Used by Barbary pirates, xebecs were equipped with both sails and oars. They featured a distinctive hull with overhanging bow and stern. The lateen rig allowed it to sail close hauled to the wind, giving it an advantage in pursuit or escape. The oars allowed the xebec to approach vessels that were becalmed.

Sea-going Mediterranean peoples used xebecs as corsairs and built them with a narrow floor to achieve a higher speed than their victims, but with a considerable beam that enable them to carry an extensive sail plan. They carried a crew of 300 - 400 men and mounted 16 - 40 guns.

Amati’s kit features laser cut keel and frames, wooden masts and spars, cloth sails and flags. Fittings are wood and metal. Armament consists of 14 metal cannon and 6 swivel guns. Construction plans show great detail, but step-by-step instructions are not included.