Interesting reading below. The only thing that I can offer is in regards to Culann's "favorite topic" thread. Stated was an opinion pertaining to sailors ALWAYS rowing the last few hundred yards to shore. This is in fact NOT true.

Imagine, if you will, sailing through an North Sea rain storm. In a hurry to escape bad weather and make a landing at or near your intended destination. It is assumed (like most things viking, due to severe shortage of information) that the shipsmen would oft run their boats aground.

This could happen in different circumstances. First: an insueing battle could cause viking crews to beach the boats in an attempt to gain time in a charge. Secondly, lack of docking space and ease of landing leading to a "crash landing" on shore. In shallow waters one would consider sailing in to shore at higher speeds in an attempt to minimize getting stuck when the water is not deep enough. Also, for trading purposes, the knarrs could reach less populous areas and drop cargo in the same manner.

The hulls in dark age Scandanavia were built with a capacity for pummeling and flexibility. Very thick and manuverable for ocean sailing.

Thank you for allowing me to waste your time! ; )

Longbeard