The Jeran Family Legacy: Father & Son Sailing the Adriatic

The sea has always been more than just a workplace for Captain Luka Jeran—it is his life, his heritage, and his greatest passion. Growing up in Krilo Jesenice, a small coastal town with a deep-rooted maritime tradition, Luka was surrounded by ships, sailors, and the timeless stories of the Adriatic. 
The love for the sea runs in his veins, passed down through generations, especially from his father, Captain Zoran Jeran.

Luka’s journey began at just 12 years old, when he first set sail, taking on every role from deckhand to captain. With determination, hard work, and the unwavering support of his family, he earned his captain’s title in 2016. Today, he proudly commands MV Meridijan, a classic and elegant vessel, while his father, Zoran, is at the helm of MV Aurelia, a luxurious and modern ship built in 2021.

But the family's maritime legacy doesn’t end with Luka. His younger brother, Duje, is following in his footsteps aboard Meridijan, learning the ins and outs of life at sea. With Luka as his mentor, Duje is steadily mastering the skills and knowledge needed to one day take the helm himself. His dedication and love for the Adriatic leave no doubt—it's only a matter of time before he continues the Jeran family’s proud tradition as a captain.

Together, this father-and-son duo leads their family’s maritime legacy, blending tradition with innovation, hospitality with expertise. Their passion for sailing is not just about navigating the Adriatic—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences for every guest who steps aboard their ships.

The MV Meridijan has been part of Luka’s family since 2016, and they decided to keep its original name—a term with deep meaning in maritime navigation and cartography. The ship, 34 meters long, offers 19 cabins for 38 guests, blending traditional charm with modern comforts. With mahogany, teak, and iroko wood throughout, it exudes a warm, classic elegance.

Over the years, Luka and his family have lovingly renovated and modernized the ship, ensuring that every guest experiences the perfect blend of history and comfort. The latest upgrades include a new eco-friendly engine and a fully revamped interior, keeping the ship both sustainable and stylish.

If Meridijan represents classic maritime charm, Aurelia, built in 2021, is its modern counterpart—designed with luxury and innovation in mind. The name Aurelia, chosen by Luka’s family, symbolizes beauty, gold, and radiance—a fitting tribute to this stunning vessel.

At 50 meters long, Aurelia welcomes 36 guests in 19 elegantly designed cabins, including balcony suites for an unmatched cruising experience. Guests can unwind in the jacuzzi, swim in the onboard pool, or sip cocktails at the outdoor bar, while solar panels and advanced navigation systems ensure a sustainable and smooth journey.

What truly sets Meridijan and Aurelia apart is not just their craftsmanship, but the people behind them. Luka’s entire family is involved in the business, ensuring that every journey is filled with warmth, hospitality, and care. The crew, many of whom are family members, treat every guest like an old friend, making sure their time aboard is both comfortable and unforgettable.

“The most important thing is knowing what guests need at any given moment—sometimes it’s a quiet spot on deck to watch the sunset, sometimes it’s a shared story over a glass of wine,” Luka says.

Over the years, the ships have witnessed romantic proposals, lifelong friendships, and even weddings—proof that a cruise with Captain Luka is not just a trip, but an experience that stays in your heart forever.

So, if you’re looking for a true Adriatic adventure, step aboard MV Meridijan or MV Aurelia and set sail with Captain Luka and his crew.