Personal Stories About Life in Coastal Communities Around the World
Maritime cultures are intensely practical and very often highly spiritual or superstitious. To live near the sea is to welcome her bounty and be awed by her power. Those in maritime communities learn the methods of mastering this vast resource to the extent that is possible while developing a healthy respect for the wild unpredictability of the world's waters and marine life.
The culture of maritime communities encompasses tangible aspects like boat-building and fishing, as well as intangible elements like traditions, rituals, and stories.
Traditional industries like fishing, boat-building, and salt harvesting form a core part of the economy and skills passed down through generations.
Traditional navigation methods, such as using stars, wind, and waves, are often intertwined with local beliefs, rituals, and cosmology.
These cultures often include unique architectural styles, community celebrations that honor the ocean, and a deep understanding of marine ecosystems that influences their stewardship of resources.
Maritime culture also influences art, religion, and trade, but it faces modern challenges from economic globalization and climate change.
Maritime traditions reflect the tangible and intangible dimensions of nautical life and encompass hard skills such as boat-building, fishing, salt harvesting as well as nuanced and mystical rituals, ceremonies and festivals.
The Blue Grotto in Malta, along with the Grand Harbor and Marsaxlokk Bay, are a trio of the island’s must-see sights. Learn more! In Cartagena beach of La Boquilla, ecotourism is preserving mangrove forests and the cultural heritage of its Afro Caribbean community. The Isle of Mull and neighboring Iona tell Scotland’s story, and have been drawing seekers for millennia from Vikings to eco-tourists. Lobster fishing in Maine is the state’s favorite maritime hobby. Learn from Julie Eaton, a lobster boat captain from Deer Isle. Considering a Hebridean cruise? Our interview with Isle of Mull skipper shares the wonders of life on the water of the Inner Hebrides. Fishing villages of Cornwall exude an historic charm and quaintness that have long made harbors like those of Mevagissey and Polperro. Our interview with the curator of the Penobscot Marine Museum in Searsport Maine reveals the enthralling life of maritime Maine historically and today. The Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Charlestown offers a delightful excursion and window into the history of coastal Cornwall. Go off-the-beaten path with Francesca Lamantea for a taste of local life with a visit to Goro, Ferrara in the Italian region Emilia-Romagna. The best beach in Cyprus is revealed by a local who shares the location of a little-known five-kilometer stretch of pristine coastline. Building a wooden boat is a Norwegian tradition dating back to the Vikings. Åsmund Lien, formerly of Oselvar, gives insight to its history. Rosemaling is a traditional folk-art that originated in the valleys of Norway and has become a painting technique admired worldwide. The Lochs of Scotland are plentiful and culturally significant. Allow PAC to guide you through ten of the country’s most alluring lochs.
Blue Grotto in Malta is One of Island’s Three Amazing Maritime Attractions
Mangroves Are Explored and Protected with Sustainable Tourism By Eco Activist
Isle of Mull and Neighboring Iona Tell Scotland’s Story
Maine Lobsterman Teaches Lessons in Humility, Humor, and Life
Hebridean Cruise Skipper Shares Insights on Life on Isle of Mull
Fishing Villages in Cornwall | The Character Behind the Charm
Penobscot Marine Museum Curator Brings Maine History to Life
Shipwreck Treasure Museum Reveals History of Cornwall’s Coast
Discover Goro! Charming Fishing Community in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna Region
Local Reveals Off-the-Beaten Path Best Beach in Cyprus
Building a Wooden Boat with Co-Founder of Oselvar Workshop
Norwegian Rosemaling Tradition is a “Painted Language”
Lochs of Scotland Inspire Scottish Folklore and History