Chalupa (boat)

For other uses, see Chalupa (disambiguation).

Chalupa are small boats that function as shallops, water taxis or gondolas, such as those seen at the "floating gardens" of Xochimilco south of Mexico City.

Description

Chalupa boats are normally rowed or poled, and less commonly motorized. Common characteristics are shallow drafts and narrow benches or seats for 1 to 3 passengers. A chalupa is not to be confused with a trajinera, which is a boat housing long benches along the edges, and a table through the middle, and poled by a standing person.

These are typical of Mexico City's Xochimilco channel and are frequented by local families for weekend picnics on the water. Chalupas transit on the same channel offering food, beverages, or even live music trios to the trajineras.

Chalupa, in Portuguese is a small boat used for cabotage, either with oars or sails, in the latter case with a single mast.