Kora-Kora

The kora-kora was a large outrigger war canoe of the Maluku (Spice Islands) region, propelled by dozens of paddlers and used both by local rulers for inter-island raiding and by the Dutch East India Company for its punitive “hongi” expeditions against clove-growing communities.

Quick Facts

Ship ClassWarship, Oar-powered
Era Used16th-19th century
Typical Crew100-200, paddlers plus warriors
Guns / Cannonsswivel guns, light cannon
Speed / HandlingFast under paddle power
Notable UseUsed in Dutch VOC punitive "hongi" expeditions in the Maluku Islands

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