Sea Dreams | Power Connect | John Deere US

Along the Croatian coast, swallows are a welcome sign of spring. And in 2019, the brand-new MS Swallow kicked off the tourist season in a big way. Designed to give guests a taste of Croatian shipbuilding heritage, this first-of-its-kind coastal cruising superyacht offers its guests an unforgettable, stylish, and luxurious experience exploring the wonders of the Dalmatian seashore.

Swallow is the brainchild of Igor and Irena Stančić, and their son Filip. The family owns Lastavica Cruising, a brand by Morska Lastavica (Sea Swallow) Ltd. tourist charter company in Betina, Croatia. The family wants to make sure Swallow embodies the spirit of Croatia's shipbuilding and maritime history. They also want to achieve the sumptuousness of a superyacht - including the latest cruiser-style technology and propulsion. To accomplish this, the family involved three major naval design experts (see sidebar at the end of the article).

"Traveling enriches people's lives. We want our guests to do so in style and comfort," explains Filip Stančić, captain of the new cruiser. "Aboard Swallow, our guests immerse themselves in the treasures of the Dalmatian coast. In a single day, they can explore ancient towns and breathtaking islands and swim in beautiful bays." Swallow easily slips in and out of covers and ports, enabling guests to hop on and off as they please.

The 49-meter-long by 8.5-meter-wide (160- by 28-foot) vessel accommodates up to 36 guests. Its classy, sleek exterior showcases a steel hull and marine resin deck floors, while the inside spaces are designed for indulgence and comfort. The reception space, 18 cabins, restaurant, bar, and lounge are all built and finished to hotel standards. Guests can enjoy a jacuzzi, sauna, massage, and laundry service. The deck crew, hostess, tour manager, housekeeper, two on-board chefs, and two waiters guarantee sincere, thoughtful, and personal hospitality.

The Stančić family worked closely with three naval designers, a local shipyard, and local subcontractors to ensure structural integrity, space optimization, and maximum comfort. Swallow's hutt was launched and tested in December 2018. The exterior details were completed and the interior and engines were installed. The vessel was officially launched in June 2019, just in time for the summer season.