Mate is a skilled and dedicated marine engineer with a strong technical background and hands-on experience in the maritime industry. He holds a Marine Engineering Technician diploma and has worked as an Engine Cadet on ships such as CB Pacific and CB Baltic, gaining expertise in machinery maintenance, risk assessments, and engine operations. His experience working with multinational crews has strengthened his teamwork and leadership abilities. Mate is highly proficient in safe working practices, crew coordination, and engine room operations, making him a valuable asset to any yacht crew. In addition to his engineering expertise, he has experience operating small and speedboats, adding to his versatility on board. His passion for maritime engineering, along with his problem-solving mindset and commitment to excellence, ensures smooth and efficient yacht operations

Mate Vranic
Chief engineer
A vital part of the Novela team since 2015, Tamara’s long tenure is a testament to her dedication and the high esteem in which she is held by owners and repeat guests alike. Originally from Serbia, where she studied Business and Economics, Tamara followed her passion for the sea to Montenegro to complete her nautical training.
With almost of 20 years of industry experience ,ranging from technical yard work to elite silver service, she is a versatile professional with an impeccable eye for detail. Tamara’s mission is to provide a seamless, world-class service that makes every guest feel instantly at home. When off-duty, she stays active through tennis, ice skating, and fitness.

Tamara Petrovic
Stewardess
With extensive experience in the culinary industry, Mislav is a highly skilled and passionate chef. Having worked in high-end restaurants and aboard luxury yachts, he brings a wealth of knowledge in preparing exquisite meals tailored to guests' preferences. Mislav has served as Head Chef on prestigious yachts such as M/Y PortoVino (29m), M/Y Artemy (35m), M/Y Clase Azul (49m), and M/Y Katina (60m). His expertise in Mediterranean and international flavors, along with meticulous ingredient sourcing and attention to detail, ensures an exceptional dining experience for guests. Passionate about food, he enjoys experimenting with new recipes and continuously refining his skills, including in pastry-making. His dedication to quality and hospitality guarantees a memorable culinary journey onboard.

Mislav Miletic
Chef
Anton hails from Croatia and brings a wealth of maritime expertise and a strong work ethic to the team. Since beginning his career in 2015, he has developed a versatile skill set that spans both deck operations and technical engineering. Anton is a highly qualified professional, with extensive experience on various charter and support vessels, including the 43.5m S/Y Dalmatino and the 36m M/V Moon. Anton has mastered everything from navigational watchkeeping and complex maneuvering to the maintenance of high-performance Caterpillar and Cummins engines. His background as a Project Manager and Bosun also means he is exceptionally skilled at leading crews, organizing yacht refits, and managing guest relations with a professional, friendly touch.A fluent speaker of English and German, he is a communicative and adaptable team player committed to providing an exceptional experience for guests. When he isn’t on the bridge or in the engine room, Anton maintains an active and healthy lifestyle as a non-smoker who is always looking to further his maritime education

Anton Grgic
Deckhand
Originally from the historic coastal city of Šibenik, Josip’s life has been defined by his passion for the sea. A highly skilled and seasoned professional, he brings over 15 years of maritime expertise to M/Y NOVELA, where he has served as Captain since 2022. After starting as a skipper in 2010, his hard work and natural leadership led him to earn his Captain’s stripes by 2015.Since taking the helm of NOVELA, Josip has become one of the most praised captains in the industry. Under his command, the yacht has consistently received glowing feedback, with a remarkable number of guests returning for their fourth or fifth consecutive season. This incredible guest loyalty is a direct result of Josip’s ability to lead a cohesive, elite crew that prioritizes safety, luxury, and seamless operations.An expert navigator of the Mediterranean and Adriatic, Josip specializes in crafting unforgettable itineraries. Whether discovering hidden coves among Croatia's 1,000 islands or exploring vibrant coastal towns, he ensures every voyage is unique. Josip combines youthful energy with deep experience to provide an unparalleled charter experience, ensuring every guest leaves with memories to last a lifetime.

Josip Matišić
Captain