Types of Rowing Craft You will see many different types of boats in use in Sea Scouting and around the country. Some names used may descibe a different type or size of boat, which may have a different meaning in Britain or elsewhere.
Cot The word “cot” is commonly used in the South-east, particularly on the rivers Slaney, Barrow, Nore and Suir. The name comes from an Irish word “coite” meaning a small boat. Cots are found in various sizes, but usually – they are flatbottomed, double-ended, and are usually used for fishing. On the river Barrow the cots are quite small and are propelled by one or two men facing forward using paddles like a canoe.
Dinghy This usually means a small, light sailing boat, with a centre board. However the name “dinghy” may also be used for any small rowing boat or small inflatable boat.
Currach or Naomhóg These are the traditional tarred canvas covered boats found on the West coast. Three distinct types of boat are found in Donegal, Conemara and Kerry. “Naomhóg” is the name given to them in Kerry. They are usually propelled by three pairs of oars, which are mounted on single thole pins and have narrow blades.
Punt This name may also be used for a small rowing boat, and often the words “punt’ and “dinghy” may be used for the same craft.
Skiff This name is used around the coasts of Ireland for open sea rowing boats, usually clinkerbuilt and pulling 4 oars. They have developed from old pilot or fishing boats and are now used for sea racing. The East Coast Skiff, found between Skerries and Wicklow, is a 24 foot long, doubleended, open sea boat. The name skiff is used for different sizes of rowing boats in West Cork and in Donegal.
Sea Scout Standard boat This is the “B.P. 18” which was designed specially for Sea Scouts in Ireland. It is made of fibreglass and is 18 feet long. It may be rowed with 2, 4 or 6 oars and may be rigged for sailing. Many Sea Scout Troops have one of these boats and they are widely used for general Sea Scout training and for regattas and National Competitions.
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