The graceful lines of the traditional Arab dhou can still be found in the Kuwait City harbor. People often overlook the fact that this desert nation has a long history of seamanship. In fact, fishing was primary vocation of the grandparents of many present-day Kuwaitis and there is still a proud nautical link to the Persian Gulf.
Seafood abounds and traditional music includes sea chanties.
Only one or two master carpenters are still building dhou's in the traditional manner. This is truly craftsmanship by hand. The fitting is with pegs, notches, and a few nails. All the traditional carpenter's tools are still in daily use here at the old boat yard. There are a few young apprentices who want to learn the ancient trade, but the families that ran the business are moving on to other ventures and the master craftsmen, true national treasures, are getting old.