Thai kruising
Thailand is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage. The country is famous for its delicious cuisine, gorgeous beaches, and stunning temples. But one attraction that many tourists often overlook is the Thai kruising. A kruising is a type of traditional Thai boat that is used for transportation, fishing, and even as a floating market. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the history of Thai kruising, its different types, and its significance in Thai culture.
The history of Thai kruising
The history of Thai kruising dates back to over 700 years ago. The first recorded use of kruising was during the Sukhothai period (1238-1438), where it was mainly used for transportation and trade. During the Ayutthaya period (1351-1767), kruising became an essential part of Thai culture and tradition. The boats were not only used for transportation but also for ceremonies and festivals.
Thai kruising is a unique blend of Thai and Chinese boat-building techniques. The boats are built with teak wood and have a distinctive steep bow and stern. The design of the boat is also influenced by the waterways in Thailand, which are narrow and winding.
Types of Thai kruising
Long-tailed boat
The long-tailed boat is the most common type of kruising in Thailand. It is a narrow wooden boat with a long propeller shaft that is driven by an engine. The propeller is covered with a protective metal cage, which gives the boat its nickname – ‘long-tailed.’ These boats are mainly used for fishing and transportation.
Sampan
The sampan is a flat-bottomed boat that is shaped like a bowl. These boats are mainly used in shallow waters and rivers. They are powered by a long pole that is used to push the boat forward. Sampans are used for ferrying people across rivers and for transportation of goods.
Significance in Thai Culture
Kruising is an integral part of Thai culture, and it has been so for centuries. The boats are not only used for transportation but also for festivals and ceremonies. One of the most famous festivals that make use of kruising is the Thai boat ceremony. During this festival, beautifully decorated kruising boats are paraded along the river with offerings to the river goddess. The ceremony symbolizes the importance of water in the lives of Thai people, and it is a way to show gratitude to the river goddess.
The Future of Thai Kruising
Despite being an essential part of Thai culture, Thai kruising is slowly disappearing. With the advent of modern transportation, traditional kruising boats are no longer in demand. Many boat builders have switched to building modern boats to meet the increasing demand. However, the Thai government is making efforts to preserve this cultural heritage by promoting traditional kruising boats as tourist attractions. Many tourists are now taking boat rides on kruising boats to experience the traditional Thai way of life.
Conclusion
Thai kruising is an integral part of Thai culture and tradition. The boats are used for transportation, fishing, and ceremonies. Despite the decline in their use, the Thai government is making efforts to preserve this cultural heritage. A ride on a kruising boat is a unique experience that offers tourists an insight into the traditional Thai way of life.
FAQs
Q: How are kruising boats built?
A: Kruising boats are typically built out of teak wood and are crafted using a mix of traditional Thai and Chinese boat-building techniques.
Q: What are kruising boats used for?
A: Kruising boats are used for transportation, fishing, and even as floating markets.
Q: What is the significance of kruising boats in Thai culture?
A: Kruising boats have been an integral part of Thai culture for centuries. They are used for festivals and ceremonies and symbolize the importance of water in the lives of Thai people.
Q: How can I experience kruising if I visit Thailand?
A: Many tour operators in Thailand offer kruising boat rides as part of their tours.
Q: Are kruising boats safe?
A: Yes, kruising boats are safe to ride in if they are well-maintained and operated by experienced boatmen.