Even though the trehantira Captain Panicos exhibits many of the characteristics of the trehantiri type, its deck at the bow and stern area, is particularly wide. This is not only because the vessel employed a hydraulic winch for lifting fishing nets, but also because its construction was influenced by Arab vessels originating from Syria and Lebanon – a practice that began in local shipyards, from the mid-1980s. Captain Panicos exemplifies the blending of Greek and Arab elements of Cypriot vernacular shipbuilding, reflecting the importance of geographical location and how this can affect local shipbuilding traditions.
The trehantira type is essentially a smaller version of the trehantiri, measuring less than 10 meters in length overall (L.O.A.). Its distinctive feature is the curved stempost that terminates in a curved end known as koraki, while the sternpost is straight and placed at a slightly backwards inclination. From the mid-20th century onwards, the trehantiri became the predominant vessel type in the Aegean, while the trehantira became its equivalent in Cyprus.
The trehantira boats found in Cypriot fishing shelters today, were constructed during the 1960s and 1970s. Those measuring less than 7 meters in L.O.A., are primarily used for recreational fishing purposes, whereas the rare ones that range from 7 to 10 meters in L.O.A. are used as commercial fishing boats.