More than 3,000 years before the Vikings became known for their seafaring, Bronze Age Scandinavians already sailed across open seas. A recent study shows that during the Bronze Age, early sailors regularly crossed waters between modern-day Denmark and Norway. These journeys happened long before historians believed such sea travel was possible.
The findings were published in PLOS ONE, a science journal. The research team, led by Boel Bengtsson from the University of Gothenburg, studied ancient sea routes. They believe that people in the Bronze Age did not just stay near the coast. Instead, they often traveled across the open sea, where no land was in sight for nearly 50 kilometers.
This new research challenges older ideas about how far Bronze Age boats could go. It suggests that people living in that time were more skilled at sea travel than once thought.
Study shows Bronze Age Scandinavian sailors chose the open sea
To test the idea, researchers used computer tools to simulate ancient sea trips. They looked at two routes between Denmark and Norway. One was a long, safe path that followed the coast. The other was a shorter but riskier journey straight across open water.
The longer route was around 700 kilometers, while the direct crossing was about 110 kilometers. Researchers wanted to see if early boats were strong and fast enough for the shorter trip.
They used models of old boats, built based on ancient designs. These boats were made by stitching wooden planks together and were powered by paddles. The researchers tested them in digital simulations under summer weather conditions—low wind and small waves.
The results showed that the shorter route was not only possible but also faster. In some cases, it could cut travel time by up to 25 percent. This route would have been useful for trips where time mattered, such as trade or important deliveries.
Experts believe these open-sea crossings may have started around 2300 B.C. To complete these trips, crews needed strong boats and deep knowledge of the sea. They likely used the sun, natural signs, and even animal behavior to find their way—skills that some seafaring groups still use today.
Sea travel may explain cultural links
The study also sheds light on the strong cultural ties between parts of Denmark and Norway. Archaeologists have found similar burial styles, tools, and buildings in both places. These findings suggest people from both areas were in regular contact.
While the longer coastal route offered safer sailing, it took more time and effort. This made the open-sea route a better choice for regular travel and trade.
The new findings help reshape what researchers know about sea travel in the Bronze Age. They show that Scandinavians were crossing open waters centuries before the Viking Age began. This challenges old beliefs and opens the door for more research into early sea travel.