Ep 1. Viking Longships

In the first episode of Combat Ships season 2, we delve into the world of the ancient Viking Longships. These awe-inspiring ships were incredibly fast and allowed the Vikings to conquer vast areas of Europe and beyond. Through expert commentary and advanced CGI, viewers get an in-depth look at how the longships were built, and how Vikings used them to dominate the seas.

From the outset, it's clear that the Vikings' engineering prowess was something to be admired. The longships were built to be sleek and agile, allowing them to cut through the waves with incredible ease. The show walks us through the process of creating a longship, from selecting the type of wood to be used down to the smallest details of the ship's design.

One of the key strengths of the Viking longships was their versatility. They could be used for a range of tasks, from raiding remote settlements to transporting goods or even carrying out diplomacy. In the show's second segment, we learn about the different types of longship and what made each of them unique. Whether it was the small and agile Karve or the massive Dragon ship, each vessel was built to serve a specific purpose.

Of course, the Viking longships were more than just impressive feats of engineering – they were also some of the deadliest ships ever to sail. We explore the Vikings' raiding tactics and how they used their ships to gain the upper hand against their enemies. Through a mix of expert analysis and real-world re-enactments, we get an immersive look at how the Vikings planned and executed their attacks.

One of the most significant factors in the Vikings' success was their formidable battle tactics. The show spends considerable time exploring how Vikings used their ships to create a phalanx formation, a strategy that allowed them to board and overwhelm much larger enemy vessels. We also get an up-close look at the weapons used by Viking warriors, from swords and axes to the fearsome spear.

Despite their fearsome reputation, the Vikings were also highly skilled sailors. In the final segment of the episode, we learn about how the Vikings navigated the seas, including their advanced use of celestial navigation. Viewers get a rare look at some of the tools the Vikings used to navigate, including the sun compass and the Viking sagas, ancient tales that described how to navigate by the stars.

Overall, the first episode of Combat Ships season 2 is an immersive and detailed exploration of the Viking longships. Whether you're a fan of naval history or simply interested in the engineering feats of the ancient world, this episode is sure to captivate. With stunning visuals and expert analysis, Viking Longships is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the world of ancient naval warfare.