İzmir caiques (sail and rowboats) are the boats that were used to carry the freight and the passengers between the ships that anchored offshore in Izmir Bay and the pier. These caiques did also connect the neighboring coastal villages and towns such as Karaburun, Cesme and Foca as well as the Aegean Islands in the vicinity to Izmir via sea routes.

By 1930’s these sail and rowboats have vanished completely. These caiques, which are among the lost examples of our maritime history and the records of which were kept by Admiral Francois Edmond Paris*, are once again launched by the 360 Degrees Historical Researches Association. With the support of the Greater City Municipality of Izmir, these 12 caiques are used for free rowing and sailing courses.

Persons and establishments that cooperated with us in the Project:

-Ahmet Priştina City Archives Museum
-Naval Museum
-İzmir Branch of the Chamber of Marine Engineers
-Greater City Municipality of İzmir

* Admiral Francois Edmond Paris (1806-1893)
He is the first scientists who points out to the links between the structure, form and functions of a boat with the social and cultural elements. Admiral Paris’ name is among the most prominent in the history of maritime. He had left all his studies, drawings, plans and notes to French Navel Museum. These documents were collected in a book named “Souvenirs de Marine Conserve”.