Xebec were greatly favored by Mediterranean nations as corsairs.  For this purpose, they were built with a narrow floor to achieve a higher speed than their victims.  Xebec's beam, however, were considerable larger in order to carry an extensive sail plan. As these vessels are usually very low-built, their decks are formed with a great convexity from the middle of their breadth towards the sides.

When a Xebec is equipped for war, she is navigated in three different methods according to the force or direction of the wind.

When the wind is fair, and nearly astern, it is usual to extend square sails upon the main-mast; and indeed frequently on the fore-mast: and as those sails are rarely used in a scant wind, they are of an extraordinary breadth.

When the wind is unfavorable to the course, and yet continues moderate, the square yards and sails are removed from the masts in order to make way for the large lateen yards and sails, which soon after assume their place.

When the foul wind increases to a storm, these latter are also lowered down and displaced; and small lateen yards with proportional sails are extended on all the masts.

By the very complicated method of working these vessels, the crew of every Xebec has at least the labor equivalent to three square-rigged ships, wherein the standing sails are calculated to answer every situation of the wind.

This Xebec masterpiece features:

- Scratch-built
- Plank-on-frame
- All parts are wooden or metal
- Wooden base