A sea of possibilities
without barriers—that’s right
A sea of possibilities without barriers—that’s right!
The sea has so much to offer everyone! Here are some in water sports in the spotlight: from accessible sailing to SUP4ALL, Kite4ALL and much more in Lignano Sabbiadoro (in Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, northern Italy). In October, also at the Barcolana in Trieste, the region’s capital city. Trieste is rich in maritime traditions, renowned for its historic port, commercial and shipbuilding activities, as well as for sports initiatives linked to the aquatic environment, with prestigious sports clubs that are breeding grounds for champions and extraordinary expertise.
Northern Italy and the sea
Lignano Sabbiadoro is a very young seaside town that has grown and specialized since the mid-20th century in tourism, beach recreation, and recreational boating, and more recently in welcoming everyone through the local association Tiliaventum.
Since 1987 Tiliaventum has been working to enable all people (including those without disabilities, those with motor or sensory disabilities, the frail, the disadvantaged, and those with rare or terminal illnesses) to enjoy the shared resources of the sea, the lagoon, the beach, the sun, the wind, in sports and regattas. Sharing, together, as active participants through an inclusive approach, on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Free from physical (architectural), mental, and economic barriers (free of charge for participants).
Sailboats, motorboats, sup and kiteboards
In fact, the association has equipped itself and can rely on an accessible logistics base located within the D-Marin Punta Faro marina. And there is the accessible watercraft such as the Càpita sailboat. This is a 9.50 meter daysailer that individuals can board independently, even while using a motorized or electric wheelchair. You can steer and perform maneuvers, adjust the sails, participate in regattas – even those not specifically designated as Paralympic events. Or you go on the 4All motorboat, which also offers independent access, allowing users to navigate the lagoon’s stunning aquatic scenery. Off you go fishing or engage in other recreational, sporting and swimming activities. If you are interested, you can also use specially adapted equipment such as the Sup4All board or the Kite/Wing4All board. All is supported by technical staff and volunteers.
10.000 days of accessible water sports
For the Lignano-based association, it is also time for its mid-year review. President and Instructor Daniele Passoni explains: more than 400 inclusive sessions per person have already been held January through August 2026, bringing the total to 10,000 dedicated days throughout the association’s history.
Sea 4 All
The association has received international awards and recognition for organizing well-established experimental courses promoting inclusion. Tiliaventum has been offering the community and the surrounding area institutional events, educational initiatives, testimonials, and opportunities to spread the powerful message that a civil society must offer everyone the chance to share a peaceful daily life. Participating in regattas – even those not specifically Paralympic – with inclusive crews and achieving podium finishes are rewarding challenges that help spread this powerful message.
The project Sea4All is the centerpiece of these “traditional” activities. For several years now and again this October in the Barcolana Village. Nothing is sold, but the powerful message that the sea and these events belong to everyone and are for everyone. There, smiles are shared as free opportunities to sail are offered in the festive atmosphere of the legendary Barcolana.
You can go aboard the accessible sailboat Càpita and other vessels specially brought in to participate in the regatta, while also enjoying the traditional daily social gatherings enriched by local delicacies (mornings and afternoons (7-10 October).
Accessibility information resources
In Friuli Venezia Giulia, there is also a dedicated website featuring a detailed map of the region that is continuously being expanded and updated. This website is enriched with images, descriptions, on-site surveys with measurements and much more to provide people with as much information as possible. This accessibility information is verified by third-party technical experts, under the coordination of the Regional Council for People with Disabilities and CRIBA, regarding the accessibility of venues (museums, historical, archaeological and natural sites, tourist routes, hotels and commercial facilities. Transportation and even venues that offer experiences for everyone, including, of course, Tiliaventum in Lignano Sabbiadoro).
Fair winds and smooth seas for everyone in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and long live the Barcolana for Everyone!
