Trabakul is a large coastal vessel capable of reaching the other side of Adriatic. It is similar to Bracera but larger and with two masts. The hull is broad and has a keel. Its bow and stern have a pointed egg-like shape. Retrofitted with eyes, the front of the bow has a decorative element. The railing is up to half a meter high. Its rudder protrudes well below the keel. The frame and planking are made of oak. It has two masts typically made of a single piece, but they can have extensions not used for sails. Both masts are fitted with gaff sails each with three reefing positions. Most of its shipping space is occupied warehouse. The main hatchway is in the middle with two smaller hatchways at the bow and stern for crew and supplies. The sheer line rises from the midship more towards the bow and less towards the stern.

Typical overall length is between 14 and 20 meters (can reach up to 30 m); the beam is between 3.5 and 5 meters and the freeboard is between 1.5 and 2 meters. Since 1920. also has a diesel engine. Trabakul has two anchors with chains.

Its deadweight is between 40 and 140 tons and she usually carry crew of 4 to 5 people.

For a long time trabakul has been the backbone of coastal shipping in Adriatic sea.

Italian trabakul had a higher vertical stern post and shorter steering;