Located in the Kvarner region of the northern Croatian Adriatic Sea, Rab is among the "greenest" Croatian islands, thanks to its mild climate. The island's historical heart is the town of the same name, where medieval charm pervades its narrow streets. Many buildings date back to the 13th century, reflecting Rab's years spent under Venetian rule. Climbing the Rab Bell Tower rewards visitors with views of the town and sea, offering a glimpse into the island's storied past. Unique among Croatian islands, Rab is famous for its sandy beaches, particularly around the Lopar Peninsula. These golden shores, combined with the island's historical allure, make Rab a captivating destination. After a morning onshore and lunch onboard, we immerse ourselves in a Croatian tradition, with a concert by a klapa group. Inscribed in 2012 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, klapa is uniquely Croatian. This multipart a cappella tradition from southern Croatia's Dalmatia region features groups of singers, including first tenors, tenori, baritoni, and basi. Performers stand in a semicircle, with the first tenor initiating the song, to create a harmonious blend of voices. Often dealing with themes of love and local life, klapa songs are performed using open guttural, nasal, and falsetto techniques without notation. The tradition, passed down orally, includes 'traditional klapa' for its adherence to custom, 'festival klapa' for formal performances, and 'modern klapa', where younger singers learn through experiences and recordings. Klapa singing remains a vital marker of musical identity in local communities in Croatia, with several groups calling Rab home. ...
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