Vis Island's Famous Falkusa Boats Set Sail in France

Adriatic DMC's sponsorship of the 'Sailing by Falkusa' trips running at Escale à Sète has been a great success with dozens of festival visitors and journalists enjoying sun-soaked sailing along the French Coast in the historic vessels.

Alternatura from Vis Island is attending the maritime festival with its traditional fishing sailboats known as Falkusa, allowing the hundreds of visitors and members of the press the chance to see and experience a beautiful and historic part of Croatian culture up close, with support from Adriatic DMC.

The Falkusa traditional fishing boat is a subtype of Dalmatian fishing boat, hailing from the town of Komiza on Vis. Croatia's Ministry of Culture has protected the Gajeta Falkusa, inscribing it on the official list of national cultural intangible goods.

Its design was adapted to the specific needs of Komiza fishermen, who went on long fishing expeditions in the open seas, providing them with sailing speed and practical characteristics for fish transport. This was a unique practice in the Adriatic and Mediterranean. In the 16th century in Komiza Bay, more than a hundred falkusas were operating. Komiza was the center of the fishing industry in the Adriatic at that time. On each boat, there were 5 crew members and they were sailing to the most distant locations using sails and oars.

Managing director, Srdjan Kristic commented on the importance of the event: "As one of our company's core values, promoting and celebrating authentic local culture and traditions is not simply something we consider when designing our travel products and programs, it's of great importance to us as part of our sustainability efforts that include supporting communities and cultural initiatives that benefit locals but also elevate Croatia's cultural standing on an international stage.

"For that reason, we were delighted when we were asked by one of our respected suppliers if we would be able to support their attendance at this maritime festival in the south of France. I'm delighted to see that so many people have had the chance to learn about and experience the joy of a Falkusa sailboat beyond Croatia's borders."

For more information on Adreiatic DMC's land tours and shore excursions in Croatia that include authentic cultural experiences like sailing ona  falkusa boat, get in touch with the friendly and professional team here.