The Interview with the captain of M/S AD ASTRA

Captain Domagoj Trgo of M/S Ad Astra: 

What fascinates you most about being involved in the construction of Ad Astra, the new 52.5-metre superyacht?
What fascinates me most is seeing how every part of the yacht gradually comes together, how the details we carefully planned during the design phase are realised so accurately in the build. It is a special feeling creating something from scratch, especially on a 499 GT sailing yacht of this scale.

When you first stepped on board during the build, what immediately stood out to you about the yacht’s character?
From the very first moment I stepped on board during construction, I could sense that Ad Astra would have a strong and distinctive character. Even when only the first section was completed, it was clear that this 55-metre yacht with her wide 10.5-metre beam would offer an exceptional sense of space. Once all the sections came together, the accurate scale of her volume became evident; every area feels open, relaxed, and designed for comfort.

Given the opportunity to influence both design and functionality, which personal experiences did you apply to the project?
Ad Astra will be completed in 2026, a year that holds special meaning for me personally. It also marks twenty years since I became a captain at the age of 23. Starting on gulets and later transitioning to luxury yachts along the Croatian coast taught me what guests appreciate most and what a crew needs to operate smoothly. Being involved in the project from the very beginning allowed me to bring all that knowledge into the creation of Ad Astra. It feels symbolic that the yacht will begin her first season in the same year I reach my twenty-year milestone, as if everything has come full circle, just with a bit more experience and a few more grey hairs.

In your opinion, what sets Ad Astra apart from other superyachts on the water?
What makes Ad Astra truly different is the balance it offers. She combines generous guest spaces usually found on motor yachts with the freedom, character, and elegance of a sailing yacht. Her far-reaching beam gives her significantly more room than many yachts of similar length, creating an inviting, comfortable flow throughout the vessel. Many guests don’t expect this level of spaciousness on a sailing yacht, and that surprise is part of her charm.

Can Ad Astra sail under wind alone, and how does it perform compared to a traditional sailing yacht?
Yes, Ad Astra is fully capable of sailing under wind power. Its sails are functional and designed to handle open-sea conditions safely and steadily. However, it’s important to note that, unlike a dedicated sailing yacht, Ad Astra is optimized for comfort, stability, and long-range cruising rather than sharp upwind performance or high-speed regatta sailing. This means guests enjoy the elegance and experience of sailing, with the reassurance of a powerful engine available whenever needed.

Which luxury feature or innovation on board excites you the most personally?
What excites me most is the beach club, a feature rarely seen on sailing yachts. Designed as a peaceful retreat by the water, it includes a sauna, a small gym, and a lounge area just above sea level. In front of it, the hydraulic platform opens into a 20 m² sea terrace, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor space. Guests can dip into the sea, enjoy a drink by the water, or relax as the waves move around them. It’s a perfect blend of comfort, calm, and closeness to the sea.

If the yacht had a “personality”, how would you describe it?
If I had to describe her personality, I’d say she has a calm, confident presence. On the inside, warm oak tones create a sense of tranquility, while bronze details add a refined touch of elegance. She feels inviting from the moment you step aboard a space where you can naturally unwind.

When Ad Astra sets off on her first charter, what do you hope guests will experience?
When Ad Astra begins her first charter, I want guests to feel at ease from the very first moment. Much of that comes from the crew, the way we work together, the atmosphere we create, and the small gestures guests never even have to ask for. I want them to feel the comfort of the yacht, the serenity of the interior, the freedom of sailing, and, above all, the warmth and professionalism of a crew that truly enjoys their work.

Which destination on the Adriatic is your personal favourite, and why would you recommend it?
My favourite Adriatic destination is Mljet. It’s a place where guests can truly switch off, surrounded by untouched nature. The bays are calm, the water has a unique green-blue colour, and the whole island has a peaceful energy you feel instantly. With a yacht, the national park becomes your own private sanctuary, waking up in silence, swimming in crystal water, and experiencing nature at its purest.

Describe what a perfect day on board Ad Astra looks like, and what guests should not miss?
A perfect day begins at anchor in a quiet bay, waking to the sound of the sea. After a refreshing morning swim, breakfast is served on deck while the sun rises. Later, we cruise to another beautiful bay for lunch on board and an afternoon of swimming, relaxing, or trying out the water toys. It’s a moment where time slows down, a feeling only the sea can give. Toward evening, I always recommend a stroll through a charming coastal town with stone streets and the scent of pine and the sea. And finally, we set up a themed dinner under the stars with an outdoor cinema on the bow. Watching a movie as the yacht gently moves beneath a clear sky is an unforgettable experience, especially when shared with the people closest to you.

What motivates you in this project, and what do you hope guests feel when sailing with you?
What motivates me most is the rare opportunity to build something truly unique from scratch, a project where many ideas come together to form one shared vision. When guests sail with us, I want them to feel the care behind everything we do. We strive to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where guests feel safe, comfortable, and effortlessly looked after. If they leave feeling at home aboard Ad Astra, with memories they’ll carry for years, then we’ve done our job well.

What is your best advice for guests experiencing a luxury yacht charter for the first time?
My best advice is to relax and let the crew handle everything. Many first-time guests don’t realise how much support the crew provides in planning the day, arranging activities, preparing meals, and ensuring comfort and safety. If there’s anything you want or need, please tell us. The more you communicate, the better we can tailor the experience to you. Enjoy the sea, the food, and the people you’re with, and let us handle the rest.

Explore the full story of M/S Ad Astra at the yacht link.