This week, we set sail as part of the “Sea Voyage” course in our Maritime Strategy program, focusing on connecting historical heritage with contemporary maritime policy. The course, co-led by Dr. Igal Berenshtein and Dr. Yoav Lehahn, is designed around a practical approach: learning about strategic, environmental, and historical topics of the Eastern Mediterranean while sailing, observing coastal sites firsthand, and engaging in conversations in a comfortable setting.

Aboard the yacht, with our small group and the Mediterranean breeze, we enjoyed a productive atmosphere for sharing knowledge about the sea.

Students presented on topics of personal interest throughout the voyage. The group explored Arsuf-Apollonia as an important site of maritime cultures, examined fishing regulations in Israel from the Mandate period to today, and discussed Jewish maritime history.

This hands-on approach helped participants enhance their research abilities while developing a deeper connection to the material. Our diverse group – including conservationists, legal professionals, maritime experts, industry representatives, and urban planners – each added valuable insights to our discussions.

The journey represents what we aim to achieve in this course: using the sea as a backdrop for understanding history, policy, and shared learning. It combines theory and practice in a memorable educational experience.

Looking forward to more learning opportunities on the Mediterranean!