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Worldwide: A Cruise Full of Heart: Katarina Line and the Children of Vukovar Set Sail Again
For the fourteenth year in a row, Katarina Line proudly continued one of its most meaningful traditions – giving back to those who deserve it the most: children who shine not only with their grades, but with their spirit, effort, and potential.
From June 21st to June 28th, 2025, a group of 31 top students from Vukovar – straight-A pupils and winners of school and county competitions – embarked on an unforgettable 8-day journey along the Dalmatian coast, completely sponsored by Katarina Line and its generous partners.
These young achievers sailed aboard the charming traditional wooden vessel MB Horizont, experiencing a route that included Kaštel Gomilica, Makarska, Trstenik, Mljet, Vela Luka, Jelsa, Pučišća, Split, and Kaštel Stari. It was more than a cruise; it was a reward, a celebration, and for many of them, the first time seeing the Adriatic in its full beauty.
They dove into turquoise coves, explored national parks, learned about Croatian history and culture firsthand, and shared laughter, curiosity, and inspiration at every port of call. But most of all, they experienced something that can’t be taught in schools: the joy of being recognised, supported, and believed in.
Building a Tradition of Giving
What started over a decade ago as a simple act of goodwill has grown into one of Katarina Line’s most meaningful and cherished annual projects. Over the years, the initiative has flourished—thanks to the continued support of a growing network of dedicated partners.
We owe its success to those who have generously shared their time, services, and resources, making this journey not only possible but truly unforgettable.
A heartfelt thank you goes to:
- City of Vukovar
- Čazmatrans Vukovar – official transportation provider
- Port Authorities of Split-Dalmatia County and Dubrovnik-Neretva County
- Local port authorities and harbors in Kaštel Gomilica, Makarska, Trstenik, Pomena, Vela Luka, Stari Grad, Pučišća, Split and Kaštel Stari
- Tourist Boards of Split-Dalmatia County, City of Split, City of Makarska, Vela Luka and Municipality of Vela Luka, Hvar, Jelsa, and Stari Grad, Pučišća
- National Park Mljet
- Museum of the City of Split
- Restaurants, hospitality partners, and local businesses:
- Hotel Biokovo Restaurant, Makarska
- OPG Antunović
- Klesarska škola Pučišća (Stonemasonry School)
- Sol Vela Luka Restaurant
- Step Restaurant, Jelsa
- Puteus Palace Restaurant, Pučišća
- Trattoria Tinel, Split
- Guides and logistics support:
- Local guides organized by the respective tourist boards
- Tour Guide System d.o.o.
And of course, Captain Ante Benić and the amazing crew of MB Horizont, who welcomed the children with open arms and made them feel like true VIPs at sea.
A Few Words from the Teachers
Teachers Slavica and Karolina, who accompanied the students, shared touching feedback:
“This trip is something these children will carry with them for the rest of their lives. It gave them not only relaxation and joy but also the motivation to keep striving for excellence. Thank you for showing them that effort is noticed and valued.”
A Call to Action
We believe this project is proof that small gestures – when done with heart – can create massive impact. We will continue sailing with the Children of Vukovar for as long as we can, and we hope that more companies, tourism organizations, and individuals will be inspired to start their own initiatives.
Because when we invest in the youth, we’re not just shaping futures – we’re shaping the future of Croatia itself.
Want to Get Involved?
If you’d like to support or learn more about this project, feel free to reach out!
