CROYA Yacht Charter Show Celebrates a Successful Second Edition

The second edition of the CROYA Yacht Charter Show has concluded, held along the Western Coast and at part of ACI Marina Split. It is the only B2B show in Croatia dedicated exclusively to luxury crewed charter yachts.

The Split show showcased 47 yachts and brought together over 250 charter brokers from around the world, alongside numerous exhibitors and visitors. CROYA has quickly become one of the region’s premier events, a key platform for networking, presenting offerings, and shaping the global charter industry.

The program featured a series of captivating competitions, including the Chef’s Competition themed ‘Croatian Nonnas,’ a table-decorating contest ‘Feel at Home,’ a Cocktail Competition, and the Designer Water Competition powered by CYBA.

Chefs showcased their creations before a panel of esteemed judges, including Rudolf Štefan, Ante Bjelančić, and Karlo Kaleb. Highlighting the event was Luka Veić, the youngest winner of Croatian MasterChef, competing side by side with the yacht chefs in a celebration of culinary talent at sea

Thirteen yacht chefs showcased their culinary talents at the show. Third place went to Igor Karađole from the motor yacht Dawo, while last year’s winner, Mateo Rac from the motor yacht Carmen, finished second. The top title was claimed by Luka Vulić of the motor sailer Corsario.

'This means so much to the entire crew! We gave it our all and clearly impressed the judges with our technique and execution,' said Luka, noting that Corsario is his first yacht, where he has worked for six years.

At CROYA, presentation is just as important as taste. The title for best table decoration was shared between the crews of the motor sailers Son de Mar and Corsario, reflecting the creativity and attention to detail of the onboard teams.

The Designer Water Competition highlighted imagination and innovation across 12 yachts, with notable performances by Mara Vicelja on the catamaran Princess Karla and Marina Saskor on the motor sailer Lady Gita. First place was awarded to Dražena Perkov of the motor yacht Friend’s Boat.

Cocktail enthusiasts also had their moment during the competition, where Marija Juretić of the luxury catamaran Amber One wowed the judges with what they called 'one of the most creative cocktails we’ve ever seen,' both in flavor and presentation.

Beyond the competitions, guests enjoyed glamorous evening events and intimate gatherings in the heart of Split. Post-show fam trips offered charter brokers the chance to explore Dalmatia, its local cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes.

CRO.Y.A. President Stipe Petričević emphasized the ambition to establish CROYA as a long-term tradition: 'Encouraged by last year’s success, we approached this edition with even greater enthusiasm and a clear vision for growth. CROYA is a platform that builds bridges in the industry and contributes to the wider economy.'

The CROYA Yacht Charter Show is part of the Split Sailing Festival and held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Croatia. Project partners include the Croatian National Tourist Board, Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board, Split-Dalmatia County, the City of Split, the Split Tourist Board, Split-Dalmatia County Port Authority, ACI Marina Split, and the Croatian Chamber of Economy.

'This year, CROYA Charter Show was more than a yacht exhibition - it was a meeting place for people, ideas, and the future of the charter industry,' the CRO.Y.A association reflected. 'Over three days, new partnerships were formed, fresh ideas came to life, and the very best of this industry was on display. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making the event truly special. This is just the beginning of an even bigger story, and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.'