Origin of Rabelo Boats
Many years before the emergence of roads and railways, Rabelo boats were widely used historically on the Douro River in Portugal. The river was not as calm as we see it today; it was rough, with a turbulent current. With the construction of dams, the waters became calmer.
These boats appeared in the 18th century and were used to transport Port wine from the vineyards in the Douro to the storage cellars in Porto.
Due to the turbulent waters of the Douro River, Rabelo boats featured:
- A square sail that facilitated more agile movement during the journey.
- Higher extremities to prevent water from entering the vessel.
- Wooden construction, providing resistance and flexibility in the Douro’s waters.
- A capacity of 40 to 100 barrels (10 to 15 tons) and a crew of 12 men who positioned themselves to maintain the boat’s balance.
- A wide, flat hull that allowed them to navigate shallow waters.
The Catholic religion had a strong influence in Portugal, particularly in the Douro region, where most people were very religious. Sailors and brave men gave religious names to the boats to express their faith, believing that the name would protect the vessel from storms and tragedies, as the river was treacherous and violent.
Today, the most representative event for Rabelo boats is the São João Festival, which takes place on June 24 in Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, with parades and celebrations linked to Port wine. There is also the Rabelo Boat Regatta, where replicas of the boats compete on the Douro River as a maritime tradition and a reminder of their historical importance in wine transportation.
In conclusion, Rabelo boats had a significant impact on the history of regional wine transportation. Nowadays, they are used for tourist cruises, allowing visitors to admire the breathtaking views of the city and learn more about the history of Port wine production, immersing themselves in the local culture and tradition.
