The Saga Farmann, a faithful replica of a 10th-century Viking cargo ship, sailed into St Katharine Docks this week after passing under Tower Bridge. Built using traditional Nordic clinker techniques, the 20-meter vessel left Tønsberg, Norway, in April 2023 to retrace ancient Viking trade routes across Europe.
Photos : Viking history/London/DR
From the Black Sea to the english channel
The ship navigated the Rhine, the Danube, and the Mediterranean, wintered in Istanbul, and made a symbolic stop at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice. Despite severe damage in Rome, the vessel completed its journey and is now open to the public until Sunday morning.
A human adventure
Led by project manager Lars Bill, the voyage brought together rotating crews from around the world. “It shaped me into a citizen of the world,” he says. Jazz musician Tomáš Hetmánek, who joined in Istanbul, reflects: “Most of our lives are spent in our heads. Just do it, life is too short.”
Photos : Viking history/London/DR
Featured at the Classic Boat Festival
The Saga Farmann will be a highlight of the Classic Boat Festival on September 6 and 7, alongside over 50 historic vessels. A rare chance to experience Viking history in the heart of London.
Photos : Viking history/London/DR
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