The batel must not be confused with the battela which is an entirely different type of dhow. It is said that its hull is the one that most closely resembles the Portuguese vessels that first came to India and on seeing the stern of a battela it is realised how favourable the comparison is. Like most Indian coasting dhows the hull is completely open except where there is a short deck right aft. Bow and stern rise steeply from a fairly level waist and frequently there are no bul¬warks whatsoever amidships and when necessary bamboo and matting screens are erected. Sometimes these are of a semi-permanent nature. It is customary to paint the bul¬warks where possible with imitation square ports to remind us that at one time it was essential for all ships to carry guns to ensure a safe passage. The high stern must also be a carry over from the Portuguese caravel's stern castle.
Battelas differ little in size from other coasting dhows and range from 60 to 80 or more feet in extreme length. Due to the excessive overhang of the stem, however, the length on the unladen water line is always considerably less. A battela measuring, say 40 feet between perpendiculars and 75 feet overall would have a breadth of about 17 feet. These mea-surements would be applicable to a 55 ton vessel. Вattelas generally step three masts and carry a topsail on the fore or what is really the main mast. The small aftermost mast is usually stepped outside the transom. From the long raking bowsprit a most expansive jib is set, baggy as are all the sails of a battela.
Маldive Islands 1978; 2LA; SG747. 1985;5la;1109.
Ras al Khaima 1964;5r;SG 8.
Sourse:C.Hawkins:The Dhow