Viking Shipbuilding - part 3

One of the last things to be fitted to the ship is a top strake, which is a plank that runs along the top edge of the ship into which allows the crew to fix their warrior shields in place. The crew have to bring their own sea chests on board to sit on when they’re rowing and also to keep their belongings inside. We also build a framework for the mast to rest on when it’s not in use. This is especially useful because sailors can also drape a large canvas over the framework to help protect them in stormy weather. Well, I think that’s about it, but mmmm, I’m sure there is something else, oh yes of course the dragon’s head which sits on the prow. The one I’ve just finished here is brilliant. It has a gap inside its mouth so you can put fire inside to make the dragon look as if he is actually breathing fire. These dragon’s heads are made to frighten the enemy; just image if you saw it sailing out of the sea fog towards you. Aargh!