Leonardo da Vinci designed a paddle boat that used rotating paddle wheels for propulsion.
The design appears in Leonardo’s studies of boats and water machinery. Instead of relying only on oars or sails, the vessel would transfer power through mechanical components to wheels that pushed against the water and moved the boat forward.
Leonardo explored many ways to control and exploit water, including pumps, canals, locks, and water-powered machines. His paddle-boat sketches were conceptual engineering studies rather than evidence of a fully operational vessel built by him.
The idea should not be confused with the modern recreational pedal boat, which is powered directly by a person turning pedals. Leonardo’s design belongs to the broader history of mechanically propelled paddle craft.