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Maraton lađa

The 29th Maraton lađa is a historic rowing competition and heritage celebration taking place on August 8, 2026, in Croatia's Neretva Valley. Teams race traditional wooden boats along a 22.5-kilometer course starting from Metković, traveling through Opuzen, and finishing in the port city of Ploče.

Date
Aug 8, 2026
Location
Metković
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Maraton lađa
Date
Aug 8, 2026
Location
Metković
Traditional Festival Sports Rowing

Event summary

Highlights

  • Race featuring traditional wooden Neretva boats (lađa)
  • 22.5-kilometer competitive course through the Neretva delta
  • Route passing through Metković, Opuzen, and Ploče
  • Celebration of the 29th anniversary of the event
The Maraton lađa stands as one of Croatia's most prominent traditional sporting events, designed to preserve the maritime legacy of the Neretva River. In its 29th edition, the event showcases the endurance of competitors as they navigate 'lađa'—the narrow wooden vessels historically used for transport in the marshy delta. The race is scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM on August 8, 2026.

The demanding 22.5-kilometer route begins under the bridge in Metković and follows the river downstream. Spectators gather along the banks in Opuzen and other riverside villages to cheer on the teams before the marathon concludes in Ploče. This event serves as a major cultural tribute to the heritage and ancestral lifestyle of the Neretva Valley inhabitants.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

Check these references for event announcements and updates before attending.

Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

Keep exploring

Use this event as a starting point for nearby places, matching topics, and calendar paths.

Opuzen calendar Open local events and dates. More in Dubrovnik-Neretva Browse the wider area. Traditional Festival events Follow this theme across the calendar. Croatia calendar Browse the national event calendar.