Maroje Brajcic - Captain
Captain Maroje Brajcic was born and raised in the small town of Dubrovnik on the Adriatic Coast. Coming from five generations of captains, he knew as a little boy his life would be at sea. Captain Brajcic graduated from the Dubrovnik Marine Academy 1989, then started as a deck cadet on a cargo vessel, eventually making his way aboard cruise ships. After almost thirty years traveling the world by ship, he still looks forward to every day at sea. He is the happiest when sailing into his home port of Dubrovnik. In his time off, he enjoys deep sea fishing with his wife, gardening, taking care of his olives trees and producing olive oil. He also enjoys cooking for family and friends.
Vinko Besjedica - Captain
Captain Vinko Besjedica was born and raised in Dubrovnik, Croatia, a city shaped by its deep maritime
heritage. Coming from a family with a long tradition of seamanship, he developed a strong connection to the
sea from an early age. After graduating from the Dubrovnik Maritime Academy in 2005, Captain Besjedica
began his career as a Deck Cadet. Through dedication, experience, and a commitment to professional growth,
he steadily advanced through the ranks, ultimately achieving his goal of becoming a Captain. Away from the
bridge, he values time with his wife and children. An avid fisherman, he finds the sea equally rewarding in his
free time. He also enjoys cooking and sharing memorable meals with family and friends.
Victor Conceição – General Manager
Born in Lisbon, Portugal to a family with a seafaring and hospitality background, Victor’s initial focus in school was in Engineering, but his interest in Hospitality spoke louder, so he decided to focus his studies on Hotel Administration. Victor began his career at sea in 1992 and what was initially intended to be a one-year venture became his life. Victor is fluent in Portuguese, English and Spanish and has a daughter and two sons. He splits his time between Portugal and Serbia and loves when the ship visits Lisbon, his favorite port of call. He also has a special interest in food and wine. Victor loves to cook for as many people as possible – after all, food and wine always taste better when shared with loved ones!
Kevin Symes - Executive Chef
Chef Kevin Symes, from Limon, Costa Rica, began his culinary journey in 2001 at the Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje. After honing his skills in small restaurants and hotels, he embarked on his first cruise in 2003 as a cook. In 2005, he moved to Cape Town, South Africa, working in prestigious establishments like Hotel Le Vendome and Simon’s Restaurant, where he became Head Chef. Kevin later served as a private chef for figures like the President of Central Africa and Sir Richard Branson. Returning to Costa Rica in 2012, he was Executive Chef at Cala Luna Hotel. Joining Oceania Cruises in 2022, Kevin advanced to Executive Chef aboard Nautica. While at home, Kevin enjoys the quiet life with his family, DJing, and outdoor adventures.
* Senior officers rotate on and off the ship, so these are subject to change depending on your specific sailing.