Built during the Late Middle Ages, the great galley is an improved version of the dromon. It is slightly smaller than the dromon. about 130 feet long and 20 feet wide. The main power comes from 140 rowers, one man to an oar but is supplemented by three masts; this combination gives it better speed and handling. The cargo capacity is 150 tons. When outfitted as a warship, the front end is built as a ram and marines are carried instead of cargo. Like all Galleys, the great galley is a coastal vessel, rarely venturing into open water. It is not seaworthy in heavy storms and waits in port for these to pass.
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