Christopher Nolan uses Viking longship for 'The Odyssey

Director Christopher Nolan utilized a modern Viking longship replica, the Draken Harald Harfagre, for filming his blockbuster 'The Odyssey'. Although the Viking era and the Bronze Age setting of the film are separated by approximately 2,000 years, Nolan chose the vessel to satisfy his preference for practical effects and real props over computer-generated imagery.

To fit the Greek mythological setting, the ship's characteristic Viking dragon figurehead was removed. The vessel, which features an oak deck and 50 spruce oars, sailed through Greek, Italian, and Scottish waters. The professional Norwegian crew of the longship worked alongside actors, including Matt Damon, who portrays Odysseus, learning to manage the sails and oars to maintain a sense of realism on screen.