Indonesian ship docks at Tema port for cultural programme

Tema, Feb. 23, GNA - MV Borobudur Temple, a ship built with bamboo and timber on Monday docked at the Tema main harbour for a two-week cultural programme in the country.

The unique vessel combines a double outrigger structure, numerous rowing ports, a significant sail area and capacious hull Speaking to newsmen on arrival, Captain Philip Beale, Master of the vessel said, while in the country they would have exchange programmes with Ghanaians at the national theatre, hold seminars on culture and visit places of interest.

He said the vessel, which took four months to construct is meant for expedition and built with local materials to promote the cultural heritage of Indonesia, tourism and revive the maritime spirit of the islands by reconstructing an ancient traditional sail for expedition in the African coast to boost commerce and trade links between Indonesia and the African continent.

He said the 15-member crew, made up of multinationals including two females set sail in August 2003 and departs in two weeks.

The Captain however, stated that while returning to their country, they would dismantle the ship and pack the knocked down parts into a different vessel, which would be arranged for, because they have completed with the six months expedition.