For the third consecutive year, Saga Farmann has embarked on an expedition. Departing from Rome, with exciting stops along Europe’s canals and coastal towns, this year’s voyage culminated in a grand arrival in the British capital. As a living symbol of Norwegian cultural heritage, the ship has strengthened connections between people and cultures across borders.
By Elin Fylling
Saga Lundenwic 2025
Each port offered moments of community, learning, and discovery, and this year’s expedition was no exception: from Rome’s historic port of Civitavecchia to the heart of London, with unforgettable stops along the way. After an exciting first leg, Saga Farmann docked in Genoa, where the arrival was marked with an event organized by the Norwegian Seafood Council. Here, stockfish—a trade commodity from the Viking Age—was highlighted in a modern way, prepared and served by top Italian chefs. The ship berthed outside the Galata Museo del Mare, where we, in collaboration with the museum, hosted guided tours on board.
The voyage then continued with a stop in Andora, where hundreds of people gathered at the quay. In collaboration with the Thor Heyerdahl Institute and the Vestfold Museums, we welcomed 330 schoolchildren during the day—and hundreds of visitors of all ages came aboard in the afternoons and evenings. Everyone who wished had the opportunity to learn about Viking Age seafaring, craftsmanship, and life at sea. The days were busy, filled with curiosity, learning, and genuine Viking joy!
Festivities in France
In Marseille, before continuing through the French canals, the crew received a warm welcome from the Norwegian consulate, which, together with the Association Norvège-Provence, organized “Breakfast with the Vikings.” Historian Igor Kristensen shared insights into the Vikings’ possible presence in southern France, and the conversations ranged from scholarly depth to personal engagement, all while enjoying delicious croissants.
Bastille Day was celebrated in Mâcon, where the crew took part in a lively parade through the city streets. The festivities continued with refreshments for everyone and a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the night sky. As a highlight, we had the honor of welcoming Mâcon’s mayor and other local representatives on board—a memorable evening filled with community and celebration.
Naturally, we cannot forget the arrival in Paris, when Saga Farmann docked right by the Eiffel Tower—a place the Vikings had not set foot on for over a thousand years. In collaboration with the Musée national de la Marine, activities and guided tours were organized, attracting hundreds of visitors. Read more about the visit to Paris here: https://osebergvikingarv.no/eng/2025/08/11/saga-farmann-in-the-heart-of-paris/
This Year’s Destination: London
After crossing from Honfleur to Ouistreham, Saga Farmann arrived at the port of Caen, where the crew had to wait a few days for better weather. At three o’clock in the morning, they set course for open waters to cross the English Channel. Experience the crossing by watching the video made by Tomáš Hetmánek, an experienced sailor and photographer on board Saga Farmann: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNm37rKNZHc
After months at sea, the expedition reached its conclusion as Saga Farmann proudly sailed up the Thames and under Tower Bridge, before docking at St. Katharine Docks—a moment that marked the end of this year’s voyage. Joy and relief were high among the crew and project leaders, who could look back on a successful voyage filled with experiences, new acquaintances, and memories for life.
Tomáš describes the adventurous voyage with Saga Farmann: “After I met Saga Farmann, I began to experience these epic moments… crossing the Bosporus, sailing through the Aegean Sea, crossing the English Channel, and sailing under Tower Bridge—all on a Viking ship. It seems a Viking ship is quite a good way to travel!”
Read more about the stay in London here: https://osebergvikingarv.no/eng/2025/09/05/saga-farmann-sails-into-london-a-viking-adventure-in-the-spotlight/
The Winter That Tested Us – The Community That Supported Us
Although all we are left with now are fond memories, the expedition did not start without challenges. The winter in Civitavecchia brought a dramatic test. Extreme weather flooded the ship, damaging electrical systems and generators. In March, just before departure, it seemed the entire expedition might have to be postponed. But thanks to the swift efforts of sponsors, volunteers, and especially our technology partners SeaDrive and Fischer Panda UK, new engine controls and generators were installed in time.
The Fischer Panda generators, located under the deck planks at the bow and stern, are designed for professional sailing and help make Saga Farmann “the world’s most modern Viking ship,” ready for long and demanding voyages. Upon arrival in London, we finally had the chance to meet the team at Fischer Panda and thank those who ensured this year’s departure could go ahead!
“We’re proud to have supported Saga Farmann’s voyage and to see our systems powering Oseberg Foundation’s inspiring mission. From restored heritage boats to modern electric and hybrid craft, Fischer Panda generators continue to deliver reliable and efficient power across diverse applications. Their compact, sound-insulated design and compatibility with eco-diesel make them ideally suited for demanding environments where performance and sustainability go hand in hand.” – Chris Fower, Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions
A Project That Brings People Together
Saga Farmann’s voyage is more than a voyage; it is proof of what collaboration and engagement can achieve. From schoolchildren in Andora to diplomats in Marseille and festival audiences in London, Saga Farmann has built bridges between people, cultures, and generations. Every milestone on the voyage has been made possible thanks to the impressive efforts of volunteers who worked tirelessly from early morning to late at night. Their dedication, perseverance, and good spirits have been at the heart of the expedition.
The adventure continues next spring, with new ports, new encounters, and new stories to tell. With each voyage, Saga Farmann becomes more than just a ship—it becomes a living symbol of community, cooperation, and curiosity, crossing borders and creating lifelong memories.
Do you want to join the adventure? Stay tuned—we will soon announce next year’s expedition and share more information on registration for 2026.
