Galley Rower
Row an Athenian warship in time with 169 colleagues and one flute player. Contrary to the films, there is no drum, and nobody is in chains.
c. 700 BC – AD 1571About the role
For two thousand years, warships in the Mediterranean were powered by people. In classical Athens, rowing in the fleet was a paid job for free citizens, and the rowers were the backbone of both its navy and its democracy. They trained hard, rowed in perfect time and were very proud of it.
On board the Paralos Replica, you'll take a seat on one of three tiers of benches and pull an oar in time with 169 others, to the sound of a flute. You'll train in the harbor before going out to sea. You won't see where you're going. You'll still be very glad you came.
What you'll do
- Row in time with the flute, the bench in front and everyone else.
- Keep your oar clear of your neighbors' oars, especially on the turn.
- Bring your own cushion to the bench, as Athenian rowers did.
- Bail when asked. Triremes are not entirely watertight.
- Haul the ship up the beach at dusk with the rest of the crew.
What we're looking for
- A good sense of rhythm.
- Strong legs and back. Rowing is mostly legs.
- Comfort working shoulder to shoulder, in every direction.
- The ability to swim, ideally.
Perks
- A flute playerSets the stroke rate. Takes requests, within reason.
- Your own cushionWoolen, Athenian-style and yours to keep.
- Nights on the beachThe ship is hauled ashore every evening. Dinner is cooked on the sand.
