VIKING LONGSHIP
This is a unique opportunity to get afloat in one of history’s iconic designs of boat.
Enjoy the awesome surrounding in arguably the most beautiful boat on Derwentwater.
With one of our experienced helmsman in control, we will take up to ten of you, on an inspiring adventure, learning to explore just like the Vikings or just enjoy the surroundings in this good natured vessel.
Our Viking Longship, the “Gift of the Gael”, can be sailed or rowed which makes this a very versatile activity with respect to both session content and the weather! She can be used on a purely fun basis or as an integral part of a fun packed inspirational educational experience.
Our experience and knowledge of the lake along with access to safety boats allows us to offer you a range of experiences in most weather conditions. Anyone can go on-board, there are no age limits, from babes in arms to great gran and we have all the necessary safety equipment. Available for 1 or 2 hours
The Boat
The Gift of the Gael is a replica Viking Longship. Based around a Gaelic adaptation of a Norse design, the Birlinn, also known as a Scottish Galley, developed in the Hebrides and Western Isles of Scotland. Viking settlers would have commonly used this design as a small cargo ship for trade, exploration, invasion and warfare including transportation of mercenaries to Ireland.
She was built by The GalGael Trust – a community project building and sailing traditional boats in celebration of Scotland’s heritage.
Built in a Glasgow shipyard in 1999 from oak and elm gifted to the trust by the local council from trees felled by a heavy storm. Her name means gift of the Gaelic people. She was the first ship to be launched on the Clyde this millennium.
Try our Viking Experience
Energise your students with a unique hands on experience to inspire creativity and understanding.
