Crew Profiles

MSY SON DE MAR
Crew Profile 2025

Captain: Mate Vitaljic, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English, Italian

Captain Mate hails from the town of Komiža on the island of Vis, a world-renowned haven for seafarers. After completing both Maritime High School and the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split, Mate embarked on a career at sea aboard cargo ships for a reputable local company. After achieving his Master Mariner license, he captained passenger ships around the world.
On returning to Croatia in 2006, Mate served as CEO of maritime and passenger line companies for the next five years. During this time, he occasionally captained the luxury charter yacht Seagull II (54m/177ft) in the Mediterranean. In 2011, Mate moved full time into the yacht charter industry, becoming the owner and operator of the charter yacht Korab. Alongside his wife Antonia, who worked as the onboard chef, and a small crew, they provided exceptional experiences for their guests aboard the 25m/84ft motor yacht.
In 2018, Mate partnered with his brother-in-law Kazimir to construct SON DE MAR, which was completed in 2019. Beyond his impeccable qualifications Captain Mate offers a level of service that is truly extraordinary. He is easy-going and personable, always prioritizing the best interests of his charter guests.
Aboard SON DE MAR, guests can relax with confidence, knowing they are in the capable hands of a trustworthy and highly skilled captain. Mate’s extensive knowledge of the sailing area, deep connections within the local community, and keen understanding of his guests’ needs ensure an unforgettable charter experience.

Chef: Antonia Tomić, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English

Formerly a Chief Stewardess and Chief Purser, Antonia became chef aboard the charter yacht Korab in 2011, which she owned and operated alongside her husband, Captain Mate. Cooking had always been a passion of hers, nurtured since childhood, and she became highly skilled at a young age. The charter industry quickly recognized and celebrated her culinary creations, with Korab earning a reputation for offering an unparalleled gourmet experience. To hone her skills, she pursued a more formal culinary education at a renowned private chef school and worked in local restaurants in the winter months.
Antonia describes her cooking style as Mediterranean fine dining with a twist—using fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients as a foundation, enhanced with a touch of contemporary flair. Her priority is tailoring her dishes to the tastes and desires of her guests. She takes pride in artfully decorating plates, paying special attention to the selection and presentation of desserts. Thanks to her close ties with local fishermen, it’s no exaggeration to say that the fish served onboard often goes straight from the sea to Antonia's kitchen.
Modest and kind, Antonia is deeply passionate about her craft and dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience for her guests. She goes above and beyond to ensure that those onboard Son de Mar feel they couldn’t have chosen a better yacht for their holiday.
When not onboard, Antonia enjoys spending time with her family and staying immersed in the world of gastronomy. She regularly visits local restaurants, takes every opportunity to explore and learn during her travels, and continuously enhances her skills through specialized culinary seminars and workshops.

Sous Chef: Nena Dumančić, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English

After completing high school, Nena began her career in the hospitality industry. She decided to pursue a life at sea as a stewardess and began her journey in 2015 aboard the yacht Korab. She quickly fell in love with the sea and the unique experience of working with people in this dynamic environment. From the very beginning of her yachting career, she has worked alongside Captain Mate and Chef Antonia, forming an inseparable and highly effective team.
Responsible and dedicated to delivering her best, Nena is a communicative and versatile, fitting in seamlessly with the fantastic crew of SON DE MAR. Her previous experience in various roles at restaurants and clubs has equipped her with excellent hospitality skills.
Curious by nature and passionate about cooking, reading, and sunbathing, Nena describes herself as someone who loves to learn and enjoys life’s simple pleasures. She is excited to ensure that every guest on SON DE MAR feels comfortable, cared for, and completely at home.

First Officer: Ivan Vitaljić, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English, Italian

Ivan was born into a family of seafarers, with his father being a captain. From an early age, he inherited a deep love and respect for the sea. His father instilled in him the knowledge and skills needed to handle any unforeseen events that might arise onboard. During his high school summer breaks, Ivan worked as a crew member on his father’s charter yacht, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Despite his relatively young age, Ivan has amassed extensive experience working on boats. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, he has become an outgoing, attentive, and efficient team member, dedicated to ensuring every guest onboard feels comfortable and secure. These qualities make him perfectly suited for his role on SON DE MAR.
In the winter months, Ivan works as a project manager at a yacht charter agency, while also cherishing time with his family and friends. A passionate basketball player, he enjoys staying active and seizes every opportunity to travel and explore new destinations.

Deckhand NIKOLA SIMIC, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English

Nikola is a skilled and dedicated Deckhand with five seasons of experience aboard luxury yachts such as
Fantazija, Nautilus, Mama Marija, Aurum Sky, and Son de Mar. Known for his responsible, cheerful, and helpful nature, Nikola prides himself on anticipating guest needs and delivering exceptional service before being asked. His organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to create
a positive environment make him an invaluable team member. Passionate about ensuring both guests and crew are happy, he brings enthusiasm and precision to his role. Outside of work, Nikola enjoys football, hiking, and traveling, reflecting his adventurous and active spirit.

Deckhand BORNA POLJAK, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English

Borna is a disciplined and highly motivated deckhand with a strong background in the maritime industry. Having entered the sector at an early stage, he has developed a solid foundation in deck operations, vessel maintenance, and guest services across a range of motor yachts and commercial vessels.
Coming from a family with a strong maritime tradition, he brings a natural affinity for life at sea, combined with a professional and proactive approach to his work. He is recognised for his organisational skills, discretion, and ability to maintain high standards in fast-paced and dynamic environments.


1st Stewardess: India Birek, German
Languages: Croatian, English, German

India has always been drawn to the Croatian coast. After completing her education and training in Germany, where she was born and raised, she ventured abroad for the first time to work a season. She gained experience in renowned restaurants and hotels in Mallorca and Austria. Six years ago, India spent her first summer season in Croatia on the island of Biševo.
She then spent the winter working on the Aida Mar and Blu cruise ships, where she sailed through the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. After working with television chef Tim Mälzer for the past eighteen months, India is now returning to the Adriatic and the SON DE MAR.
For her, the guests always come first, and she strives to give them the best possible experience. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends

2nd stewardess: LEA ILIC, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English, Spanish

Raised on the enchanting island of Vis, Lea’s deep connection with the sea was evident from an early age. Fascinated by boats and maritime life, she naturally chose to pursue her passion academically, enrolling at the University of Maritime College in Split, where she graduated in 2016. Lea began her professional journey aboard M/Y Korab, later gaining over three years of valuable experience on M/Y Alessandro. Her exceptional work ethic, creativity, and dedication made her an ideal addition to the Son de Mar crew. Known for her warm and professional approach, Lea combines attentiveness with genuine enthusiasm to ensure every guest’s experience goes above and beyond expectations. Fluent in Spanish and always eager to expand her linguistic and professional skills, Lea continually strives for growth. Outside the maritime world, she channels her creativity into running a fashion business,
another reflection of her artistic spirit and drive. With her combination of elegance and heartfelt service, Lea perfectly embodies the spirit of luxury yachting


3rd stewardess / Rotational MARTA TOMLJANOVIC, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English

Marta is an experienced and charismatic Stewardess, fluent in English and Italian, with a deep passion for the sea cultivated during childhood sailing trips on her family’s sailboat. Having begun her yachting career as a deckhand on day trips, she developed a strong appreciation for Croatia’s coastline and the yachting lifestyle.
Her experience includes both Chief Stewardess and Stewardess roles aboard charter yachts, where she has demonstrated ambition, strong communication skills, and a collaborative approach to her work. Personable and guest-focused, Marta takes great pride in creating memorable onboard experiences while fostering a positive atmosphere among guests and crew alike. She particularly enjoys the camaraderie of life at sea and the beauty of the Adriatic.


3rd stewardess / Rotational ZOE TOMLJANOVIC, Croatian
Languages: Croatian, English

Zoe is a service-oriented Stewardess with onboard experience aboard M/Y Korab. With a background in hospitality, retail, and customer service, she brings excellent communication skills, adaptability, and a professional approach to guest care.
Highly organised, she thrives in fast-paced environments and consistently maintains high service standards while working effectively as part of a team. Passionate about creating memorable guest experiences, Zoe is committed to delivering attentive and efficient service, supported by a positive attitude and strong work ethic.