BOATS BUILDING BRIDGES ‘24 HIGHLIGHTS

 

As I reflect on the year, I see that the many different aspects of my life and its endeavors are converging. The work that we have done in Croatia with traditional boats and the preservation of intangible heritage has now grown into opportunities for students in Redwood City sailing on the classic yacht Ocean Queen V. My work as a teacher in the woodshop at Redwood High School has grown into plans to build a historic boat through pictures in archives. Our peacebuilding work with kids from former Yugoslavia has grown into opportunities for local boat builders to work directly with the students from the home for children in Banja Luka. Each of these endeavors has grown from work that is Boats Building Bridges

Redwood City 1918

 

The Rebirth of “Vinka”

This year marked a pivotal moment in the Boats Building Bridges journey. After four years of dedicated restoration, the historic vessel Vinka—a 1937 Komiža-built Borka—is ready to set sail once more. Guided by master carpenter Barba Ive and his son Bosko, we’ve transformed her into a symbol of heritage and resilience. The engine installation and rig work was completed and this year she is now poised for her summer programs.
Restoring Vinka has been a labor of love, rich with connections and collaborations. Special thanks to Marko Knezevic, president of AMI, whose steadfast support ensured the project stayed on course. As we celebrate this accomplishment, we eagerly anticipate using Vinka to enrich the lives of students through our upcoming expedition to the Kornati islands.

Adventures in the Kornati Islands

Kornati is a place where wild landscapes meet deep connections. Our 2024 summer expedition offered students the chance to engage with this unique environment through hands-on experiences in agriculture, fishing, and traditional crafts.
For the students, this trip was more than an adventure—it was a lesson in friendship and unity. Youth from Split’s Home for Children Maestral and Banja Luka’s Rada Vranješević Home for Children joined us, continuing a tradition of cross-cultural collaboration. Bonds forged on this trip transcend borders, proving that shared experiences are the foundation of lasting friendships.
Friendship has been the central theme of our programs this year. Whether navigating Vinka’s intricate rigging or climbing to the highest point on Levrnaka Island for a sunset gathering, the spirit of camaraderie defined our journey.

The Boat Shop at Stari Brod: A Workshop for Tradition and Innovation

The Boat shop at Stari Brod has become a cornerstone of the Boats Building Bridges initiative, where generations of craftsmanship meet and share traditions and learn new ones. But the boat shop is more than a place to build and restore vessels. It serves as a bridge between cultures, uniting students and volunteers from Croatia and beyond. Together, they work side by side, sharing stories, building friendships, and learning the timeless art of craftsmanship. Most recently, Micheal Rossi, a craftsman from the San Francisco Bay Area has donated two sets of power hand tools that will make summer work go that much better.

Return to Rab: The Felix Arba Expedition

As we reflect on a year of adventure and growth, we are excited to announce that the Felix Arba Expedition will return to Rab, with an exciting new addition—Vinka, our sailing vessel, will guide us to this incredible island, adding a nautical layer to our journey!
Our adventure begins aboard Vinka, where students will learn the art of sailing while exploring the Adriatic’s stunning coastline. This voyage will set the tone for an unforgettable expedition, blending teamwork, navigation, and the thrill of the open sea.
With Vinka leading the way, we are eager to create new stories and deeper bonds as we return to Rab. This expedition offers more than breathtaking scenery—it offers growth, courage, and the chance to build peace, one adventure at a time.
We can’t wait to set sail and continue this incredible journey. Stay tuned for updates, and join us in supporting this transformative experience. Together, let’s make this year’s Felix Arba Expedition even more extraordinary

 

New Partnership: Building a Dajak Boat with Dajak Center in Banja Luka

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with the Banja Luka Dajak Center, where students will have the unique opportunity to build a traditional 7-meter Dajak boat. This collaboration combines hands-on craftsmanship with cultural immersion, connecting students to the deep heritage of the Vrbas River and the vibrant history of Banja Luka.
The Dajak boat, named after the pole used to propel it, is a cultural icon of Banja Luka, renowned for its agility in navigating the rapids and shallow waters of the Vrbas River. Under the guidance of master craftsmen Andrej and Dario Zamolo, students will learn the intricate process of crafting a Dajak boat, from selecting and preparing the wood to understanding the boat’s unique design tailored to the Vrbas’s fast-flowing currents. This partnership offers more than just technical skills—it’s a window into the spirit of Banja Luka. Students will engage with the city’s storied relationship with the Vrbas River, where the Dajak boat once served as a primary means of transportation and remains a source of pride and identity. From thrilling races to peaceful moments on the water, the Dajak boat embodies the adventurous and resilient nature of the local community.

 

 

Looking Ahead – Spring and Summer Plans

As we prepare for the next chapter, we invite you to be part of this transformative journey. Support us by attending our fundraiser aboard the Derek M. Baylis. Sail under the iconic three bridges of the Bay, enjoy music, drinks, and good company—all while contributing to youth programs in the Adriatic. If you would like to attend or support us in other ways please contact me to reserve your spot. Additionally if you have made summer plans for visiting Croatia or would like to come sail or volunteer let us know. With Vinka as our guide, we look forward to bringing more students into this vibrant community of exploration, connection, and cultural exchange. Thank you for your continued support, and we hope to see you on board soon!

Fair winds,
Jim Bender
Founder and Director
Adriatic Maritime Institute

 

 

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