War canoes were used in Africa, Austronesia, Americas and Europe to transport troops and supplies, and engage targets onshore. While documentation of canoe versus canoe battles on the open ocean is rare, records from the 14th century mention various peoples of West Africa using huge fighting canoes in inland waters, some up to  and carrying over 100 men. Construction of the war canoe was typically from one massive tree trunk, with the silk cotton tree being particularly useful.
War canoes were employed in Africa, Austronesia, Americas, and Europe to transport troops and supplies, and engage targets on land. While records of canoe versus canoe battles at sea are scarce, historical accounts from the 14th century document various West African tribes using large fighting canoes in inland waters, some capable of carrying over 100 men. Construction of the war canoe was typically made from a single massive tree trunk, with the silk cotton tree being particularly suitable.