14. Some Dhow Statistics
Statistics below are useful for ship rules described in the 4th Edition expansion titled The Mythic Seas.
The Gharab is a large oceangoing dhow used for long-haul trade and transporting large cargo loads. It has a rounded hull and high sides, providing stability in rough seas. Its construction is robust, featuring sewn planks and a reinforced keel. The Gharab is often used for transporting high-value cargo, such as spices, textiles, and metals, as well as ferrying pilgrims across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. Its large lateen sails make it effective at leveraging monsoon winds for efficient travel.
- Hull Size: 6
- Seaworthiness Levels: OK/–1/–1/–2/–3/–5/Swamped
- Material: Sewn-plank wood (Soak: 7)
- Crew Size: 20–30 sailors.
- Propulsion: Large lateen sails (Speed: 4)
- Steering: Steering oar (Maneuver: +1)
- Cargo Capacity: 200 tons
- Extras:
- Bulk cargo holds
- Accommodation for passengers (the party, pilgrims)
- Reinforced keel for stability in rough seas
- Role in Play: Ideal for long-distance trade and narrative-driven adventures involving bulk cargo or transporting the party.
The Sambuk is a medium-sized, double-ended dhow widely used for regional trade, fishing, and pearl diving. Its curved prow and straight stern enhance seaworthiness, and its construction using sewn-plank techniques makes it both lightweight and durable. A single lateen sail allows the Sambuk to navigate effectively with monsoon winds, making it indispensable for merchants operating in the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean. The vessel is versatile enough to carry goods such as textiles, spices, and pearls while being maneuverable in shallow waters.
- Hull Size: 5
- Seaworthiness Levels: OK/–1/–2/–3/–5/Swamped
- Material: Sewn-plank wood (Soak: 6)
- Crew Size: 6–15 sailors.
- Propulsion: Single lateen sail (Speed: 5)
- Steering: Steering oar (Maneuver: +1)
- Cargo Capacity: 50 tons (larger variants up to 100 tons)
- Extras:
- Flexible cargo space for high-value goods like pearls or spices.
- Excellent maneuverability in both shallow waters and open seas.
- Role in Play: Highly versatile, suited for regional trade and short-to-medium range voyages. Ideal for smaller trade missions or interactions with coastal towns.
The Shuʿai is a small, utilitarian dhow designed for fishing and short-range trade. Its pointed bow and stern enable it to navigate shallow waters and estuaries, while its simple design emphasizes function over ornamentation. Often constructed from locally available timber, the Shuʿai uses sewn-plank methods and is rigged with a small lateen sail. It is primarily used by fishermen and small-scale traders, transporting essentials like grain, dried fish, and pottery.
- Hull Size: 3
- Seaworthiness Levels: OK/–1/–2/–3/Swamped
- Material: Sewn-plank wood (Soak: 4)
- Crew Size: 3–5 sailors.
- Propulsion: Small lateen sail (Speed: 3)
- Steering: Steering oar (Maneuver: +2)
- Cargo Capacity: 10 tons
- Extras:
- Simplistic design, perfect for navigating estuaries and small harbors.
- Primarily used for local fishing and coastal transport.
- Role in Play: Great for interactions with smaller, localized trade or fishing communities.