The 27th edition of Fiumanka, one of the largest and most recognisable sailing events on the Croatian Adriatic, once again brought together more than 150 crews and approximately one thousand sailors from Croatia and abroad in the waters off Rijeka.
The main regatta, held on Saturday, was the highlight of this year’s Fiumanka programme. Racing yachts, family crews and recreational sailors gathered on the same starting line in front of Rijeka’s breakwater, continuing one of Fiumanka’s most recognisable traditions — bringing together experienced competitors, sailing enthusiasts and first-time participants in a shared celebration of the sea.
This year’s regatta featured two sailing courses: a longer and more demanding route for racing boats, and a shorter course for family crews, with a turning mark off Žurkovo. Regardless of the route sailed, all participants returned to the finish line in the Port of Rijeka, creating a powerful image of the city, the sea and the sailing community united in one event.
Weather conditions were ideal for sailing, offering excellent conditions both for competitive crews and for recreational sailors enjoying a memorable day on the water with family and friends.
In the racing division, the Slovenian yacht Generali, helmed by Samo Žvan, was first across the finish line. The Rijeka-based yacht Molo Longo, skippered by Bojan Grego, finished second, while Vulkan Nova, led by Ivica Šćurić, secured third place.
Alongside the main regatta, the traditional Media Regatta also took place, giving journalists, photographers and editors the opportunity to experience Fiumanka from the sea and become part of the sailing story for a day.
This year’s edition also included a strong international and institutional dimension. Diplomatic representatives joined guests of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County and the City of Rijeka aboard an accompanying vessel, where they were introduced to two major titles recently awarded to Rijeka and the Kvarner region: European Region of Sport and European Region of Gastronomy.
Ahead of the start, guests were also presented with the initiative of launching an international diplomatic regatta, “Sails of Friendship”, planned for 2027. The initiative aims to further strengthen connections between cities, countries and institutions through sailing, maritime cooperation and friendship.
While the main regatta remains the central moment of Fiumanka, the event has grown into much more than a sailing competition. This year’s programme also included the Student Fiumanka regatta, the Little Fiumanka “Zvonimir Bezić Memorial”, Paper Fiumanka for children, educational boat rides, sea-cleaning activities, sustainability-focused initiatives, exhibitions, cultural events and gatherings that brought together citizens, visitors, partners and friends of the sea.
The programme also featured the conference “Below the Surface – Conversations on the Future of Seas and Cities”, which brought together experts, researchers, athletes and institutional representatives to discuss the future of maritime cities, sustainability and the relationship between urban life and the sea.
A special atmosphere was created with “A Concert That Floats”, during which the choir and soloists of the Opera of the Croatian National Theatre performed aboard a tugboat in Rijeka Harbour, turning the waterfront into a unique stage on the sea.
The 27th Fiumanka concluded with the traditional sailors’ celebration “I was there too!” in Rijeka Harbour and the official prize-giving ceremony at Terminal Rijeka, accompanied by music, socialising and the distinctive atmosphere that has become one of the trademarks of the event.
Beyond the results, every crew that took part in the 27th Fiumanka became part of a wider story — a story of Rijeka, the sea, sailing, friendship and tradition. After 27 years, Fiumanka continues to prove that it is far more than a regatta. It is a celebration of maritime identity, sport, sustainability, culture, community and international friendship, and one of the most recognisable symbols of Rijeka and the Kvarner region.
The organisers would like to thank all sailors, crews, visitors, partners, patrons, sponsors, institutions, volunteers and friends of Fiumanka whose participation and support contributed to another successful edition of the event.
Text Credit: Fiumanka 2026
Photo Credit: Fiumanka 2026
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