We were extremely proud to have been part of the Dita Project this October -- a six-day sailing journey across the stunning islands of Brač, Hvar, and Vis, in the heart of the Adriatic’s “Golden Triangle.”
Đita, a Dalmatian word meaning journey or adventure, is a project organised by the University of Split, the Academic Sailing Club Universitas and Angelina Charter. It began as a student sailing trip and has grown into a vibrant celebration of life at sea, an experience that allows young people to discover the essence of maritime living. Now in its sixth edition, Dita inspires a new generation of young sailors in Croatia while promoting the growth of recreational sailing on one of the world’s most beautiful seas.
Participants, mostly aged between 20 and 30, take part in all aspects of life on board: planning routes, preparing meals, navigating, and sleeping at anchor, which remains their favourite part. The programme also includes quizzes, social gatherings, and an art-themed day titled Đita Through My Eyes.
Beyond sailing skills, the event is all about teamwork, self-reliance, and building a deeper connection to the sea. It has sparked a new wave of interest in sailing among young people in Croatia and promotes the development of recreational sailing on one of the world’s most beautiful seas. Notably, around 60 to 70 percent of participants are women.
This year, Henri-Lloyd and our distributor in Croatia, Slovenia and Montenegro, Yachting Mission 524, supported the project by providing apparel for the skippers. Out of 19 skippers involved, 11 had previously participated in Đita, which shows the project’s continuity and strong sense of community.
At Henri-Lloyd, we are strong advocates for making sailing a more accessible sport, and we will always look to champion those events that democratize sailing, grow its visibility, and make it more inclusive for all.
Project’s director, Assoc. Prof. Luka Pezelj, Head of Maritime Yacht and Marina Technologies at the University of Split, summarised the ethos behind Dita quite beautifully:
“The sea belongs to those who enjoy it. We share the same winds and the same challenges, and through Đita we aim not only to educate young people but to inspire them to live in harmony with the sea, and to fall in love with it.”
