Q&A ยท 54:17-54:46

Did galley crews live aboard?

Galley crews lived aboard during passages lasting several days, with basic accommodation.

Question

What was accommodation like on a galley, and did the rowers live aboard?

Short answer

Everyone lived aboard; the ships could spend days at sea, although accommodation was basic.

Notes

The whole crew lived aboard, including the rowers. Galleys often operated close to coasts, but they also crossed the Mediterranean and could remain at sea for days. Accommodation was austere by modern standards, yet it was normal and workable for the period.