Norse Navigation in the Northern Isles

Bibliographic Data

ID4610984
AuthorsAlexandra Sanmark (University of the Highlands and Islands, corresponding author), Shane Mcleod (0000-0002-4747-6351, University of the Highlands and Islands)
Year2024
Volume2024
Issue44
Publication date2024-04-04
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of the North Atlantic (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1935-1933 • E-ISSN: 1935-1933
PublisherJournal of the North Atlantic (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.3721/037.006.4403
OpenAlexW4393947513
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited31

This article explores the navigation and seafaring strategies used by Norse mariners in and around the Northern Isles of Scotland. To do so we draw upon a diverse range of sources including saga accounts, placenames, archaeological remains, early historic 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 navigation markers, naming strategies, landing places, portages, beacons, anchorages and pilots

Geography · Geology and Paleoclimatology Research · Maritime and Coastal Archaeology · Methane Hydrates and Related Phenomena

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