the islands themselvs are not very stable. you feel like you are walking on a matress. they have to replace the straw all the time because it rots. these boats are also made from straw. they last for 6 months, and take about 4 months to make. in other words, they have to keep making the boats all the time. actually, these boats are mainly for tourists. when they need something quick, they take the motor boat that they usually hide behind the bush...