Norse Seafaring in Western Scotland

Sea Routes and Navigation Marks

Dados Bibliográficos

ID12972405
AutoresShane Mcleod (0000-0002-4747-6351, University of the Highlands and Islands), Alexandra Sanmark (University of the Highlands and Islands)
Ano2026
Volume2026
Fascículo47
Data de publicação2026-04-06
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessNão
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoJournal of the North Atlantic (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 1935-1933 • E-ISSN: 1935-1933
EditoraJournal of the North Atlantic (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.3721/037.006.4703
OpenAlexW7150883247
IdiomaEN
Referências citadas33

This article explores the navigation and seafaring strategies used by Norse mariners in and around the islands off the west coast of Scotland. To do so we draw upon a diverse range of sources including saga accounts, placenames, archaeological remains, early historical maps as well as logistical considerations. This diachronic perspective is inspired by Christer Westerdahl's “maritime cultural landscapes” methodology as well as recent studies of prehistoric seafaring. It is demonstrated, through close examination of the available evidence, that the Norse mariners had very well-developed strategies to avoid dangers as well as maximize their efficiency at sea to ensure that journeys were as safe and fast as possible. Topics explored include the types of ships used, navigation markers, sailing routes, sailing distance and time, landing places and pilots

Maritime archaeology · Maritime history · Perspective (graphical · Prehistory · Range (aeronautics · Archaeology and ancient environmental studies · Historical Studies of British Isles · Maritime and Coastal Archaeology