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Traditional Oruwa outrigger canoes sharing the lineup at Midigama

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L
Liam J.•6590 rep•2

I noticed traditional wooden sailing canoes catching waves near the surfers at Midigama. What is the history of these Oruwa boats and are they safe to surf around.

7
safetysurfing

2 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

The Oruwa is an ancient Sinhalese outrigger canoe design that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The rectangular sail design was perfected by local fishermen to navigate the tricky coastal winds. They are incredibly fast. The fishermen have been riding these reef swells long before modern surfing arrived in Sri Lanka.

31
A
Anjali F.•16050 rep•1

They are master navigators, but you should absolutely give them the right of way. They cannot turn sharply. If you see an Oruwa returning to shore on a wave at Midigama or Weligama, paddle wide to the shoulder to let them pass safely.

38
R
Ruwan P.•11470 rep•1

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