Your Crew
CAPTAIN Roko Lelas & STEWARDESS Danijela Bilonic
CAPTAIN
Roko Lelas
Roko is an experienced captain he has years of continuous work in the charter industry. Since 2004, when his family purchased their first charter vessel, a mini-cruiser - Roko has spent every summer working on it, at the beginning as a sailor, and later as a captain. His background in kinesiology adds structure to his leadership and onboard organisation.
Throughout his career, Roko has managed annual charter seasons on the Adriatic, developing strong navigation skills, itinerary planning, and a precise understanding of guest preferences. He is fully familiar with the region’s anchorages, protected bays, and coastal ports, ensuring smooth cruising and efficient decision-making in all conditions.
On board, Roko focuses on safety, clear communication, and well-coordinated deck operations. In his free time, he stays active through sports.
CHEF
Petromir Lelas
With over 30 years of experience at sea, Petromir combines his expertise as both a seasoned sailor and a talented chef. He began his maritime journey in 2004, buying his first boat and serving as both captain and chef, and for the past 25 years he has successfully managed his own vessels.
A graduate of the Tourism and Hospitality School in Split, he specializes in Mediterranean and traditional Dalmatian cuisine, delighting guests with fresh, local flavors and unforgettable meals. Petromir is reliable, experienced, and a true team player, always ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied. His dedication to excellent customer servicemakes him an invaluable part of our crew.
STEWARDESS
Danijela Bilonic
Danijela is an experienced stewardess with a strong background in hospitality, tourism, and guest-facing services. She is a certified tourist guide and event manager, bringing organised workflow, structured service standards, and strong communication skills to the interior department. Danijela is fluent in German and English, with a solid understanding of Italian, which ensures efficient interaction with international charter groups.
She has worked in service and housekeeping roles aboard motor yachts, including M/Y Azzurro and M/Y Solaris, gaining practical experience in table service, cabin maintenance, guest assistance, and daily interior operations. Her training in tourism has strengthened her ability to anticipate needs, manage guest schedules, and support a smooth charter flow.
On board, Danijela focuses on precise service, efficient coordination with the galley and deck teams, and maintaining a consistently high standard across all interior areas. Her attention to detail and professional approach contribute directly to a comfortable and well-organised guest experience.
DECKHAND
Georgij Grubar
Georgij is a capable and motivated deckhand with hands-on maritime experience.
He has a background in inland navigation. Despite his family not having a maritime legacy, his father’s career in river navigation inspired his path. He completed his studies at the Secondary School for Inland Navigation and gained hands-on experience as a deckhand on a motor sailer. Georgij already has experience as a deckhand on Lotus, where he demonstrated strong seamanship skills and contributed to vessel maintenance and daily onboard operations. He is now returning to the team, bringing his dedication to service and exploration on the open waters, aligning perfectly with the rest of the crew.
Thank you for making this such a special week.
<p>Now that we’re home and have had a few days to reflect, I just wanted to reach out and thank you again for such an incredible week aboard Lotus.</p><p>We’ve been on a number of sailing and yacht vacations over the years, and this one truly stands out as one of our favorites. Croatia is an amazing destination, but it was the crew that made the experience exceptional.</p><p>From the very beginning, it was obvious that you were fully in command of the yacht, yet you always made everything feel effortless. What impressed me most wasn’t just your skill as a captain - it was how well you coordinated the trip. You took the time to understand what we wanted from the week and created an itinerary that fit us perfectly. As the trip went on, I got the sense that you were paying attention to what we enjoyed most and subtly adjusted things along the way to make the experience even better. You genuinely shared our excitement for beautiful places and great adventures, and that made all the difference.</p><p>One of the things that surprised us most was how private the trip felt, even during peak season. Finding secluded coves where we were literally the only boat, mixed with evenings wandering beautiful Croatian towns, created such a unique rhythm to the week. It felt peaceful, luxurious, and adventurous all at the same time.</p><p> </p><p>Peter’s food was simply outstanding. Every meal felt fresh, local, healthy, and beautifully presented. We still find ourselves talking about the lobster pasta, lasagna, and all of the incredible seafood spreads.</p><p>George may be one of the hardest working people we’ve ever met. He never seemed to stop moving, yet always had a smile, a cold drink, or another margarita ready whenever we needed one.</p><p>Danijella was absolutely wonderful. She somehow managed to anticipate everything we needed before we even asked. She was warm, funny, attentive, and made every day feel effortless.</p><p>One thing we both kept commenting on was the chemistry between all four of you. It never felt like four people simply doing their jobs. It felt like a team that genuinely enjoys working together, and that atmosphere carried through the entire week.</p><p>ended up being one of the greatest strengths of the trip. It’s obvious how much pride you both take in Lotus. Peter has clearly handed you the helm with complete confidence, while still jumping in seamlessly whenever needed. Watching everyone work together was honestly impressive.</p><p>The birthday celebration is something we’ll never forget. The Croatian songs, guitar, and karaoke afterward were the perfect ending to an already amazing day. It was such a thoughtful surprise and one of those memories that will stay with us for years.</p><p> </p><p>We’re already talking about coming back next August or September to explore the northern route toward Zadar. After hearing you describe it, it’s definitely on our list.</p><p>Please know that you, Peter, George, and Danijella created memories that we will be talking about for a very long time. We can’t recommend you and your crew highly enough.</p>
We will definitely be back!
<p>“Roko, Danijela, Petromir and Georgij, thank you all for providing such a special and<br>memorable experience on Lotus for our 45th Birthday celebration. You all made us feel so<br>welcome and well taken care of - especially Petromir and his chocolate butterflies. The<br>Lotus is a BEAUTIFUL boat and you all do such an amazing job of taking care of her.<br>Thank you for the elevated service, the beautiful table setup for meals, the fun off boat<br>adventures, the wonderful cocktails and wine service. We can't thank you enough for all<br>the amazing meals and sharing your local cultures cuisine with us. We will definitely be<br>back! Thank you / Hvala!”</p>