastry work begins when the house goes quiet. Night is my time – that’s when my kitchen turns into my world, and flour, sugar, and chocolate become my crew. The balance isn’t perfect, but when you love something deeply, even sleepless nights are sweet. I’m not ready to devote myself entirely to this craft – but who knows, maybe one day desserts will take the helm.

Ivica Pavičić THE FOOTBALL HEART OF THE ISLAND

What position do you hold in Jadrolinija, and how has your career developed?

I’ve been with Jadrolinija since 2005. I started as a seasonal worker, and after thirteen years at the ticket counter, I was offered the position of agency manager for Stari Grad, Hvar, and Jelsa. Having studied public law, the role suited my background and ambitions perfectly. My father also spent his entire career as a foreman, so being trusted with greater responsibility was a great honor. Today, I proudly lead dedicated and professional teams across all three agencies – a well-coordinated crew sailing smoothly together. Outside of work, you’re famous for your connection to football.

na otoku i ponovno pokrenula Forska nogometna liga. To su bili posebni trenuci. Ideja da nakon ratnih godina ponovno igramo i predstavljamo svoje selo bila je velika radost i pokazatelj zajedništva. Igrao sam do 34. godine, a tada sam preuzeo trenersku ulogu u klubu. Poslije sam bio i predsjednik NK Sloga Dol, a danas sam trener pionira u NK Jelsa. Rad s djecom od 12 do 14 godina me ispunjava – oni su energični, znatiželjni i puni volje. Treninzi su tri puta na tjedan, često u večernjim satima pod reflektorima, i to mi je pravi gušt.

Koji vam je najveći uspjeh u sportu?

Najveći uspjeh mi je vidjeti napredak djece s kojom radim. Klub ne stvara rezultatski pritisak – naš je cilj njihov pravilan fizički i mentalni razvoj. Puno razgovaramo, trudim se da treninzi budu zanimljivi i edukativni, a kad nemamo utakmicu, organiziramo izlete, odlaske u kino ili posjet arheološkim lokalitetima. Želim da steknu širu sliku o svijetu oko sebe – da nauče kako sport nije samo rezultat nego i oblikovanje karaktera, zajedništvo i odgovornost.

Kako uspijevate uskladiti poslovne i sportske obaveze?

Nije teško, jer su treninzi uvijek navečer, a ljeti se liga ne igra. Posao u Jadroliniji i nogomet lijepo se nadopunjuju. Smatram da čovjek ne bi trebao imati previše obveza ako želi svaku od njih odraditi kvalitetno. Dajem sve od sebe – i kao voditelj i kao trener. Nogomet je ljubav, a Jadrolinija život i profesija. Ne tražim ništa više osim zdravlja i da ovakav tempo života mogu održati što duže.

Dinko Brautović

POGLED PREMA ZVIJEZDAMA

Jedan ste od veterana u Jadroliniji. Čime se trenutačno bavite? U Jadroliniji sam od 1997. godine, kad sam se zaposlio u tadašnjem poduzeću Jadrolinija – Brodoremont d.o.o., koje je poslije integrirano u Jadroliniju. Više od 28 godina bavio sam se različitim poslovima, a danas sam na radnom mjestu stručnjaka za analizu potrošnje goriva. Moj posao zahtijeva preciznost, analitičnost i tehničko razumijevanje, što mi savršeno odgovara.

Football has been my lifelong passion. I started playing at 17, right after the Homeland War, when local fields on the island were restored and the Hvar Island League was revived. Representing our village after those difficult years was a moment of joy and unity. I played until I was 34, then took on the role of coach, later also serving as club president of NK Sloga Dol. Today, I’m the coach of the youth team at NK Jelsa. Working with children aged 12–14 is deeply rewarding –they’re curious, energetic, and eager to learn. Training under the floodlights in the evening is pure joy.

What do you consider your greatest sporting achievement?

Seeing the progress of the kids I coach –that’s the biggest victory. Our club doesn’t chase results; our mission is healthy growth – physical, mental, and emotional. We talk a lot, I try to make practices fun and educational, and when we don’t have a match, we organize trips, movies, or cultural visits. Sport is not only about scoring goals – it’s about teamwork, discipline, and building character. How do you balance your professional and sporting responsibilities?

It’s actually manageable, since training is in the evenings and the league rests during summer. Work at Jadrolinija and football complement each other nicely. I believe a person shouldn’t take on too much if they want to do each task well. I give my all – both as a manager and as a coach. Football is my passion; Jadrolinija is my life and profession. I ask for nothing more than health – and to keep this rhythm as long as possible.

A VIEW TOWARD THE STARS

Vaša je strast astronomija. Što vas je privuklo zvijezdama?

Astronomijom sam se počeo baviti još u djetinjstvu. Kao sedmogodišnjak gledao sam na televiziji seriju „Svemir 1999.“ i to je bio moj prvi dodir s beskrajem svemira. Od tada su me opčinili pojmovi poput planeta, raketa, astronauta i svemirskih misija. Odrastao sam u manjem mjestu na Krku, gdje je nebo bilo tamno i bistro pa sam satima promatrao zvijezde. Prvi teleskop bio mi je običan dalekozor, ali već tada sam znao da će me taj svijet pratiti cijeli život. S godinama sam čitao sve što sam mogao pronaći o svemiru, pohađao predavanja, posjećivao planetarije u inozemstvu, a 2003. godine učlanio sam se u Astronomsko društvo Rijeka.

Koja su vam najvažnija postignuća u astronomiji?

Tijekom gotovo dva desetljeća članstva u Astronomskom društvu održao sam mnoga popularno-znanstvena predavanja, organizirao promatranje nebeskih tijela teleskopom, pisao tekstove za časopis Polaris i uređivao emisiju „Crna rupa“ na Radio Rijeci. Sudjelovao sam u organizaciji Festivala znanosti i Noći muzeja, bio predsjednik Astronomskog društva trinaest godina te mentor mlađim članovima. Posebno mi je drago što predavanjima i promatranjem mogu mladima približiti astronomiju. Najvećim postignućem ipak smatram popularizaciju astronomije, osobito među mlađim naraštajima. Svaka nova osoba koja se zainteresira za znanost, svemir ili promatranje neba mali je, ali vrijedan uspjeh.

Kako usklađujete obveze na poslu i hobi? Želite li se jednog dana potpuno posvetiti astronomiji?

Pokatkad zna biti zgusnuto, jer su poslovne obveze i obitelj uvijek prioritet, ali ljubav prema astronomiji daje mi snagu za dodatni napor. Promatranja se često održavaju noću, pa se dan produžuje,

You’re one of Jadrolinija’s veterans. What’s your current role?

I joined Jadrolinija in 1997, initially at the subsidiary Jadrolinija–Brodoremont d.o.o., later integrated into the company. Over 28 years, I’ve held various positions, and today I work as a Fuel Consumption Analyst, a role requiring precision, analytical thinking, and strong technical knowledge – which fits me perfectly.

Your passion is astronomy. What first drew your eyes to the stars?

It started in childhood. I was seven when I saw the TV series Space: 1999 – my first encounter with the vastness of the universe. I was fascinated by planets, rockets, and astronauts. Growing up on the island of Krk, under a dark and clear sky, I would spend hours gazing at the stars. My first telescope was just a pair of binoculars, but I already knew the stars would be part of my journey. Over time, I devoured every book I could find, attended lectures, visited planetariums abroad, and in 2003 I joined the Astronomical Society of Rijeka. What do you consider your main achievements in astronomy?

In nearly two decades of membership, I’ve given numerous public lectures, organized telescope observations, written for Polaris

ali svaki put kad pogledam kroz teleskop, umor nestaje i prevladava strast. Jednog dana, kad odem u mirovinu, planiram se još više posvetiti astronomiji, a do tada Jadrolinija je moj prvi izbor. Astronomija ostaje strast i zadovoljstvo provođenja slobodnog vremena.

Tomislav Grbić

IZMEĐU MORA I VINOGRADA

Pomorac ili vinar? Kako biste sebe definirali?

Nakon završene Pomorske škole upisao sam Višu pomorsku školu u Rijeci te sam odlučio nastaviti školovanje i magistrirati. Nakon magisterija zaposlio sam se u Jadroliniji kao vježbenik palube. Ubrzo sam napredovao do trećeg časnika palube, a potom i časnika palube na redovnim trajektnim linijama. Danas sam zapovjednik. Cijelu svoju karijeru, od samih početaka, gradim u Jadroliniji i sretan sam i ponosan što već više od deset godina radim u kompaniji koja ima tradiciju, koja je pouzdana i koju tvore ljudi predani svom poslu.

A kako se začela ljubav prema vinu?

Ne kažu pravi biznismeni bez razloga da je svaki posao plod gluposti i igre – tako je bilo i kod mene. Ljubav prema vinu postoji odavno, u obitelji je to uvijek bio dio svakodnevice. Ipak, ozbiljnije

magazine, and hosted the “Black Hole” radio show on Radio Rijeka. I also organized the Festival of Science and Museum Night, served as president of the Astronomical Society for thirteen years, and mentored younger members. My greatest accomplishment is promoting astronomy – especially among youth. Every new person who looks at the night sky with wonder is a small but meaningful success. How do you manage your professional and astronomical commitments? Would you one day devote yourself fully to astronomy?

Sometimes the schedule gets tight – work and family come first – but my love for the cosmos keeps me going. Observations often take place at night, so the days are longer, but each time I look through the telescope, fatigue disappears. When I retire, I plan to spend even more time observing and teaching astronomy. Until then, Jadrolinija remains my home port – astronomy my horizon.

sam se vinarstvom počeo baviti prije desetak godina, a profesionalnije prije pet godina.

Isprva sam to radio iz čistog zadovoljstva, ali s vremenom se pretvorilo u nešto ozbiljnije. Danas proizvodimo znatne količine grožđa i vina, a iza svake uspješne berbe stoji puno rada, ulaganja i učenja.

Koja biste postignuća u karijeri pomorca izdvojili kao najvažnija, a koja u vinarstvu?

Najveći uspjeh dosad svakako su nagrade koje smo osvojili na natjecanju „Sabatina“, prestižnom međunarodnom susretu vinogradara i vinara Dalmacije. Naši su uspjesi ondje potaknuli i nas i našu malu obiteljsku proizvodnju da povećamo kvalitetu i krenemo korak dalje. Takva priznanja puno znače – ne samo kao potvrda truda nego i kao motivacija da nastavimo ulagati i razvijati se.

Kako uspijevate uskladiti pomorski posao i onaj u vinogradu te vidite li se potpuno posvećeni vinogradu?

Teško je uskladiti život pomorca i vinara. Život pomorca s vinogradom traži dobru organizaciju, puno volje i još više ljubavi. No kad se nešto voli, ništa nije teško. Ja sam te sreće da volim i svoju profesiju i svoj hobi, koji je s vremenom postao i drugi posao. More i vinograd možda izgledaju kao dva različita svijeta, ali zapravo ih povezuje isto načelo – strpljenje, predanost i neprestano učenje. Potpuna posvećenost vinarstvu teško je zasad ostvariva. To je posao koji zahtijeva velika ulaganja i vrijeme, izgrađuje se generacijski. Ne vjerujem da ću u skorije vrijeme moći živjeti samo od toga, ali mi je veliko zadovoljstvo i ispunjenje. Uživam u svakom trenutku provedenom u vinogradu i znatiželjan sam kamo će me taj hobi odvesti.

Što smatrate svojim dosad najvećim profesionalnim uspjehom?

Mjesto zapovjednika broda. To je nešto čemu sam težio od početka karijere. Mlad sam, školovan i ambiciozan pa se nadam napretku i na moru i na kopnu. ~

Tomislav Grbić BETWEEN THE SEA AND THE VINEYARD

Sailor or winemaker – how would you define yourself?

After completing Maritime School and earning a Master’s degree in Navigation, I joined Jadrolinija as a deck cadet. I soon advanced to Third Officer, then Deck Officer, serving on regular ferry routes. Today, I’m proud to stand as a Ship’s Master. From day one, I’ve built my career with Jadrolinija – a company of long tradition and reliability, crewed by dedicated seafarers.

How did your love for winemaking begin?

As businesspeople like to say, every venture starts with a touch of curiosity and play – that’s exactly how it was for me. Wine has always been part of our family life, but about ten years ago I started taking it more seriously, and five years ago, it became a true secondary profession. What began as a passion gradually turned into something more structured – today we produce significant quantities of grapes and wine, and every successful harvest is a story of effort, learning, and perseverance.

What would you highlight as your biggest achievements – at sea and among the vines?

At sea, becoming a Captain has been my greatest professional milestone – the goal I set at the start of my voyage. In winemaking, I’m most proud of our awards at Sabatina, the renowned international meeting of Dalmatian winemakers and vintners. Those recognitions encouraged our small family winery to strive for even higher quality and growth. Each award is both an acknowledgment of effort and a compass guiding us forward.

How do you balance life at sea and in the vineyard? Do you see yourself one day fully devoted to winemaking?

Balancing a mariner’s life with vineyard duties requires strong organization, patience, and love. But when passion steers the ship, nothing feels difficult. I’m fortunate to love both my profession and my craft. The sea and the vineyard may seem like different worlds, but they share the same principles – patience, dedication, and lifelong learning. Full-time winemaking isn’t on the immediate horizon – it’s a generational endeavor –but every moment spent among the vines fills me with joy. I’m curious to see where this course will lead me.

Brkati studeni

Jadrolinija je uključena u međunarodnu akciju „Brkati studeni“ (Movember) kojom se redovito kontrolira zdravstveno stanje pomoraca, jedne od najvažnijih sastavnica sigurnog prijevoza putnika i uspješnog poslovanja

Mustached

November

Jadrolinija Joins the International “Movember” Campaign Supporting Regular Health Checks for Seafarers—One of the Key Pillars of Safe Passenger Transport and Successful Operations

In the spirit of Movember, the month dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, Jadrolinija has once again demonstrated the importance of socially responsible action. In Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, aboard the ferry *Tin Ujević*, on 7 November 2025, medical staff measured crew members’ blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

The initiative was carried out by the Croatian Red Cross and the community nursing service of the Split–Dalmatia County Health Center. Its aim was to highlight the importance of regular preventive check-ups and men’s health awareness— especially concerning heart disease, diabetes, and prostate health. Seafarers were able to take advantage of the opportunity for a quick and painless health screening, keeping in mind that prevention is the first and most important step in protecting and preserving one’s well-being.

Movember is a global movement encouraging men to grow moustaches during November as a symbol of the fight against the diseases that most commonly affect

Akcija mjerenja tlaka i šećera za posadu trajekta Tin Ujević / Blood pressure and blood sugar levels campaign for the crew of the ferry Tin Ujević

Uduhu „Brkatog studenog“, mjeseca posvećenog podizanju svijesti o muškom zdravlju, Jadrolinija je još jedanput pokazala kolika je važnost društveno odgovornog ponašanja. U Starom Gradu na Hvaru, na trajektu Tin Ujević, 7. studenoga 2025., medicinsko osoblje mjerilo je članovima posade krvni tlak i razinu šećera u krvi.

Akciju su proveli djelatnici Crvenog križa i patronažna služba Doma zdravlja Splitsko-dalmatinske županije. Cilj ove akcije bio je upozoriti na važnost redovitih preventivnih pregleda i brige o zdravlju muškaraca, osobito kad je riječ o bolestima srca, dijabetesu i kontroli prostate. Pomorci su iskoristili priliku za kratku i bezbolnu provjeru svog zdravstvenog stanja, imajući na umu da je prevencija prvi i najvažniji korak u njegovoj zaštiti i očuvanju.

„Brkati studeni“ (engl. Movember) globalni je pokret kojim se muškarce potiče da tijekom studenoga puste brkove, kao simbol borbe protiv bolesti koje najčešće pogađaju muškarce – rak prostate i testisa, ali i razni mentalni poremećaji. Pokret je nastao 2003. u Australiji, a danas se raznim humanitarnim i edukativnim aktivnostima obilježava u gotovo cijelom svijetu

U Hrvatskoj se „Brkati studeni“ obilježava mnogim kampanjama, akcijama i preventivnim pregledima, kako bi se o zdravlju muškaraca govorilo češće i otvorenije. Jadrolinija je i ovom prigodom pokazala brigu o zdravstvenom stanju pomorca o kojima ovisi poslovna uspješnost, ali i sigurnost putnika koje prevoze. ~

them—prostate and testicular cancer, as well as various mental health issues. The movement began in 2003 in Australia and today is marked around the world through charitable and educational activities.

In Croatia, Movember is recognized through numerous campaigns, activities, and preventive examinations aimed at encouraging more frequent and open conversations about men’s health. With this initiative, Jadrolinija has once again shown its dedication to the well-being of its seafarers, on whose health not only business success but also the safety of passengers depends. ~

Akcija mjerenja tlaka i šećera za posadu trajekta Tin Ujević / Blood pressure and blood sugar levels campaign for the crew of the ferry Tin Ujević

Umjetnost na palubi Svetog Duje

Jadrolinijini brodovi pogodni su za održavanje koncerata, kazališnih predstava, snimanje i prikazivanje filmova, ali i za umjetničke instalacije, što je potvrdio i projekt „Pomponske mreže” Gorana Tomčića

Umjetnička instalacija Pomponske mreže na trajektu Sveti Duje, Goran Tomić privatna arhiva / Artistic installation Pompon Nets on the ferry Sveti Duje, Goran Tomić private archive

Vizualni umjetnik Goran Tomčić (1964.) posljednjih desetak godina posvetio se istraživanju društveno angažirane uključive umjetnosti. Riječ je o suradničkom i društvenom konceptu koji se bavi pitanjima javnog prostora, prolaznosti i samoodrživosti u suvremenoj umjetnosti. Iz takvog je koncepta proizašla instalacija pod nazivom „Pompon Nets“, posvećena njegovu djedu Anti, ribaru iz Sućurja.

Projekt „Pomponske mreže” uključio je publiku u stvaranje zajedničke umjetničke instalacije. Početak projekta proizašao je iz temeljnog aspekta ribarskog života: vještine izrade ribarskih mreža i popravljanja rabljenih i oštećenih. Posebnost je projekta u poticanju razgovora i razmjene ideja među domaćim i stranim sudionicima ujedinjenim u organiziranim radionicama. Sudionici su se koristili monofilamentnim koncem (kirurški sintetski konac) za izradu akrilnih pompona i umetanje u apstraktne mreže. Dok su povezivali nit po nit, nastale su privremene instalacije, ali i uspostavljena nova poznanstva, započeli razgovori i stjecao se osjećaj pripadnosti.

The Art on the Deck of Sveti Duje

Jadrolinija’s vessels are seaworthy not only for transporting passengers, but also for hosting concerts, theatre performances, filming and screenings, and even for artistic installations — as confirmed by Goran Tomčić’s project Pompon Nets.

Visual artist Goran Tomčić (1964) has, over the past decade, devoted himself to exploring socially engaged, inclusive art. His work embraces a collaborative and community-based approach dealing with questions of public space, transience, and self-sustainability in contemporary art. From this concept arose the installation “Pompon Nets”, dedicated to his grandfather Ante, a fisherman from Sućuraj.

The project Pompon Nets cast the audience directly into the creative process of a communal artistic installation. Its starting point lies in the very backbone of a fisherman’s life: mastering the craft of mending nets, splicing worn lines, and repairing torn mesh. What makes the project distinctive is its ability to spark conversation and exchange between local and international participants united in organized workshops. Working with monofilament thread (a synthetic surgical filament), participants crafted acrylic pompons and wove them into abstract nets. As they knotted strand to strand, temporary installations emerged like new shoals, and so did new acquaintances, shared stories, and a sense of belonging.

Projekt „Pomponske mreže” uključio je publiku u stvaranje zajedničke umjetničke instalacije. Početak projekta proizašao je iz temeljnog aspekta ribarskog života: vještine izrade ribarskih mreža i popravljanja rabljenih i oštećenih

Tomčićevi različiti umjetnički stilovi i teme uključuju instalacije za posebne lokacije, privremene strukture, tekstualne radove te radove performativne i uključive prakse. Dobitnik je mnogih nagrada, a njegovi se radovi nalaze u mnogim privatnim i javnim kolekcijama. Od 2015. njegova umjetnička praksa usmjerena je na društveno angažiranu umjetnost, a posebno na projekt „Pompon Nets” koji kao društveni eksperiment istražuje estetiku neizvjesnosti. Umjetnik surađuje s javnošću, uključujući različite zajednice i različite medije, stvarajući privremene situacije i prostorne instalacije.

IZLOŽBA NA TRAJEKTU

Sve ove šarene pomponske mreže, koje u sebi nose energiju tisuća sudionika, u kolovozu 2025. ujedinile su se u prostoru Arsenala u središtu grada Hvara, a bile su dodane hvarske mreže. Izradili su ih hvarski sudionici tijekom javnih programa i radionica i tijekom izložbe dodali ih prostornoj instalaciji, ističući time koncept rada u neprestanom trajanju. “Pompon Nets”, projekt kolektivne izrade pompona, bio je dostupan građanima otoka i grada Hvara i njihovim gostima. Dio hvarskih mreža i cjelokupnog projekta su i mreže nastale na Jadrolinijinu trajektu Sveti Duje, odabranu zbog toga što umjetnik često boravi u mjestu Sućuraj u kojem je njegova obiteljska kuća. Projekt sadrži i osobnu memoriju umjetnika, ispričanu kao kolektivnu priču jedne otočne zajednice.

Tomčić’s artistic repertoire ranges widely — from site-specific installations, temporary structures, textual works, and performative practices to deeply inclusive processes. He is the recipient of numerous awards, and his pieces are held in many private and public collections. Since 2015, his practice has been anchored in socially engaged art, particularly the long-term project Pompon Nets, which explores the aesthetics of uncertainty as a form of social experiment. The artist works directly with the public, weaving together multiple communities and artistic media to create temporary situations and spatial installations.

AN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION ON A FERRY

All these colourful pompon nets, carrying within them the energy of thousands of hands, converged in August 2025 in the historic space of the Arsenal in the centre of Hvar — expanded with newly added Hvar nets. These were created by local participants during public workshops, and incorporated into the ever-evolving installation, reinforcing the concept of a work “always underway”, like a net constantly being retied. The project was open to the people of Hvar Island, the town of Hvar, and all their guests.

Part of the Hvar collection, and of the project as a whole, are also the nets created aboard Jadrolinija’s ferry Sveti Duje — chosen because the artist spends much of his time in Sućuraj, where his family home is anchored. The project carries a current of personal memory told as the collective tale of an island community.

Passengers aboard the ferry, where the pompon story unfolded, welcomed the project with delight. They gladly took part in creating the abstract net during the crossing on the Sućuraj–Drvenik–Sućuraj line, turning the vessel’s deck into a floating atelier. The ferry deck of Sveti Duje proved to be an ideal platform for an artistic installation: its vivid pompon net brightened the voyage, making the passage between the eastern shore of Hvar and the small harbour on the Makarska Riviera truly unforgettable.

The project aims to encourage social engagement through gesture, movement, and the exchange of stories and experience. For the audience, it creates an artistic environment that allows freedom of participation, improvisation, and transformation of temporary structures. Working side by side, participants forged not only a temporary installation but also a temporary crew — a

Jadrolinija — linija

Putnici trajekta na kojemu se događala pomponska priča, bili su oduševljeni projektom. Radosno su ga prihvatili i sudjelovali u izradi apstraktne mreže tijekom plovidbe na liniji Sućuraj – Drvenik – Sućuraj. Paluba trajekta Sveti Duje pokazala se idealnom za umjetničku instalaciju. Šarena pomponska mreža razveselila je putnike, a putovanje između istočne obale otoka Hvara i mjestašca na Makarskoj rivijeri učinila nezaboravnim.

Cilj je projekta potaknuti društveni angažman sudionika gestikulacijom, kretnjama i razmjenom priča i iskustva, a za publiku je to umjetničko okruženje koje dopušta slobodu uključivanja, improvizaciju i promjenu privremenih struktura. Radeći zajedno, sudionici su izgradili privremenu instalaciju i privremenu zajednicu. „U suvremenoj umjetnosti ova vrsta aktivnosti odnosi se na sposobnost umjetničkog procesa da utječe na sudionike ili na svijet oko sebe. „Umjetnost nije pasivni objekt našeg pogleda: aktivira naše misli, emocije, ili postupke“, objašnjava Tomčić svrhu svog umjetničkog projekta.

Tomčićev projekt „Pomponske mreže“ inspiriran je tradicijom ribarskih mreža – simbolom zajedništva, rada i povezanosti. U radionicama koje vodi, sudionici zajedno izrađuju mreže od šarenih pompona. Dok povezuju nit po nit, nastaju privremene instalacije –ali i nova poznanstva, razgovori i osjećaj pripadnosti.

NOMADSKA PRIČA

Ovaj projekt pretvara umjetnost u zajedničko iskustvo: svatko može sudjelovati, pridonijeti i biti dio nečeg većeg. Projekt „Pomponske mreže“ uključuje publiku u stvaranje zajedničkih umjetničkih instalacija, podsjećajući nas da umjetnost nije samo za gledanje, nego i za življenje – jer baš kao i mreže koje nastaju, povezuje ljude i priče u jedinstvenu cjelinu.

Do sada je ovaj projekt aktivirao tisuće sudionika od Indije, Armenije, Etiopije, Gane, Sjedinjenih Američkih Država do europskih zemalja. Zajedno s akcijama uključivosti na otoku Hvaru i trajektu Sveti Duje, instalacija u hvarskom Arsenalu krajnje je odredište ove nomadske priče. Mogućnosti su neiscrpne, a „Pomponske mreže“ spremne za daljnja izlaganja. Nije isključeno da bi salon nekog Jadrolinijina trajekta mogao postati novi prostor za pomponsku instalaciju.

community for the duration of the crossing.

“In contemporary art, this kind of activity refers to the ability of the artistic process to influence its participants or the world around it. Art is not a passive object of our gaze: it activates our thoughts, emotions, or actions,” Tomčić explains.

Tomčić’s project is inspired by the tradition of fishing nets — a symbol of communal labour, connection, and shared purpose. In his workshops, participants weave colourful pompons into nets; and as they knot them together, new currents of friendship and belonging arise.

A NOMADIC TALE

This project transforms art into a shared voyage: everyone can take part, contribute, and become part of something larger. Pompon Nets engages the public in creating communal artistic installations, reminding us that art is not only to be looked at, but to be lived — because, like the nets themselves, it binds people and stories into a single tapestry.

To date, the project has brought together thousands of participants from India, Armenia, Ethiopia, Ghana, the United States, and numerous European countries. Alongside inclusive actions on Hvar Island and on the ferry Sveti Duje, the installation in Hvar’s Arsenal serves as the final port of call for this nomadic tale. But the voyage is far from over: possibilities are endless, and Pompon Nets are ready for new exhibitions. It is entirely possible that the lounge of another Jadrolinija ferry may soon become the next harbour for a pompon installation.

The project Pompon Nets cast the audience directly into the creative process of a communal artistic installation. Its starting point lies in the very backbone of a fisherman’s life: mastering the craft of mending nets, splicing worn lines, and repairing torn mesh.

Kad oldtimeri zaplove

Već 25 godina Oldtimer klub Zadar njeguje ljubav prema starim automobilima, putovanjima i tradiciji. Uz potporu Jadrolinije, njihovi divljenja vrijedni oldtimeri putuju cestama hrvatskih otoka, a njihovi vlasnici ističu vrijednosti i ljepotu tehničke baštine

Ugledni talijanski teoretičar dizajna istaknuo je da je automobil jedan od simbola civilizacije u kojoj živimo. Sa sličnom su se mišlju prije 25 godina okupili zaljubljenici u stare automobile i 2000. osnovali Oldtimer klub Zadar. Jadrolinija, kao nacionalni brodar, pruža potporu manifestacijama, organizacijama i inicijativama povezanim s hrvatskim otocima i obalom. Suradnja s Oldtimer klubom Zadar bila je očekivana i logična: osim ljubavi prema automobilima i putovanjima, obožavatelje starih automobila povezuje i posebna privrženost otocima. Otprilike kao i Jadroliniju, glavnu poveznicu kopna i otoka. Vlasnici oldtimera svoje ljubimce najčešće dovode na jadransku obalu i hrvatske otoke. Bez obzira na to odakle stižu, Jadrolinija im je pouzdan partner jer njihove vremešne ljepotane brodovima bijele flote prevozi na zamišljena odredišta.

DUH PROŠLIH VREMENA

Priča o Oldtimer klubu Zadar započela je 18. prosinca 2000., kad je skupina zaljubljenika u automobile i motocikle odlučila osnovati klub posvećen očuvanju tehničke baštine i duha prošlih vremena. Na čelu inicijative bio je pokojni Zvonko Marković, prvi predsjednik i jedan od najzaslužnijih za osnivanje kluba. U početku su se sastajali u malom uredu zadarskog HAK-a, koji je klubu ustupio prostor, a ti susreti petkom ubrzo su pretvoreni u redovita druženja i okupljanja strastvenih entuzijasta. S godinama je klubu pristupalo sve više članova, dobio je vlastite prostorije i organizacijski se etablirao u prepoznatljiv brend. Već 2001. održan je prvi susret oldtimera u Zadru, a poslije dvije godine klub se upisuje u službeni natjecateljski kalendar HROS-a (Hrvatskog oldtimer saveza). Od tada pa do danas OTK Zadar svake godine organizira Oldtimer auto rally koji je postao nezaobilazno okupljalište hrvatskih i europskih ljubitelja povijesnih vozila.

When the Oldtimers Set Sail

For the past 25 years, the Oldtimer Club Zadar has nurtured a passion for classic cars, travel, and tradition. With the support of Jadrolinija, their remarkable vintage vehicles cruise the roads of Croatia’s islands, while their owners celebrate the value and beauty of technical heritage.

Razvoju kluba mnogo su pridonijeli njegovi predsjednici. Nakon osnivača Zvonka Markovića, klub su vodili Arman Bogdanić, Aljoša Kubaska i današnji predsjednik Siniša Pavić. Svaki od njih ugradio je dio sebe i svog entuzijazma u klub koji se od male skupine povećao na više od 180 članova iz cijele Dalmacije i šireg područja – od Zadra i Paga do Gospića, Šibenika i Zagreba.

PREDSTAVLJANJE NA OTOCIMA

Od 2006. godine svi se susreti održavaju pod zajedničkim imenom „100 kilometara Zadra”, koje je postalo zaštitni znak kluba i sinonim za dobru organizaciju, predivne rute preko mora do planina i Tesline rodne kuće i ozračje dobrog druženja. Prepoznatljiva manifestacija, često organizirana i na otocima, spoj je vožnje, uživanju u ljepoti krajolika i putovanja kroz minula vremena, što je podudarno i s dugom plovidbenom tradicijom Jadrolinije.

Tijekom četvrt stoljeća klub je osvojio mnoge nagrade i priznanja, među kojima se ističu četiri prva, dva druga i tri treća mjesta

An esteemed Italian design theorist once said that the automobile is one of the defining symbols of the civilization we live in. Guided by a similar thought, a group of enthusiasts came together 25 years ago to form the Oldtimer Club Zadar, founded in 2000.

As Croatia’s national shipping company, Jadrolinija actively supports events, organizations, and initiatives connected with the country’s islands and coastline. Its cooperation with the Oldtimer Club Zadar was both natural and expected: beyond their shared love for automobiles and travel, members of the club feel a special affection for the islands — much like Jadrolinija itself, the key lifeline between mainland and island communities.

Od male skupine entuzijasta do današnje zajednice s više od 180 članova Oldtimer klub Zadar postao je institucija koja spaja ljubav prema automobilima i putovanjima.

u klupskom poretku HROS-a. Najuspješniji je član kluba Arman Bogdanić, s devet osvojenih prvenstava i dva Zlatna trofeja. Posebno mjesto u srcima članova ima nagrada „Niti prijateljstva”, koju od 2018. godine klub dodjeljuje pojedincima zaslužnima za očuvanje zajedništva i oldtimerske kulture.

RUKAMA

From a small group of enthusiasts to a vibrant community of over 180 members, the Oldtimer Club Zadar has become an institution that unites a love of cars, travel, and heritage.

Owners of vintage cars often bring their prized vehicles to the Adriatic coast and Croatia’s islands. Regardless of where they come from, Jadrolinija is their reliable partner, ferrying their graceful, timeworn beauties aboard vessels of the White Fleet to their dream destinations.

THE SPIRIT OF BYGONE TIMES

The story of the Oldtimer Club Zadar began on December 18, 2000, when a group of car and motorcycle enthusiasts decided to establish a club dedicated to preserving technical heritage and the spirit of past eras.

Leading the initiative was the late Zvonko Marković, the club’s first president and one of its founding pillars. In the beginning, members met in a small office provided by Zadar’s branch of the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK). Those Friday meetings soon evolved into regular gatherings of passionate enthusiasts.

Over the years, the club’s membership steadily grew. It acquired its own premises and evolved into a recognized brand. In 2001, the first Oldtimer gathering in Zadar was held, and just two years later, the club was officially listed in the competition calendar of HROS (Croatian Federation of Oldtimer Clubs). Since then, the Oldtimer Auto Rally has become an annual event — a key meeting point for lovers of historic vehicles from across Croatia and Europe.

The club’s progress has been shaped by its presidents. After founder Zvonko Marković, leadership passed to Arman Bogdanić, Aljoša Kubaska, and the current president Siniša Pavić. Each contributed their energy and enthusiasm, helping the club grow from a small local group to a community of over 180 members from across Dalmatia and beyond — from Zadar and Pag to Gospić, Šibenik, and Zagreb.

U sklopu utrke 100 kilometara Zadra, šareni oldimeri prevoze se trajektom, s obzirom da je dio etape utrke i na otoku / As part of the 100 Kilometers of Zadar race, colorful vintage cars are transported by ferry, since part of the race stage takes place on the island

Oldtimer klub Zadar nije poznat samo po rallyima, već i po mnogim izložbama i kulturnim događanjima. Među važnijima su izložba „Restauracija i očuvanje povijesnih vozila” u crkvi i samostanu sv. Dominika te „Oldtimeri – biseri iz garaže” u Gradskoj loži Narodnog muzeja Zadar. Izložbe su održane u povodu desete obljetnice kluba. Članovi kluba često odlaze i na međunarodne izložbe, od Padove i Imole do Stuttgarta i Kopra, predstavljajući Zadar i nacionalnu baštinu s područja tehničke kulture.

Od male skupine entuzijasta do današnje zajednice s više od 180 članova Oldtimer klub Zadar postao je institucija koja spaja ljubav prema automobilima i putovanjima. A kad njihovi divljenja vrijedni oldtimeri zaplove prema otocima, Jadrolinija je pridruženi član njegovanja i promicanja jednog oblika nacionalne baštine, nastojeći da se i na taj način kopno i otoci što čvršće povezuju.

SHOWCASING ON THE ISLANDS

Since 2006, all the club’s events have carried the shared name “100 Kilometers of Zadar”, which has become its trademark — a symbol of excellent organization, scenic routes that stretch from the sea to the mountains and to Tesla’s birthplace, and an atmosphere of true camaraderie.

This well-known event, often organized on the islands, combines driving with the enjoyment of landscapes and a journey through time — a concept perfectly aligned with Jadrolinija’s long-standing maritime tradition.

Over its quarter-century of existence, the club has earned numerous awards and distinctions, including four first, two second, and three third-place titles in the HROS club rankings. The club’s most successful member, Arman Bogdanić, has won nine championships and two Golden Trophies.

A particularly cherished recognition among members is the “Thread of Friendship” Award, established in 2018, which honors individuals who contribute to preserving unity and the oldtimer culture.

The Oldtimer Club Zadar is known not only for its rallies but also for its exhibitions and cultural events. Among the most notable are: Restoration and Preservation of Historic Vehicles, held in the Church and Monastery of St. Dominic “Oldtimers”–Pearls from the Garage, hosted in the City Loggia of the Zadar National Museum.

Both exhibitions marked the club’s 10th anniversary. Club members also participate in international exhibitions — from Padua and Imola to Stuttgart and Koper — proudly representing Zadar and Croatia’s technical heritage.

From a small group of enthusiasts to a vibrant community of over 180 members, the Oldtimer Club Zadar has become an institution that unites a love of cars, travel, and heritage.

And when their magnificent oldtimers set sail toward the islands, Jadrolinija proudly stands beside them — as a partner in preserving and promoting a unique form of national heritage, helping strengthen the enduring bond between mainland and islands. ~

Bez karte na otok

Sve više učenika iz Splita i okolice putuje na otok Brač, kako bi pohađali nastavu u Srednjoj školi Brač u Supetru. Privlače ih kvalitetni nastavni programi, a Jadrolinijina donacija besplatnog prijevoza za učenike oduševila je njihove roditelje i olakšala školovanje djece

Uobičajeno je da djeca s otoka svakodnevno putuju na kopno da bi pohađala srednju školu. No prava je rijetkost da učenici s kopna odlaze u školu na otok. A upravo se to događa na Braču. Sve je više mladih iz Splita i okolice koji svakog jutra trajektom putuju na otok, kako bi školovanje nastavili u Srednjoj školi Brač u Supetru.

Za te tinejdžere dan započinje ranije nego za većinu njihovih vršnjaka. Budilica zvoni između 4.30 i 5.30 sati, ovisno o mjestu stanovanja. Nakon kratkog doručka slijedi put do luke, a zatim ukrcaj na trajekt koji postaje svojevrsna pokretna učionica i dnevni boravak.

– Na trajektu se druže, mogu odraditi dio školskih zadaća, a mogu i odspavati jer su saloni u trajektima vrlo udobni. Za njih je to već svakidašnja rutina – kaže nam Doris Mazija, ravnateljica Srednje škole Brač u Supetru. Takva je obiteljska odluka popraćena mnogim izazovima: dnevna putovanja djece trajektom, rano ustajanje i organizacija vremena između doma i škole. Ipak, 60-minutna vožnja trajektom za mlade nije posebna prepreka jer veći dio dana dijele i obveze i smijeh. U Supetru ih čekaju moderne učionice Srednje škole Brač i nova društva koja su ih, doznajemo, od prvog dana dobro prihvatila. Odlično se uklapaju u novu sredinu i kao „novo” društvo otočanima obogaćuju njihovu svakodnevicu, a u školu unose novu energiju i drukčija iskustva.

Otočne škole pružaju jedinstvene mogućnosti – manje razrede, bliskije kontakte s nastavnicima te specifične programe koji su na kopnu često prebukirani. Razlozi zbog kojih se djeca s kopna odlučuju za školovanje na Braču, kaže Doris Mazija, vrlo su konkretni: kvalitetni nastavni kadrovi, izvrsni radni uvjeti i najvažnije – manji pritisak nego u prenapučenim splitskim školama.

Najtraženiji su programi za frizere i automehaničare, ali škola nudi i gimnazijski te obrazovni program za turističke tehničare i kuhare. Upravo zato su splitski roditelji sve češće birali Brač kao

To the Island Without a Ticket

An increasing number of students from Split and its surroundings travel daily to the island of Brač to attend the Brač Secondary School in Supetar. Attracted by high-quality academic programs, their parents were delighted and relieved when Jadrolinija introduced a donation program providing free ferry transport for students, making education more accessible and affordable.

It is common for island children to travel to the mainland every day to attend high school. What is rare, however, is the opposite - students from the mainland commuting to school on an island. Yet that is exactly what’s happening on Brač. More and more young people from Split and nearby towns now take the morning ferry to Supetar to continue their education at the Brač Secondary School.

For these teenagers, the day begins earlier than for most of their peers. Their alarms ring between 4:30 and 5:30 a.m., depending on where they live. After a quick breakfast, they head to the port and board the ferry — a vessel that becomes their floating classroom and living room.

“On the ferry, they socialize, do part of their homework, or even take a nap — the ferry lounges are very comfortable. For them, this has become part of their daily routine,” says Doris Mazija, Principal of the Brač Secondary School in Supetar. Such a family decision comes with challenges: early mornings, time management, and the daily ferry commute. Yet the 60-minute voyage doesn’t deter these students — they share the trip, the workload, and plenty of laughter.

In Supetar, they are welcomed by modern classrooms and new friends who embraced them from the very first day. The newcomers blend in easily and enrich island life with fresh perspectives, bringing new energy and experiences to the school.

zbog kojih se djeca s kopna odlučuju za školovanje na Braču, vrlo su konkretni: kvalitetni nastavni kadrovi, izvrsni radni uvjeti i najvažnije – manji pritisak nego u prenapučenim splitskim školama / the reasons why mainland families choose Brač are simple and practical: qualified teachers, excellent facilities, and most importantly less pressure compared to overcrowded Split schools

putuju trajektom na

već simboliziraju povezanost otoka i kopna i dokazuju da je jednak pristup obrazovanju ostvariv / The children who now take the ferry to Brač are more than just students. They symbolize the living connection between the islands and the mainland, proving that equal access to education is achievable

mjesto obrazovanja svoje djece, ali jedno je pitanje stalno visjelo u zraku: kako podmiriti troškove prijevoza trajektom?

JADROLINIJINA DONACIJA

– Iznimno važan udio u sve većem broju upisane djece u Srednju školu Brač ima nacionalni brodar Jadrolinija – ističe ravnateljica. Akcija je započela prošle školske godine, kad su roditelji sve češće pitali može li im se pomoći oko visokih troškova trajektnih pokaza. Uprava škole prenijela je njihove molbe Splitskodalmatinskoj županiji, koja se, prepoznajući važnost inicijative, obratila Jadroliniji.

Najvažniji trenutak dogodio se prošle jeseni, kad je Jadrolinija – na inicijativu Splitsko-dalmatinske županije i Škole – učenicima s kopna, koji pohađaju Srednju školu Brač, odlučila osigurati besplatne trajektne pokaze.

U prostorijama županijskog Upravnog odjela za prosvjetu u Splitu 23. listopada 2024. potpisan je Ugovor o donaciji. To je mnogim obiteljima omogućilo da djecu upišu na željeni obrazovni program. U nazočnosti župana Blaženka Bobana, Srednja škola Brač i Jadrolinija dogovorili su da će svi učenici s kopna koji putuju na otok dobiti besplatne trajektne pokaze. Tako je osigurano da obrazovanje bude jednako dostupno svakom djetetu, bez obzira na mjesto stanovanja.

– Roditelji su bili zahvalni, javljali su se telefonom i dolazili osobno u školu jer im je mjesečni iznos od 92.40 eura za trajektni pokaz bio preveliki izdatak. Bez te donacije veći dio djece ne bi se upisao u Srednju školu Brač – ističe ravnateljica.

Island schools offer unique advantages, smaller classes, closer relationships with teachers, and specialized programs that are often overbooked on the mainland. According to Principal Mazija, the reasons why mainland families choose Brač are simple and practical: qualified teachers, excellent facilities, and most importantly less pressure compared to overcrowded Split schools.

The most popular programs are for hairdressers and auto mechanics, but the school also offers gymnasium, tourism technician, and culinary programs. For many parents in Split, Brač became the ideal choice — yet one question lingered: how to cover the cost of ferry tickets?

JADROLINIJA’S DONATION

“The national shipping company Jadrolinija has played an exceptionally important role in the increasing number of students enrolled in our school,” emphasizes Principal Mazija.

The initiative began during the previous school year, when parents frequently asked whether financial help could be provided for the high cost of ferry passes. The school administration forwarded their request to the SplitDalmatia County, which recognized the importance of the idea and reached out to Jadrolinija.

The key moment came in October 2024, when Jadrolinija, following the initiative of the County and the School — decided to provide free ferry passes for mainland students attending the Brač Secondary School. On October 23,

Razlozi zbog kojih se djeca s kopna odlučuju za školovanje na Braču, kaže Doris Mazija, vrlo su konkretni: kvalitetni nastavni kadrovi, izvrsni radni uvjeti i najvažnije – manji pritisak nego u prenapučenim splitskim školama

Zahvaljujući toj mjeri, broj učenika s kopna porastao je sa 7 prošle na 21 ove godine. Time su osigurani cijeli razredni odjeli, ali i radna mjesta nastavnika.

OSTVARIV KONCEPT

– Kao ravnateljica zadovoljna sam povećanim upisom kojim se osigurava nastavni kontinuitet našoj školi. Ali još važnije, otvara se perspektiva mladima i osigurava opstojnost života na otocima – kaže Doris Mazija.

Ovaj slučaj pokazuje koliko su važne zajedničke inicijative lokalne zajednice i nacionalne brodarske kompanije.

Jadrolinija je donacijom pokazala da društveno odgovorno poslovanje može imati dugoročan utjecaj – ne samo na obitelji, nego i na cijelu zajednicu. Djeca koja danas putuju trajektom na Brač nisu samo učenici. Oni simboliziraju povezanosti otoka i kopna i dokazuju da je jednak pristup obrazovanju – kad postoji volja i suradnja svih zainteresiranih – ostvariv.

(Tekst je uz odobrenje preuzet iz Slobodne Dalmacije)

Island schools offer unique advantages, smaller classes, closer relationships with teachers, and specialized programs that are often overbooked on the mainland

2024, a Donation Agreement was signed at the County Department of Education in Split. This step allowed many families to enroll their children in their desired study programs. In the presence of County Prefect Blaženko Boban, the school and Jadrolinija agreed that all mainland students traveling to the island would receive free ferry passes — ensuring equal access to education for every child, regardless of where they live.

“Parents were extremely grateful — many called or came to the school in person. A monthly ferry pass of €92.40 was simply too expensive. Without Jadrolinija’s donation, most of these children would not have been able to attend our school,” the Principal explains.

Thanks to this initiative, the number of mainland students increased from 7 last year to 21 this year. The result: full class groups and job security for teachers.

A REALIZABLE VISION

“As Principal, I’m pleased that the growing number of enrollments ensures the continuity of our school’s programs. But even more importantly, it gives young people new perspectives and strengthens the vitality of island life,” says Doris Mazija.

This story highlights how crucial local–national cooperation can be between communities and the country’s leading ferry operator.

Through this donation, Jadrolinija has once again shown that corporate social responsibility can have a long-lasting impact — not only on families, but on entire communities.

The children who now take the ferry to Brač are more than just students.

They symbolize the living connection between the islands and the mainland, proving that equal access to education is achievable when there is goodwill, collaboration, and shared purpose. ~

(Text reprinted with permission from Slobodna Dalmacija.)

Čvrsta poveznica između otoka, mora i kopna

Jadrolinijini pomorci, koji upravljajući bijelom flotom povezuju kopno i more, nisu samo prijevoznici i važna sastavnica hrvatskog turizma nego i vrhunski profesionalci koji svojim umijećem i hrabrošću u kriznim situacijama spašavaju život ljudi na moru i kopnu. Katkad su prva i jedina pomoć onima kojima je najpotrebnija

Za turiste i povremene putnike Jadrolinija je simbol ljetne sezone, sunčanih dana i putovanja na odmor. Za pomorce i djelatnike ona je dom i majka hraniteljica, a za otočane i ljude koji žive uz more – linija života. Poveznica koja često, osobito u kriznima situacijama, znači spas od mnogih nepredvidivosti koje su sastavni dio života na otocima. Osnovna je Jadrolinijina djelatnost plovidba, ali more ne donosi samo ljepotu i užitke nego i mnoga iznenađenja, katkad i neslućene opasnosti. U nepovoljnim vremenskim uvjetima more otočane odsijeca od kopna i izaziva osjećaj izoliranosti. Ipak, tješi ih pomisao da su Jadrolinijini pomorci uvijek spremni preuzeti rizik pružanja pomoći, a hrabrošću i profesionalnim umijećem premostiti vremenske neprilike. To otočanima pruža mir i sigurnost.

Kad Jadrolinijini brodovi završe redovitu sezonsku plovidbu, tek tada slijede iskušenja u kojima su posade uvijek spremne i odlučne pomoći onima kojima je pomoć najpotrebnija.

POMOĆ NA MORU

Jadrolinijini brodovi često su uključeni u spašavanje ljudi i njihovih plovila na moru, osobito kad je riječ o havarijama. Kao sudionici u zahtjevnom pomorskom putničkom prijevozu, koji na nekim najfrekventnijim linijama održavaju 24 sata na dan, često se

A Strong link between the Islands, the Sea, and the Mainland

The seafarers of Jadrolinija, who navigate the company’s White Fleet and connect land and sea, are not only transport professionals and an essential part of Croatia’s tourism sector — they are also highly skilled mariners whose courage and expertise save lives at sea and on land. At times, they are the first and only help for those in need.

u kriznim situacijama nađu u pravo vrijeme na pravom mjestu. U takvim su slučajevima stručnost posade i njihova spremnost na brzu reakciju odlučujući. Jedan se od takvih slučajeva dogodio u akvatoriju Šolte, kad je organizirana potraga za jedanaest kajakaša. U takvim potragama svaki dodatni brod znači i veću šansu da se unesrećeni pronađu živi i neozlijeđeni. Mnogo se puta dogodilo da je Jadrolinijin trajekt ili brod preuzeo ulogu spasioca i potpore u organizaciji potrage. Kad je posrijedi nevrijeme, Jadrolinijine posade reagiraju brzo i odlučno u nastojanju da pomognu neodgovornim nautičarima ili brodovima u kvaru.

Jedan takav slučaj bila je havarija katamarana Melita koji je u olujnom nevremenu u Zadarskom kanalu počeo tonuti zbog prodora mora u trup. U spašavanju su sudjelovali trajekt Jadran i brod Lučke kapetanije, a svi putnici uspješno su evakuirani i sigurno prevezeni u luku Gaženica.

Brza reakcija bila je presudna pri nasukavanju katamarana Princ Zadra na hridi ispred otoka Premude, kad je 70-ak putnika – zahvaljujući dobroj koordinaciji i suradnji Jadrolinijine posade sa službama spašavanja – promptno evakuirano i prebačeno na otok Silbu.

U Zadarskom kanalu spašen je jedriličar nakon što se njegova jedrilica sudarila s trajektom Ugljan. Jadrolinijin trajekt brzo je

For tourists and occasional travelers, Jadrolinija is a symbol of summer — of sunshine, holidays, and island voyages. For the company’s seafarers and employees, it is both a home and a provider. And for islanders and those living along the coast, it is nothing less than a lifeline.

A connection that, especially in times of crisis, can mean rescue from the unpredictability that defines island life. Although Jadrolinija’s core mission is navigation, the sea brings not only beauty and pleasure but also sudden challenges — and sometimes, danger. In rough weather, the sea cuts the islands off from the mainland, creating a sense of isolation. Yet, the islanders take comfort in knowing that Jadrolinija’s crews are always ready to take risks to provide assistance — bridging storms and hardship with courage and skill. That knowledge brings them peace and security.

Kad niti jedan drugi oblik prijevoza nije dostupan, Jadrolinija nastavlja povezivati kopno s otocima / When no other form of transport is available, Jadrolinija continues to connect the mainland with the islands

When Jadrolinija’s vessels complete their regular seasonal routes, that’s when new tests often begin moments when the crews prove ready and willing to help those who need it most.

ASSISTANCE AT SEA

Jadrolinija’s vessels are often involved in maritime rescue operations — saving people and assisting damaged boats, especially during accidents or emergencies. As operators of demanding passenger services, maintained around the clock on some of the Adriatic’s busiest routes, they are frequently in the right place at the right time. In such cases, the professionalism and quick reaction of the crew are crucial.

One such incident occurred in the waters near the island of Šolta, during the search for eleven missing kayakers. In operations like these, every additional vessel increases the chances of finding survivors.

More than once, a Jadrolinija ferry has played the role of rescuer — providing essential support to coordinated search missions.

During a violent storm in the Zadar Channel, the catamaran Melita began taking on water and was at risk of sinking. The ferry Jadran, together with a vessel from the Harbor Master’s Office, joined the rescue, ensuring all passengers were safely evacuated and transported to the port of Gaženica.

Equally swift action was taken when the catamaran Princ Zadra ran aground on rocks near the island of Premuda. Thanks to the excellent coordination between Jadrolinija’s crew and rescue services, about 70 passengers were safely evacuated and transferred to the island of Silba. In another incident in the Zadar Channel, a sailor was rescued after his yacht collided with the ferry Ugljan. The ferry’s crew reacted instantly, pulling the man from the sea and caring for him until emergency medical help arrived. Such moments of crisis show how vital crew experience and rapid response can be — often determining the difference between life and death.

ASSISTANCE ONBOARD

Providing aid to other vessels and participating in rescue operations alongside the maritime police and harbor authorities is neither rare nor exceptional for Jadrolinija’s crews.

In addition to these interventions, the White Fleet’s seafarers are trained to offer

Nasukavanje katamarana Princ Zadra u čijem je spašavanju asistirao trajekt Jadrolinije / The grounding of the catamaran Prince Zadar, in which a Jadrolinija ferry provided assistance

reagirao, izvukavši jedriličara iz mora i osiguravši mu skrb dok ne stigne hitna medicinska pomoć. Takvi krizni trenuci pokazuju koliko su iskustvo posade i brzina reakcije presudni za spašavanje ljudskih života ili plovila.

POMOĆ NA BRODU

Pružanje pomoći drugim plovilima na moru i uključivanje u spašavanje – zajedno s plovilima pomorske policije i lučke kapetanije –nisu ni rijetkost ni iznimka za posade Jadrolinijinih brodova. Osim takvih intervencija, pomorci bijele flote osposobljeni su pružanje pomoći putnicima na brodu. Mnogo je takvih neispričanih događaja koje pomorci smatraju sastavnim dijelom svog posla. Katkad preuzimaju ulogu medicinske pomoći, a o brzini njihove reakcije u kritičnim trenucima ovisi život putnika. Tijekom plovidbe, kad su kopno i vozilo Hitne pomoći nedostupni, putnicima su jedini oslonac zapovjednik broda i njegova posada.

Tijekom putovanja na katamaranu Novalja, na liniji Zadar –Molat – Brgulje – Zapuntel – Ist, jedan od putnika izgubio je svijest, a pravodobna i stručna kapetanova intervencija bila je ključna i spasonosna. Nakon dolaska broda u zadarsku luku, putnik se u salonu onesvijestio. Hitna pomoć pozvana je istoga trenutka, a zapovjednik je započeo reanimaciju. Putnik je došao k svijesti već tijekom reanimacije, a potom ga je preuzela Hitna pomoć. Za kapetana katamarana Novalja Matu Durdova taj je događaj bio vrlo emotivan i stresan. Nasreću, prevladalo je dugogodišnje iskustvo i odlučnost za pružanje pomoći malaksalom putniku.

Na trajektu Korčula, tijekom plovidbe na liniji iz Visa prema Splitu, jedna se putnica teško ozlijedila, a u pomoć su joj odmah priskočili članovi posade. Nakon pružene prve pomoći, kapetan trajekta vratio se u Vis, kako bi mlada putnica čim prije dobila adekvatnu liječničku pomoć.

Jadrolinija’s vessels are often involved in maritime rescue operations — saving people and assisting damaged boats, especially during accidents or emergencies

medical assistance to passengers onboard. Many such stories remain untold, as the crews see them as simply part of their duty. Sometimes, they take on the role of medical responders, where every second counts and their prompt action can save a life. While at sea — far from ambulances or hospitals, passengers rely entirely on the ship’s captain and crew. On the catamaran Novalja, operating on the Zadar–Molat–Brgulje–Zapuntel–Ist route, a passenger lost consciousness during the voyage. The captain’s quick and skilled response proved lifesaving. Upon arrival in the Zadar port, the passenger collapsed again. Emergency services were called immediately, and the captain began resuscitation efforts. The passenger regained consciousness before paramedics arrived. For Captain Mate Durdov of Novalja, it was a deeply emotional and stressful experience — but his years of experience and determination prevailed.

On the ferry Korčula, during a voyage from Vis to Split, a young passenger sustained a serious injury. The crew provided immediate first aid, and the captain decided to turn back to Vis so that she could receive prompt medical treatment.

ASSISTANCE ON LAND

Jadrolinija’s crews are always trained and ready to assist, not only at sea but also on shore. Their professionalism is rooted in deep knowledge of the fleet, technical expertise, and skilled navigation — even in the most challenging weather conditions.

Povezanost otoka i kopna cijele godine osnovna je misija Jadrolinije / Ensuring a reliable connection between the mainland and the islands throughout the year is Jadrolinija’s core mission

POMOĆ NA KOPNU

Osim što je Jadrolinijina posada uvijek spremna i osposobljena za pomaganje putnicima, njihova se profesionalna umijeća temelje na poznavanju flote, stručnom i vrsnom upravljanju brodovima, čak i u najtežim vremenskim uvjetima. Svoje vještine Jadrolinijini pomorci često dokazuju u borbi s olujnim nevremenom i nepogodama na moru, kad je njihova pomoć najpotrebnija. U 2024. i 2025. godini zabilježene su mnoge medicinske intervencije, uključujući hitni prijevoz, pružanje prve pomoći putnicima i posadi te koordinaciju s Obalnom stražom i Hitnom pomoći. U 2024. godini zabilježene su čak 54 izvanredne plovidbe radi prijevoza interventnih službi. Statistike pokazuju povećanje takvih izvanrednih plovidaba i sve veću uključenost Jadrolinije u suradnju s vatrogascima, Hitnom pomoći i Gorskom službom spašavanja. Tako je 2025. godine, od 1. siječnja do 1. listopada, bilo čak 48 takvih plovidaba. Jadrolinija nije samo prijevoznik putnika i vozila, nego snažna i pouzdana veza između otoka i kopna. Kad helikopter ne može sletjeti, kad je more jedina veza s kopnom, brod je plovilo koje život znači. Ali i nada, spas i pouzdan prijatelj koji priskače u pomoć kad je pomoć najpotrebnija. A cijeli se taj složeni proces temelji na samo jednoj časnoj profesiji sažetoj u jednoj riječi: pomorac.

In 2024 and 2025, numerous medical interventions were recorded, including emergency transport, first aid for passengers and crew, and coordination with the Coast Guard and emergency medical services. In 2024 alone, there were 54 extraordinary voyages dedicated to transporting emergency teams. Statistics show a growing number of such missions, as Jadrolinija’s collaboration with firefighters, paramedics, and mountain rescue services expands. Between January 1 and October 1, 2025, there were already 48 emergency sailings of this kind. Jadrolinija is far more than a carrier of passengers and vehicles — it is a powerful, reliable link between the islands and the mainland. When helicopters cannot land and the sea becomes the only connection to land, the ship becomes a vessel of life - a symbol of hope, rescue, and solidarity. Behind it all stands a single noble profession, embodied in one word: seafarer.

Kad život započne na brodu

Nataša Lukša rodila je djevojčicu na trajektu Kornati. Taj događaj obilježio je život danas desetogodišnjoj Rene, a posadi i medicinskoj službi ostao u trajnom sjećanju kao profesionalno i ljudski izvrsno obavljena zadaća u izazovnim uvjetima

Nestrpljiva, danas desetogodišnja djevojčica Rene Lukša na svijet je došla prijevremeno i u neobičnim okolnostima — na trajektu umjesto u riječkom rodilištu. Tako je postala najmlađi putnik u dugoj povijesti Jadrolinije, koja povezuje kopno i otoke.

„Sve je počelo s mojim odlaskom na redoviti trudnički pregled. Pozvali smo moje roditelje da pričuvaju našu stariju kćer Luanu i uputili se u Lošinj na redoviti pregled“, prisjeća se Nataša. Liječnici su joj rekli da hitno mora u rodilište. U vozilu Hitne pomoći, u pratnji supruga, u noći, 15. veljače 2015., ukrcala se na trajekt Kornati na liniji Merag – Valbiska. Zapovjednik trajekta Saša Radić dobio je uputu da punom brzinom krene prema Rijeci.

When Life Begins on a Ship

Nataša Lukša gave birth to her daughter aboard the ferry Kornati. The event marked the beginning of life for little Rene, now ten years old, and left a lasting memory for the crew and medical team who handled the situation with calm professionalism and true human compassion in challenging conditions.

Impatient to meet the world, Rene Lukša, now ten, arrived early and under extraordinary circumstances — born on a ferry instead of in a hospital. That night, she became the youngest passenger in the long history of Jadrolinija, the company that connects the Croatian mainland with its islands.

“It all started when I went for a routine pregnancy check-up. My husband and I asked my parents to watch our older daughter Luana while we went to Lošinj for my appointment,” recalls Nataša. But the doctors quickly realized she needed to go to the maternity hospital immediately.

Accompanied by her husband in an ambulance, Nataša boarded the Kornati on the Merag–Valbiska route late at night, on February 15, 2015. Captain Saša Radić received urgent orders to sail full speed toward Rijeka.

AN EARLY ARRIVAL

As the wind rippled the calm surface of the sea, Nataša began feeling mild contractions and assumed they were false alarms. The baby wasn’t due for another three weeks, and nothing suggested the birth would happen that night. But as the contractions grew stronger and more frequent, her instincts told her otherwise.

The medical staff in the ambulance quickly realized there would not be enough time to reach the hospital in Rijeka. Labor had begun.

Captain Radić and his crew reacted swiftly and effectively, offering full support to the medical team and the family. “I told the doctor the baby was coming. There were quick movements, urgent voices… and suddenly, I was holding my little girl in my arms. We named her Rene,” Nataša recalls.

RANI POROD

Dok je vjetar lagano mreškao površinu mora, Nataša Lukša osjećala je povremene bolove i pretpostavljala da je riječ o lažnim trudovima. Termin poroda bio je predviđen tek za tri tjedna i ništa nije upućivalo na to da bi se mogao dogoditi te noći. No kad su bolovi postali češći i žešći, majčinski instinkt govorio joj je da bi se dijete moglo i ranije roditi.

Medicinskom osoblju iz vozila Hitne pomoći odmah je bilo jasno da nema dovoljno vremena za prijevoz trudnice u riječko rodilište. Trudovi su bili sve jači i češći i uskoro je započeo porod.

Zapovjednik Saša Radić i posada reagirali su brzo i učinkovito, pružajući medicinskom osoblju i obitelji svu potrebnu pomoć. „Rekla sam liječnici da beba stiže. Brzina, uzbuđeni glasovi…ne znam ni sama kako, a već sam u rukama držala djevojčicu koju smo poslije nazvali Rene“, prisjeća se Nataša.

With the doctor and nurse by her side, Nataša felt safe and cared for. The birth was faster than anyone expected. The baby was delivered three weeks early — aboard a ferry that had, for that moment, become a floating maternity ward. “It took me a while to realize I had actually given birth on a ship,” she says with a smile.

CALM COORDINATION AT SEA

The premature birth required exceptional coordination between the crew and the medical team. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when they heard Rene’s first cry.

Under the careful watch of the medical staff, mother and baby continued their journey to Rijeka hospital. The Lukša family will never forget that night — not only because of the safe arrival of their child in such unusual and risky circumstances but also because of the solidarity, professionalism, and humanity shown by everyone involved.

The story of Rene, the girl born at sea, soon spread across Croatia, reminding everyone how vital reliable maritime connections and good coordination of emergency services are for island life. For Jadrolinija, it was an unforgettable voyage — not just a regular ferry crossing, but a moment that touched the lives of both passengers and crew.

The Kornati crew, calm and collected, offered unwavering support. “Their composure, professionalism, and above all, their kindness gave us a sense of peace and safety in a stressful situation. Everyone acted professionally, yet warmly — almost like family. Even after ten years, we still smile whenever we see the ferry Kornati in port. The memories come flooding back — the moment when time seemed to stop and life began,” says Nataša.

RENE’S PRIDE

Rene knows her birth story by heart and loves to tell it proudly. Although her parents are from the mainland, her mother says she is truly a child of the sea, having taken her first breath of fresh sea air aboard a ship. From a young age, Rene has loved swimming, diving, and exploring the underwater world. “Born at sea, and living with the sea,” says Nataša.

Rene especially remembers her fifth birthday, which she celebrated aboard the Kornati while the ship was docked for maintenance in Mali Lošinj. “We returned to the place where it all began,” her mother recalls.

Jadrolinija has never forgotten its youngest passenger. Every year, Rene receives a

Jadrolinija nikad ne zaboravlja svoju najmlađu putnicu. Svake godine Rene dobiva čestitku i rođendanski dar, što je uvijek razveseli i podsjeti na povezanost s brodovima bijele flote

U vozilu Hitne pomoći, uz liječnicu i medicinsku sestru, Nataša se osjećala sigurnom i zbrinutom, a porod je bio brži nego što je mogla očekivati. Djevojčica se rodila tijekom plovidbe, tri tjedna prije predviđenog termina. Na trajektu koji je postao improvizirano rodilište porod je obavljen s iznimnom prisebnošću. „Tek sam naknadno postala svjesna da sam rodila na trajektu“, kaže Nataša.

KOORDINIRANE SLUŽBE

Prijevremeni porod zahtijevao je iznimnu koordinaciju posade i medicinskih službi. Odahnuli su kad su čuli Renein plač.

Pod budnim okom medicinskog tima, majka i novorođenče nastavili su put prema riječkoj bolnici. Obitelj Lukša zauvijek će pamtiti tu noć, ne samo zbog sretnog rođenja djeteta u neobičnim i rizičnim uvjetima, nego i po solidarnosti, profesionalnosti i ljudskosti posade i medicinskog osoblja.

Priča o djevojčici Rene, rođenoj na trajektu, ubrzo je odjeknula u javnosti i podsjetila koliko su pomorske veze i dobra koordinacija službi važni za život na otocima. Za Jadroliniju to je bila iznimno uzbudljiva plovidba. Nije to bio samo uobičajen prijevoz s obale na otok nego i trenutak koji obilježava život i putnika i posade.

Posada Kornata, mirna i sabrana, bila je potpora u svakom trenutku. „Njihova smirenost, stručnost i ponajprije ljudskost pružili su nam osjećaj mira i sigurnosti u stresnoj situaciji. Svi su se ponašali profesionalno, ali i toplo, gotovo obiteljski. Iako je od tada prošlo već deset godina, uvijek se razveselimo kad nas u luci dočeka trajekt Kornati. Uspomene počnu navirati, sjetimo se trenutka kad je sve stalo, a život počeo“, kaže Nataša.

PONOSNA RENE

Rene svoju priču o rođenju na moru zna napamet i ponosno je prepričava. Iako su joj roditelji kontinentalci, ona je, kaže njezina majka, pravo morsko dijete, za što je zaslužno i mjesto rođenja na kojem udahnula prvi zrak – pravi morski. Odmalena obožava roniti, plivati i istraživati podmorje. „Na moru rođena, s morem i živi“, kaže Nataša. Rene se posebno sjeća svog petog rođendana, proslavljenog na brodu Kornati, dok je bio na remontu u Malom Lošinju. „Vratili smo se na mjesto gdje je sve počelo“, prisjeća se Nataša.

Jadrolinija nikad ne zaboravlja svoju najmlađu putnicu. Svake godine Rene dobiva čestitku i rođendanski dar, što je uvijek razveseli i podsjeti na povezanost s brodovima bijele flote. Rene je bila i posebna gošća na proslavi Jadrolinijina 70. rođendana, kad je zajedno s članovima posade puhala svjećice i rezala tortu.

„Jadrolinija je bila s nama u najizazovnijim trenucima, ali i cijeli Renein život ostaje uz nju“, kaže Nataša. Priča o djevojčici rođenoj na moru nije samo lijepa anegdota – ona je i podsjetnik na važnost pouzdanih pomorskih veza, spremnosti i humanosti ljudi koji svakodnevno povezuju otoke i kopno, ljudske živote i more.

Rene Lukša danas osjeća ogromnu povezanost s morem / Rene Lukša now feels a deep connection with the sea

Jadrolinija has never forgotten its youngest passenger. Every year, Rene receives a birthday card and a gift from the company — a gesture that always brings joy and reminds her of her bond with the white fleet.

birthday card and a gift from the company — a gesture that always brings joy and reminds her of her bond with the white fleet. She was even a special guest at Jadrolinija’s 70th anniversary celebration, where she helped blow out the candles and cut the cake with the crew.

“Jadrolinija was with us in one of the most intense moments of our lives, and it has stayed with Rene ever since,” says Nataša.

The story of a girl born at sea is more than just a touching anecdote. It is a reminder of the importance of reliable maritime connections — and of the readiness, professionalism, and humanity of those who, every day, link the islands and the mainland, carrying not just passengers, but life itself across the Adriatic.

prosinac 2025. december 2025

THOMAS RIEDEL Zašto volim brodove

Još kao dječačić, za svog prvog putovanja Jadrolinijinom Liburnijom, Thomas se zaljubio u brodove. Ta ljubav traje i danas, kad nekoliko puta na godinu posjećuje Hrvatsku, a sjeća se mnogih zanimljivih anegdota s putovanja Jadrolinijinim brodovima koji su mu obilježili život

Plovidba brodom umnogome se razlikuje od svih ostalih putovanja. Kad se vozite autocestom usredotočeni ste na prometnicu i ponašanje ostalih sudionika u prometu, kako biste izbjegli eventualne nezgode. Prikraćeni ste za opušteno razgledavanje krajolika kojim prolazite. Kad putujete zrakoplovom, veći ste dio puta „nebu pod oblacima“ i često odbrojavate sate ili minute kad ćete stići na cilj. Oko vas je samo nebo prošarano oblacima, a za noćnog leta čini vam se da ste u tijesnoj, zamračenoj sobi u kojoj pokušavate zaspati. Jedino putovanje u kojem istinski uživate plovidba je brodom. I zato plovidbe brodom, čak i kod ljudi koji mnogo putuju, ostaju u trajnom sjećanju.

SJEĆANJA DJEČAKA

Živim u Njemačkoj, 54 su mi godine i radim kao revizor za velike korporacije. Jadrolinijinim trajektom Liburnija prvi sam put putovao s roditeljima 1980. od Rijeke do Splita. Bio sam dječačić, ali ta mi se plovidba duboko urezala u sjećanje i potaknula moju trajnu ljubav prema brodovima. Sljedećih nekoliko godina često sam putovao dužobalnom linijom na brodovima Slavija I, Ilirija i Marko Polo.

THOMAS RIEDEL Why I Love Ships

As a little boy on his first voyage aboard Jadrolinija’s Liburnija, Thomas fell in love with ships. That love still lives on today. He visits Croatia several times a year and remembers many fascinating stories from his travels on Jadrolinija ferries that have shaped his life.

Travelling by ship is quite different from any other journey. When driving on the highway, you must stay focused on the road and the traffic around you to avoid accidents, leaving little time to enjoy the landscape. When flying, you spend most of the trip above the clouds, counting the hours until you land. All you see is the sky, and on night flights it feels as if you are in a dark, cramped room trying to fall asleep. The only type of travel you can truly enjoy is a voyage by ship. That is why, even for frequent travellers, sea journeys remain unforgettable.

MEMORIES

OF A BOY

I live in Germany, I am 54 years old and I work as an auditor for large corporations. My first trip with Jadrolinija’s ferry Liburnija was in 1980, when I travelled with my parents from

Brodom Slavija 1981. putovali smo od Rijeke do Dubrovnika. Bilo je to dugo i nezaboravno putovanje, sa zaustavljanjem u lukama. U to doba mogle su se unajmiti ležaljke pa je otac unajmio jednu za majku, kako bi – udobno smještena – mogla promatrati prekrasnu obalu. Istodobno smo otac i ja, uz dopuštenje časnika broda, razgledali zapovjednički most. Iako sam jedva virio preko kormila, bio sam vrlo uzbuđen, osjećao sam se kao da upravljam velikim brodom i s visine gledam pučinu.

U ljeti 1984. putovali smo Ilirijom od Rijeke do Splita. Tog dana puhala je jaka bura. Jedva sam mogao otvoriti vrata za izlazak na palubu. Ilirija se „poskakujući i ljuljajući“ probijala kroz valove, i

Rijeka to Split. I was a small boy, but that voyage made a deep impression on me and sparked my lifelong love for ships. In the following years I often travelled on the coastal route aboard Slavija I, Ilirija, and Marko Polo. In 1981, we sailed from Rijeka to Dubrovnik on Slavija. It was a long and unforgettable voyage, with stops along the coast. At that time, passengers could rent deck chairs, and my father rented one for my mother so she could sit comfortably and enjoy the

to baš u vrijeme večere. U restoranu na pramcu broda gosti su uživali u večeri. Uskoro su mnogi, vidljivo blijedi, počeli napuštati restoran. Nasreću, mi nismo imali problema s morskom bolešću i uživali smo u jelu. Prizor valova koji su se razbijali o pramac bio mi je vrlo uzbudljiv. Kad smo, malo poslije 21 sat, stigli na Rab, oluja je već prošla. Ostatak putovanja bio je miran.

S krstarenja 80-ih godina prošlog stoljeća sjećam se i večera u restoranima. Posluživale su se dva slijeda, na velikim pladnjevima za dugim stolom. Posebna se pozornost posvećivala dress codeu gostiju. Preležerno odjevene goste glavni konobar zamolio bi da se odjenu prikladnije, primjereno ugođaju restorana. To mi se jako svidjelo.

U ljeto 1986. putovali smo noću brodom Ilirija iz Splita u Rijeku. Zbog pogreške u rezervaciji nismo imali kabinu, a sva su sjedala bila zauzeta. Uviđavni član posade dopustio nam je da spavamo na

beautiful view of the shore. Meanwhile, my father and I, with the officer’s permission, visited the bridge. I was barely tall enough to see over the wheel, but I was thrilled, feeling as if I were commanding a great ship and watching the open sea from above.

In the summer of 1984, we travelled on Ilirija from Rijeka to Split. That day a strong bura wind was blowing. I could hardly open the door to step out on deck. Ilirija was rolling and pitching through the waves, and it was dinner time. In the forward restaurant, guests were enjoying their meals, but soon many of them, pale-faced, began leaving the dining room. Fortunately, none of us suffered from seasickness, and we continued our dinner, fascinated by the sight of waves crashing against the bow. By the time we reached Rab around 9 p.m., the storm had passed and the rest of the voyage was calm.

From those 1980s voyages, I also remember the dinners served on board. There were two courses, served on large trays at long tables. Special attention was paid to the dress code. Guests who were too casually dressed were politely asked by the head waiter to change into something more suitable for the elegant atmosphere of the restaurant. I liked that very much.

In the summer of 1986, we sailed overnight on Ilirija from Split to Rijeka. Because of a booking error, we didn’t have a cabin and all the seats were taken. A kind crew member allowed us to sleep on benches in

klupama u restoranu. Nije bilo baš udobno, ali je pomoglo ocu da se nakon duge vožnje barem malo naspava.

JELOVNIK DJETINJSTVA

Nakon završetka Domovinskog rata, 1998., s tadašnjom djevojkom putovao sam Liburnijom iz Rijeke u Korčulu. I tada sam, baš kao i kad sam putovao s roditeljima, naručio dnevni meni. Kao predjelo posluženi su – baš kao i nekad – poznati špageti bolonjez. I ostali sljedovi bili su – ako ne potpuno isti kao nekad – onda vrlo slični. Pomislio sam: "To je gotovo nemoguće! Baš kao u djetinjstvu!" Bio sam sretan kao dijete!

Desetak godina poslije, 2007., na putovanju Markom Polom od Rijeke do Dubrovnika, na recepciji sam vidio da Jadrolinija ima u ponudi suvenire (majice itd.). Nažalost, to sam vidio neposredno

the restaurant. It wasn’t very comfortable, but at least it helped my father get some rest after a long journey.

THE MENU OF CHILDHOOD

After the Homeland War ended, in 1998, I travelled again on Liburnija, this time from Rijeka to Korčula with my girlfriend. Just like in my childhood, I ordered the daily menu. As an appetizer, they served the same spaghetti Bolognese I remembered from years before. The other courses were almost identical. I thought to myself, “This is incredible. Just like when I was a child.” I was as happy as a boy again.

About ten years later, in 2007, while travelling on Marko Polo from Rijeka to Dubrovnik, I noticed souvenirs for sale at the reception desk, such as T-shirts and other items. Unfortunately, I saw them just before arrival in Dubrovnik, when sales were already closed. I had really wanted to take home a souvenir from that voyage.

I remembered that missed opportunity in 2012 when I learned that Jadrolinija souvenirs were now available on all ships and that the range had expanded. I sent an email to Jadrolinija’s office in Rijeka, and they replied with a list of souvenirs, adding that if I wanted something special, I could send a message and the item would be reserved for me on Liburnija. They referred me to Mr. Ivica Jurac, who would assist me with the purchase on board.

prije dolaska u Dubrovnik, kad je prodaja već bila obustavljena. A baš sam s tog putovanja htio ponijeti neki suvenir…

MAGLA NA MORU

Dugo sam sanjao o dugoj plovidbi Liburnijom. U studenom 2009. zrakoplovom sam iz Kölna odletio u Bari i ukrcao se na Liburniju. Nakon dvije noći trebali smo stići u Rijeku. Ali te večeri, u vrijeme predviđeno za isplovljavanje, bila je gusta magla. Zbog toga je polazak odgođen na neodređeno vrijeme. Članovi posade raspravljali su o mogućnostima isplovljavanja. Sjedio sam malo sa strane i djelomično čuo razgovor s lučkom upravom. Uskoro se vidljivost malo poboljšala i isplovili smo uz pomoć pilot-broda (peljara). Još

Jedino putovanje u kojem istinski uživate plovidba je brodom. I zato plovidbe brodom, čak i kod ljudi koji mnogo putuju, ostaju u trajnom sjećanju.

TRAVELER'S LETTER

FOG AT SEA

For years I had dreamed of taking a long voyage on Liburnija. In November 2009, I flew from Cologne to Bari and boarded the ship. After two nights we were supposed to arrive in Rijeka. But that evening, just before departure, a thick fog rolled in and sailing was delayed indefinitely. The crew discussed possible options while I sat nearby, partly listening to their radio communication with the port authorities. Eventually the visibility improved and we set sail with the help of a pilot boat. The fog remained heavy, but the next morning we arrived in Dubrovnik on time. Even though it was November, it was pleasantly warm on deck. That was the only time I managed to take a two-day voyage on Liburnija.

When I finally sent my “wish list” of souvenirs to Jadrolinija, I met Mr. Jurac on board. He looked at me and said, “I remember you. A few years ago, you came to me on Marko Polo, asking about buying T-shirts. I couldn’t help you then. I’m glad it worked out this time.” I was pleasantly surprised. Thousands of passengers board these ships every year, and yet he remembered me from five years earlier. On that trip, thanks to his help, I was allowed to visit the bridge again.

First officer Sandro Rundić, Mr. Jurac, and a very kind helmsman, whose name I no longer recall, told me a lot about the ship and its voyages. I wanted to photograph the ship’s bell and the builder’s plaque, so one of the crew took me from the bridge to the bow where I managed to take several photos as keepsakes. It was a wonderful personal experience.

Officer Rundić was also on board during the 2009 voyage from Bari to Rijeka and clearly remembered the fog that had delayed our departure.

A SAD FAREWELL

In September 2014, my wife and I sailed on Liburnija from Rijeka to Dubrovnik. It was, I believe, the ship’s second-to-last commercial voyage. Mr. Jurac was also on board and told me with sadness in his voice that Liburnija, his first ship, would probably soon be sold.

Unfortunately, Liburnija was retired in April 2015, making her final voyage to Aliaga for dismantling. Sometimes I watch the video on YouTube showing her departure, and it always makes me emotional.

I still regularly travel with Jadrolinija, but now only on local routes, mostly from Valbiska on Krk to Lopar on Rab. Still, I plan

je bilo vrlo maglovito. Sljedećeg jutra stigli smo u Dubrovnik na vrijeme. Unatoč tomu što je bio studeni, na palubi je bilo ugodno toplo. Nažalost, jedino sam tada uspio otići na dvodnevno putovanje Liburnijom.

Neuspjele kupnje suvenira na brodu Marko Polo sjetio sam se 2012., kad sam doznao da su na Jadrolinijinim brodovima sada svima dostupni, a asortiman znatno proširen. Poslao sam e-mailom "popis želja" u Jadrolinijin ured u Rijeci, a oni mi uzvratili popisom suvenira, uz napomenu da želim li nešto posebno kupiti pošaljem poruku, a traženi proizvod bit će rezerviran za mene na Liburniji. Uputili su me na gospodina Ivicu Jurca, koji će mi biti na usluzi kad budem kupovao suvenire na brodu.

Poslao sam svoj "popis želja" u Jadroliniju. Kad sam stigao na Liburniju susreo sam se gospodinom Jurcem. Pogledao me i rekao: „Prepoznao sam vas! Prije nekoliko godina, prišli ste mi na brodu Marko Polo pitajući kako možete kupiti majice. Nisam vam tada mogao pomoći. Drago mi je da je sad kupnja uspjela!" Bio sam ugodno iznenađen. Toliko se putnika ukrcava na brodove, susreli smo se prije pet godina, ali me gospodin Jurac prepoznao i sjećao me se. I na tom putovanju, uz njegovu pomoć, bilo mi je omogućeno razgledati zapovjednički most Liburnije. Prvi časnik Sandro Rundić, Ivica Jurac i vrlo ljubazni kormilar, čijeg se imena više ne sjećam, puno su mi govorili o brodu i plovidbi. Poželio sam fotografirati brodsko zvono i znak brodogradilišta. Tako sam se s članom posade popeo s mosta na pramac i tamo uspio snimiti nekoliko fotografija za uspomenu. Bilo je to vrlo lijepo osobno iskustvo.

Prvi časnik Sandro Rundić bio je na brodu i na putovanju 2009. od Barija do Rijeke i dobro se sjećao magle koja nam je otežavala isplovljavanje.

TUŽAN RASTANAK

U rujnu 2014. sa suprugom sam plovio Liburnijom od Rijeke do Dubrovnika. Bilo je to – mislim - pretposljednje komercijalno putovanje toga broda. Gospodin Jurac također je bio na brodu i rekao mi, sa sjetom u glasu, da će Liburnija – njegov prvi brod – vjerojatno biti prodana.

Nažalost, Liburnija je umirovljena u travnju 2015., na svom posljednjem putovanju za Aliagu. Katkad gledam na YouTubeu kako je otplovila na rezanje. To me uvijek iznova rastuži.

I dalje redovito putujem Jadrolinijinim brodovima, ali samo na lokalnim linijama, uglavnom od Valbiske na Krku do Lopara na Rabu. Ipak, uskoro planiram krstariti brodom Dalmacija. Sjećam se tog broda iz 1996., kad sam u njegovu izvornom obliku s imenom Bergen plovio od Hanstholma u Danskoj do Bergena u Norveškoj. U brodove sam se zaljubio kao dječačić, ali ta ljubav nikad nije prestala. Zahvalan sam roditeljima, koji su svoj medeni mjesec započeli na brodu Novi Sad 1957. godine.

Sada putujem u Hrvatsku četiri ili pet puta na godinu. Ovdje imam mnogo prijatelja i poznanika. Ne samo na obali, nego i u Zagrebu, Osijeku itd. Čovjek zapravo nikad ne zna kamo ga brod može odvesti, ali jedno je sigurno: svaka je plovidba nova radost u životu. ~

Imate li i vi zanimljivih anegdota s putovanja Jadrolinijinim brodovima popraćenih foto materijalom, slobodno nam pišite na mail adresu marketing@jadrolinija.hr. / If you have interesting stories from your travels on Jadrolinija ferries, accompanied by photos, feel free to share them with us at marketing@jadrolinija.hr.

The only type of travel you can truly enjoy is a voyage by ship. That is why, even for frequent travellers, sea journeys remain unforgettable.

to sail soon on Dalmacija. I remember that ship from 1996, when I sailed on her under her original name Bergen, from Hanstholm in Denmark to Bergen in Norway.

I fell in love with ships as a boy, and that love has never faded. I am grateful to my parents, who began their honeymoon on the ship Novi Sad back in 1957.

Today I visit Croatia four or five times a year. I have many friends and acquaintances here, not only on the coast but also in Zagreb, Osijek, and elsewhere. You never really know where a ship may take you, but one thing is certain — every voyage brings new joy into life.

Plovidba koja traje cijelu godinu

Ponuda suvenira i darova na Jadrolinijinim brodovima i u agencijama prilika je da se putnici cijele godine sjećaju nezaboravnih trenutaka provedenih na Jadranu

Želite li zadržati uspomene na ljetovanje i sve lijepo što ste doživjeli na Jadranu, razgledajte našu ponudu Souvenirs & Gifts. Suveniri Jadrolinije, nadahnuti bijelom flotom i plovidbom Jadranom, podsjetnik su na ljeto i prilika da još dugo prepričavate najzanimljivije anegdote sa svojih putovanja. Od klasičnih suvenira do funkcionalnih dodataka za ljetovanje, svaki predmet pripovijeda o moru, otocima i nezaboravnim trenucima koji povezuju sezonske užitke. U Jadroliniji osluškuju želje putnika i neprestano obogaćuju ponudu pa je tako nastao i jedan od najtraženijih proizvoda – kockice za slaganje Jadrolinijina trajekta.

Makete brodova bile su među najtraženijim proizvodima. Maketarstvo je kreativan hobi, katkad i vrhunsko umijeće koje završi u muzeju. Vođeni idejom da treba oblikovati zanimljiv i zabavan proizvod dostupan svim naraštajima, maketari su prionuli na posao. Sve su količine rasprodale su se za samo nekoliko dana, što je bio jasan znak da je stvoren proizvod koji simbolizira pomorsku tradiciju i podsjeća na plovidbu. U novoj godini očekuje nas nadopuna količina za sve one koji nisu uspjeli uhvatiti svoj primjerak sad već proslavljenih kockica.

Trgovine Souvenirs & Gifts na Jadrolinijinim su brodovima Oliver, Petar Hektorović, Marko Polo i Dalmacija, u agencijama Preko, Supetar, Hvar, Korčula, Dubrovnik i Split.

Nešto vas je posebno privuklo u ponudi? Skenirajte QR kod, naručite i uživajte u uspomeni koja podsjeća na trenutke za pamćenje.

A Voyage That Lasts All Year

The range of souvenirs and gifts available on Jadrolinija’s ships and in its agencies gives passengers the chance to cherish their memories of unforgettable moments spent on the Adriatic all year round.

If you want to hold on to the memories of your summer holiday and all the wonderful experiences you had on the Adriatic, take a look at our Souvenirs & Gifts collection. Inspired by Jadrolinija’s white fleet and life at sea, our souvenirs are a perfect reminder of summer days and an invitation to keep sharing your favorite stories from your journeys.

From classic keepsakes to practical travel accessories, every item tells a story about the sea, the islands, and the timeless pleasure of sailing that connects each season of the year. At Jadrolinija, we listen to our passengers and continually expand our selection. That is how one of our most popular products was created – the build-your-own Jadrolinija ferry set.

Model ships have always been among the most sought-after products. Ship modeling is a creative hobby, and sometimes even an art form worthy of a museum. Guided by the idea of creating an engaging and fun product suitable for all generations, our model makers got to work. The first production run sold out within just a few days, a clear sign that a product had been created to symbolize maritime tradition and celebrate the joy of sailing. In the new year, we’ll be restocking for everyone who didn’t manage to grab their set of the now-famous ferry building blocks.

You can find Souvenirs & Gifts shops aboard Oliver, Petar Hektorović, Marko Polo, and Dalmacija, as well as in our agencies in Preko, Supetar, Hvar, Korčula, Dubrovnik, and Split.

Did something from our collection catch your eye? Scan the QR code, place your order, and enjoy a keepsake that will bring back memories worth reliving.

Zanimljivosti iz magazina

Provjerite svoje znanje o Jadroliniji, a točne odgovore pronađite na stranicama magazina koji držite u rukama

Novi koncept ponude na brodovima Dalmacija i Zadar, „slatka oaza“, zove se:

a) Sugar & Coffee

b) Coffee & Cream

c) Coffee & Sweets

Sportska novinarka, Mirta Šurjak, veliku ljubav

gaji prema brodovima i:

a) rukometu

b) nogometu

c) skijanju

Ove godine se bijeloj brzobrodskoj floti, uz

Cvijetu i Ružicu, pridružio katamaran:

a) Zora

b) Mila

c) Zlata

Otoci uključeni u projekt Dalmacija storytelling odredište su:

a) Šolta, Hvar, Vis, Brač

b) Šolta, Hvar, Vis, Lastovo

c) Hvar, Vis, Šolta, Biševo

Jadrolinija pruža potporu manifestacijama povezanim s hrvatskim otocima i obalom. O kojoj manifestaciji možete čitati u ovom broju

magazina:

a) Oldtimer klub Zadar

b) CroRace

c) Isle Of Wonders

Jadrolinijini djelatnici se u slobodno vrijeme bave zanimljivim hobijima. Riječ je o:

a) nogomet, vinarstvo, slastičarstvo, astronomija

b) košarka, plivanje, keramika, atsronomija

c) heklanje, nogomet, pivarstvo, slastičarstvo

Kapetan Toni živi na otoku Ugljanu, a djevojčica Kasus na otoku:

a) Susak

b) Unije

c) Zlarin

Jadrolinija je osigurala besplatan prijevoz za učenike s kopna koji se školuju na otoku:

a) Hvar

b) Brač

c) Cres

„Žena od mora“, Ivana Jeličić, plovi na brodu:

a) Marko Polo

b) Zadar

c) Petar Hektorović

Znameniti kvartet 4P činili su brodovi:

a) Prvić Luka, Preko, Prapratno, Punat

b) Porozina, Perast, Postira, Punat

c) Perast, Punat, Postira, Prapratno

b) Porozina, Perast, Postira, Punat

a) Susak, b) Brač, a) Marko Polo,

a) nogomet, vinarstvo, slastičarstvo, astronomija,

a) Šolta, Hvar, Vis, Brač, a) Oldtimer klub Zadar,

Odgovori: c) Coffee&Sweets, b) nogomet, b) Mila,

Fascinating Facts from the Magazine

Test your knowledge about Jadrolinija – and find the correct answers on the pages of the magazine you’re holding in your hands.

The new onboard concept introduced on the ferries Dalmacija and Zadar, known as the “sweet oasis,” is called:

a) Sugar & Coffee

b) Coffee & Cream

c) Coffee & Sweets

Sports journalist Mirta Šurjak has a great love for ships and for:

a) Handball

b) Football

c) Skiing

This year, a new catamaran joined the white high-speed fleet, alongside Cvijeta and Ružica:

a) Zora

b) Mila

c) Zlata

The islands included in the Dalmacija Storytelling project are:

a) Šolta, Hvar, Vis, Brač

b) Šolta, Hvar, Vis, Lastovo

c) Hvar, Vis, Šolta, Biševo

Jadrolinija supports events connected to Croatian islands and the coast. Which event can you read about in this issue of the magazine?

a) Oldtimer Club Zadar

b) CroRace

c) Isle of Wonders

Jadrolinija’s employees have interesting hobbies in their free time, such as:

a) Football, winemaking, pastry-making, astronomy

b) Basketball, swimming, ceramics, astronomy

c) Knitting, football, brewing, pastry-making

Captain Toni lives on the island of Ugljan, while the girl Kasus lives on the island of:

a) Susak

b) Unije

c) Zlarin

Jadrolinija provides free transport for students from the mainland who attend school on the island of:

a) Hvar

b) Brač

c) Cres

“The Woman of the Sea,” Ivana Jeličić, serves aboard the ship:

a) Marko Polo

b) Zadar

c) Petar Hektorović

The famous 4P quartet of ships included:

a) Prvić Luka, Preko, Prapratno, Punat

b) Porozina, Perast, Postira, Punat

c) Perast, Punat, Postira, Prapratno

a) Susak, b) Brač, a) Marko Polo, b) Porozina, Perast, Postira, Punat

a) Oldtimer Club Zadar, a) Football, winemaking, pastry-making, astronomy,

Answers: c) Coffee & Sweets, b) Football, b) Mila, a) Šolta, Hvar, Vis, Brač,

ZAGREB SPLIT RIJEKA ZADAR