Jangada

Watercraft

Effect: Shape

Type: Raft

Place: Central & South America

Size: 19' 0" x 6' 4"

Date: Mid-20th century

Donor: Gift of B. Sessler

Museum Location: 12

Though it is hardly more than a raft of logs with a sail, the jangada is relatively stable and maneuverable on the open ocean and can pass over coastal reefs with ease.

Jangada, mid-20th century
Fortaleza area, Federative Republic of Brazil
Gift of B. Sessler

Though it is hardly more than a raft of logs with a sail, the jangada is relatively stable and maneuverable on the open ocean and can pass over coastal reefs with ease. These qualities make it an excellent fishing craft for the region. The craft has many disadvantages, however: though the wood is very buoyant, the deck is constantly awash with seawater. There is no shelter from storms or the tropical sun, and fishing voyages often last more than a day. The logs are also light and porous and become waterlogged quickly, which means a jangada must be replaced at least every other year.

Origin: Federative Republic of Brazil, Fortaleza Area

Jangada