what is the advantage of making canoes that are light
Dugout canoe In ancient many dugouts were made from linden wood, for several reasons. First, was abundant in the Paleolthic after the melting of the Weichselian glaciation and readily available. Secondly it grew to be one of the tallest trees in the forests of the time, making it easier to build longer boats. Linden wood also lends itself well to carving and doesn't split or crack easily. It is lighter and therefore boats made from it have a better cargo capacity and are easier to carry, than most other tree types from the European old-growth forests.
Gondola The gondola is propelled by a person (the gondolier) who stands facing the bow and rows with a forward stroke, followed by a compensating backward stroke. The oar rests in an elaborately carved wooden rest (forcola) shaped to project from the side of the craft so as to allow the slight drag of each return stroke to pull the bow back to its forward course.[7] Because of the vessel's flat bottom it may also be "drifted" sideways when required.[1] Contrary to popular belief, the gondola is never poled like a punt as the waters of Venice are too deep. Until the early 20th century, as many photographs attest, gondolas were often fitted with a "felze", a small cabin, to protect the passengers from the weather or from onlookers. Its windows could be closed with louvered shuttersâ€”the original "Venetian blinds".[8][9]