Duje Žaja
Captain
Croatian
A seasoned and versatile Captain who brings over a decade of experience in the sailing and yachting industry. His maritime journey began with hands-on roles skippering sailing yachts and catamarans in the charter sector, where he developed strong navigational skills, vessel handling expertise, and a client-first approach.
His service in the Croatian Navy further shaped his discipline and seamanship, notably serving as helmsman aboard a 50-meter vessel—an experience that sharpened his ability to perform under pressure and manage complex operations with precision.
Since then, he has captained a wide range of private and charter vessels, currently commanding a 24-meter catamaran on both coastal and offshore voyages. He is known for delivering discreet, highly personalized experiences while maintaining a strong focus on safety and professionalism.
He is STCW-certified across all core safety, medical, and operational areas, including Advanced Firefighting, GMDSS, Bridge Resource Management, and holds the STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3,000 GT) endorsement—affirming his qualification for bridge duties on vessels up to 3000 gross tons.
Outside his command duties, he is an avid scuba diver and spearfisherman, with personal passions for photography, cooking, and meticulous yacht maintenance.
Leading by example, he cultivates a well-organized, motivated crew environment that consistently exceeds guest expectations and ensures smooth, high-standard operations at sea.
A seasoned and versatile Captain who brings over a decade of experience in the sailing and yachting industry. His maritime journey began with hands-on roles skippering sailing yachts and catamarans in the charter sector, where he developed strong navigational skills, vessel handling expertise, and a client-first approach.
His service in the Croatian Navy further shaped his discipline and seamanship, notably serving as helmsman aboard a 50-meter vessel—an experience that sharpened his ability to perform under pressure and manage complex operations with precision.
Since then, he has captained a wide range of private and charter vessels, currently commanding a 24-meter catamaran on both coastal and offshore voyages. He is known for delivering discreet, highly personalized experiences while maintaining a strong focus on safety and professionalism.
He is STCW-certified across all core safety, medical, and operational areas, including Advanced Firefighting, GMDSS, Bridge Resource Management, and holds the STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3,000 GT) endorsement—affirming his qualification for bridge duties on vessels up to 3000 gross tons.
Outside his command duties, he is an avid scuba diver and spearfisherman, with personal passions for photography, cooking, and meticulous yacht maintenance.
Leading by example, he cultivates a well-organized, motivated crew environment that consistently exceeds guest expectations and ensures smooth, high-standard operations at sea.
