Island Village Looks to Keep Huri Heritage Alive

Date: 09 April 2025 - 21:56

News ID: ۱۳۸۳۰۹

TEHRAN -- Nestled along the stunning coastline of Qeshm Island, Soheili village is home to one of Iran’s most fascinating maritime traditions—the Huri, a traditional wooden boat used for fishing and transportation for centuries.
The Huri is not just a vessel; it is a symbol of resilience, craftsmanship, and the deep connection between the people of Soheili and the sea, IRNA reported.
Today, the Huri has gained new significance as a cultural attraction, with annual Huri racing competitions held in the breathtaking Soheili Mangrove Forest.
The event, registered in Iran’s official tourism calendar, draws visitors from across the country and beyond, offering a thrilling spectacle while preserving an ancient maritime heritage.
The Huri is a small to medium-sized wooden boat traditionally used by fishermen and sailors in the Persian Gulf. Its design has been perfected over generations, making it ideal for navigating shallow waters, coral reefs, and mangrove forests.
Similar boats have been used in the region for over 2,000 years, with historical records suggesting their use during the time of the Achaemenid and Sassanian empires.
For centuries, Huris were the primary means for fishing, pearl diving, and transporting goods between coastal villages.
The boat’s lightweight yet sturdy structure allows it to maneuver through the narrow waterways of mangrove forests, where larger boats cannot pass.
With the advent of modern fiberglass boats and motorized fishing vessels, the traditional Huri began to fade from daily use. However, in recent years, efforts by local communities, cultural organizations, and the Qeshm free zone authority has helped revive this heritage craft, turning it into a symbol of eco-tourism and cultural preservation.
Building a Huri is a specialized craft, passed down through generations of shipbuilders.
Traditionally, teak, mulberry, or acacia wood is used due to its durability and resistance to saltwater.
Unlike modern boats, Huris are built without nails—instead, wooden pegs and coconut fiber ropes hold the structure together.
The hull is treated with shark liver oil and lime paste, a traditional method to prevent water damage.
Its flat bottom allows navigation in shallow waters and mangrove channels.  A triangular sail design enables efficient sailing even in light winds.
Lightweight structure makes it easy to drag ashore, a necessity for fishermen in tidal zones.
To keep this tradition alive, Soheili hosts Huri boat races twice a year, attracting competitors and spectators alike. The races are now officially recognized as part of Iran’s national tourism events.
The races take place in the Soheili Mangrove Forest, a stunning natural reserve with winding waterways.
Local fishermen, young sailors, and even tourists (in some categories) compete in speed and skill challenges.
The event includes live music, traditional dances, and local food stalls, making it a full cultural experience.