A Viking Long Boat

Viking longships were powered by wind and oars.  They had one large square sail.  When the weather was bad, it was lowered and fastened like a tent over the crew.  The oars were used when there was little wind.

Longships were built using wood.  Gaps between the wooden planks were stuffed with sheep's wool which had been dipped in tar.  This helped make the ships waterproof.  The prow of the ship was carved into the shape of an animals head like a dragon, snake or horse.  The shape of the prow gave each ship its name.

Vikings travelled great distances in their longships.  They had a crew of oarsmen and also carried warriors.  When they reached land, the warriors would attack villages and rob them of their riches.