In the early 15th century karakas were the largest ships in the Adriatic Sea, and in the 16th century they were some of the largest vessels in the world.

During the 16th century, when the Dubrovnik Republic was at its peak, its shipbuilding industry produced almost 200 ships for the seas of the worlds. Citizens of Dubrovnik had earned a reputation as very distinguished builders of great karaka and galleon ships. That’s why the English name “Argosy” (derived from Ragusa, as Dubrovnik was formerly known), soon after the first Dubrovnik ships arrived in England in 1510, became a synonym for a great trading ship (large cargo ship). Karaka of Dubrovnik is even mentioned by Shakespeare in his play “The Merchant of Venice”.

Between the 14th and 17th centuries, a karaka ship was one of the largest ships of the day. With all of its typical trading activity, it was also one of the most important sailboats of the Mediterranean Sea.

Exsperience!
The travel agency “Navicula” has undertaken the complex task of building a replica of an historic karaka. Sail with the new Karaka around Dubrovnik waters, evoking the rich Dubrovnik maritime history.  “Navicula” is taking tourists out for daily excursions and for occasional special events.

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