Jukung Fishing Boats

A jukung is a traditional fishing dual outrigger canoe using a sail or more and more frequently a little motor.Most ot them are small(5 m long) and can be easily hauled out of the water and parked on the beach.They can carry 2 or 3 passengers.
There are also larger models used to carry snorkellers or divers,some with glass bottom and thus,the fishermen supplement their lmited incomes.
They are built following a strict set of religious guidelines and according to the body's measurements of the owner.After the choice of a trunk of a Blalu or Camplung tree,the tree is cut down on an auspicious day according to the ancient Balinese calendar(Dewasa Ayu) and left to dry till another auspicious day and the construction can begin.
Like Human beings, the jukung is not symmetrical,its bamboo floats are not parralel.This asymmetry gives a heightened degree of stability,even in bad weather.Once fully constructed and paint,offerings are presented to the Gods,and the jukung is sprinkled with holy water by the priest.
The marlinshape praw is decorated with a picture of Gajah Mina(elephant fish) which guides the vessel,in particular at night and takes away the devils.