An IT company celebrated its 20th anniversary, inviting its employees from the Netherlands, Belgium and Dutch Caribbean to celebrate their success in Croatia. Intours DMC designed à la carte incentive program for 650 guests, one of the largest incentive groups ever on Hvar Island.
Step 1:
In summer 2014 a Dutch Incentive Agency started searching for a Mediterranean destination to host a larger incentive group. Croatia was in a pitch against a popular incentive destination of Malta. After a well-organized site inspection, the Hvar island convinced the agency by offering a very dynamic program, an amazing special venue for their celebration and a wide range of activities, from those seeking some adrenaline pumping or cultural experiences to those interested in active exploration of Hvar. As a smaller island than Malta, and of course more authentic, Hvar presented an attractive destination to wow the guests. After months of detailed preparation and organisation, in May 2016 Intours DMC hosted 650 guests on of the sunniest Mediterranean islands.
Step 2:
Taking into consideration the group size and complexity of the event program, it was of crucial importance for Intours DMC to master at event logistics. Intours DMC team worked on this project along with a network of trusted local suppliers, who could guarantee outstanding service in all circumstances. Ensuring for impeccable organization of a logistically demanding event, Intours DMC provided for security, medical and fire control support. The organizers understood the potential last minute changes that would be necessary due to weather conditions and as local experts, a back-up plan was always in place. Every aspect of the event was carefully planned, down to the minute, the event planners and staff were on the same page and no detail was overlooked.
Step 3:
4 private charters brought the guests to the Split airport, where 16 buses waited them to take them to Split, followed by catamaran rides to Hvar island. Two hotels were privatized to accommodate the guests and staff, enabling Intours DMC to dress up the hotels, colour them in brand’s colours and provide for a unique setting for the guests. On Hvar Island the guests had the opportunity to select among a number of activities to discover the destination in a more authentic way. In less than 15 minutes, 650 guests divided into 10 pre-arranged groups, which then went for a jeep tour, VW Beetle safari, sailing adventure around Pakleni islands on a historical galleon, culinary discovery of Hvar, sea kayaking …
The highlight of the event was a bespoke concert to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary, which involved a 3-month reconstruction of the special venue and a 6-day set-up process. Seven trucks were needed to bring the necessary sound, lighting and stage equipment, furniture and decoration that dressed the venue for this special occasion. Seeing the guests had not known about the evening concert in advance, it was of crucial importance to orchestrate and complete every detail of the event, taking the guests by complete surprise. Romantically lit road lead the guests to the event location, where 4 DJs, among them one awarded with a Grammy, a drummer, violinist, saxophonist, two trumpeters and a group of singers and dancers created a grooving atmosphere. The group of performers, concert director, technical support specialists, event planners and organizing staff did their best in designing a truly amazing concert experience.
Step 4:
The overall feedback from the guests and the client was extremely positive. Miro Hribar, CEO of Intours DMC, commented: “A crucial success factor, when organizing this demanding event, was great cooperation between the Dutch agency, end client and the entire Intours DMC team. It is extremely rewarding when our relationship with the client grows into true partnership, one could even say friendship after 20 months working side by side.”
Should you need any further information, advice or ideas for your incentive or conference programs in the Adriatic region, do not hesitate to contact the Intours team at info@intours.hr.
