Advantages of Smaller Ships in Viking Coastal Raids

Coastal areas were not all rich targets. Many towns and cities were situated on rivers, making it difficult for attackers to access them without special means. This is where the smaller ships of the Vikings came into play. Despite the rich targets found in coastal areas, the Vikings’ strategic choice to use smaller ships over larger ones was pivotal. Let's explore the reasons why smaller ships excelled in their coastal raids.

Coastal areas, especially those rich in resources, were strategic targets for the Vikings. However, many of these towns and cities were located on rivers. Larger ships, while capable of navigating the open seas, often found it challenging to access these inland locations due to their size and depth requirements. In contrast, smaller ships with a shallower draft were able to navigate upstream, allowing the Vikings to make inroads into the hinterland. This was vividly demonstrated during the siege of Paris around 870, which was possible only due to the smaller ships.

While there were certainly large ships, built to the capacity of 40-50 meters, these were expensive and not as commonly constructed. However, even the larger ships used by the Vikings, known as Skeidars, had a shallow enough draft to allow the Norse warriors to wade ashore. This versatile capability made the larger ships more suitable for coastal areas as well, providing a balance between navigation flexibility and combat effectiveness.

Why Smaller Ships Were Superior in Navigation

Smaller shallow draft boats offered distinct advantages that made them ideal for Viking raids. They were lighter, which made them easier to row. This factor combined with their ability to navigate rivers and unknown bays and estuaries without running aground made them more manageable and versatile in the unpredictable coastal environments. This flexibility was crucial for the Vikings' naval operations.

In general, there were not significant differences in the size of smaller ships compared to larger ones from the Viking era. These ships were designed to fit the specific needs of raiding and warfare, often being more suited for quick and agile movements than larger, more cumbersome vessels. The Vikings utilized both types of ships, depending on the mission and the terrain.

Utilizing Smaller Ships Upstream

The smaller ships played a critical role in the Viking raids up and down the rivers. These shallow draft vessels could navigate upstream, making it possible for the Vikings to conduct raids deep inland. This strategic advantage was evident in their transportation and deployment methods. Utilizing these vessels, the Vikings could move swiftly and efficiently, making it difficult for their targets to prepare an adequate defense. Furthermore, the lightness of these ships allowed them to be easily rowed, which further enhanced their maneuverability in close-quarters combat.

Conclusion

The use of smaller ships in Viking raids was a strategic choice that provided significant advantages over larger ships. These vessels were not only more versatile and easier to maneuver in coastal and riverine environments, but they also offered a strategic edge by allowing raids deeper into inland areas. Whether it was the ability to navigate upstream or the ease of rowing, smaller ships played a crucial role in the success of Viking raids. Understanding these advantages can provide valuable insights into the tactics and strategies employed by the Vikings in their conquests and raids along the coasts of Europe.