Meet the Captain, Roko Lelas from Gulet Lotus
Why did you choose to work at sea?
I have been on boats since I was 12 years old. During my childhood, I spent time at sea with my dad and tourists from all over the world. I was proud to show these people the beauty of my country and teach them about Croatia. At the same time, I learned their stories and about their countries and cultures; this widened my horizons and gave me a love for the job and tourism. Working at sea and with people are two things that motivate and fulfill me, I guess it is in my blood, very much a part of me. I tried different things – music school and I studied Kinesiology but I quickly realized that while these things are interesting, they are just hobbies, whereas working at sea is what I love and what I want to do for as long as I can.
How did you come to be on Lotus?
We decided to buy Lotus because, after years of owning and working on cruising-style ships (cabin charter), I wanted to take a step forward in my career and the experience I offer my guests. I could see myself in the yacht charter world, and I wanted to use my knowledge, passion, and abilities to their full potential. I looked for a yacht in which I could realize all of my ideas and wishes, and found it with Lotus – which we bought in 2018.
Tell us a little about the crew?
The crew on Lotus has been consistent since the first season in 2018, the only crew member we changed was the chef, and now Jure has stayed with us from last season. The rest of the crew are my sister Jelena as hostess, my childhood friend Domagoj is the sailor, and my right-hand-man. My sister Jelena has also been at sea since a young age, joining and helping dad around the boats. Before Domagoj joined us, he had worked on another gulet for four years as a deckhand and waiter. Between all of us, we have a high level of experience and more importantly – a passion for the yachting industry.
Have you sailed other seas or destinations?
Besides sailing all over the Adriatic Sea, I have also sailed the Aegean and Ionian seas while transporting Lotus from Turkey to Croatia.
What keeps you passionate about sailing and tourism?
The feeling of gratitude, fulfillment, and the look of satisfaction on our guests’ faces are the things that keep me motivated and passionate about this job.
What is your favorite part about working as a captain on a charter yacht?
The best part of my role as a captain is that I suggest the itinerary and organize daily activities. This way, the guests can completely relax; they can soak in the beauty and spirit of Croatia, and leave Lotus enriched with amazing new experiences and memories.
What differentiates Lotus from other yachts?
Lotus is a yacht that catches the eye with her appearance, and she has an excellent sailing performance. I believe that my crew and I can always go one step further to exceed our guests’ expectations. We try our best to show them something new and exciting every day while letting them relax and feel right at home. Creating a comfortable, family-like atmosphere is important to us.
What are some of your favorite memories aboard Lotus?
All of my best memories are tied together in special moments spent with guests. There are far too many to recounts but genuine joys and spontaneous moments like playing the guitar while guests sing and dance – this fills my heart, and I know spontaneous moments like these become treasured memories for our guests.
Do you have return clients?
Between our two boats (Lotus and the first boat we worked privately for years), we have many guests returning year after year; 2020 was actually a 10-year jubilee for some of our guests. Lotus is still quite new to the market, as such, we are slowly building our name and clients. Compared to our first boat, Lotus is much larger, more luxurious, and has more to offer guests; in time, we hope that our passion and hard work will show similar results to our first boat.
What is one thing you think people don’t know about Croatia?
I think most people have a similar image of Croatia. However, there is a difference between reading about Croatia and experiencing it in person. Croatia is a small country but it is rich in culture and natural beauty. Each region, each island, and even each place on the Croatian coast has its own identity and something that differs it from others, whether it is food, tradition, dialect, etc. That is why I can’t think of just one thing that people don’t know about Croatia. I guess they will just have to book a charter on Lotus so we can show them all of the hidden beauties.
Sail with Roko and Gulet Lotus
We have worked with Roko for years and agree with every word he said. Roko is a genuine character who lives and breathes his job. As he mentioned, every guest who steps aboard Lotus instantly feels comfortable thanks to the professional service, yet family atmosphere Roko and his crew create. In this way, Lotus is unique and a true gem.
Gulet Lotus was built in 2006 by Huzur Yat - one of the finest Turkish shipyards when it comes to luxury yachts building. This boutique gulet was built for a private owner, a passionate wealthy sailor who decided to sell it in 2018, as he could not find enough time in his busy schedule to enjoy it. Read more detailed information about Gulet Lotus here or contact us for questions and inquiries.
Your perfect sailing holiday in Croatia awaits, let us help you make 2021 a fantastic year!
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Timing is one of the most important factors when planning a yacht charter. Different periods of the year offer very different experiences, even in the same destination. Summer months tend to be busier, with more activity in ports and popular anchorages, while spring and autumn often feel quieter and more relaxed. Weather, sea conditions, and local events can all influence your time on board. If you have flexibility with your dates, we strongly recommend sharing that with us. It allows us to suggest alternative weeks, for you to discover more private harbors and sometimes secure better options within your budget.Click for more information
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Chartering a yacht gives you freedom, privacy, and the chance to explore coastal destinations at your own pace. You can enjoy hidden bays, local culture, and unique activities that aren’t accessible by traditional travel. With a private crew handling all the details, you can focus on relaxing, swimming, trying water sports, and discovering new towns and beaches every day. Yacht charters are ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a tailored experience on the water.
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Most yacht charters offer flexible itineraries. While there’s usually a suggested route, you can adjust it based on weather, local events, or your own preferences. Whether you want to spend extra time at a favorite beach, visit a charming town, or explore a quiet cove, your crew can help adapt the plan to make your trip just right.
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Otium Yachts provides expert guidance, a selection of carefully maintained vessels, and professional crews who know the Adriatic coast inside out. From planning your itinerary to organizing activities and ensuring smooth sailing, Otium Yachts makes yacht charters easy, enjoyable, and reliable. Guests appreciate the personal attention, detailed local knowledge, and thoughtful service that make every charter feel special.
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The cost of a yacht charter varies depending on the size of the yacht, the season, the number of guests, and the itinerary. Early summer and peak season tend to be higher, while shoulder months may offer more competitive rates. Longer charters or special requests, such as additional activities or private events, can also affect the price. Booking early and working with an experienced broker can help you find the best options for your budget.Click for more information
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The charter fee generally covers accommodation for all guests, the crew and their expenses, Wi-Fi, use of onboard recreational equipment. Exact inclusions may vary from yacht to yacht, and when you receive a quote, you will be provided with a detailed breakdown of what is included and what is not.
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APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. It’s a deposit, usually around 25-30% of the charter fee, that covers variable expenses during the charter. This includes fuel for the yacht and tender, food and drinks, port and marina fees, national park entrances, water sports, and any extra services requested by the guests. Before the charter begins, the APA is paid upfront, and the captain or crew manages these costs throughout the trip. Any unused funds are refunded at the end, while any extra expenses beyond the allowance are billed separately. This system ensures your charter runs smoothly without surprises and gives guests flexibility to enjoy the full experience on board.Click for more information
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An all-inclusive yacht charter means that, in addition to the yacht and crew, most meals, drinks, and onboard amenities are included in the price. This can cover food, beverages, water toys, Wi-Fi, and some activities, allowing guests to enjoy the trip without worrying about extra costs during the charter. Always check the offer details, as inclusions can vary by yacht and operator.
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The base charter fee usually does not include items such as port or marina fees, national park entrances, shore excursions, special activities like scuba diving or big game fishing, transfers, or APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) for fuel, food, and drinks. Guests may also have charges for extra navigation, special equipment, or additional services requested during the trip.
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To secure your booking with Otium Yachts, the first step is signing the charter agreement and paying the initial deposit. The first instalment, which is 50% of the charter fee, is due at the time of signing. The second instalment, covering the remaining balance along with any selected food and beverage packages, is due 45 days before the charter begins. This process ensures your booking is confirmed and gives our team time to prepare everything for a smooth board experience.
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When booking a yacht, it’s important to know that there are two common types of charter agreements in the Mediterranean: Western Mediterranean Terms (WMT), also known as MYBA Terms, and Eastern Mediterranean Terms (EMT), also known as Gulet Terms. It can seem a bit confusing at first, but here’s a simple breakdown: the type of contract used depends on the yacht owner, who chooses the terms that best suit their vessel and guests. Both options are standard in the industry and provide clear guidelines for what’s included in the charter fee, what costs are extra, and how the trip is managed.Click for more information
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Yacht charters are governed by industry-standard agreements, such as the MYBA Charter Agreement, which clearly defines cancellation policies. One of the most important clauses in this contract is Clause 11, which outlines the financial consequences of canceling a charter.Click for more information
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Planning a luxury yacht charter is an exciting experience, full of anticipation. Many guests book their charters months or even a year in advance, hoping everything will go smoothly when the time arrives. But life can be unpredictable, and unexpected events may force you to cancel or postpone your trip. This is where yacht charter insurance plays a vital role, protecting your investment and ensuring your dream getaway remains secure, no matter what challenges arise.Click for more information
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VAT varies by country because each country sets its own VAT rates and tax rules. Although EU countries follow a common VAT framework, the actual rates and specific conditions differ from one jurisdiction to another. Outside the EU, VAT or similar taxes may not apply at all, or different tax systems may be in place.
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Pack light and focus on casual, comfortable clothing. Essentials include swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and non-slip deck shoes. Evenings are usually relaxed, so a few smart-casual outfits are sufficient. Don’t forget personal toiletries, medications, and travel documents. Soft luggage is recommended, as storage space on board is limited.Click for more information
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A typical day on a yacht is flexible and tailored to your preferences. Mornings often start with breakfast at anchor, followed by swimming or water activities. During the day, the yacht may cruise to a new destination, with lunch on board or ashore. Afternoons are perfect for relaxation, sightseeing, or exploring coastal towns, while evenings are usually spent dining on board or at a local restaurant.Click for more information
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Yes, itineraries are flexible and can usually be adjusted during the charter, weather and operational conditions permitting. Your captain will advise on the best options to ensure safety and comfort while accommodating your preferences as much as possible.
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Absolutely. Yacht charters are ideal for first-time guests, as the professional crew takes care of navigation, safety, and daily operations. The experience is fully guided and can be as relaxed or as active as you wish, making it suitable for all levels of experience.
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Destinations with calm seas, short cruising distances, and well-developed marina infrastructure are ideal for first-time charterers. Popular choices include the Mediterranean, such as Croatia, Greece, Italy and the French Riviera, as well as the Caribbean. These regions offer a wide variety of anchorages, beautiful scenery, and reliable services, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.Click for more information
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For a one-week charter, routes with short sailing times between destinations work best. This allows guests to enjoy a relaxed pace while still visiting several locations. Circular routes or island-hopping itineraries are especially popular, as they minimize long passages and maximize time for swimming, sightseeing, and dining ashore. Popular itineraries include Split, Hvar, Vis, Kor?ula, and Bra?, or Dubrovnik and the nearby Elaphiti Islands. These routes offer a great balance of exploration, relaxation, and time to enjoy each destination.
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A round-trip charter starts and ends at the same port, offering a simple and flexible itinerary. A one-way charter begins in one location and ends in another, allowing you to cover more distance and explore a wider area. One-way charters often involve additional fees for yacht repositioning but provide greater variety in destinations.
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Living onboard a crewed yacht is relaxed and comfortable, much like staying in a floating boutique hotel. The crew takes care of everything, from navigation and safety to meals and daily details, so you can fully unwind. Your days are shaped around your preferences, whether that means exploring new destinations, enjoying the sea, or simply relaxing on deck.
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A yacht charter offers a very high level of privacy. The yacht is exclusively yours, and the crew is trained to be discreet and respectful at all times. While they are always available when needed, they give guests plenty of space to enjoy their time onboard without interruption.
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Yes, dietary requirements can usually be accommodated. Before the charter, guests are asked to share any preferences, allergies, or special diets. The chef will tailor the menu accordingly, whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or based on specific preferences. A Guest’s preference sheet is a simple tool we use to ensure your yacht charter is tailored to your group’s needs and desires.Click for more information
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Most crewed yachts come equipped with a selection of water toys and amenities, such as snorkeling gear, paddleboards, seabobs, or jet skis, depending on the yacht. Onboard amenities often include spacious lounging areas, air-conditioned cabins, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems. The exact selection varies by yacht and will be confirmed before your charter.Click for more information
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Yes, crewed yachts come with a professional and experienced crew. Depending on the size of the yacht, this may include a captain, chef, and additional crew members. They are there to ensure your safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment throughout the charter.Click for more information
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The captain is responsible for navigating the yacht safely, planning the route, and adjusting the itinerary when needed due to weather or sea conditions. They also act as a local expert, offering recommendations for anchorages, beaches, and restaurants, while making sure your charter runs smoothly.Click for more information
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Crew gratuity is customary but always at the guest’s discretion. If you feel the crew has delivered excellent service, tipping is a nice way to show appreciation. The usual guideline is around 10-15% of the charter fee, though any amount is entirely optional.
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Embarkation typically takes place in the afternoon on the first day of the charter, while disembarkation is usually in the morning on the final day. Exact times can vary depending on the yacht and marina, and will be confirmed before your departure.
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Airport transfers are not always included by default, but they can usually be arranged upon request. Your charter broker or crew can help organize smooth transfers to and from the yacht for an additional fee.
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All our yachts come with Wi-Fi onboard, so you can stay connected while enjoying your charter. Coverage is generally good near the coast, though it may be limited in more remote areas or while cruising, depending on local signal strength.
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In case of bad weather, the captain will always prioritize safety. The itinerary may be adjusted, or the yacht may remain in a sheltered bay or marina until conditions improve. These changes are made to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience whenever possible.