Longship

Viking · ships · exploration · warriors

Speed and Shallow Water. Longships were designed to be long and slender so they could zoom through water quickly. They could even sail up rivers and land on shallow beaches, making them perfect for Viking raids and exploration.

Dragon Ship Decorations. The front and back of longships had raised carved dragonheads and tails. With the sail stretched between them like a wing, the whole ship looked like a flying dragon, which is why Vikings sometimes called them 'dragonships.'

Oars and Sails Together. Longships used both oars and sails for power. When there was no wind, the crew could row. When wind came, they'd raise the sail and let it do the work.

Room for Warriors. These ships were built to carry lots of people, crews of fierce Viking warriors. The long, open design meant there was plenty of space for soldiers, supplies, and treasure.

Strong Overlapping Wood. Longships were built using 'clinker' construction, meaning wooden planks overlapped like roof shingles. This made them flexible, strong, and able to handle rough seas.