The first traditional wooden lenj (dhow) designed for tourism, named Aurora—meaning "the dawn of hope"—was ceremonially launched during a community celebration in Gouran Port on Qeshm Island.

Published on : May 25, 2025

The first traditional wooden lenj (dhow) designed for tourism, named Aurora—meaning "the dawn of hope"—was ceremonially launched during a community celebration in Gouran Port on Qeshm Island.

According to Qeshm Free Zone Media Centre, the ceremony marked the launch of the first traditional wooden lenj designed for tourism, bearing the inspiring name Aurora, symbolising the dawn of hope.

Ali Pouzan, Chief Executive Officer of Gouran Rural Development Cooperative, described the event as a milestone in the revitalisation of the Persian Gulf's maritime cultural heritage. He noted that the project was realised through the collaboration and support of Qeshm Free Zone Organization, Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, the Ports and Maritime Organization of Iran, UNESCO and ICOM Iran. The vessel was built by Master Abdolrahman Hedri, one of the last remaining masters of Iran's traditional lenj-building craft.

Constructed in full compliance with modern safety standards and equipped with advanced navigation systems, ventilation and visitor facilities, the wooden lenj represents a successful fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary technology. Its hull is decorated with Indigenous motifs, including the Hara mangrove tree and the peregrine falcon, reflecting the close relationship between nature, culture and maritime craftsmanship.

More than a vessel, Aurora symbolises the revitalisation of Indigenous knowledge, the creation of sustainable livelihoods and a forward-looking vision for the local community. Alongside this achievement, Gouran Living Museum, dedicated to safeguarding the traditional lenj-building craft, has played a pivotal role in establishing the area as a National Museum Park and one of Iran's leading centres for maritime tourism.