Catamaran carrying ‘Mission Inclusion’ docks in Salalah

A journey of hope and inclusion recently anchored in Salalah, Oman, as the world's first fully accessible catamaran, Lo Spirito di Stella, berthed at the Hawana boat port. The Italian catamaran, which began its ambitious ‘Mission Inclusion’ on July 1, 2023, has been sailing across five continents to promote inclusion, break stereotypes, and highlight the capabilities of people with disabilities.

During its three-day stop in Salalah, the catamaran welcomed 54 visitors from the Al Wafa Centre for the Rehabilitation of People with Disabilities, along with many others from the local community. The experience left an indelible mark on those who visited, giving them a rare opportunity to connect with a vessel designed to be barrier-free.

For many, the visit to ‘Lo Spirito di Stella’ was transformative. Mona Bait Ali Sulaiman, an autism trainer at Al Wafa Centre, shared her perspective and said, “Both parents and their children with various disabilities enjoyed visiting the catamaran. For most, it was a first-time experience. While some were initially hesitant, they later embraced the adventure and expressed a desire for more such excursions in the future.” Samiya Bawain, Activity In-Charge at the Al Wafa Centre, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the need for inclusive activities.

“This trip demonstrated the importance of initiatives that make people with disabilities feel like integral members of society. I thank the ‘Lo Spirito di Stella’ team for choosing Salalah as one of their stops,” she said.

The catamaran’s journey is not just about sailing; it is a global mission to uphold the values of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Built to accommodate individuals with diverse physical, sensory, and cognitive capabilities, Lo Spirito di Stella symbolises a world without barriers.

Speaking about the project, Gianni Garofalo, captain of the catamaran, said: “Our mission is to show that inclusion is possible in all aspects of life. The catamaran is a testament to overcoming barriers—physical, societal, and emotional. By hosting people with disabilities alongside able-bodied individuals, we foster a shared experience that breaks down stereotypes.” The vessel’s tour also aims to highlight the re-integration of disabled servicemen and women into society.

The story of Lo Spirito di Stella traces back to its founder, Andrea Stella, who faced life-changing circumstances after a spinal injury left him in a wheelchair. Instead of giving up, Stella pursued his passion for sailing, building a fully accessible catamaran in 2003. The vessel became a symbol of resilience and inclusivity, inspiring countless others to challenge limitations.

Till now Lo Spirito di Stella has covered 24 ports across 15 countries. Together, it promotes Italian culture, maritime tradition, and universal values of inclusion.

So far the catamaran has covered France, Spain, Netherlands, Bahamas, USA, Columbia, Panama, Ecuador, Polynesia, Bora Bora, Samoa, Fiji Island, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, UAE, Qatar, and Oman.

“The stop in Salalah highlights Oman’s growing role in supporting global initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusion. As the catamaran continues its journey, it leaves behind not just memories but a powerful message: Everyone has the right to set sail toward their dreams,” said Eleonora, who volunteered to join the catamaran as one of its crews.

Eleonora, a sailing expert with partial disability, loves to spread the message of inclusion for all those who have any kind of physical or mental disability. She landed in Salalah from Italy to join the Catamaran’s future journey.