Vireys are used primarily for combat because they can lie low in the water and attain high speeds due to the design of their narrow stern and bow. Rowers sit on either side of the boat and row to the accompaniment of native music. The combatants are positioned on the platform on top of the hull.

This type of boat was used by the early Malays who migrated to the Philippines around A.D. 500. Only wooden nails and pegs are used in its construction.