Proa (or prau) - an umbrella term that covers many different types of ships the Malay-Indonesian world.
A class of boats found i large numbers off the north coast of Java and off Madura. Primarily fishing boats* working offshore with the payang (a bag-type net), although in the off-season they may troll or handline. Some that no longer operate were small coasters* (the Java trader). Vary somewhat from district to district, often known by special names. Distinguished by a very large, flat recurved stemhead and a similar but generally smaller sternpost; size and shape of ends vary regionally.Carvel-planked planks merging in a smooth curv with the sharp, raked ends. Lack ribs but strengthened with bulkheads that divide the hull into fish rooms. Flat floors amidships; low freeboard; coasters had raised sides. Fishing boat often decked only at the ends; cargo carriers generally decked and might have a bamboo house abaft the mast. In some Maduran areas decorative "horns" extended outboard at the ends to support the nets. Steered with 1-2 quarter rudders or a sweep. Early mayangs had outriggers. Proa was typical for ultra-wide rectangular lugsail fastened on two yards. Reduced sail in the same direction in height, so the yards, which is usually a slender Ryu were not parallel. The mast was short, and on top of the pulley was to halliard.
. The Java trader carried a jib to a slender bowsprit. At the outer end of the bowsprit there was a hole through which spent tack-rope for pulling of the lower triangular jib tack.
For cargo served one hold.
Crew of larger vessels ca. 10-20. Reported lengths 6-20m; e.g., length 12м beam 3m, depth 1.0m; shallow draft.
Experimental captains successfully led proa in much of the cut and teeming underwater shoals with coastal areas of Indonesia and Malaysia.
Indonesia 1980,150,0; SG1564
Source : A Dictionary of the world’s Watercraft from Aak to Zumbra.
V.A.Dygalo: Sailing the world, part 1.