Akterpisk

Akterpisk, also known as the Akterpisker, is a traditional Dutch sailing vessel that was commonly used for coastal trade and fishing in the Netherlands and Belgium. The term "Akterpisk" translates to "afterdeck" in English, referring to the stern deck of the ship. These vessels were typically small to medium-sized, with a length ranging from 15 to 30 meters, and were designed for maneuverability and stability in shallow waters.

The Akterpisker was characterized by its square-rigged sails, which allowed it to sail close to the wind and navigate through narrow channels and shallow waters. The vessel had a single mast, with a square sail on the foremast and a square sail on the mainmast. The stern deck was often used for storage and as a workspace, while the forward deck was used for living quarters and sleeping areas.

Akterpiskers were typically powered by a single sail, with a crew of 4 to 12 people. They were used for a variety of purposes, including fishing, transporting goods, and even as a means of personal transportation. The Akterpisker was an important part of the Dutch and Belgian maritime history, and many of these vessels are still in use today, particularly in the coastal regions of the Netherlands and Belgium.