Feluccas are traditional sailing vessels used in Egypt and the Mediterranean since ancient times. They feature a narrow design and lateen rig, and are mainly used for tourism and pleasure. They use the breeze and currents for power, and are made of wood or other materials. Felucca trips can last from an hour to several days.
A felucca is a sailing vessel native to Egypt and the Mediterranean. These boats have been used since ancient times by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, and although today they are mainly used as tourist attractions and pleasure craft, a few feluccas can still be seen in operation in various corners of the Mediterranean. Perhaps these boats are most associated with the Nile River in Egypt, and many tourists take a felucca ride during a visit to Egypt.
These craft are narrow, designed to move quickly and efficiently, and feature lateen rigs, a type of rig characterized by a triangular sail. Lateen rig also appears to be native to the Mediterranean, although it can also be seen on some traditional Chinese boats. A standard felucca can accommodate two to three crew members along with 10 passengers, with some boats designed to carry cargo while others are definitely built with passengers in mind.
Feluccas use the breeze skimming the Nile’s surface for power, and captains can also take advantage of the prevailing currents in the river. On a cool, windy day, a felucca can move briskly along the river, while calmer weather can cause the boat to move slowly. Like other sailing vessels, feluccas are also very calm, in stark contrast to the motorboats that ply the Nile and the Mediterranean.
Traditionally, the felucca is made of wood, although modern boats use other materials because they are cheaper and can be more durable. The boat usually has a seating area with cushions in the middle that can surround a table that can be used to store food and drink. Egyptians sometimes rent feluccas for a few hours for social gatherings on the Nile, especially in the hot summer months when being on the coast can be unbearable. Felucca trips can last from an hour to several days, although long trips can be uncomfortable because the boats are not designed for sleeping.
People who are interested in taking a felucca sailing trip while in Egypt can often find a multitude of these boats near the shores of the Nile. Fares vary, but are generally inexpensive, and tourists may find it advisable to seek recommendations. from your hotel receptionists or travel organizations. As with any sailing trip, if the ship seems unseaworthy or the captain seems suspicious, people should find another boat to sail.
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