Kétórás

Kétórás is a type of traditional Greek boat that originated in the 19th century. The name "kétórás" translates to "two-outrigger" in English, which refers to the boat's unique design feature of having two outrigger-like structures, or "puties", on either side of the hull.

The kétórás was used primarily in the Aegean Islands and the surrounding waters, where it was employed for fishing, transportation, and other maritime activities. The boat's design was well-suited to the rough waters of the Aegean, where sturdy vessels were necessary for survival.

Characteristics of the kétórás include a narrow, flat hull, a high stern, and a pair of laterally placed outriggers. The outriggers were typically about two-thirds the length of the hull, and were connected to the mast via a series of thick ropes. This design feature allowed the boat to navigate through choppy waters with greater stability and balance.

The kétórás had a crew of two to four people, who were responsible for maneuvering the vessel through rough seas. The boat was typically powered by sail, although rowing was also a common method of propulsion.

Although the kétórás is no longer a widely used vessel, its design and construction techniques have influenced the development of other traditional Greek boats. Today, many kétórás vessels have been preserved and are on display in museums and maritime heritage centers, where they serve as a reminder of Greece's rich maritime history and cultural heritage.