A ''Weidling'' is a flat-bottomed

boat A boat is a watercraft of a large range of types and sizes, but generally smaller than a ship, which is distinguished by its larger size, shape, cargo or passenger capacity, or its ability to carry boats. Small boats are typically found on inl ...

, with similarities to a punt. The weidling is traditionally constructed from solid wood, although today some boats are also made from plywood, plastic or aluminium. It is usually around 9 or 10 metres (30 or 33 ft) in length. A larger version is known as the ''Langschiff'', and is up to in length. In the

Middle Ages In the history of Europe, the Middle Ages or medieval period lasted approximately from the late 5th to the late 15th centuries, similar to the post-classical period of global history. It began with the fall of the Western Roman Empire ...

, the weidling was used for river transportation and fishing, and is depicted in contemporary works of art, including a set of altar panels by

Hans Leu the Elder Hans Leu the Elder (german: Hans Leu der Ältere; 1460–1507) was a Swiss painter, native to Zürich. The Episcopal collection of the St. Gallen Abbey includes the main altar of the church of the Rüti Abbey, probably a late work by Hans ...

. Today, the boat is primarily used in Switzerland, on the

Rhine ), Surselva, Graubünden, Switzerland , source1_coordinates= , source1_elevation = , source2 = Rein Posteriur/Hinterrhein , source2_location = Paradies Glacier, Graubünden, Switzerland , source2_coordinates= , so ...

and its tributaries, including the Aar and Limmat. It is used as a leisure and pleasure craft, and as a passenger ferry. The sport of Wasserfahren in Switzerland is conducted almost exclusively with weidlings. In deep water, the weidling is traditionally propelled by one or two oars. In shallow areas, the boat can be poled along by one or two standing crew members. On waterways with suitable banks, the weidling can also be towed from shore. If the boat has a corresponding recess in the rear floor, it can also be equipped with an

outboard motor An outboard motor is a propulsion system for boats, consisting of a self-contained unit that includes engine, gearbox and propeller or jet drive, designed to be affixed to the outside of the transom. They are the most common motorised method ...

References

External links

*{{commonscat-inline, Weidling Boat types