Traditional sailing ship: The customs cruiser “Viking” on the move as a floating museum

The historic vessel, which was once used to hunt down smugglers, is operated by the Svendborg Museum. On its upcoming voyage, the ‘Viking’ aims to use the motto ‘I SAMME BÅD’ (in the same boat) as a platform for maritime culture, youth development and exchange across the various coastal communities.

From smuggler-hunter to heritage vessel

The history of the ship itself is quite remarkable: the “Viking” was built in Odense in 1897 by N. F. Hansen as the “Krydstoldjagt XVI”. At the time, the fast vessel was intended to pursue suspected smuggling vessels. Following the disbandment of the Danish customs cruiser service in 1904, the ship was sold and later renamed the “Viking”. It has been part of the Svendborg Museum since 1979 and is kept in working order by a voluntary operating association.

What the museum hopes to achieve with the sailing trip

The museum describes the upcoming voyage as a genuine expedition, one that is about far more than simply preserving tradition. The crew includes not only Head of Cultural Heritage Nils Valdersdorf Jensen and Expedition Leader Kristian Hansen, but also new young crew members, with whom the museum intends to discuss, amongst other things, issues relating to attracting young talent and the use of historic ships in education. Furthermore, during encounters with visitors, the collaboration between maritime cultural organisations and schools, businesses and the political sphere will be explored.

Starting in Svendborg, talks in the ports

According to the Danish Bådmagasinet The event is scheduled for 21 August at 1 pm in the port of Svendborg, with the “Viking” due to set sail an hour later. The plan also includes a procession of historic ships through the Svendborg Sound. At the ports of call, free talks, guided tours and discussions are to take place on the quayside. The expedition is subsequently to be documented in a book, a film and a podcast.

Is there a need for more public support for traditional sailing vessels in Germany too? Have your say in the comments section below the article.