While many 18-year-olds dream of a gap year filled with travel or further studies, Niklas Normann chose a different path—one that leads across mountain plateaus and into the world of traditional craftsmanship. Through his involvement with the Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation, Niklas has found a community that brings together outdoor life, cultural heritage, and the joy of creating.
By Elin Fylling
From Wilderness to Viking Ships
Niklas Normann describes himself as an expedition adventurer—and for good reason. At just 16, he completed a 50-day river paddling expedition through the wilderness of the Nordic Arctic together with a friend, an experience he still considers a highlight of his life. His sense of adventure has not faded since. Most recently, he went on a mountain trek in Svaneti, Georgia, with Richard Bærug.
“The most beautiful place there is,” Niklas says without hesitation.
But it’s not only nature that draws him. Through the carpentry program in upper secondary school, he secured a work placement with the Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation, where he discovered a whole new landscape to explore: Viking ships, traditional craftsmanship, and a strong sense of community. Niklas seized the opportunity, applied, and quickly became part of the environment.
“I was placed there three days a week and got to work on the Arctic vessel Berntine, the Gokstad ship, and even helped build a timber-frame chicken house that now stands at Midgard Viking Centre,” he says.
After finishing upper secondary school, Niklas was employed by the foundation for a period and has since taken part in projects such as the construction of Tønsberg Harbour (the new Vikingodden), the Gilde Hall at Borre, wooden boats, and the reconstructed Tønsberg Reperbane.
“It’s very different from building ordinary houses. Here we use axes and hand planes, and we think in terms of tradition and precision,” he explains.
The foundation describes Niklas as a young and eager craftsman—someone who combines curiosity, a strong work ethic, and deep respect for cultural heritage.
Meginhufr on the Gokstad Ship
One of the most special projects Niklas has been involved in is the work on the meginhufr—the strongest and longest strake on a Viking ship. It is the most important plank, where the waterline and the deck meet. Niklas documented the entire process, from felling the oak tree to mounting the plank on the ship, in a short film now available on YouTube.
“It’s a film about the entire meginhufr process on the Gokstad ship. I’ve been editing films since I was seven years old, and this is a project I’m really proud of,” he says.
More Than Just Planks
Niklas’ relationship with the foundation goes beyond internships and construction work. It reflects a deeper interest in Norse culture, folk music, and what he himself calls meaningful work.
“It gives life meaning and depth. Traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage are important. If no one does this, it disappears. I think it’s important for Norway to know who we are and where we come from.”
He compares the foundation’s projects to places like Lom and Setesdal, where historic buildings and living traditions still shape local communities. In addition to building Viking ships and making films, Niklas also plays the jaw harp—an authentic Setesdal harp—as well as the chuniri (ჭუნირი), an ancient string instrument from Svaneti, specially made for him by one of the region’s leading folk musicians.
A Future in Wood and Tradition
Niklas envisions a future where he combines what he enjoys most: traditional craftsmanship, film, and outdoor life. His dream is not to sit behind a desk, but to create—both physically and visually—with purpose.
“It’s almost therapeutic to stand there working on something that has a history.”
Through his contributions to the Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation, Niklas is a living example of how young people can breathe new life into old traditions. At the crossroads of planks, culture, and camera, he finds both identity and inspiration.
Niklas is already documenting his journey on YouTube and Instagram, with more inspiring videos about outdoor life and traditional craftsmanship coming soon. Through simple, genuine moments, he shows that you don’t have to follow the beaten path to create something meaningful. For young people dreaming of forging their own way, getting out into nature, or simply using their hands more—here you’ll find both inspiration and the courage to get started.
Check out the videos and join Niklas on his journey.