What Is an Incense Boat?
An incense boat (also called a navicula) is a small vessel used to hold incense grains before they are placed in the thurible. It is called a "boat" because of its traditional boat-like shape. The incense boat is always used together with a thurible and an incense spoon.
During Mass, the thurifer brings the incense boat to the celebrant. The priest takes a spoonful of incense from the boat, places it in the thurible, and blesses it. The boat keeps the incense clean, organized, and ready for use.
Every parish that uses incense needs a quality incense boat and spoon set. They are essential for the proper use of incense in the liturgy.
What Types of Incense Boats Are Available?
Incense boats come in several options:
Brass incense boats — the most common type. Durable, attractive, and when paired with a matching thurible, they create a unified look.
Silver incense boats — more ornate and expensive. Often chosen for cathedral churches or special occasions.
Boat and spoon sets — many churches buy the incense boat, spoon, and thurible as a matching set for a coordinated appearance.
How Do I Choose the Right Incense Boat?
- Match your thurible. If you have a brass thurible, get a brass incense boat for a unified look.
- Check the lid. The lid should fit securely to prevent incense from spilling.
- Consider the size. The boat should hold enough incense for a typical Mass without being too bulky.
- Look for a quality spoon. The spoon should be the right size for the boat and thurible.
| Material | Includes Spoon | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brass | Yes | Parish churches, regular use | $25–$70 |
| Silver-plated | Yes | Solemnities, cathedral use | $50–$150 |
| Boat + Spoon + Thurible set | Yes | New parishes, complete setup | $100–$350 |
Browse Our Incense Boat Collection
View our selection of incense boats and spoons in brass and silver-plated finishes. Complete your thurification set with a matching incense boat. We also offer thuribles, incense charcoal, and aspergillums.