Royal Compassion on the Hudson: Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia Hosts Lifeline New York Benefit Dinner aboard Bateaux

Against the glittering backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia welcomed guests aboard Bateaux New York for an evening of elegance and philanthropy in support of Lifeline New York. This year’s Spring Benefit Dinner, held aboard the glass-enclosed luxury yacht, seamlessly combined refined hospitality with a powerful purpose — raising essential funds to support medical services for children in Serbia.

As the city glowed beyond the boat’s sweeping windows, supporters gathered to enjoy cocktails, a seated dinner, and a heartfelt program that underscored the enduring mission of Lifeline Humanitarian Organization: to improve access to medical care and support vulnerable communities throughout Serbia.

Since the early 1990s, Lifeline has responded to humanitarian needs stemming from the war-torn regions of the former Yugoslavia. At its heart is Crown Princess Katherine, whose tireless advocacy has transformed charitable giving into tangible relief. Her work — particularly in funding hospitals, medical diagnostic tools, and life-saving equipment — continues to provide a vital safety net for those often overlooked, including orphans, the elderly, and disabled children.

It is this steadfast commitment from her and the broader Lifeline community that has sustained the organization’s international reach for over three decades.

Actor and model Alessandro Egger brought charisma to the evening’s live auction, which featured an array of exclusive experiences and luxury offerings. Among the most coveted lots were a handmade Domenico Vacca suit, signature oxygen facials from Beautyworks NYC at Dr. Barry Weintraub, and a private tour of the Royal Palace in Belgrade hosted by the Crown Prince and Princess themselves. Guests also bid on a curated afternoon tea at Mariebelle New York — all in the spirit of raising critical funds for Lifeline’s healthcare initiatives.

As a token of appreciation, each guest received a bottle of Formosa fragrance, designed by celebrated packaging designer and event guest Marc Rosen, and presented courtesy of Shining Sung.

The evening brought together a distinguished guest list, reflecting Lifeline’s broad network of supporters and cultural ambassadors. Notable attendees included Consul General of Serbia Dr. Vladimir Bozovic, Bishop Irinej, philanthropist Susan Gutfreund, society icon Nicky Haskell, and Lifeline board members David Hryck, Peter Pizzino, and Slobodan Bekvalac. Also in attendance were creative leaders like Rushka Bergman and Tijana Ibrahimovic, alongside influential voices from the fashion, diplomatic, and humanitarian worlds.

Their collective presence reinforced the event’s resonance — a moment where generosity meets global responsibility, and where the New York philanthropic scene continues to play an essential role in international impact.

Lifeline New York remains a critical extension of Crown Princess Katherine’s philanthropic work through the HRH Crown Princess Katherine Foundation in Belgrade. With a commitment to supporting those in need regardless of background or faith, the organization continues to fund and equip hospitals, offer social support, and bridge the gap between compassion and care.

As the Bateaux New York gently cruised past the Statue of Liberty, the evening served as a poignant reminder: even the most local of gatherings can reach across oceans. Through the generosity of its supporters and the leadership of HRH Crown Princess Katherine, Lifeline New York continues to turn goodwill into life-saving action — one dinner, one donation, and one heartbeat at a time.