what is norse/nordic boats? -3 types of viking ships

The Viking ship, also known as a Viking ship, refers to the vessels utilized by Norse pirates during the 8th to 11th centuries. These ships were commonly employed for seafaring raids and trade due to their advanced and efficient design during that era.

what are viking ships?

The design and construction techniques of Viking ships during that era were highly distinctive. They typically featured long, narrow hulls with raised bow and stern, and utilized square sails that could effectively harness wind power. Viking ships were primarily constructed from wood, but due to technological limitations of the time, the craftsmanship and joinery of the hull materials were not exceedingly refined, resulting in relatively shorter lifespans for these vessels. Within Viking culture, ships held an indispensable role in their lives. Viking ships also constitute a significant component of Norse culture, with numerous ship remains and museums still visible in the Nordic region today.

what were viking ships called?

The Viking longship, also known as “Langskib” in Danish, “Langskip” in Norwegian, and “Langskip” in Icelandic, was a type of vessel used by the Norse and Icelandic Vikings during the Viking Age for trade, commerce, exploration, warfare, and expeditions.

The term “Viking longship” and “Viking ship” refer to different concepts.

The Viking longship, often referred to as a Viking warship, was utilized by the Vikings for trade, commerce, exploration, warfare, and expeditions during the Viking Age from 793 to 1066. These warships featured a long and narrow hull design, with a relatively small size and shallow draft. Initially powered by oars, they later incorporated sails for increased speed and endurance. The combination of high speed and shallow draft made these ships ideal for the swift and strategic raiding tactics employed by Viking pirates.

why were viking ships called dragon ships?

The term “Viking longship” originated from the fact that Vikings often used dragon head carvings as figureheads on the prow of their ships.

Viking longships were vessels employed by the Norse and Icelandic Vikings during the Viking Age for trade, commerce, exploration, warfare, and expeditions, active from 793 to 1066. These ships featured a long and narrow hull design, with a relatively small size and shallow draft. Initially powered by oars, they later incorporated sails for increased speed and endurance. The combination of high speed and shallow draft made these ships ideal for the swift and strategic raiding tactics employed by Viking pirates.

what were viking ships like?

Viking ships were distinctive and advanced vessels used by the Norse Vikings during the Viking Age (793-1066 AD). They played a crucial role in the Vikings’ exploration, trade, warfare, and expeditions across the North Atlantic, Baltic Sea, and other waterways. Viking ships were designed for various purposes, and there were different types of ships, each with specific features:

Longships (Langskip or Longship): Longships were versatile and iconic Viking ships, known for their speed, agility, and shallow draft. They were used for exploration, trade, and warfare. Longships typically had a long and narrow hull, which made them well-suited for both rowing and sailing. They were propelled by a combination of oars and sails, giving them the ability to travel swiftly even in shallow waters. The prow of a longship often featured elaborately carved dragon or serpent head decorations, which gave rise to the term “dragon ship.”

Knarrs: Knarrs were sturdier and broader vessels primarily used for trading and transporting cargo. Unlike longships, knarrs had a more substantial hull and were not as suitable for fast-paced raids. They were essential for the Vikings’ trading expeditions to distant lands, carrying goods, and resources.

Karves: Karves were smaller ships used for coastal and fjord navigation, fishing, and short-distance transport. They had a broader hull and were well-suited for navigating narrow and shallow waters.

Snekkja and Skeid: These were variations of the longship design, with snekkja being smaller and skeid being larger. Skeid ships were often used by high-ranking individuals for prestige and warfare, while snekkja were employed for various purposes, including raiding and transport.

The key features of Viking ships included:

Double-Ended Design: Viking ships were symmetrical, with a pointed bow and stern. This allowed them to navigate easily in both directions without the need for turning around.

Strakes and Overlapping Planks: Viking ships were constructed using overlapping wooden planks known as strakes. This technique provided flexibility and durability to the hull.

Clinker Construction: The overlapping planks were fastened together with iron nails or wooden pegs, creating a strong and watertight hull.

Masts and Sails: Viking ships had one or more masts, depending on the type. They used square or rectangular sails made of wool or linen.

Oars: Oars were essential for maneuvering and propulsion, especially in calm or confined waters.

Shallow Draft: Viking ships had a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate rivers, fjords, and other shallow water bodies.

Viking ships were integral to the Vikings’ way of life, enabling them to explore new lands, establish trade networks, and conduct raids on distant shores. Their unique design and advanced maritime technology were a testament to the seafaring prowess of the Viking culture.

what were viking ships made of?

Viking ships were primarily made of a combination of oak wood and other materials. Oak was the main type of wood used for the structural components of the ships, including the hull, keel, ribs, and planks. Oak was chosen for its strength, durability, and resistance to the harsh conditions of sea travel.

In addition to oak, Vikings also used other types of wood for specific parts of the ship. For example, pine or fir was often used for the mast and decking, as these woods were lighter and more suitable for these purposes. Ash wood was commonly used for oars and other smaller components.

Various parts of the ship were held together using wooden pegs, nails, and iron fastenings. The planks were often overlapped and secured using iron rivets or nails. The sails were typically made from wool or flax, and ropes were crafted from natural fibers like hemp.

Viking shipbuilders were skilled craftsmen who utilized the available materials to create seaworthy vessels that could withstand the demands of both long sea voyages and combat situations. The combination of sturdy oak and other suitable woods, along with skilled construction techniques, resulted in the iconic and versatile Viking ships that played a significant role in the Viking Age.

what wood were viking ships made of?

Viking ships were primarily made of oak wood. Oak was the preferred choice of timber for constructing Viking ships due to its durability, strength, and suitability for shipbuilding. Oak wood was abundant in the regions where the Vikings lived, and it provided the necessary structural integrity and resilience required for seafaring vessels. The robust nature of oak made it well-suited to withstand the challenges of the open seas, including the impact of waves and the stresses of sailing and combat. The use of oak wood contributed to the overall sturdiness and longevity of Viking ships, allowing them to navigate various waters and undertake their diverse range of activities, including trade, exploration, and warfare.

what were viking ships used for?

Viking ships were versatile vessels utilized by the Vikings during the Viking Age for purposes such as trade, commerce, exploration, warfare, and voyages of discovery.

Viking ships were categorized into two main types: warships and cargo ships. Both types of ships featured the distinctive curved prow, intricately carved from a single piece of oak wood. Viking warships, known for their shallow draft, high speed, and maneuverability, were well-suited for raiding and plundering expeditions to distant lands. However, the decks of Viking warships were open, offering little protection from the elements. Viking cargo ships, benefiting from their shallow draft, allowed Viking merchants to expand their trade networks through the Baltic Sea, North Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, Caspian Sea, as well as rivers such as the Seine, Rhine, Dnieper, and Volga, reaching various regions across the European continent.

what are the 3 types of viking ships?

The Vikings used three main types of ships during the Viking Age:

Longships (Langskip): Longships were the iconic warships of the Vikings. They were designed for speed, maneuverability, and raiding. Longships had a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate both shallow rivers and open seas. They featured a distinctive curved prow and stern, often adorned with intricate carvings. Longships could be powered by both oars and sails, making them versatile for different conditions.

Knarrs: Knarrs were cargo ships used by the Vikings for trading and long-distance voyages. Unlike the war-focused longships, knarrs were more utilitarian and designed for carrying goods. They had a broader hull and deeper draft compared to longships, which allowed them to carry more cargo. Knarrs were typically propelled by sails, and their design prioritized stability and storage capacity.

Karvi: Karvi is a term often used to describe smaller Viking ships that were versatile and could serve both as cargo vessels and for warfare. They were intermediate in size between longships and knarrs, with features from both types. Karvi ships were used for a variety of purposes, including coastal trade, fishing, and military campaigns.

what made viking ships unique?

Viking ships were unique for several reasons, which contributed to their effectiveness and versatility during the Viking Age:

Innovative Design: Viking ships were known for their innovative and efficient designs. The longships, in particular, featured a sleek and streamlined hull with a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate both open seas and shallow rivers. This design made them exceptionally fast and maneuverable, giving Vikings a significant advantage in raiding, exploration, and naval warfare.

Double-Ended Prow and Stern: Viking ships had a double-ended design, meaning that both the prow (front) and stern (rear) were pointed. This allowed the ships to reverse direction quickly without needing to turn around, making them well-suited for surprise attacks and rapid retreats.

Versatility: Viking ships were versatile in their usage. Longships, with their combination of oars and sails, were capable of both quick raids and long-distance travel. Knarrs were designed for carrying cargo, making them ideal for trading and exploration. The ability to modify ships for various purposes was a significant advantage for the Vikings.

Advanced Sailing Technology: Viking ships employed square sails and triangular-shaped lateen sails, which allowed them to harness wind power effectively and travel long distances. The use of sails reduced the reliance on rowing and enabled Vikings to cover larger areas.

Quality Materials: Viking ships were primarily constructed from wood, often oak, which was readily available in the Norse regions. The use of high-quality timber contributed to the ships’ durability and seaworthiness.

Carvings and Artwork: Viking ships were often adorned with intricate carvings, particularly on the prow and stern. These carvings served both decorative and symbolic purposes, showcasing the craftsmanship and cultural significance of the ships.

Cultural Significance: Ships held great cultural and symbolic importance to the Vikings. They were not only practical tools for transportation and exploration but also played a central role in Viking religious and societal rituals. Ship burials, where ships were used as burial chambers for high-ranking individuals, highlight their cultural significance.

Naval Tactics: The design of Viking ships allowed them to engage in hit-and-run tactics and surprise attacks. Their shallow draft enabled them to sail up rivers and approach coastal areas that were inaccessible to larger vessels, giving Vikings the element of surprise.

Overall, the combination of innovative design, sailing technology, versatility, and cultural significance made Viking ships unique and played a crucial role in shaping the Vikings’ history, from raiding and conquests to exploration and trade.

what did viking ships carry?

Viking ships served a variety of purposes and carried different types of cargo depending on their specific design and intended use. There were three main types of Viking ships, each with its own cargo-carrying capabilities:

Longships (Langskip): Longships were the iconic Viking warships known for their speed, agility, and suitability for both warfare and exploration. While their primary function was to transport Viking warriors for raids and battles, they could also carry some cargo. This cargo might include provisions such as food, water, and supplies for the crew during their journeys.

Knarrs: Knarrs were cargo ships specifically designed for trade and transportation. They had a broader hull and were capable of carrying larger quantities of cargo compared to longships. Knarrs were used to transport a wide range of goods, including raw materials like timber, iron, and furs, as well as finished products and luxury items for trading with other cultures. These ships were crucial for Viking exploration and establishing trade routes.

Karves: Karves were smaller ships with a similar design to longships but typically with a shallower draft. They were versatile vessels used for various purposes, including transport, fishing, and short coastal voyages. Karves could carry smaller amounts of cargo and were often used for local trade and transportation of goods along coastlines and rivers.

The cargo carried by Viking ships varied based on the specific needs of each voyage or expedition. While longships were primarily focused on carrying warriors and provisions for raiding and battles, knarrs were the workhorses of Viking trade, transporting goods such as metals, textiles, pottery, and agricultural products. The cargo carried by Viking ships played a crucial role in the cultural exchange, economic growth, and expansion of Viking society during the Viking Age.

what color were the sails on viking ships?

The exact colors of the sails on Viking ships during the Viking Age are not well-documented, and historical sources do not provide precise information about the colors used. However, it is believed that Viking sails were likely made from a variety of materials, including wool, linen, and possibly other natural fibers. These materials were available in different shades, which could have included colors such as white, cream, gray, and possibly other earthy tones.

While we don’t have definitive information about the specific colors, it’s important to note that Viking sails were likely practical and functional, rather than decorative. They would have been designed to withstand the rigors of sea travel and to catch the wind effectively, rather than for aesthetic purposes.

Additionally, some historical reenactments and modern interpretations of Viking ships use sails of various colors, but these choices are often based on artistic and creative decisions rather than historical accuracy. As a result, the exact colors of Viking ship sails remain a matter of speculation and interpretation.

most famous viking ship

One of the most famous Viking ships is the “Oseberg Ship.” The Oseberg Ship is a well-preserved Viking ship that was discovered in a burial mound at the Oseberg farm near Tønsberg, Norway, in 1904. It dates back to the 9th century, during the Viking Age.

The Oseberg Ship is particularly renowned for its intricate carvings and the wealth of artifacts found within the burial mound. The ship itself is a longship, measuring about 70 feet (21 meters) in length and 17 feet (5 meters) in width. It was a burial ship, likely used to transport the remains of a high-status individual, possibly a queen or noblewoman, along with various grave goods and offerings.

The carvings on the Oseberg Ship depict scenes from Norse mythology, animals, and other intricate designs, showcasing the artistic skill of the Viking craftsmen. The ship and its contents provide valuable insights into Viking culture, society, and craftsmanship during that period.

The Oseberg Ship is now on display at the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, Norway, where visitors can admire its beauty and learn about its historical significance. It remains one of the most iconic symbols of Viking heritage and seafaring prowess.

how to build a viking ship?

Building a Viking ship is a complex and skilled undertaking. Here is a general overview of the process, although please note that building an authentic Viking ship requires specialized knowledge, tools, and materials:

Research and Design:

Study historical records, archaeological findings, and existing Viking ships to understand the design, construction methods, and materials used.

Decide on the type of Viking ship you want to build (longship, knarr, or karve) and its intended use.

Materials:

Select suitable wood for the ship’s frame, planks, and other components. Oak is often used due to its durability and availability.

Gather other materials such as iron nails, fastenings, tar or pitch for caulking, and natural fibers for ropes.

Ship Frame:

Construct the keel, stem, and stern posts as the foundation of the ship’s frame.

Create the ribs or frames that shape the ship’s hull. These are steam-bent to the desired curvature.

Planking:

Attach the planks (usually overlapping) to the ribs to form the hull. Use rivets or iron nails to fasten them securely.

Caulk the gaps between planks with tar or pitch to ensure water-tightness.

Deck and Superstructure:

Build the deck and any superstructures, such as a cabin or shield platform, based on historical references.

Mast and Rigging:

Construct the mast using a suitable tree trunk or spar.

Rig the ship with ropes made from natural fibers like hemp or flax.

Attach the sails to the mast and rigging. The color of the sails varied, often red, white, or brown.

Finishing Touches:

Carve decorative elements on the ship, such as dragon heads for the prow.

Apply finishes to protect the wood from the elements, such as linseed oil or paint.

Launch and Testing:

Once the ship is complete, launch it into the water for testing and adjustments.

Test the ship’s seaworthiness and make any necessary modifications.

It’s important to note that building a Viking ship requires a deep understanding of historical shipbuilding techniques, woodworking skills, and access to appropriate tools and materials. If you’re interested in building a Viking ship, consider seeking guidance from experts in historical shipbuilding or maritime archaeology.

how long were viking ships?

Viking ships came in various sizes and shapes, each with its own specific purpose. The length of Viking ships could vary widely depending on the type and function of the ship. Here are approximate lengths for the three main types of Viking ships:

Longships (Langskip):

Longships were the iconic warships of the Vikings.

They were usually between 65 to 90 feet (20 to 27 meters) long.

Longships were designed for speed, agility, and raiding, with shallow drafts and a sleek shape.

Knarrs:

Knarrs were merchant ships used for trading and exploration.

They were typically larger and more robust than longships.

Knarrs could range from 54 to 80 feet (16 to 24 meters) in length.

Karves:

Karves were intermediate-sized ships used for both warfare and trade.

They were shorter than longships but larger than knarrs.

Karves generally ranged from 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 meters) in length.

how fast were viking ships?

Viking ships, particularly longships, were known for their impressive speed and agility compared to other contemporary vessels. The speed of Viking ships could vary depending on factors such as the design, weather conditions, crew skill, and propulsion methods. Here are some general estimates of the speeds that Viking ships could achieve:

Longships (Langskip):

Longships were the fastest of the Viking ships.

They could reach speeds of around 8 to 12 knots (9 to 14 mph or 15 to 22 km/h) under favorable conditions and with skilled rowers.

Knarrs:

Knarrs, which were more focused on trade and cargo, were not as fast as longships.

They typically had speeds ranging from 4 to 8 knots (5 to 9 mph or 8 to 14 km/h).

Karves:

Karves, being intermediate-sized ships, had speeds that fell between longships and knarrs.

Their speeds were generally similar to those of knarrs, around 4 to 8 knots.

how did viking ships work?

Viking ships were ingeniously designed and versatile vessels that played a crucial role in the activities of the Vikings, including trade, exploration, raiding, and warfare. The design and construction of Viking ships allowed them to navigate various types of waters, from rivers and shallow coastal areas to open seas. Here’s how Viking ships worked:

Design and Construction: Viking ships were constructed using a clinker-built technique, where overlapping planks were fastened together with iron nails and rivets. This construction method made the ships flexible and capable of withstanding the stresses of the sea. The ships had a shallow draft, which allowed them to navigate in shallow waters and sail up rivers. They featured a curved hull design that reduced resistance and increased speed.

Propulsion: Viking ships were propelled using a combination of methods:

Rowing: Viking ships had rows of oars on both sides. Rowers sat on benches along the sides of the ship and used oars to row in unison, providing propulsion and maneuverability.

Sailing: Most Viking ships had a single square sail made of wool or linen. The sail was mounted on a mast located amidships and could be raised or lowered as needed. Sails were used when wind conditions were favorable to harness wind power and increase speed.

Navigation and Steering: Viking ships used a steering board (rudder) attached to the right side of the ship. This design allowed the ship to be steered and maneuvered effectively. The rudder could be lifted or lowered to control the ship’s direction.

Versatility: Viking ships were versatile and adapted to different purposes:

Longships: These were fast and sleek ships designed for raiding and warfare. They could swiftly approach enemy shores, making them suitable for surprise attacks.

Knarrs: These were broader and more robust ships used for trading and carrying cargo. They had a larger cargo capacity and were well-suited for longer voyages.

Karves: Intermediate-sized ships used for various purposes, including transportation and exploration.

Navigation Aids: Vikings navigated using a combination of methods, including the sun, stars, and landmarks. They also used primitive compasses, known as “sunstones,” which helped them determine the position of the sun on overcast days.

how many passengers do viking ships hold?

The number of passengers that Viking ships could hold varied depending on the type and size of the ship. Viking ships were designed for different purposes, such as raiding, trading, and exploration, which influenced their size and capacity.

Longships: Longships were the iconic warships used by Vikings for raiding and warfare. They were typically more focused on accommodating a crew for rowing and combat than on carrying passengers. Longships could vary in size, with some larger ones capable of carrying around 60 to 100 warriors. However, these numbers also included the crew members required for rowing, navigation, and combat. There might have been some additional space for a limited number of passengers, but longships were primarily designed for the crew’s needs.

Knarrs: Knarrs were broader and more robust ships primarily used for trading and cargo transport. They had a larger cargo capacity and could carry a significant amount of goods. While knarrs were not primarily designed for carrying passengers, they might have had some space available for a few extra individuals, such as merchants or explorers.

Karves: Karves were intermediate-sized ships that were more versatile and could be used for different purposes, including transportation and exploration. Depending on the specific size of the karve, it could potentially carry a mix of crew and passengers.

viking ships history

The history of Viking ships began in the 8th century when the Vikings improved their shipbuilding techniques. Through centuries of effort, they developed the construction technology of Viking ships to a high level.

Viking ships were utilized by the Vikings during the Viking Age for purposes such as trade, commerce, exploration, warfare, and exploration. They were active from 793 AD to 1066 AD.

when were viking ships invented?

Viking ships were developed and used during the Viking Age, which is generally considered to have started around the late 8th century and lasted until the late 11th century. The exact time of the invention of Viking ships is not well-documented, but their design and construction techniques evolved over time during this period. These ships became a defining feature of Viking culture and played a significant role in their maritime activities.

where were viking ships invented?

Viking ships were invented and developed in the Scandinavian region, specifically by the Norse peoples of what is now modern-day Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. These ships were crafted in various shipyards and communities along the coasts of these countries. The innovative design and construction techniques of Viking ships allowed them to navigate both open seas and shallow rivers, making them highly versatile for the Vikings’ trade, exploration, raiding, and warfare activities.

who built the first viking ship?

The exact individual or group that built the very first Viking ship is not known, as shipbuilding was likely a collaborative effort within the Norse communities. Shipbuilding knowledge was passed down through generations, and various skilled craftsmen, including shipwrights and blacksmiths, would have been involved in constructing Viking ships. Over time, the Norse people refined and improved their shipbuilding techniques, leading to the development of the iconic Viking ships that we know today.

what is viking boat draft?

The Viking boat draft refers to the depth of water that a Viking ship’s hull extends below the waterline. It is the measurement of how much of the ship is submerged in the water when it is afloat. A shallower draft allows a ship to navigate in shallower waters, such as rivers and coastal areas, without running aground. In the context of Viking ships, having a shallow draft was advantageous because it allowed them to navigate both open seas and inland waterways, giving them the flexibility to conduct raids and trade in various environments. The combination of a shallow draft and the ability to use both oars and sails made Viking ships versatile and well-suited for their exploration, trade, and raiding activities.

how were viking merchant ships different from viking longships?

Viking merchant ships and Viking longships were distinct types of vessels with different purposes and designs. Here are some key differences between the two:

Purpose and Function:

Viking Longships: These were primarily designed for warfare, exploration, and raiding. They were fast and maneuverable, equipped with oars and sails, and often used for surprise attacks along coastlines and river systems.

Viking Merchant Ships: These ships were designed for trade and transportation of goods. They were built with more cargo space and stability in mind, making them suitable for carrying valuable goods over longer distances.

Size and Shape:

Viking Longships: They were relatively sleek and streamlined, with a long and narrow shape that allowed for speed and agility. The shallow draft of longships allowed them to navigate both open seas and shallow rivers.

Viking Merchant Ships: These ships were generally larger and more robust, with a broader hull to accommodate cargo. They were built to carry substantial loads of goods for trading.

Armament and Defense:

Viking Longships: Longships were equipped with shields, weapons, and a crew experienced in combat. They often had a prow and stern that rose higher above the waterline, making them suitable for beach landings.

Viking Merchant Ships: Merchant ships were less likely to have extensive defensive features. Their design focused more on cargo capacity and stability, rather than combat capabilities.

Sails and Propulsion:

Viking Longships: These ships used both oars and sails for propulsion, allowing for rapid movement and flexibility in various conditions.

Viking Merchant Ships: Merchant ships also used sails but may have relied more on favorable winds for propulsion during trade voyages.

Crew and Accommodation:

Viking Longships: Longships had a smaller crew focused on combat readiness. The layout was optimized for quick access to weapons and shields.

Viking Merchant Ships: Merchant ships carried a larger crew and were designed to accommodate passengers and cargo. They might have had living quarters for the crew and traders.

viking ship vs pirate ship

Viking ships and pirate ships are two distinct types of vessels that were used by different groups of people in different historical periods and regions. While there are some similarities in their purposes and activities, there are also significant differences between them.

Viking Ships:

Origin and Time Period: Viking ships were used by the Norse seafarers known as Vikings during the Viking Age, which spanned roughly from the late 8th century to the early 11th century.

Purpose: Viking ships were used for various purposes, including exploration, trade, transportation, and raiding. They played a crucial role in Viking society for both peaceful and military activities.

Design: Viking ships were characterized by their shallow draft, which allowed them to navigate both open waters and shallow rivers. They had a flexible design with both oars and sails, making them versatile and suitable for different conditions.

Construction: Viking ships were primarily built for function rather than luxury. They were constructed using overlapping planks of wood and featured a curved hull design, often with a distinctive dragon or serpent figurehead.

Activities: Vikings used their ships for exploration and colonization, trade routes between Scandinavia and other regions, as well as for raiding coastal settlements and monasteries across Europe.

Pirate Ships:

Origin and Time Period: Pirate ships were used by pirates during the “Golden Age of Piracy,” which occurred primarily from the late 17th century to the early 18th century.

Purpose: Pirate ships were used primarily for raiding, looting, and attacking other ships on the high seas. Pirates sought to capture valuable cargo, plunder, and treasures from merchant vessels.

Design: Pirate ships were often modified and armed merchant vessels or captured warships. They were designed for speed and combat, featuring larger crews and more weaponry compared to merchant ships.

Construction: Pirate ships were sometimes purpose-built for piracy, but more often, pirates used seized or stolen ships. These ships would be customized to accommodate the needs of piracy, including adding extra cannons and rigging for speed.

Activities: Pirates engaged in criminal activities, such as attacking and plundering merchant ships, capturing prisoners for ransom, and seeking out remote locations to hide their loot.

viking ship vs greek ship

Viking ships and Greek ships are two distinct types of vessels that were used by different cultures in different historical periods and regions. Each type of ship has its own unique characteristics and purposes.

Viking Ships:

Origin and Time Period: Viking ships were used by the Norse seafarers known as Vikings during the Viking Age, which spanned from the late 8th century to the early 11th century.

Purpose: Viking ships were versatile vessels used for exploration, trade, transportation, and raiding. They were essential to Viking society and played a central role in their maritime activities.

Design: Viking ships were known for their shallow draft, allowing them to navigate both open waters and shallow rivers. They featured a flexible design with both oars and sails, making them adaptable to various conditions.

Construction: Viking ships were constructed with overlapping wooden planks, featuring a curved hull design. They often had a dragon or serpent figurehead and were built for practicality rather than luxury.

Activities: Vikings used their ships for exploration, colonization, trade routes, and coastal raiding across Europe.

Greek Ships:

Origin and Time Period: Greek ships were used by ancient Greeks in various historical periods, with a significant focus during the Classical and Hellenistic periods (5th to 3rd centuries BCE).

Purpose: Greek ships were primarily used for transportation, trade, warfare, and naval battles. They played a crucial role in ancient Greek culture, trade networks, and naval power.

Design: Greek ships, such as triremes and galleys, were designed for speed and maneuverability. Triremes, for example, had three rows of oars on each side and were used for naval warfare.

Construction: Greek ships were constructed with a combination of wooden planks and frames. They were often highly decorated and adorned with various artistic elements.

Activities: Greek ships played a significant role in trade, colonization, and naval warfare. They were instrumental in naval battles like the Battle of Salamis during the Greco-Persian Wars.

viking ship vs Chinese ship

Viking ships and Chinese ships are two distinct types of vessels that were used by different cultures in different historical periods and regions. Each type of ship has its own unique characteristics and purposes.

Viking Ships:

Origin and Time Period: Viking ships were used by Norse seafarers known as Vikings during the Viking Age, which spanned from the late 8th century to the early 11th century.

Activities: Vikings used their ships for exploration, colonization, trade routes, and coastal raiding across Europe.

Chinese Ships:

Origin and Time Period: Chinese ships have a long history dating back to ancient times. Notably, during the Ming Dynasty (14th to 17th centuries), China witnessed the construction of large and advanced ships for maritime expeditions led by Admiral Zheng He.

Purpose: Chinese ships were used for trade, exploration, diplomatic missions, and naval warfare. They played a crucial role in China’s maritime activities and cultural exchange.

Design: Chinese ships, such as the treasure ships of the Ming Dynasty, were large and sophisticated. They featured multiple masts, watertight compartments, and advanced navigational instruments.

Construction: Chinese ships were built using advanced shipbuilding techniques and technologies, such as bulkheads and water-resistant compartments. They were constructed with high-quality materials and had ornate designs.

Activities: Chinese ships were used for diplomatic missions to Southeast Asia, India, and East Africa, as well as for trade along the Maritime Silk Road. They were a symbol of Chinese naval power and maritime exploration.

Viking ships knowledge

The Nordic region includes Scandinavian Peninsula, Jutland Peninsula, Iceland and other islands. As this region is close to the North Sea and the Baltic and local people’s lives depend on the ocean, the shipbuilding industry there is highly developed. Also, as the Nordic waters are broad, local people had learnt to build ships in very early times. Archaeologists discovered many Bronze-age drawings of ships in Denmark. Some of these drawings were carved on rocks, while some others were carved on the weapons or even razors. The ships in these drawings had long hulls and tall swan-neck-shape bows where there were head portraits of a variety of animals; and in the middle of hulls there were drawings of upright trees.

A ship built around the Christian era was excavated in the marsh region of the southern Jutland, and it was very similar to the ships in those Bronze-age drawings. This ship had a delicately structured hull as long as 42 inches, just like a racing yacht. Every piece of deckplate was very narrow. And instead of being nailed together, they were jointed together and then bound to the ship skeleton. During the early Middle Ages, there was some new development of the Norse ship. In 1863, two large Norse ships were excavated in Nydam, Denmark. One of them was as long as 60 inches, and is now preserved in a museum in Schleswig, Germany.

The three characteristics of the Norse ship:

They were mainly propelled by sails, and supplemented by paddles. “There was one or at most two masts with the fore-and-aft sails set”. Usually the mast was located in the center. For example, on the Gokstad ship, the mast with shroud was built on a fish-shape hard stone in the center of the ship. To withstand the strong winds on the North Sea, the large square sails (single sail) set on Viking ships were usually made of leather or the cloth blended with leather strips. On a Norse ship, there were also bowlines used to drag the sail side against the wind, so as to make it possible to sail downwind in crosswind. Devices used to fasten the paddles were specially installed on Viking ships. For example, on each side of the Gokstad ship, there were 16 lockholes-like paddle holes, which went down through the gunwale. When the sails were set and paddles were not in use, slidable shuttle-shape corks were put down to cover the paddle holes so as to keep the water out. There were also coverplates on the paddle blades, which were removed when the paddles were in use.

The hull bottom and ship shell were of distinctive structure. On the hull there was a keel where the ribs were horizontally or aslant attached to. Therefore, there were the flat-bottomed ships whose keels seemed to be invisible; and the sharp-bottomed ships whose keels protruded. The two kinds of ships were used for different purposes. The sharp-bottomed ship was slender and of good seakeeping ability, which was the Norse ships’ advantage over the Mediterranean ship and the reason why Normans mainly used this kind of ship. But the flat-bottomed ship could easily land on the beach and was applicable to inland riverwaters during Norman invasions, and therefore was also widely used. The ship shells were spliced together by the “cravel-built” method. For example, 41-centimeter-thick oak panels were used the Gokstad ship. Instead of being attached by bolt nails, the nethermost eight ship shells were all bound to the ribs. As a result, the elasticity and flexibility were improved while the pressure on the ship was reduced. As this kind of ship was undecked, Normans’ voyages were basically shelterless. It was said that this kind of ship was used by William of Normandy when he conquered England in 1066. One of the five Copenhagen ships mentioned above had a spacious cabin.

Steering oar was used on this kind of ship. The long steering oar was installed at the right side of the stern. And it extended all the way down the keel so as to remain stable. Steering oar was controlled

by the tiller handle, and therefore the right side of ship was referred to as “steerboard”.

According to Engels, it was the Norman ship (mainly the sharp-bottomed ship) that brought a full-scale revolution to the navigation technology: “Their ships were a kind of stable and solid seagoing vessel which had protruded keels and sharp ends. In most cases, they used only sails on this kind of ship without fearing about the sudden storms on the surgy North Sea. Normans went on expeditions with this kind of ship, and reached as far as Constantinople in the east and the Americas in the west. As this kind of ship could be used to sail across the Atlantic, it revolutionized the seafaring industry. And as a result, this kind of new sharp-bottomed ship had been popularized in all the coastal areas of Europe before the end of the Middle Age.”

In the 8^th century, the Viking ships began to evolve into sailships. In the Gotland of Sweden, according to the discoveries on a series of sculptures from this period, the Norse sail was not a small piece of cloth, but a large piece of square cloth with red or blue painted stripes used as an eye-catching logo on it. The lower part of the sail was loosely fastened without using any crossyard. Since the late 8^th century, Vikings had begun to expand their maritime sphere of influence in all directions with sailships. They had a wide scope of migration, and was the best seafaring people in the world at that time. In England, they were known as the Danes; in the Frankish Empire and Italy, they were called the Normans; and in the Rus region and Ireland, they were referred to as the Varangians. They also dared to venture into the high seas, and traveled westwards to Iceland and Greenland. They even set foot on the North America around 1000 AD. Undoubtedly, their large-scale voyage activities were associate with their advanced shipbuilding and navigation technologies.

Some ship wreckages that had been discovered fully reflected the characteristics of Viking ships. Two ships discovered in Norway were the most typical ones. One was discovered in Gokstad, Norway in 1880. The other was discovered in Oseberg, Norway in 1903. Both places were near Oslo. According to the appraisal, the Oseberg ship was a long ship built around 800. It was 21 meters in length, 4 meters in width, 1.5 meters in the height of hull. As it was of low freeboard and shallow draft, it was suitable for offshore waters. The Gokstad ship was a typical warship. Despite being as wide as the Oseberg ship, it was approximately 24 meters long and 2 meters tall. Later in an estuary to the north of Copenhagen, five double-transom ships was discovered. According to the analysis, they were built in the 10^th century, fully loaded with stones, and scuttled on purpose to block the waterway and stop the invaders. They were of the same ship type, but their design, volume and time of building were different. The larger ones among them must be sailships instead of paddle boats; as they were of deep draft and high gunwale, they might be used as troopships.

According to the materials for ship hull, the characteristics of Norman ships are discussed below. These characteristics largely formed in the same period as the Nydam ship mentioned above, while a few of them came out following the new development of shipbuilding technology between the 9^th and 12^th century.

The hull was long, but its middle part was much wider than the long ships used in the Mediterranean; the bow and stern were nearly symmetric, both in a pointed and upwarped shape, and much higher than the sea surface. Therefore, it was called the “double-ends”. When looking at the hull as a whole, it was like a smooth and curved outline extending from the high bow to the nearly-circular middle part and then the high stern, and the curves were so elegant. Both the bow and stern stood high in the air like dragons, and they could be removed when in emergency circumstances.

From the 12^th and 14^th century, there was some new development of the Norse ship, which was represented by the Viking ship.

Firstly, stern rudder replaced the steering oar. The earliest drawing involved stern rudder and its attached tiller was discovered in a mark of English city in 1200. As it showed, the original stern rudder was curved so as to fit the outline of stern. Later, linear type design was adopted to the stern, and accordingly the stern rudder was modified. The stern rudder helped the ship to go aweather. And as the hull was deepened, the ship could go aslant against the wind.

Secondly, the low freeboard on Viking ship was also modified 1100 years later – a superstructure called “castle” were built at both the bow and stern. “Castle” was originally built for military purpose. At that time, warships were close to each other in the naval battle, so the castles at the bow and stern played certain defensive function when the enemies embarked amidships. Later, this design was also adopted on merchant ships. Ships with such superstructures looked “unequally weighted”. For this reason, the forecastle was actually used as the “sailors’ quarters”.

Thirdly, it was the emergence and evolution of Norse merchant ship.

The Norse merchant ship was referred to as the “Knorr” ship and had a hull wider than deeper than the Viking longboat. It was the earliest ship that could utilize the headwind. In the 15^th century, the “Knorr” ship was developed into a standard merchant ship. Its design type was dominant in the Nordic region for 400 years. In fact, the well-known Norse “Cog” ship was also a re-design version of it. The “Cog” ship had a genuine stern rudder for directional control, a long and forward-facing bowsprit for square sail, and a very solid hull. Around 1400, the larger “Holk” ship based on the “Cog” ship emerged in the Nordic region.

In conclusion, Viking ships are distinctive vessels utilized by Norse pirates, holding significant historical and cultural importance during that period.

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