Croatia is famed as a sailing nation, but this legacy isn't limited to maritime activities – the inland rivers and waterways of Europe have played their part, too. This history is celebrated every year in the Neretva river valley near Dubrovnik during the magnificent Ladja Marathon boat race. Using centuries-old indigenous designs, more than 400 oarsmen will traverse a course 22.5 kilometres long, starting from Metković Bridge and finishing at the sea in Ploče.
Each boat usually consists of ten rowers, a drummer to keep pace and a helmsman. Teams compete each year to win the coveted 37kg bronze shield of Duke Domagoj. With 30 boats, hundreds of racers, and tens of thousands of spectators, the Ladja Marathon is the largest event of its type in the region.
Participants set off at 5pm on Saturday, August 12, for the 26th annual running of the race. For more details and to learn more about the history of the event, see the Ladja Marathon website.
Where: From Metković Bridge to Ploče. When: August 12, 5pm.