Haakon Haakonsson lecture
Vikingar!, Largs, KA30 8QL
Friday 4th September 2026
How Longships Were Constructed, Maintained and Sailed
With Paul Kavanagh
Step aboard for a fascinating journey into the world of Viking longships!
As part of the Largs Viking Festival, join us for the Haakon Haakonsson Lecture, where Paul Kavanagh explores 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!
With Paul Kavanagh
Step aboard for a fascinating journey into the world of Viking longships!
As part of the Largs Viking Festival, join us for the Haakon Haakonsson Lecture, where Paul Kavanagh explores 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!
