Viking longship replica docks in Maine and draws spectators

ROCKLAND, Maine – Residents of Maine are taking to the coast to greet a newly arrived replica of a Viking longship, the same type of ship that would have sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas over 1,000 years ago.

The Draken Harald Harfagre, or simply the Draken, is the largest Viking ship replica in the world — 115 feet long and weighing about 90 tons. She is visiting Rockland through Wednesday, at which time she will set sail for Portland. The ship was built in Norway and followed the original route of the Vikings to North America.

Visitors lined up Monday morning to view the Draken and learn about the ship’s construction and heritage. The ship will be open for tours for the rest of the week in Rockland.