Youth Embark on Adventure in Kornati Islands of Croatia

People say the three great reasons to be a teacher are June, July and August. Captain James Bender is a shop teacher in Redwood City who, for the past several years, has spent those three months continuing to teach through his Adriatic Maritime Institute in the islands of Croatia. There he has restored traditional wooden craft, bridged the gulf between nations in the Balkans with boats, and run outdoor educational trips for local youth. Here we share some of the past summer’s adventures.

The Kornati archipelago, a wild and desolate region in Croatia, is a place where isolation meets connectedness. For the students participating in this year’s Kornati Adventure sailing camp, the theme of friendship resonated deeply, transcending borders, languages and histories. Surrounded by rugged landscapes, the weeklong program became a crucible for camaraderie and learning. This year’s camp brought together students from Maestral Home for Children in Split, Croatia, and Rada Vranješevic Home for Children in Banja Luka, Republika Srpska.

Language differences — Croatian and Serbian — often create barriers. Yet, through the years, the sailing program has fostered bonds that break down such walls. The tradition of peace-building trips began in 2016, and many of the leaders and students were familiar faces. As the students stepped out of the van on the first day, some ran to greet old friends, while new participants hung back, observing the reunions. But as the first group circle commenced, smiles replaced hesitation, and the ice quickly melted. Veteran participants led by example, ensuring a smooth start to the journey.

The students embarked on the adventure aboard Vinka, a 24-ft historical wooden boat built in 1937 on the island of Vis. Vinka is no ordinary vessel — her rigging is intricate, with numerous halyards, control lines, and brails. This was the first time sailing for many students, and the complexity of the boat initially seemed overwhelming. But as the week progressed, they worked together to rig lines, raise sails, and master the latina, the distinctive lateen rig that powered the boat.

A thunderstorm before departure tested their resolve but also brought them closer together. We huddled in a small library as the rain poured down, the students listening to the plan for the week: sailing, camping, swimming, and hiking.

Continue reading in the December issue.