NEF

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aukepalmhof
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NEF

Post by aukepalmhof » Thu Mar 22, 2012 7:32 pm

A poorly defined ship of the Middle Ages. The French term NEF was used for those employed on the Atlantic, while the term nave was common in the Mediterranean, although use of the words overlapped.
The English referred to them as a warship. Both terms could be generic for all large sailing vessels of the period, and in the 15th century, NEFS were sometimes called PINNACES, BALINGERS and GALEASSES
Most were merchantmen carrying cargo and passengers others were troop carriers; some served the crusaders.
Since the end of the 16th century the term NEF has passed mostly into poetic language. In general, depicted as a heavy cumbersome vessel that sat high in the water with prominent castles at bow and stern, the latter often very high and elaborate.
On those specializing in passenger transport, the area between the castles might be lined along the sides with cabins.
Double ended with bluff bow and stern, after the adoption of the midline rudder in the 14th century, the stern became sharp. Tiller came inboard to, or below the poop deck. Earlier, 2 quarters rudders used. Clinker or carvel planked; flat floors, tumble home sides. On the NEFS HUISSIERS, horses could be loaded through a side door and were stabled below deck. Often heavily armed to protect the cargo from pirates.
Mediterranean ships mostly set a lateen sail to 2 masts. Atlantic vessels as seen on the stamp adopted square sails, stepping 1 – 4 masts; some set lateen sails on the after two masts. Combined crews and warriors were reported up to 1,500.
Reported length 18 – 43 m; 16th century ship 25m long, 8.36m wide and 2.5m deep with a draught of 2.95m.

Laos 1997 150k sg?, scott1350.

Source: From Aak to Zumbra a Dictionary of the World’s Watercraft.
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