Dubrovnik Delights Over 70 Leading UK Media Representatives and Tourism Industry Professionals

Organised by the London office of the Croatian National Tourist Board, the Dubrovnik Tourist Board and Ruđer Bošković Airport, a traditional tourism showcase of Croatia and the City of Dubrovnik was held during an exclusive cruise along the River Thames.

The promotional event, held on Thursday, 11 December 2025 at 6:00 p.m., brought together more than 70 prominent editors, journalists, and leading tour operators who enthusiastically reaffirmed the lasting recognition and appeal of Dubrovnik's tourism assets on the British Isles – an outbound market of exceptional importance for Croatian tourism. 

Following the welcome remarks delivered by Davor Ljubanović, Minister Plenipotentiary and Acting Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in the United Kingdom; Ana Hrnić, Deputy Director of the Dubrovnik Tourist Board; Velibor Puzović, Deputy Mayor of the City of Dubrovnik; Ivan Maslać, Commercial Director of Ruđer Bošković Airport; and Bisera Fabrio, Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board's London office, the competitive tourism offer of Dubrovnik and Croatia was highlighted in the context of current trends and the strong demand from the UK market. 

Ana Hrnić underlined the value of promoting Dubrovnik within the British media and the UK tourism sector, expressing her gratitude to the guests:

"The affinity Britons have for Dubrovnik is reflected in your stories and collaborations, which further inspire the loyalty of our most devoted visitors. This event has once again confirmed the exceptional appeal of the Pearl of the Adriatic, and we look forward to even closer cooperation in the coming year."

Bisera Fabrio added: "Through this celebration on the Thames, we aimed to bring a touch of Croatia and Dubrovnik to London and, with Croatian music and wines, thank you all for the past year, your support and the friendship you continue to show Croatia. We will remain a bridge to the perspective-rich UK market, and while we may be rivals on the football field next year, we look forward to strengthening our alliance in tourism." 

Velibor Puzović emphasised Dubrovnik's contribution to shaping perceptions of sustainability and year-round potential within Croatian tourism:

"Cooperation and unity across our public and private institutions guide us in preserving the sustainable growth and heritage of the City. I would like to thank everyone for their dedication and support, which makes Dubrovnik's future even brighter."

Ivan Maslać referred to Dubrovnik's leading tourism performance, reflected in a record-breaking year for Ruđer Bošković Airport, which welcomed over 3 million passengers:

"As in previous decades, our main visitors this year were from the United Kingdom, and I hope the numbers will continue to grow in the years ahead. We are particularly pleased with the rise in arrivals during the pre- and post-season, and I hope Britons will continue discovering the charms of Dubrovnik year-round, because Dubrovnik—like London—is a city for all seasons."

After the official part of the ceremony, a prize draw was held in which Suze Renner, founder and editor of the magazine Luxury Columnist, won Croatia Airlines flight tickets and a four-night stay at Hotel Dubrovnik Palace of Adriatic Luxury Hotels.

Alongside the presentation of Croatia's tourism offer in the sparkling setting of the Elizabethan riverboat, the event further convinced guests of the quality and authenticity of the destination, enriched by wines from southern Dalmatia and Croatian musical performances—raising expectations for another successful year for Croatian tourism. 

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