Foto: Mostenicka Draga, una tradizionale barca a vela che fa parte della storia delle località costiere

The traditional sailing regatta known as Mala Barka / Štorija od mora returned to Mošćenička Draga over the weekend, marking its eighteenth edition with a vibrant celebration of maritime heritage. The event took place in the coastal town located beneath the cliffs of Mošćenica, drawing locals, visitors, and enthusiasts of nautical traditions. The regatta featured a variety of historic boats, including gajetes, leuti, batane, Kvarner and Lovran gucevi, and various types of pasare, each representing different regional styles and historical influences along the Adriatic coast. These vessels ranged from those with tall sails typical of the northern Adriatic to those with more rounded lateen sails characteristic of central and southern regions. The three-day festival was centered around the regatta, which began precisely at 2:30 PM on Sunday with a ceremonial start. The event combined competitive sailing with educational elements, offering participants and spectators alike the opportunity to engage with traditional fishing practices and maritime craftsmanship. Among the highlights were workshops on net weaving, fish salting, and other skills passed down through generations. Local children participated actively, learning hands-on techniques that connect them to their cultural roots. Riccardo Staraj, the mayor of Mošćenička Draga, expressed pride in the event’s success, emphasizing its role in preserving local identity and promoting tourism. He noted the high level of participation from both residents and visitors, highlighting how the regatta has grown into one of the most significant annual events in the municipality. “This is not just a competition,” he said. “It's an education for the younger generation, helping them disconnect from digital worlds and reconnect with tangible traditions.” He acknowledged the efforts of the Mohović family, particularly Robi Mohović, who have been instrumental in organizing the event and maintaining the region’s maritime legacy. A special feature of this year’s festival was an exhibition titled Maritimna hodočašća, showcasing maritime pilgrimages and related customs. The exhibit was set up on the Draško mul, a traditional wooden platform used in local celebrations. Tamara Nikolić Đerić, a collaborator on the exhibition and an expert from Rovinj, explained that the display aimed to highlight the broader context of Adriatic maritime culture. She mentioned that similar traditions exist in places such as Glavotok, Porcijunkul, and Lopar, where similar rituals take place during religious festivals. This year’s addition brought new themes to the traveling exhibition, enriching the visitor experience with deeper insights into the region’s intangible cultural heritage. Participants included a notable all-female crew from Rovinj and Mali Lošinj, a rare occurrence in such traditional events. Their presence underscored the evolving nature of these maritime traditions, opening the door for greater inclusivity and diversity among future generations of sailors and boat builders. The festival also featured a range of activities beyond the regatta itself, including gastronomic experiences, educational sessions, and spaces dedicated to reflection and memory. Visitors had the chance to sample local delicacies, learn about traditional crafts, and immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Mošćenička Draga. The combination of historical reverence and contemporary engagement made the event a compelling draw for those interested in the region’s rich maritime past. As the sun set over the Adriatic, the regatta concluded with a sense of accomplishment and continuity. The event once again reaffirmed the enduring significance of traditional sailing in the coastal communities of Croatia, ensuring that the legacy of the sea continues to shape the lives and identities of those who live by it.