Italian Women in Boatbuilding

Eighteen months ago we wrote about the Women in Boat Building films made in the UK. Well the good news is they are back with their first-ever international feature.

In this episode, they travel to Italy’s iconic coastline for The Italian Boatbuilders Tour, a deep dive into the country’s boatbuilding tradition, where gender disparity remains a significant challenge.

“While shooting the British Boatbuilders 2023 Tour, we noticed the relatively low representation of women in the U.K.'s boatyards and sail lofts. In Italy, however, the gender gap is even more pronounced. Despite this, or maybe because of this, the women we interviewed are nothing short of trailblazers—passionate about their craft and determined to make their mark. From the storied gondola workshops of Venice to the home-based boatyards of Sardinia, this episode highlights a diverse range of women practicing both traditional and contemporary boatbuilding techniques. One interviewee repurposes discarded sails to create innovative new products, while another is transforming her boat into a floating music venue. Through their resilience and ingenuity, these women are paving the way for future generations, proving that there is, indeed, a place for women in Italy’s marine industry. We hope their stories inspire others to explore the world of boating and challenge the status quo.”