The Vikings were certainly world travelers: From home bases in Scandinavia they made their way as far west as North America, as far south as North Africa, and as far east as Russia and the Middle East. They were infamous as raiders, and their long wooden warships sparked terror. But they were also fishers, traders, and settlers of the British Isles and continental Europe. Each activity required a different kind of boat.
About 30 minutes outside of Copenhagen, Denmark, the Viking Ship Museum offers a glimpse into that seafaring life. On display are five real Viking ships, intentionally sunk in Roskilde Fjord around 1,000 years ago to form a defensive barrier and then carefully excavated in the 20th century. Visitors during the summer months can also sail on a reconstructed Viking craft, built on the premises using traditional materials and techniques.
