Sur: The city of Sur is known for its history and continues to manufacture marine vessels, fishing and shipping. It has a long maritime history. Al Aygah is the most gorgeous area whose lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Sultanate to guide ships to docking.
A short trip Sur which is located just 150 KM from Muscat would provide visitors a great opportunity to visit the ‘Boatyard’. This inimitable area is more than just a task; it is an excessive image which reflects the marine life style in Oman.
The Boat Yard contains many of Dhows and the workers still using the traditional ways as well as materials to manufacture old-style ships.
Dhows usually are made from different types of woods such as; Bamboo, Mahogany, Teak and Cedar wood.
Around two kilometers before the Boat Yard one can see an old ship named: ‘Fateh Al Khair’. Locals at Sur called it ‘Agangha’. It is a tube ship which is distinct from other types of ships by its rectangular stern.
The sources indicate that: “its beautiful 45pc angled beak. Its exquisite inscriptions and decorations, and obtaining a semicircular geometric pattern which is typically of sur. It is also considered the last of the transcontinental ships of the seafaring fleet of the city.
This ship was built in the 28th of May 1951 in Al Rasha district in Sur. It was built by renowned builder Mohammed bin Khamis Al Araimi and owned by the captain (Nokhada) Saled bin Ali Al Qasmi.
Its first trip was to Basrah in Iraq. Then it sailed to a number of ports of the Arab Gulf countries, Yemen and the eastern cost of Africa and India. The ship finaly landed in Al Bateh bay in 18th of June 1993”.
The cornice of Sur also offers a charming view. From above of the bridge which crosses the village of Al Ayjah the three watching towers can be seen obviously.
TEXT & PHOTOS BY: YAHYA AL SALMANI
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