CROATIA – SPAIN JOINT ISSUE MEDITERRANEAN FISHING BOATS, Llaüt mallorquín Balear – a traditional boat of the Balearic Islands

Llaüt mallorquín Balear – a traditional boat of the Balearic Islands Llaut (llaüt) is one of the most iconic traditional vessels of the Western Mediterranean and one of the most important symbols of the maritime heritage of the Balearic Islands. For centuries, it has been indispensable in the everyday life of the island's population, serving to fish, transport people and goods and connect remote coastal settlements and islands. Today, although its original economic role has almost disappeared, llaut remains a valuable part of the cultural identity of the Balearic Islands and an example of the successful preservation of traditional shipbuilding. Over the centuries, its shape and construction have adapted to local needs, but retained the basic features that make it easily recognizable. The traditional llaut was made by master shipbuilders, known as mestres d'aixa, using native wood species such as pine, olive, almond and carob. Each boat was hand-built, which made it a blend of functionality, craftsmanship and aesthetic value. The most important structural features of the llaut include a wide and rounded wooden hull, a flat or slightly raised bow, a rounded stern and a deep draft that ensures exceptional stability during navigation. It was traditionally equipped with a lateen sail that allowed efficient navigation in different wind directions, while oars were also used for maneuvering. The shape of the hull, often compared to a tear, allowed easy sailing over waves and effective draining of water from the deck. This construction made the llaut a reliable vessel for the daily work of fishermen, but also for longer journeys between islands. With the development of technology, llaut has undergone certain adjustments. Today's designs are most often equipped with diesel or electric engines, and many models offer a modern level of comfort with cabins, sun loungers and modern navigation equipment. Nevertheless, the characteristic appearance of the wooden hull and the traditional silhouette has been retained, successfully combining maritime tradition and modern requirements of nautical tourism. Its stability, reliability and the ability to access shallow coves have made it an ideal vessel for recreational boating, sport fishing and exploring the coastal heritage. In recent decades, the number of traditional llaut builders has decreased significantly, so preserving this craft is an important challenge. There are associations in the Balearic Islands dedicated to the renovation of old boats and the transfer of shipbuilding knowledge to new generations. Particularly noteworthy are projects for the restoration of historical llaut boats and initiatives for the establishment of schools of traditional shipbuilding and maritime museums. Its preservation contributes to the protection of traditional shipbuilding skills, maritime identity and the way of life that has shaped Mediterranean coastal communities for centuries. Marinka Fržop President of the Association Betinska gajeta 1740