Draken Harald Hårfagre, known as the world’s largest Viking ship sailing in modern times, will return to Newport this month as it prepares to make its journey home to Norway.
Draken, who last visited Newport in 2018, will depart from Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut, which she has called her “home away from home” for seven years, at 11 am on Sunday, May 19, and use its engine power for her journey to Newport.
Draken and her crew sailed across the North Atlantic in 2016. On its tours along the coastlines of the United States, the ship transformed into a floating classroom and a hub for community gatherings. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of enthusiastic visitors have walked her deck, eager to step aboard, listen to the stories of modern ocean explorers, and experience the Viking legacy firsthand.
She will arrive in Newport at approximately 6 pm on Sunday, May 19, and dock at Bowen’s Wharf Marina until Saturday, May 25 or Sunday, May 26.
While in Newport, the public will be able to catch a glimpse of the ship, but will not be able to take tours.
“Draken is expected to arrive in Newport, RI, sometime in the late afternoon on May 19, at Bowen´s Wharf,” the ship’s website states.” “In Newport, we will wait for the Dutch yacht transport ship Stadiongracht to arrive. Draken is expected to be loaded onboard Stationgracht on May 26 outside of Newport Harbor. Stadiongracht will then take Draken home to Norway. Bowen´s Wharf Marina is a private marina, and it might not be possible to come that close to the ship. But you can at least catch a glimpse of her there.”
The ship will catch a ride aboard a specialized yacht shipping vessel on its journey back to Europe. She will be loaded onboard the Dutch cargo ship Sevenstar Yacht Transport, which will be anchored just outside Newport Harbor. The ship is expected to arrive in Stavanger, Norway, on June 4, where Draken will be offloaded.
Draken’s achievements were only possible with the passionate volunteers and crew members who dedicated countless hours to sailing and maintaining the ship. “We are so thankful for all the people from all over the US who came to volunteer for us. Hundreds of people have given us their time to keep the ship in the mint condition she is today,” says Björn Ahlander, the Captain of Draken in a press release.
As the captain prepares for Draken’s return journey home, he reflects on the profound impact of their voyage in the US and looks forward to the future. “It’s bittersweet,” says Captain Ahlander in the press release. While we are excited to bring Draken back for new adventures, leaving our friends in America is not easy. We are deeply grateful for the warmth and support we’ve received over the years.”
The Draken’s return to Norway marks a new preparation phase for future voyages. “Our vision of fostering global exploration and education continues to guide us as we plan future expeditions and seek to expand our educational programs. We are also exploring the continuation of our popular television series, which brings the adventures of the Draken to audiences worldwide,” says Emanuel Persson, CEO & Expedition Director for the Draken.
For more information on the ship, visit https://www.drakenhh.com/.
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