Women in Nautica, the international platform championing inclusivity and leadership in
the maritime industry through its conference, podcast, mentorship, ambassadorship and
annual magazine, has announced the updated program for its 2026 conference in Poreč,
Croatia.
Designed for professionals across the boating and maritime sectors, this year’s two-day
format combines high-level discussion with hands-on learning and structured
networking—introducing two practical workshops and five dedicated roundtables
alongside panels and presentations.
“This year we’re bringing the conversations the industry is already having into one focused
space – where decision-makers, experts, and emerging leaders can exchange ideas and
leave with real next steps,” said Ana Čalić, Founder of Women in Nautica and Chief
Commercial Officer at Navela. “With workshops and roundtables added to the program,
we’re creating more opportunities for participation, not just listening—so the conference
becomes a place where knowledge turns into action and connections turn into
collaboration.”
The updated program reflects contemporary topics shaping the maritime landscape, with
a strong emphasis on what’s next for the Adriatic region, how sustainability and tourism
are influencing the years ahead, and how craftsmanship continues to play a role in
competitive differentiation. Technology also takes a central place in the agenda through a
dedicated session on autonomous boating and the role of AI in enabling it—highlighting the
growing impact of innovation on operations, safety, and the overall boating experience.
In addition to these forward-looking themes, the conference explores the human and
commercial side of industry growth. A session on personal branding addresses how
credibility and visibility influence trust and buying decisions in marine markets, while a
panel on marine media examines how storytelling and communication channels are
shaping the industry’s reach, reputation, and public perception.
Program highlights:
Day One: insights, strategy and connection
Day One is built around panels and presentations, bringing together speakers from tourism
strategy, industry representation, regional forums and maritime institutions, as well as
leaders working at the intersection of sustainability, marina development and industry
advancement. The day concludes with an evening cocktail dinner, offering an additional
setting for relationship-building and informal conversation.
Day Two: practical learning and structured peer exchange
Day Two shifts the focus toward practical learning and structured peer exchange.
- Workshop 1: What marine surveyors actually assess An inside look at how
vessels are evaluated—covering key considerations across hull, engine and
onboard systems. - Workshop 2: Media presence and on-camera confidence Practical guidance on
professional introductions, on-camera delivery and a mock press interview
experience.
To deepen networking and encourage meaningful discussion, the updated program also
introduces five facilitated roundtables, organized around Academia, Regulatory,
Sustainability, Sailing and Yachting. Attendees can join the table most relevant to their
work and engage in focused dialogue with peers and chairs from across the sector.
Sustainers and industry supporters
Women in Nautica extends special thanks to Marina 21 Group and the Croatian National
Tourist Board for sustaining the event and supporting its continued growth.
The conference is also supported by key industry associations, including the European
Boating Industry (EBI) and Assomarinas, whose engagement helps strengthen cross-
border collaboration and knowledge exchange across the maritime sector.
The Women in Nautica conference continues to serve as a meeting point for maritime
professionals seeking insight, visibility and stronger networks—connecting contemporary
issues with practical skills and community-driven exchange.
Key information
- Event: Women in Nautica Conference 2026
- Dates: 3 December 2026 (updated program features a two-day format)
- Location: Resort Pical, Poreč, Croatia
- Tickets: https://www.entrio.si/event/women-in-nautica-28767
- Website: www.womeninnautica.com
- Instagram: @win_womeninnautica
- LinkedIn: Women in Nautica