The Story of the Murter Gajeta
The very first shipyard on Murter was founded in 1745 by Paško Filipi, who arrived in Betina with his sons. There, they came across a type of boat which they decided to adapt to the needs of the local community as much as possible. According to records from the mid-1800s, every family owned at least one small boat, while it was rare for a household to have two. Life back then was modest, yet demanding – and people needed a strong, sturdy vessel that could carry not only several family members, but also livestock and all the supplies required for fishing, herding, and farming. Nowhere along the Adriatic is the coastline as indented as it is here, which is why most locals also have land on the surrounding islands.
Based on available sources, it can be concluded that the Murter gajeta did not primarily serve as a fishing vessel, unlike gajetas from other regions. For the people of Murter, the gajeta was more than a boat—it was the family boat, a versatile vessel that could carry anything: people, livestock, tools, supplies, or fish. Women, children, and the elderly all knew how to operate it, and no one was allowed to set sail without understanding its basic functions—a rare expectation for women and children at the time. Its significance went far beyond that of any ordinary vessel: the gajeta could serve the role of several boats at once, fulfilling the needs of every family. It shaped social and economic relationships, supported local crafts and skills, influenced the layout of settlements, and became a symbol of the islanders’ identity and culture.
Experience the Days of the Latin Sail
The Days of the Latin Sail are more than just sailboats, a regatta, or a tourist festival—they celebrate a way of life unique to this region, its traditions, and a heritage worth preserving. Alongside the main regatta, which draws the largest number of boats, the event features a vibrant program of cultural and recreational activities, including a sports regatta, a children’s regatta, lectures, workshops, and live music. At the Days of the Latin Idro, there’s something for everyone. Dive into the captivating world of sailing and discover the unique traditions of Murter, while enjoying unforgettable sights of beautiful sailboats in motion.
If you’re looking for accommodation, staying in our traditional fishermen’s houses will give you an authentic island experience. In addition to Murter, we offer lodging on nearby islands, with boat transfers arranged for your convenience. Spending time in these somewhat secluded spots, embraced by nature, will make you feel like the master of your own island! For any questions or reservations, we’re always available at +385 99 4357 211. You can also reach us by email at info@rentaboat-murter.com or via our contact form. We look forward to welcoming you!