At Otium Yachts, something we pride ourselves on is knowing the yachts and crew we recommend personally. With more than a decade’s worth of experience in the charter industry, we have fostered strong relationships with the people we work with – our yachts and crews feel more like extended family than colleagues. In a saturated market, we believe this is one of our greatest points of difference. This is why we wanted to write this series, so you can get to know the people ‘behind’ the yachts like we do. Today, let us introduce you to Captain Filip Jakir from Scorpios.
What is your family history at sea?
One of my relatives spent his life researching our family history and wrote a book about it, he found ties between our family and the sea reaching back eight generations – so you can say we have a long family history at sea. However, in my immediate family, my grandfather Filip was the first captain and shipowner. Without my grandfather’s persistence and sacrifice, I wouldn’t be answering these questions today.
When did your story at sea begin?
I have been at sea since I was three. I was a hyperactive child, so when my sister was born, my mother would send me to sea with my father. These were only small voyages, but they were my ‘first steps’ at sea and where it all began. I wasn’t pushed into this profession, the joy I felt at sea and still feel at the helm is real. There are many seafarers these days but unfortunately, not everyone in this industry enjoys their profession. I had luck that my family instilled in me a love of sailing and the sea, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
You were previously the Captain aboard Tajna Mora, why are you joining Scorpios?
My family bought Tajna Mora in 2014, where I served as captain until now. After a lot of thought, I decided it was time for a change. I’m currently in the process of designing and building a new luxury yacht. So, I decided to step away from Tajna Mora this year and give my younger brother the chance to step up. Actually, in my last interview as the captain for Tajna Mora, I joked that hopefully, my brother would be answering these questions soon, and I was right (read Luka’s interview here)!
I had planned to have a relaxing season, hopping on different yachts where needed, and doing some windsurfing, but life had other plans… Antonio from Scorpios called me. He told me about the yacht and vision, and asked me to join as captain. I loved the story and it seemed like a great opportunity, so, I said yes. I am passionate about boats and sailing and want to work on as many different yachts as possible. Also, as I’m building a luxury yacht, this seemed like a great chance to work at the highest level of service. So, while I have been on yachts all my life, and a captain for almost a decade, joining Scorpios is a new challenge. I’m excited to work with a professional and passionate team, and I’m looking forward to the new challenge!
Have you sailed other destinations besides Croatia and the Adriatic?
I sailed aboard Oosterschelde in the eastern Atlantic because I wanted to sail on a classic ship. Oosterschelde is a 50 m three-masted topsail schooner built in 1918; sailing aboard her was a definite highlight and another experience which cemented my love for the sea and sailing. I’ve also skippered a yacht in the Caribbean for previous guests of Tajna Mora.
What are some of your standout memories as a Captain?
This question is hard to answer because there are so many aspects of this job that I love. It could be something as simple as the look of amazement on guests’ faces when you manage to surprise them – with food, sailing, or scenery. Many guests arrive knowing very little about Croatia and it is a true joy to show them the beauty, history and gastronomy of my home country.
Whenever possible, I love to sail at night. Picture this – it’s 10 pm with calm waters and no moon. All the guests are hanging around the stern, I call them up to the sundeck and simply point them to the night sky. The look on their faces when they see millions of stars is priceless. Then, my excitement takes over and I start talking about all the constellations and ruin the moment, ha! But really, it is small moments like these which fuel the fire of my passion and make a memorable sailing holiday. We had a high rate of return clientele aboard Tanja Mora; many people stepped aboard as guests and left as friends. This is what I love about the job.
Why should people choose to sail with you and Scorpios?
Pick any yacht and I am sure you will have a nice holiday but, in my opinion, it matters only if you have an extraordinary holiday – this is what we aim to give our guests. Scorpios has undeniably been designed with the guests’ comfort and enjoyment in mind. Combined with a professional crew – each member of the crew has unique skills and strengths, and we all have a philosophy of going above and beyond for our guests. Though technically this is Scorpios’ first season, many of the crew have worked together before or known each other for years, and I believe this is something guests can feel. Altogether, I feel confident that we can create an extraordinary holiday for our guests.
CHOOSE TO SAIL WITH FILIP AND SCORPIOS
We have known and worked with Filip for almost a decade. Year after year, we watched Filip and his team from Tajna Mora deliver excellent service and create memorable holidays for their guests. Which is why we are so happy he decided to join Scorpios. Filip brings years of experience and a passion like no other to Scorpios and we are sure that all guests who sail with Filip and his team will have an unforgettable sailing holiday.
Scorpios is a 52-metre bespoke Sail Superyacht marked by craftsmanship and a dedication to excellence. Scorpios consists of six cabins, accommodating up to 12 guests in full-beam Master and VIP Cabins, and four convertible double cabins. Scorpios will surely become a ‘home away from home’ for guests. To see more details about Scorpios, visit her dedicated page here or contact us for questions and inquiries.