The Traditional Yole Boat We had the good fortune to see a traditional yole boat sail through our anchorage at St. Anne's. Unique to Martinique, these light canoe like vessels with their colourful sails are an incredible sight as they tack along the coast. Traditionally used by Martinique's fishermen, the modern yole is a 10.5 meter wooden boat, without a keel, centerboard or steering. On board you will find approximately 15 crew members sitting on the gunwale or hiking out on long wooden poles called "bwa drosses" to leverage their weight to keep these agile vessels sailing through the seas. It is quite a sight to see. We're always amazed at how unique each island's boats are whether it be fishing or sail.