It is essential to safeguard traditional shipbuilding and the sailing vessels that arise from it, as both intangible and tangible cultural heritage. Preservation efforts should encompass not only the ships themselves but also the techniques, styles of sailing, and the deep love for the sea that transcends geographical boundaries.

This sentiment was echoed by sailors from Montenegro and Croatia during the event titled “Sails of the Adriatic – a blend of tradition and togetherness,” hosted by the Bar sailing club “Latinsko jedro.”

As part of this two-day event, commemorating tomorrow’s Independence Day, participants discussed the preservation of their shared passion: traditional shipbuilding and sailing.

Fifteen traditional wooden boats have been moored at the Bar marina since yesterday and will compete in a regatta tomorrow. Guests from Croatia and the Bay of Kotor toured the caulking workshop of the Bokovac family after the program at the Bar “House of Olives,” where they learned about the making and restoring of wooden boats.

The organizer, Miroslavka Lala Bokovac, informed “Vijesti” that organizing the event was no small feat, but they had support from local institutions, community members, and friends from Croatia.

“The sea knows no borders; it fosters communities, societies, and friendships. We have gathered here, all representatives of traditional clubs, wooden boats, and sailing vessels. They cherish the traditions and the legacy left to us,” said Bogovac.

Bokovac emphasized that one goal of the event is to encourage institutions to assist in preserving shipbuilding and rejuvenating it in Montenegro.

“To continue in this direction, we must hold events like this to raise awareness among people and institutions, ensuring this heritage does not fade away. Wooden ships can narrate stories—if neglected, they, like living beings, will vanish from memory, leaving nothing for future generations,” she stressed.

In her formal speech, she thanked everyone involved in the organization and presented wooden boat gifts from the family workshop, reiterating the importance of passing this tradition down to younger generations.

Maria Markoč, the Director of the “House of Olives,” also welcomed guests and expressed her appreciation for their choosing the venue for such a significant event. She particularly thanked the Bokovac family for their assistance during the opening of the “House of Olives.”

“Their passion for this city, olive trees, shipbuilding, and everything that shapes our history and future demonstrates our similarities and how we deal with common challenges,” Markoč remarked, addressing issues in agriculture.

Markoč also congratulated Montenegro on its Statehood Day, expressing her joy in celebrating it through the promotion of culturally significant events in Bar.

Marin Lovrovic, a sailor from Rijeka, expressed satisfaction with the event’s organization, which he believes promotes traditional sailing.

“The impressions are fantastic. The old town is steeped in history, and that’s something to be proud of. The sailing potential in Bar is underutilized. We need more young enthusiasts. I haven’t spotted a single optimist. We need to encourage children to sail through their parents, especially those who can afford boats and regattas. You have everything else—stunning nature, possibly the most beautiful along the coast,” he shared.

Dinko Foretic, president of the “Croatian Wooden Ships” association from Split, expressed joy at being part of this event organized by the Bokovac family, whom he met 13 years ago.

“I discovered their work online, and I’m delighted that we now have this manifestation of togetherness among friends who cherish the sea and traditional wooden boats,” he said.

Foretic commended the collaboration between Montenegrin and Croatian sailors, stating that “the sea brings them together where the land divides.” He emphasized that their shared love is universal and knows no boundaries.

During a panel discussion on “Traditional Shipbuilding and Sail Preservation,” he shared insights about the Facebook group “Croatian Wooden Ships,” which boasts nearly 30,000 members worldwide.

Recalling his first encounter with the Bokovac family, Foretic expressed his amazement at the vibrant activities in Bar. Their shared commitment to this unique art form brings them closer, according to him.

He takes pride in the project’s achievements and sees it as one of the few platforms for sailors and shipbuilders to connect and exchange experiences.

Among the six boats from Rijeka is Arsen Dobrijević, who recognized the challenges of transporting a boat but deemed the effort worthwhile.

“We share the goal of preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. Promotion includes not just the construction of a boat but also how to sail it, ensuring its legacy for future generations. We’ve collaborated as two associations for several years to safeguard this heritage, and while we are making progress, continual innovation is essential,” he said.

He noted that Bar and Montenegro have promising ideas for preserving their maritime culture.

An art historian, Anastasia Miranović, emphasized the importance of cultural heritage preservation, noting that Montenegro, despite its small size, boasts rich and diverse cultural assets.

“Material remnants reflect the continuous progress of civilization in this region, while intangible cultural layers reveal evolved customs, practices, and beliefs. The blending influences over time have crafted unique cultural specificities among local communities in Montenegro. Bar plays a significant role in this cultural mosaic,” she explained.

She praised the Bokovac family, highlighting their six years of boat repair and construction in their workshop, which exemplifies Bar’s pride.

“The Calafat craft was recognized as an intangible cultural heritage back in 2012. An initiative for its legal protection was submitted to the Administration for the Protection of Cultural Heritage. Although accepted, a study for valorization hasn’t been completed yet due to various reasons,” said Miranović.

She believes that, alongside individual efforts, this event can expedite the process and that soon the caulking skill in wooden boat construction will be recognized as part of Montenegro’s intangible cultural assets.

Participants were also given the opportunity to visit the Old Town of Bar, the fortress, and the natural monument Old Olive Tree on Mirovica. Tomorrow, they look forward to competitive regatta activities.

The program partners include the Municipality of Bar, the Tourist Organization of Bar, “Marina Bar,” the Maritime Safety and Port Management Authority of Montenegro, “House of Olives Bar,” and the “Velimir A. Leković” Gallery.

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