Trading raft

[blackdeathgr]

Trading between inland settlements is done not only with pack mules and oxen but with rafts as well, especially at those islands where rivers are fairly calm. Here we can see one such raft carrying salted meat in barrels that pass some not-so-friendly looking natives.

 

I started this MOC a month ago but I couldn't come up with a decent raft design so i nearly ditched it. Still, i found the courage to finish it, only in order to describe the hard living of our pioneer settlers across The Brick Seas (aaand the 10DB of the FB) 

[Franco Clarke]

Great work, I like the sloped roof, it adds a bit of shape to what might otherwise be very square! It looks a very build able design, which could be adapted for many purposes - perhaps a houseboat type thing?

[Capt Wolf]

Good subject, and a nice MOC. We need to see more trading with natives. I really like the design you came up with for covered raft, and the contour you've created for the roof/awning looks great.

[Bregir]

Great looking river raft, BD! I like both idea and execution. My only comment is the lack of propulsion (those two oars must be for steering?), but I suppose it is travelling down-river? Up-river, perhaps it is pulled by mules?

Well done!

[blackdeathgr]

Thanks for your comments brethren!  I think we can all improve this raft design and I am waiting your versions. For the roof i used plates imitating straw since i couldn't find a nice looking way to use the old palm tree leaves (big and small) for the roof. That's pretty much the only thing i didn't change a thousand times on this raft but it actually turned out good

Regarding the lack of propulsion, in my head this vessel is sailing down the river but now that i am thinking it again, this must have some kind of propulsion for sailing upriver. I guess i will add oxen or mules the next time i use such a trading raft