The Traditional Dhow
Since time immemorial, Oman has been a
seafaring nation. In fact, as far back as the 8th century, an Omani vessel
reached Canton in China.
The traditional dhew, also popularly known as Al Boum, Al Ghanjah, Shu'i,
Al Badan, etc. which were used in trading, weathered stormed to reach
ports in Iran, India, South-East Asia and further down the African coast
in Zanzibar.
Even today, the tradional dhew dots Oman's coasline, along with Fulk
Esalamah, Zenat Al Behar and Sohar.
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Al Ghanjah
Easily distinguishable by its typical
stem-head with trefoil crest, Al Ghanjah was formerly used in trading.
having a capacity of 130 to 300 tons, this boat used to be built in Sur.
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Al Boum
Easily distinguishable by its high, straight stem-post set
at 45°, its load is varied between 74 and 400 tons. Al Boum is used for
transporting passengers and goods.
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The Shashah
The Shashah is a small, primitive fishing craft (made of
date palm sticks bound together with coir). it is usually about 10 feet
long and can accommodate one or two persons. it is mainly used for fishing
on the Batinah coas.
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The Baggarah
Generally 25 to 35 feet in length, a number of them can be
found on the Batinah coast, especially at Mjis and southwards from it.
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Al Badan
One of Oman's most popular boats, Al Badan is used for
fishing and coastal cargo-carrying throughout the country. It has a load
capacity of 20 to 100 tons and is one of Oman's older boats.
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Sohar
In November 1980, the dhew 'Sohar', a replica of the
medieval 10th century ships, sailed from Muscat to Canton in China.
Navigating without the use of modern aids, it reached its destination a
year later in November 1981.
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The Huri
A small dug-out canoe, the Huri is normally between 10 and
20 feet in length. it is generally used for fishing and short-haul
transport. it is the most common small boat in Omani waters.
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Al Sambuq
One of Oman's and the Arab world's most common sailing
vessels, Al Sambuq has a load capacity as varied as 20 to 150 tons. In the
past, Al Sambuq was used for diving to collect pearls but now it is used
for carrying cargo and transporting passengers. it can be found in the
Saham and Sur regions.
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The Abubuz
A plain, functional cargo vessel, the Abubuz is similar in
size to the Sambuq. The Abubuz is a boat of recent origin derived from
continuing Omani efforts to incorporate features of European sailing
ships.
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The Shu'i
A general purpose coastal boat, the Shu'i is currently
being built at Sur. One of the smaller-size boats of Oman, it is built low
with a high quarter deck.
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SNV Shabab Oman
One of the largest wooden-hulled ships in the world, SNV
Shabab Oman entered service in the Royal Navy of Oman in 1979 for use as a
Sail Training Vessel. It has an overall length of 177 feet, a beam of 28
feet and a maximum draft of 15 feet.
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Sewn Al Sambuq
A boat of great antiquity, the sewn Al Sambuq is one of
the most interesting boat types in Oman. Beautifully crafted to precision,
it is found along the Dhofari coast.
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