Every June, Rovinj's main harbour fills with wooden boats rigged exactly as they were a century ago. The Rovinj Regatta of Traditional Boats with Lug and Latin Sails is one of the last traditional sailing races on the Adriatic, and the 2026 edition — marking the 20th anniversary — takes place from 12–14 June.

What to Expect

Around 40 traditional sailing vessels from Croatia, Italy, and Slovenia gather in Rovinj's main harbour for three days of racing, exhibitions, and festive waterfront atmosphere. The boats sail under lug and Latin sails — the same wind-catching systems that have powered Adriatic fishing and trade for centuries. No engines, no modern sails, no GPS.

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The races wind through the archipelago and back to the harbour, so you can watch the starts and finishes from the Riva or the waterfront near Sv. Eufemija. Between races, the harbour becomes a floating exhibition — restored batanas, gajetas, trabakols, and other wooden boats open for visitors to explore.

Launch of TRANS MARISA

This year's regatta also marks the public launch of TRANS MARISA, a new EU-funded project managed by Casa della Batana and partners from Italy. The project pairs experienced sailors and boat builders with young people, teaching them traditional maritime skills — rowing, sailing, sail-making, and boat maintenance.

Throughout the regatta weekend, expect demonstrations, talks, and a first look at the mentorship programme. It's part of a wider effort to keep Rovinj's maritime traditions alive beyond museum walls.

Where to Watch

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  • Riva (main waterfront promenade) — best for harbour atmosphere, food stalls, and up-close views of the boats.
  • Molo Grande (main pier) — good vantage point for race starts and finishes.
  • Waterfront near Sv. Eufemija — less crowded, wider views of the race course.
  • By boat — if you can get on the water, you'll see the races from their best perspective. Boat tours may offer special packages for regatta day. Please keep respectful distance from racing crews — these aren't tourist boats, they're competing racers, and waves from tour boats can interfere with sailing.
  • From Sv. Katarina island — for a quieter viewing experience, take the ferry across to Sv. Katarina and watch the regatta with traditional boats in the foreground and Rovinj's old town behind. It's one of the best vantage points and far from crowds. Check the ferry schedule — it runs roughly hourly, so plan ahead.

Practical Information

  • When: 12–14 June 2026 (Thursday to Saturday).
  • Where: Rovinj harbour and surrounding waters. Events centre on the Riva and Molo Grande.
  • Cost: Free to watch. The harbour and waterfront events are open to all.
  • Getting there: The old town is pedestrian-only. Park outside and walk in — see our parking guide. If driving from outside Istria, check our coastal road tip to avoid the Slovenian vignette.
  • Where to stay: June is shoulder season, so accommodation is more available than July/August, but the regatta weekend fills up. Book ahead.
  • Combine with: Visit Casa della Batana before or after — it's the same organization running the regatta, and the museum provides context for everything you'll see on the water.

Rovinj Regatta is small by international standards — no corporate sponsors on the sails, no mega-yachts. That's what makes it special. It's a harbour full of people who actually sail these boats, racing in front of the town that actually built them.