
Boat Building
WELCOME
In an era when land traffic routes consisted of basic paths and bridleways, waterways slowly emerged as the primary arteries for transportation. Along the coast and across large fjords, vibrant shipping activity thrived at a high standard. With reverence for the ancient masters, Hardraade endeavors to safeguard traditional boat-building knowledge, ensuring it survives.
Hole and Ringerike were central and strategically important villages in Norway during the Viking Age. Great men and Viking kings were born here, men who have left deep traces in the Norway's history.
In the sagas, there are multiple references to ships sailing on Tyrifjorden and Randsfjorden during the Viking Age. Legend has it that Olav the Holy constructed Bønsnes Church after making a promise to God: if he emerged unharmed from a storm on Tyrifjorden, he would build a church.

THE PROJECT
The Hardraade project takes you on an exciting journey back in time. Here, volunteers, both experienced and inexperienced, participate in the construction of a full-scale Viking ship.
This authentic ship, constructed using the same techniques used by the Vikings, will soon sail the Tyrifjorden in Norway. Our craftsmen perform traditional activities such as carpentry, sail making, forging, tar making, wood carving, and costume sewing.
ABOUT THE OAK
We construct the ship with meticulous care and adherence to tradition. The keel, frames, knees, and meginhufr (the long brace) are all crafted from solid oak.
The hull below the waterline and the beams are also crafted from oak.
Since large oak is protected in Norway, we brought the first trees from Denmark. However, we've subsequently managed to obtain some logs from Norwegian production areas.



OUR BOAT BUILDERS
The construction crew is led by a professional boat builder and we have many helpful volunteers. But everyone can join in, regardless of ability!
The group meets up athe shipyard every Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm and every Thursday from 4 pm to 8 pm. Hot meals are served both days.
If you want to join, you are most welcome! You decide which days you want to participate – no commitments, just a good atmosphere and fun times when it suits you.
VISIT US
Are you interested in Norwegian Viking history, Viking kings and the Viking Age? Then you should visit us at Sundvollen in Hole. Only 1 hour to drive from Oslo :)
Here you can dive into the world of the Vikings, explore their lifestyle, boat building, clothing and beliefs. 🛡️⚔️


Address
Åsaveien 40
Sundvollen
Norway
Opening Hours (all year)
Saturdays:
11am - 4 pm
Thursdays:
4 pm - 8 pm
Other days
Contact us
Did you know:
That Huginn and Muninn, Odin's ravens, flew over the world, Midgard, and gathered information every single day?
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Witness how proud oak trees are transformed into a Viking ship, how nails and tools are forged, how tar is burned to make the ship seaworthy, hear axes and hammers go wild, and listen to the stories from the Vikings behind the scenes.
A unique glimpse into Norway's Viking heritage!