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On 15th February 2025, Dr. Tai Yew Seng, a renowned archaeologist and expert on traditional Chinese maritime culture, presented a fascinating lecture during the Fu Ning 福宁 Event Visit, exploring the remarkable characteristics of the Fujian Ship Type, the historical legacy of Chinese junks, and their influence on modern shipbuilding techniques. This presentation provided an in-depth look at the development of Chinese ships, focusing on the significance of the Fujian Ship Type and its evolution over centuries.

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The Four Major Chinese Ship Types

Dr. Tai began his presentation by outlining the four main ship types from different regions of China, which influenced the maritime landscape of the country:

1. Jiangsu Ship Type (沙船) - A flat-bottomed design.

2. Zhejiang Ship Type (浙船) - A round-bottomed design, prevalent during the Ming dynasty.

3. Fujian Ship Type (福船) - Known for its V-shaped bottom, designed to break through waves with ease.

4. Guangdong Ship Type (广船) - A deep-V bottom design, crafted for deeper waters.

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Each of these designs was carefully suited to the geographical and environmental needs of their respective regions, with the Fujian Ship Type standing out due to its unique adaptability to both shallow and turbulent waters.

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Historical Context of Fujian Shipbuilding

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Dr. Tai delved into the historical context of the Fujian Ship Type, highlighting its development during the Song Dynasty (961–1279). One of the most significant references comes from Xu Jing’s “Illustrated Account of the Xuanhe Embassy to Koryŏ” (1124), which detailed the specific construction and purpose of Fujian ships. These ships, described as being “sharp as a blade at the bottom, capable of breaking waves”, were used for diplomatic missions, merchant trade, and military operations. Their size and durability made them ideal for long-distance journeys across China’s vast coastlines.

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Dr. Tai explained how these ships, ranging from 10 to 20 zhang (31.2m to 62.4m) in length, were made using layered solid wood and large planks, ensuring durability and strength. The design’s efficiency allowed them to sail through waves with minimal resistance, a crucial feature for navigating the often-stormy waters off the coast of Fujian.

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Shipbuilding Techniques of the Time

The presentation also covered the fascinating shipbuilding techniques used during the Song Dynasty, such as the use of iron nails and caulking with a mixture of lime, hemp, and wood oil, which was deemed more effective than traditional pitch. This multi-layered construction allowed for increased resilience and longevity, with Marco Polo famously describing similar techniques used in the region during his travels.

The advanced shipbuilding methods of the time were not only limited to the materials used but also in their structural innovations, like the use of bulkheads to create separate compartments within the hull, enhancing the vessel’s buoyancy and preventing flooding.

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Archaeological Discoveries: Unveiling the Past

Dr. Tai also highlighted the importance of archaeological findings in enhancing our understanding of ancient shipbuilding. Since the 1970s, numerous wrecks have been discovered, offering a glimpse into the maritime practices of the past. Notable discoveries include the Quanzhou Shipwreck, which was excavated in 1974 and dated to the Song Dynasty.

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This wreck provided critical insights into the materials and techniques used in ship construction. The ship’s multi-layered hull and bulkhead system, combined with its use of camphorwood for its keel, reflect the advancements of Fujian shipbuilding. Dr. Tai emphasized the significance of such discoveries in preserving the legacy of ancient maritime technologies.

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The Quanzhou Shipwreck: A Case Study in Ancient Shipbuilding

One of the most remarkable finds was the Quanzhou Shipwreck, which has been invaluable in understanding the construction of Fujian ships. Excavated from Houzhu, Quanzhou, this wreck was 24.2 meters long and 9.15 meters wide, with a depth of 1.98 meters. The wreck was held together by iron nails and caulking made of lime, hemp, and tung oil.

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Dr. Tai pointed out that the ship’s keel was made of pine wood, and its hull featured multi-layered planking, a feature that was unique to Fujian ships. The ship’s bulkheads formed 13 compartments, which would have made the ship more stable and seaworthy.

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Dr. Tai also discussed the connection between the Quanzhou Shipwreck and Marco Polo’s accounts of Chinese ships, which often described the ships being repaired with additional layers of planking. This repair process could continue until the ship reached six layers of planks, after which it would no longer venture into deep waters, only being used for coastal travel.

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Other Significant Discoveries

Dr. Tai also referenced other key archaeological finds, including the Sinan Shipwreck in South Korea, the Flying Fish Shipwreck in Malaysia, and the Java Sea Shipwreck in Indonesia. These wrecks, like the Quanzhou Shipwreck, have helped archaeologists better understand the widespread influence of Fujian shipbuilding methods across the region.

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Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Resilience

Dr. Tai concluded by emphasizing the legacy of Fujian shipbuilding, which has not only influenced maritime trade and diplomacy but has also contributed to modern shipbuilding techniques. The Fu Ning, the world’s largest traditional Chinese wooden sailing boat, represents a remarkable achievement in preserving this ancient craftsmanship. Its construction, rooted in centuries-old Fujian maritime traditions, serves as a tribute to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient shipbuilders who crafted these vessels.

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The Fu Ning 福宁 event visit on 15th February 2025 provided attendees with an enriching experience, offering a deeper understanding of the ancient maritime world, the innovations of traditional Fujian ships, and their continued cultural significance today.