The NC Rogla Grand Prix regatta successfully marks the start of the sailing season in Vodice
From 25 to 29 March, Vodice hosted the NC Rogla Grand Prix sailing regatta, reaffirming the importance of sporting and boating events in extending the early season and helping to attract international sailors to Croatia outside the peak tourist season. Such events play a significant role in the development of nautical tourism and in strengthening the local economy, and ACI actively supports them as part of its ongoing commitment to positioning Croatia as a year-round destination. Organised by the Kon-Tiki Sailing Club and NC Rogla yacht club, the regatta brought together eight Slovenian crews competing in the cruiser class, marking the start of a new sailing season. The most successful was the crew from Maribor’s Sidro Boating Club, helmed by Zmago Krajnc.
Leading Slovenian sailing clubs competed in the cruiser class
The NC Rogla Grand Prix regatta brought together eight of the top crews from Slovenian sailing clubs in the cruiser class, unfolding in a dynamic and highly competitive atmosphere. Variable weather conditions demanded a high degree of adaptability, precise race tactics and effective team coordination from all participants. In such circumstances, the crew of the Sidro Boating Club from Maribor, helmed by Zmago Krajnc, proved the most successful. Second place was claimed by the Jadro Sailing Club, led by Jernej Pugelj, while third place went to the NC Rogla yacht club helmed by Miha Pavlin.
The regatta’s distinctive feature was that all crews competed on identical First 36 yachts, ensuring equal racing conditions and placing the emphasis entirely on sailing skill. The competition got underway on Wednesday in ideal weather, allowing the first two races to be completed. The Sidro Boating Club from Maribor took an early lead after the opening day. Despite a cold front moving through on Thursday, the sailors completed another demanding point-to-point race, with the top three teams maintaining their positions. Due to strong bora winds and adverse weather conditions, the race committee suspended further sailing on Friday and Saturday. Nevertheless, the results achieved in the first two days were sufficient to determine the final standings.
ACI actively contributes to positioning Croatia as one of the leading year-round nautical destinations in the Mediterranean
The awards ceremony was held on Saturday, 28 March, in the ACI Marina Vodice, where participants were welcomed by Jakov Jadrešin, Director of the ACI Marina Vodice and Regional Director for ACI marinas Vodice, Jezera, Skradin, Žut and Piškera, who expressed his satisfaction that Vodice have once again been the host of a high-quality sporting event at the very start of the season. During the evening, the top crews were presented with their awards, bringing to a close the successful running of the NC Rogla Grand Prix regatta. Through its active support of sporting and nautical events, ACI consistently strengthens the early season and encourages visits from boaters throughout the year. This approach further reinforces Croatia’s position as one of the most desirable sailing destinations in the Mediterranean.
The NC Rogla Grand Prix regatta has now confirmed its status as one of the key events marking the opening of the nautical season in the Adriatic, bringing together top-level sailors while promoting sport, team spirit and international cooperation. It has also highlighted the Croatian Adriatic as an attractive and reliable destination for top-level offshore sporting competitions.
Photos: Blaž Leh
