As we approach the end of 2025, it feels natural to pause and look back at everything that has been created, shared, and accomplished. Saga Farmann is more than a ship moving from port to port; it is a living project, built on collaboration, trust, and a shared passion for sailing, Viking history, and people. As the year draws to a close, we want to shine a light on the immense amount of work taking place behind the scenes and thank everyone who contributed to this year’s expedition, “Saga Lundenwic.”
By: Elin Fylling
A broad community carries the project
Behind Saga Farmann stands a dedicated community that ensures the project remains alive throughout the year. This unique initiative is supported by a volunteer organization with more than 150 engaged members. This community forms the backbone of the work, and it is here that commitment, expertise, and the determination to make things happen truly come to life.
A dedicated volunteer project management and planning group has worked continuously throughout the year on finances, coordination, bookings, registrations, communication, marketing, and partnerships. Cooperation with partners, museums, ports, authorities, and institutions develops gradually and requires structure, long-term thinking, and mutual trust. For us, this work comes naturally, driven by a genuine desire to share our project and meet new people and partners along the way.
The crew and the adventure on board
In parallel with the planning on land, the boat team and crew have carried out the actual voyages. On board, people from different backgrounds, experiences, and nationalities have come together—sailors, storytellers, craftspeople, photographers, and enthusiasts—united by a shared drive and a deep respect for the ship and the history it carries.
Over the course of the year, a large number of unique individuals have been part of the crew, and this diversity has given the project strength, knowledge, and perspective. Each person has left their mark on the voyage, and together they have created an environment defined by learning, friendship, and solidarity.
Volunteers and the public
A big and heartfelt thank you goes to all the volunteers who dedicate countless hours—often quietly and behind the scenes—to ensure that Saga Farmann can continue to sail. Your efforts are absolutely essential, whether they involve preparations, maintenance, execution, interpretation, or practical tasks along the way. The sense of cooperation is tangible.
A unique energy emerges when many people are passionate about the same thing, when everyone is motivated to bring the ship safely forward, solve challenges, and create new opportunities. This energy is the very driving force of the project and one of the reasons why Saga Farmann continues to move both seas and people.
Equally important are the encounters along the way. Audiences on quays and piers, children and adults who stop, ask questions, cheer, and share their enthusiasm. These moments give the voyage meaning far beyond the sailing itself and remind us why this work is worth the effort.
Collaboration and international meeting places
Along our routes, we have met a wide range of partners and friends who welcomed us with open arms. The cooperation with the Thor Heyerdahl Institute in Larvik and Larvik Municipality, Andorra Municipality, and the port stay in Genoa just outside the Galata Museo del Mare have been important milestones.
The Norwegian Seafood Council’s event on board in Andorra became a particularly pleasant meeting place. The Norwegian Embassy in London, with Tore Hattrem and colleagues, contributed with planning, permits, and valuable support. Through NBCC, led by Kyrre Haugen, our arrival was marked by a lively reception on board during the Vestfold delegation’s program, focusing on tourism, energy, and cooperation between Norway and the United Kingdom.
Thanks to our friend Jørn Madslien at Room 7540, the project reached all the way into the Royal Navy, with a visit from Commodore Tim Green. At the same time, Lucie Herring of Gilded Herring facilitated contact with Reuters, Associated Press, and the BBC, giving our arrival in London extensive media coverage. In Marseille, we were met with warmth, knowledge-sharing, and genuine hospitality, thanks to the consulate represented by Åsa Agdestein, the Norvège-Provence association, and representatives from Métropole Aix-Marseille-Provence, who officially welcomed us to the city.
Logistics through France, led by LV Logistics and Henry Rios, made it possible to transport Saga Farmann over land—an impressive sight as she traveled along narrow country roads on her way to Paris. We are especially proud of our collaboration with the Musée national de la Marine, and Saga Farmann was given a berth at Port Debilly with the Eiffel Tower as her closest neighbor. The harbor space beneath the Eiffel Tower was sponsored by Haropa Port, the owner of the iconic quay
Our sponsors – crucial support
Saga Farmann would not be where she is today without the strong support of our sponsors. Vestfold County Municipality has been one of our most important contributors, and it meant a great deal to us that County Mayor Anne Strømøy personally attended the reception in London.
Mercury contributed the engine for the RIB and provided invaluable assistance related to the engine throughout the voyage. Eltek supplied critical spare parts for our 48V charging solution, which has been essential for both operation and safety. Lebill AS and Soli Eplemost supported the project financially, while Håkon Wium Lie was part of the crew and documented the voyages through truly unique photographs. Owatrol contributed both sponsorship and products that protect the ship and also hosted a memorable reception on board in Paris. Read more here :https://osebergvikingarv.no/eng/2025/10/21/saga-farmann-three-years-at-sea/
Photo: Håkon Wium Lie
This year, we would like to extend a special thank you to our technology sponsors Fischer Panda and Sea Drive AS. After a flooding incident earlier this winter, their efforts were absolutely crucial in getting us safely back into operation. They supported us through a demanding situation and ensured that Saga Farmann was ready in time for a new adventure toward London. We are also grateful for their continued contributions and support throughout the season. The Fischer Panda generators have received professional servicing and are now ready for a new season.
Photo: Martime Media
Toward new horizons
All the work that goes into this project is driven by our belief in it—not just as a ship or an initiative, but as a living story that evolves with every voyage, every volunteer hour, and every encounter along the way. We do it because we are passionate about the project, because it gives us meaning, and because we want to create something lasting—something that inspires both ourselves and others to become part of the voyage and the Viking legacy.
A huge thank you to everyone who has followed and supported us throughout 2025—volunteers, crew, partners, sponsors, and audiences. This is also your story, and it is your engagement and contributions that allow Saga Farmann to continue sailing, creating memories, and inspiring new generations.
2026 is approaching, and next year’s expedition will be “Saga Midgard 2026.” We can’t reveal more just yet, but the question lingers in the air: Where do you think Saga Farmann will sail in 2026?
Everyone is welcome to continue the voyage with us. Whether you want to offer support, take part in the expedition, or simply learn more about the project—get in touch.
Photo: David Kru Barlaup