Orkan Viking drakkar sails along the Portuguese coast

The Orkan, a 28-meter Viking-inspired drakkar, is currently navigating the Portuguese coast as part of a cultural and historical maritime project. Built by the French collective Bátar with the help of over 500 volunteers, the vessel is sailing under the French flag.

The expedition aims to connect maritime heritage with historical research and community participation, highlighting the presence of Nordic navigators on the Iberian Atlantic coast over a thousand years ago. The journey began in Vila Real de Santo António on August 17 and has included stops in Sines and Setúbal.

In Setúbal, the 22-person crew, consisting of 11 men and 11 women, was welcomed by local authorities and fishing associations. The vessel recently arrived in Lisbon, where it docked at Doca de Alcântara, drawing significant public interest. Following its stay in Lisbon, the Orkan is scheduled to continue its route north toward Peniche and Leixões, with an expected arrival in Leixões around August 26.