There are few forms that embody the essence of Ibiza better than the “llaüts,” the traditional wooden vessels that sail the crystalline waters of the island coastline in unhurried fashion. Nowadays used as a recreational vessel, these boats have been preserved in homage to the noble trade plied by fishermen of yore, and the “mestres d’aixa”.
Some experiences in life remain forever engraved on the soul of those lucky enough to enjoy them. Especially if they involve something as lyrical as discovering hidden Ibiza in a “llaüt,” the island’s traditional fishing vessel, which five centuries on, continues to be one of the most beautiful crafts to traverse the Mediterranean.
Despite being the perfect combination of tradition, culture, gastronomy and nature, there is nothing more illustrative of the archetypal Ibiza than this traditional, wooden sailing boat, as it ploughs the crystal clear waters while salty winds and fragrant coastal vegetation complete the idyllic picture like precious jewels to be treasured.
Because, long before yachts, catamarans and sumptuous sailing boats began to cast their anchors in the peaceful island waters, the “llaüts” were an everyday fixture of the beaches, quays and ports, used as a traditional fishing trawler and means of transport.
With its robust constitution, timber-built from local pine, almond and carob wood, this jewel of Ibizan maritime tradition was first built in the Middle Ages and takes its name from the lute, the wooden stringed instrument that the boat builders saw as similar to their craft.
It has an average length of eight metres, and equipped with three masts, it can reach a speed of seven knots. But its most prominent feature is the Latin sail, an ancient system of rigging which resembles the Egyptian feluccas that ply the river Nile.
Although in Ibiza they were mainly used as the work tool of fishermen and for transporting travellers from one end of the island to the other, their original use was as an auxiliary vessel for larger boats, and they were also used for various purposes such as smuggling, as mail boats, or to provide a line between Ibiza and Formentera performing the role assumed by today’s ferries.
“Mestres d’aixa”, a trade in danger of extinction
Behind every one of these treasures of Ibizan nautical heritage is the figure of the “mestre d’aixa” the beach side boat builder, skilled in an island craft as old as the “llaüts” themselves. These craftsmen used local timber for the construction of these vessels, in a process that could take several months. Today there are very few “mestres” left, and those that still ply their trade, mostly spend their time restoring old boats.
Although in essence they remain the same, the vessel shape has altered substantially, and we can find more modern versions of “llaüts” to which cabins and engines have been added and, which, unlike the older vessels, are now made from new materials like glass fibre which is much cheaper than using traditional wood, and which became the preferred material for building the boats in Ibiza in the nineteen sixties.
Even today you may still see fishing families sailing this jewel of local craftsmanship and despite the fact that the fleet is diminishing with the same speed as their vanishing artisans, there are still a few boats remaining that are perfectly preserved and they can be chartered, along with every amenity, so that you can enjoy the memorable experience of coasting around the island, from beach to beach as the Ibizans have done for decades.
The vessel dimensions make them easy to handle and they are perfect for getting to the most inaccessible and beautiful beaches and coves, where you can swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters, or dive among moray eels, octopus and other fish species.
And just when you thought that sailing round the island on board a modern engine powered yacht couldn’t be bettered, an Ibizan wooden treasure, framed by an irresistible and idyllic scenario might remind you that at times the best way of discovering a place is to pay homage to its traditions, and to its seafaring people, faithful guardians of this beautiful and unique cultural heritage.