The 45th edition of the South Dalmatia Regatta, jointly organised by Dubrovnik’s JK Orsan and the PŠD Peliška Jedra association, unfolded from 8 to 10 August. Over the course of three demanding stages—Orebić to Pomena, Pomena to Slano, and finally Slano to Dubrovnik—37 yachts lined up for one of the Adriatic’s most established summer sailing challenges.
Victory under the ORC system went to Spirit, skippered by Andrea Antunović, securing a proud double triumph for JK Orsan. Meanwhile, the line honours went to Stravaganza under Niko Kmetović, which was fastest overall and dominated both the opening and closing stages.
Among the standout entries was the ACI Sail ClubSwan 36 Tacit Consent. Helmsman Max Gjidera led the crew through all three stages, and during the second leg, the yacht welcomed aboard celebrated Croatian Olympian and ACI ambassador Ivica Kostelić. Their efforts secured 10th place overall and a win within their length division, while after the Pomena–Slano leg they were briefly ranked as high as fourth.
Following that stage, Veljko Barbieri ACI Marina in Slano opened its doors to the entire fleet, delivering top-tier hospitality and underlining ACI’s growing role in advancing the Croatian sailing scene.
Reflecting on the event, Kostelić praised the quality of the ClubSwan 36 and the young team he joined:
“Every time I sail with this crew, I’m reminded how rewarding and intense this class can be. ACI’s support is invaluable for the growth of Croatian sailing, and the facilities in Slano provide everything needed for a first-class regatta experience. This event once again proves how quickly Croatian sailing is moving forward thanks to strong investment in people, boats and infrastructure.”
The regatta also attracted global attention with the presence of NZ Endeavour, the legendary yacht on which Grant Dalton famously won the 1993–94 Whitbread Round the World Race. Now in the hands of Italian sailor and boatbuilder Ezio Tavasani, who has carefully restored her, the yacht continues to compete actively across the Mediterranean, retaining its place among the sport’s icons.
“The South Dalmatia Regatta has once again shown why it’s considered one of the Adriatic’s most appealing sailing spectacles,” said organiser Marko Falconi of JK Orsan. “This year’s fleet brought together nearly forty striking yachts, ranging from modern speedsters to legends of the ocean. We were particularly proud to host Ivica Kostelić aboard the ACI Sail yacht and, of course, the historic NZ Endeavour. Our gratitude goes to ACI, especially the Veljko Barbieri Marina in Slano, for their outstanding support and hospitality, which greatly contributed to the success of the regatta.”
Photo: aci-marinas
