A Delicious Welcome Onboard!
From the moment you step aboard, a delightful culinary journey begins. Our talented Chef, expertly trained across Europe and especially in Italy, Austria, and Croatia, brings you an exquisite fusion of local Croatian cuisine with Italian Mediterranean flair. Sourcing the freshest seafood and seasonal ingredients daily from local farmers' markets and "grandmas' gardens" – like heirloom tomatoes, wild herbs, and farm-fresh produce – he crafts dishes that tell a story.
Imagine savoring dishes like pašticada slow-cooked in rich sauces, grilled Adriatic fish, or fresh buzara seafood stew, all accented with Italian classics like bruschetta topped with local olive oil and aged prosciutto.
Imagine savoring traditional delicacies such as pašticada – slow-cooked beef in a rich, flavorful sauce, brudet, a hearty fish stew brimming with the Adriatic’s catch of the day, or the renowned black risotto (crni rižot) infused with squid ink and local cuttlefish. You'll also enjoy creamy škampi risotto made with fresh scampi and fragrant herbs, and Italian classics like bruschetta topped with local olive oil, ripe tomatoes, and aged prosciutto.
Complementing these dishes is the impeccable service of our Chief Stew Julija, and Sara, our dedicated Stew, whose intuitive table setting, and wine pairings create an unforgettable dining experience. Julija’s dedication to elevating every meal will ensure your time aboard is nothing short of perfect.
The elegant, Mediterranean-inspired menu balances tradition and innovation, thoughtfully designed for the yacht lifestyle and climate, ensuring every meal is a celebration of flavors. We also take pride in catering to everyone’s unique preferences, accommodating extraordinary dietary restrictions and offering a variety of cuisines. Whether you require kosher meals, Indian delicacies, vegan specialties, or anything else, our Chef is prepared to meet your needs, ensuring each meal is prepared with the utmost care and attention—just let us know in advance, and we'll make it happen.
Chef Vanja Orban
Pictured here with Julija, Imagine's Chief Stew, and Sara, our Stew
Born and raised in Croatia, Chef Vanja brings both passion and a deep understanding of Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine to the table. As a member of the Croatian National Culinary Team, he earned third place in Stuttgart, 2015, showcasing his mastery of culinary techniques and creativity on an international stage. With extensive experience working in renowned kitchens such as the prestigious Yscla Hotel in Ischgl and 360° in Dubrovnik, Vanja has developed a refined approach to blending the traditional with the innovative.
From his time as Head Chef at Black Pepper on the island of Hvar, where he designed menus inspired by the region's rich flavors, to his role as Chef de Partie in Michelin-starred restaurants, Vanja's expertise spans from luxury products to gourmet multi-course meals. His dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish is a true reflection of Croatian and Mediterranean culinary heritage, complemented by Italian touches.
Always striving for excellence, Vanja’s creative flair and attention to detail make him the heart of the kitchen aboard our yacht, crafting unforgettable dining experiences with passion and precision.
Languages: English, German, Croatian