Why would you want to sail an Oruwa; an enthralling symbol of the country’s maritime heritage, crafted with ingenuity and passed down through generations?
Carved from sturdy yet lightweight wood, these twin-hulled vessels can be seen gracefully gliding through the turquoise waters by the fishermen of southern Sri Lanka. Their design, perfected over centuries, allows for stability even in the choppiest of tides, making them ideal for both fishing and transportation.
It has a square sail with the top corners held in place with two long bamboo poles. There are two basic types of Oruwa, the bala-oruwa and the pala-oruwa. The bala-oruwa has a square sail with the top corners held in place by two long bamboo poles. The single outrigger is always kept windward. The pala-oruwa is smaller in size and the outrigger is both windward and leeward, depending on the sailing direction, as in a conventional boat.
What truly sets the oruwa apart, is the craftsmanship that adorns each one. Elaborate carvings and vibrant, intricate paintings adorn the boat’s hull, telling stories of local legends and folklore. These catamarans are more than just boats; they are living art pieces, a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka.
“Oruwa” room at 33 lake Terrace is inspired by the traditional fishing canoes used by local fisherman, for centuries held together not by iron bolts but coir cross-stitching threaded by a shipwright’s needle. Their iconic silhouettes are described in ancient texts by the seafarers of the Roman Empire. This suite’s most striking feature is the replica wooden catamaran bedhead with rattan sail, which is bound to the mast with authentic coir rope. The timber framework constructed around the vanity unit has been designed, painted and distressed to give the appearance of old boat timbers, as have the other pieces of furniture, all locally hand made.
The authentic craftsmanship, the storied carvings, and the captivating narrative of “Oruwa” will transport you to a place where history and artistry converge, inviting you to experience the essence of this timeless culture for yourself.