With the
Wind through
the Silence

Breaking Barriers through Sailing for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals

This unique Croatian sailing project “S vjetrom kroz tišinu” (With the Wind through the Silence) has been promoting inclusion for deaf and hard of hearing people for over two decades. Since its inception in 2002, the project has created specialized sign language for sailing, facilitated maritime activities for people with disabilities, and built bridges between communities through sports and recreation. The initiative represents one of Europe’s most distinctive approaches to disability inclusion in maritime activities, combining rehabilitation, education, and leisure in an innovative sailing experience.

Origins and Development of the Project

“S vjetrom kroz tišinu” began in 2002 as a collaborative initiative between Damir Herega from the Association of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons of Primorsko-goranska County and Slobodan Banašin from the Association of Adriatic Skippers. The project was conceived with the primary goal of making sailing and maritime activities accessible to deaf and hard of hearing individuals through specialized sign language and adapted sailing experiences.

The project celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2022, marking two decades of continuous operation and service to the deaf and hard of hearing community. Over the years, the sailing gatherings have been organized in various coastal locations throughout Croatia, including Lošinj’s Čikat Bay, Nerezine, and Kraljevica. Since 2021, the project has established Opatija as its starting point, with participants sailing to Cres Island as part of the experience.

What began as a specialized sailing event has evolved into a comprehensive program that now includes various maritime activities, educational workshops, and cultural components designed to promote full inclusion of people with disabilities in society.

Creating a Language for the Sea

One of the most significant achievements of the project has been the development of new elements of sign language specifically adapted for sailing and maritime activities. This innovative linguistic development has enabled deaf and hard of hearing individuals to actively participate in sailing, addressing a communication gap that previously existed in maritime recreation.

According to Damir Herega, one of the project’s founders, these new sign language elements were created specifically for sailing needs, representing an original contribution to sign language development. This aspect of the project underscores its commitment not only to providing recreational opportunities but also to developing practical tools that enable full participation in maritime activities.

Activities and Participation- Sailing Events and Regattas

The core activity of “S vjetrom kroz tišinu” is the annual sailing event that now runs from Opatija to Cres and back. These sailing gatherings include both experienced sailors and those new to the activity, with professional skippers providing guidance and support. The project utilizes several sailboats, including vessels from the Opatija Sailing Club and Club Neverin, creating a small flotilla for the participants.

In 2022, during the 20th anniversary celebration, four sailboats departed from Opatija to Cres, showcasing the project’s growth and continued relevance. The sailing events typically include a revue sailing component, where deaf participants are joined by students from the Center for Education and Training from Rijeka, creating an integrated sailing experience.

Educational and Cultural Components

Beyond sailing, the project incorporates various educational and cultural activities. During their stay in Cres, participants engage in workshops, educational sessions, and social gatherings. These activities are designed to enhance the overall experience and provide additional opportunities for learning and social integration.

In 2022, the University of Rijeka hosted project activities at the Moise Palace on Cres, including sculpture workshops and a roundtable discussion on tourism and sport as tools for social integration of people with disabilities. Additionally, the project has expanded to include diving courses for people with disabilities, further broadening its scope of maritime activities.

Art and Expression

Art has become an integral component of the project, with watercolor workshops like “Postcard from Cres – Through the silence with the wind” being led by artists from the Academy of Applied Arts at the University of Rijeka. These artistic elements provide additional means of expression and engagement for participants, complementing the sailing activities.

Social Impact and Recognition – Breaking Barriers

The project’s primary social impact lies in its ability to break barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in recreational maritime activities. By creating specialized sign language for sailing and adapting maritime experiences to accommodate deaf and hard of hearing individuals, the project has opened a previously inaccessible world to this community.

According to a professional paper published about the project, “S vjetrom kroz tišinu” has demonstrated that sport can be an excellent tool for the inclusion of people with disabilities in society, providing numerous positive effects on personal health, individual development, and social integration. The project specifically addresses the fact that sailing as a sport doesn’t exist for people with hearing impairments, while Paralympic sailing has been discontinued for people with disabilities.

Community Support and Recognition

The project has garnered support from local communities and institutions. The City of Opatija, through its representatives including Deputy Mayor Kristina Đukić and Mayor Fernando Kirigin, has expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its importance in promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in community life.

The Opatija Sailing Club has provided crucial support by contributing boats and skippers for the sailing events. Additionally, the University of Rijeka has hosted project activities, particularly at the Moise Palace on Cres Island.

Future Directions

After more than two decades of operation, “S vjetrom kroz tišinu” continues to evolve and expand its scope. While initially focused exclusively on deaf and hard of hearing individuals, the project now embraces all persons with disabilities through the Association “S vjetrom kroz tišinu,” providing activities that offer rehabilitation effects.

The project aims to develop a new form of tourism that accommodates people with disabilities, recognizing that this demographic seeks to enjoy maritime experiences but will only travel to destinations where appropriate conditions exist for them. This vision represents an important direction for both the project and for accessible tourism in Croatia.

Conclusion

“S vjetrom kroz tišinu” stands as a remarkable example of how specialized recreational activities can promote inclusion, break barriers, and enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. Through its innovative approach to sailing for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, the project has created not only enjoyable experiences but also practical tools for communication and participation in maritime activities.

As the project continues into its third decade, its enduring legacy demonstrates the profound impact that targeted recreational initiatives can have on promoting full social integration of people with disabilities. The wind through silence continues to speak volumes about inclusion, accessibility, and the universal human right to experience the joy of sailing.