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How Longships Were Constructed, Maintained and Sailed

Step aboard for a fascinating journey into the world of Viking longships!

As part of the Largs Viking Festival, the Haakon Haakonsson Lecture will welcome speaker Paul Kavanagh, who will explore how the iconic longships of the Viking Age were actually built, maintained and sailed.

Longships were much more than impressive wooden vessels. They were carefully designed and expertly constructed machines, requiring specialist knowledge, skilled craftsmanship and constant maintenance. But how were they built? What materials and techniques were used? How were they kept seaworthy? And what was it really like to sail one?

In this engaging lecture, Paul Kavanagh will explore the practical realities behind these legendary ships, looking at their construction, upkeep and sailing techniques, and helping to bring the maritime world of the Vikings to life.

Whether you’re fascinated by Viking history, traditional boatbuilding, maritime archaeology, or simply curious about how these remarkable vessels crossed the seas, this lecture promises to offer a fascinating insight into one of the defining achievements of the Viking Age.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the skill, ingenuity and seafaring knowledge behind the Viking longship.

Come along, take your seat and discover how longships were constructed, maintained and sailed!

Please note that this event is not being coordinated by Dig It!. While Dig It! takes every opportunity to ensure that this information is accurate, we advise that you contact the event organiser before attending the event to avoid disappointment. As “39% of transport emissions come from cars” according to Net Zero Nation, Dig It! also encourages you to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport to arrive at this event if possible.

Image: Battle_of_Largs_(Viking_ships_detail),_1263 William Hole, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Accessibility Information

A Euan's Guide review of the venue can be found here.

For further accessibility information, please contact LVF1263@gmail.com

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