A day course in sailing a Viking ship provides new experiences for both new beginners and those with more experience, looking for new challenges and angles on sailing.
The course gives participants a basic introduction to sailing with square sails - the type of sail used on Viking ships. The square sail differs significantly from modern rig types, and often feels challenging for modern-day sailors. In contrast to bermuda and gaff sails, the square sail is placed in front of the mast, and this often requires a bit of getting used to and gives the modern sailor fun 'aha experiences'.
Participants also get an introduction to Viking ship's special construction and materials, just as the ship's ropes - often produced from authentic materials, such as horsehair and linden bast - are presented and explained.
The entire course is based on practical exercises on Roskilde Fjord. Before departure from the Museums Harbour, participants receive a short safety instruction and are provided with life jackets.
Packed lunches are provided for all participants. Lunch is eaten on board.
The ship
Helge Ask was built by the museum in 1990-91 of oak, pine and ash. It is a reconstruction of the small warship, Skuldelev 5.
The ship was built using the same methods, materials and tools used by Viking Age boat builders, and the ship represent some of the closest we get to the original ships.
'Helge Ask' has room for 16 students.
» Read more about the 'Helge Ask' ship...
Dates for 2025
Courses in Estrid Byrding
Saturday 5 July
Price: 2.400 DKK / 2.270 DKK for children and young people under the age of 18
Courses in Kraka Fyr
Saturday 19 July
Price: 1.380 DKK / 1.250 DKK for children and young people under the age of 18
Courses in Helge Ask
Saturday 26 July
Price: 2.400 DKK / 2.270 DKK for children and young people under the age of 18
» By your ticket here...
Time: 10:00 – app. 16:00
No previous experience with sailing Viking ships is required.
Note:
- For safety reasons, all participants must be able to understand Danish or English.
- Children minimum 12 years old
- We reserve the right to cancel if the weather is a safety risk or there are too few registrants.
- Duration: 6 hours
- Lunch box and a bottle of water included.
- Bring warm clothing.
- The ticket cannot be refunded unless the sailing is cancelled.
- Ticket fee is not refunded.
- Read more in our terms of agreement.