Captain Name: Zeljko Vidan
Captain Nationality: Croatian
Number of Crew: 4
ZELJKO VIDAN | CAPTAIN | CROATIAN
Zeljko was born and raised in the beautiful historic town of Split, Croatia. Growing up he was always involved in various sports and outdoor activities in particular sailing. Zeljko participated in numerous sailing regattas and represented his yacht club locally and internationally. Having been raised on the Dalmatian coast his family has always been involved with boating and the sea. They own a vintage wooden boat that has been in the family for over 60 years and ran a multigenerational sail manufacturing company.
After graduating nautical school, Zeljko obtained maritime certificates and hands on experience. He started working on commercial vessels in the off shore oil and gas industry. After settling down and starting a family Zeljko transitioned to private and charter yachts. Most of his professional career was spent on yachts from 35 to 130 feet.
Zeljko has a true passion for yachting which he loves to share with the crew and charter guests. His hobbies include: sailing, biking, skiing, tennis and vintage boat restoration. Zeljko currently resides in Split with his wife Anamaria and daughter Karmen.
As the Captain Zeljko is responsible for the safety, overall running and financial management of the vessel, crew and guests. He ensures the safe and efficient operation of the yacht at all times, including compliance with all safety procedures and regulations, as well as adherence to International Flag, Port State and local laws and regulations. The Captain has a close relationship with his crew and provides leadership, guidance and support, while encouraging both teamwork and individual accountability.
Licenses & Certificates: Master of a ship up to 500 GT (STCW II/3), Officer in charge of the navigation watch on a ship of 500 GT or more (STCW II/1), GMDSS general radio operator`s certificate (STCW IV/2), ARPA (operational level), Application of leadership and team working skills (STCW A-II/1, A-III/1,A-III/6), Bridge resource management (STCW A-II/1,A-II/2), Basic training (STCW VI/1), Passenger ship safety (STCW V/2), Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats operations (STCW VI/2-1), Medical first aid (STCW VI/4-1), Advanced fire-fighting (STCW VI/3), Security awareness (STCW VI/6-1), Seafarer with designated security duties (STCW VI/6-2), Rating forming a part of the navigational watch (STCW II/4)
ROBERT BABIC | CHEF | CROATIAN
Robert was born and raised in Rijeka, Croatia on the northern part of the Adriatic coast. Cooking was a big part of his upbringing and he enjoyed helping his mother in the kitchen since he can remember. After graduating from high school, he further wanted to explore his passion and applied to Culinary School where he participated in many prestigious and international gastronomic competitions with remarkable results. Robert graduated with a degree as Bachelor of Culinary Arts and started his career in Italy. In 2002 he opened his own restaurant specializing in continental and Mediterranean food. After 16 years he decided to combine his passion for cooking and his love for the sea. Yachting seemed to be a natural choice and he is excited to combine them as Chef on M/Y ASHA. It is his goal to surpass guest expectations and adhering to any of their necessary dietary restrictions. As a highly accomplished chef with 20 years of experience in highly rated restaurants he possesses a wide range of knowledge and experience.
Robert currently resides in Rijeka with his wife and two children, Lucas and Annai. In his free time, he enjoys swimming, soccer, diving, hiking and skiing. He is fluent in Spanish, English and Croatian.
MARCO DRAGUN | DECKHAND | CROATIAN
Marko was born and raised in the sunny coastal town of Kastela, Croatia where he still resides with his wife and son. He is a graduate of Maritime Nautical school with a degree in electrical engineering. Since he was young he loved being around the water and enjoyed surfing, sailing and rowing. Marko started in yachting 10 years ago and travelled most the Mediterranean including Croatia, Spain, South of France, Monaco, Italy, Greece, Corsica and Montenegro. He has worked on yachts ranging from 50 to 170 feet.
His hobbies include mountain biking, computers, travelling, sailing, windsurfing, spearfishing, swimming and water sports.
DINKA RADULIC | CHIEF STEWARDESS | CROATIAN
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Communications from the University of Split, Dinka excels in her job as Stewardess onboard ASHA. She has a strong background in service and excellent housekeeping skills and has worked as chief stewardess and solo stewardess on a variety of yachts ranging from 26m to 40m. Always popular with charter guests and crew alike, she loves to arrange formal evenings and theme nights and can mix up a tasty cocktail.
When not working on ASHA, Dinka loves to travel and enjoys experiencing new countries and cultures. She has volunteered all around the world and loves diving, horse-riding, and design.
Licenses & Certificates: STCW 95, Basic Safety Training, ENG 1 Medical, Silver Service Training, Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene for catering and Proficiency in Designated Security Course. She is fluent in English and Croatian and has conversational Italian.