The original Tamarind Dhow "Nawalilkher", was built in 1977 for trading. At 23 meters, she is the largest dhow on the coast. Purchased in 1986, she was converted for restaurant use by her original builder, Fundi Bini on the island of Lamu, under the watchful eye of Mohammed Shalle, who is still her captain today.

The Dhow.

Dhows are an ancient design of Sailing Cargo Carriers, particularly suitable for the Indian Ocean due to the design of the lateen sail which enable them travel with the Trade Winds which blow South (Kaskazi) between November and April and North (Kusi) for the rest of the year. It is due to these trade Winds (Monsoons) that the trade between the East African Coast and the Arabian Peninsula flourished. The Nakhoda (captain) is unique in shipping as he is not only the transporter of cargo but also the owner. He will spend his time in port trading his present cargo for a different type of cargo for the return trip.