A Barkajol Boatman

Bitteschön, barke fahren, or "would you like to take a boat ride?" was an enquiry that could often be heard in Opatija's small harbour, the meeting point of the barkajoli boatmen who offered panoramic boat rides along the Riviera. Barkajoli were to Opatija what gondoliers are to Venice – authentic guides who knew the sea and the coast very well.

Our barkajol was born into an ordinary Opatija family whose members lived from fishing for generations. The arrival of modern times and the development of tourism brought new opportunities, which is why he decided to focus on the gentry instead of fishing.

There was great interest among visitors in what he had to offer, for Opatija is most beautiful when viewed from the sea. A barkajol was always busy, especially if he knew how to make a boat ride more interesting by singing or telling interesting anecdotes.

The barkajol became one of the symbols of Opatija, so use the opportunity while he's taking a break from boat rides to learn something about the history of the town from him.