To learn the trade of maritime carpentry, Xabier Agote travels from Spain to the American state of Maine to build an exact replica of a 19th century fishing vessel. Six months later, he returns to his native Basque Country aboard the vessel he has just built.
In order to share his experience and newfound knowledge, Agote gathers a group of likeminded men: sailors, carpenters and fishermen and together they establish the Albaola Shipyard and Investigation Center. Located in the Port of Pasai Donibane (Basque Country, Spain) the center opens its doors in the year 2000 and has since been promoting the recuperation of ancient carpentry and vessel construction techniques. As well as collaborating with many associations around the world, like the Vasa Museum in Stockholm, the Albaola team also teaches local kids and adults about the maritime heritage of their land, promoting human values like passion and teamwork.
This is the story of one man’s pursuit of a lifelong dream and a group of people willing to work together to keep an ancient tradition alive.
This is the fourth in a series of portraits where Bahco is capturing dedicated and extraordinary professionals all around the globe. The common denominator for all these professionals is their passion for genuine craft and the use of proper tools.
