Raft
Japanese Name:
筏
Romaji Name:
ikada
Description
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A raft is a flat, simple watercraft made by tying logs, bamboo, or other buoyant materials together.
Unlike boats, rafts usually have no hull or rigid frame.
They float on water due to the natural buoyancy of the materials used.
Rafts are often used for crossing rivers, fishing, or transporting goods.
Modern inflatable rafts are made of rubber or synthetic materials.
They are commonly used in rescue operations and recreational rafting.
Rafts are steered with paddles or poles, especially in shallow or calm waters.
Though basic, rafts are effective for short-distance travel on water.
History
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Rafts are among the oldest types of watercraft used by humans.
They were used by ancient civilizations for fishing, trade, and migration.
Historical records show their use in regions like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and South America.
Thor Heyerdahl famously used a raft ("Kon-Tiki") in 1947 to prove ancient sea travel was possible.
In Asia and the Pacific Islands, bamboo rafts were commonly used.
Rafts were often the easiest way to build a vessel with limited tools.
Inflatable rafts were developed in the 20th century, especially for military and emergency use.
Today, rafts remain important in both traditional communities and modern outdoor sports.