Large numbers of Trieste's citizens are quite able to sail as long as the sea and weather conditions remain not too difficult.
Sailing, along with climbing, is one of the most popular sports in the area: there are several sailing clubs of various sizes, and throughout the year these encourage sea-based activities and organise training and educational courses and sessions which are open to members, would-be sailors and schools. The summer season is mainly dedicated to youngsters, who have a wide choice of courses of different levels and duration designed for specific age groups. Many local sailing schools organise weekend or week-long courses to teach first the theoretical part and then the practical aspects of sailing, and often offer inclusive packages for visitors from outside the city These sailing and sports clubs, long-standing associations and national institutions such as the Lega Navale Italiana - which houses a library on the subject in the old lighthouse - have all made their contribution towards making Trieste one of the most important centres for sailing in the Mediterranean. The Barcolana, the now traditional regatta held annually in the gulf of Trieste on the second Sunday of October, is one of the most popular events of its kind in the world.

Point of interest
Children can begin sailing in Trieste's clubs from the age of six thanks to small dinghies called optimist, not exceeding 21/2 metres in length and specially designed for youngsters.
Young people really enjoy the sport known as match race which allows them to race in boats of the same class.