Ancient History - The 'Coracle' (Part 4)
It's time to continue our quest as we study Ancient SUP vessels, and this week is our final post in this series - we hope we saved the best to last.
In our previous three posts, we have covered the Peruvians, Israelis, and Italians which all SUP on historic vessels respectively called Cabillito De Totora (little reed horses), Hasake & the Gondola.
However, today is the turn of our Welsh with a vessel known to many as the Coracle!
Was this the first paddle action EVER recorded in Wales???
Coracles date all the back to the 1st century BC, during the time when Julius Caesar 1st invaded Britain.
Their original purpose of the Coracle was used for fishing as the craft does not disturb marine life. Similar to us on our SUP's.
Coracles are made with a framework of split willow branches, twisted together and tied with willow bark. The outer layer was made from animal skin from a horse or bullock.
Today they are made from Calico or canvas in tar, or simply fiberglass.
Similar to SUP, Coracles do not need much water to float – as little as several inches, making them ideal for use on rivers.
The Welsh Coracle can be carried by one person on their back, which we think holds a striking resemblance to an ISUP.
Coracles are still used today, and you might be able to spot them in and around Wales especially whilst out paddling on rivers Teifi & Tywi.
Ka-boom! So there you have it, fun facts about ancient paddling, right here in beautiful Wales. So what we'd like to understand, has anyone tried the Coracle? and if so, has anyone ever tried to stand up on one?