The Three Boat Guilds Behind the Cultural Expedition
Three Unique Prehistoric Boats
The Cultural Expedition is built on a strong collaboration with three local boat guilds, each of which has recreated and sails historically unique boats — driven by volunteer spirit, passion, and craftsmanship. When you join a Cultural Expedition, you don’t just encounter boats from the past — you meet the people who keep history alive on the water.
Hjortspring Boat – Nydam Boat – Sebbe Als
The Hjortspring Boat Guild – Tilia Alsie
Near Nordborg, dedicated volunteers have, for decades, kept the story of the Hjortspring Boat alive. This over 2,300-year-old war canoe from the pre-Roman Iron Age was discovered in Hjortspring Bog on the island of Als.
Their reconstruction, Tilia Alsie, is an impressive linden-wood war canoe, rowed by up to 20 warriors. Through Tilia, the guild brings ancient knowledge, craftsmanship, and storytelling to life.
Tilia Alsie is based at the Lindeværft shipyard in Holm, Nordborg.
Photo: Patricio Soto
The Viking Ship Guild Sebbe Als – Sebbe Als
In Sottrupskov by Alssund, the Nydam Boat Guild has reconstructed Nydam Tveir, a remarkable Iron Age warship based on the famous find from Nydam Bog.
With its distinctive clinker-built sides, the vessel represents the transition from dugouts to true ships, offering rare insight into Iron Age shipbuilding and seafaring culture.
Guild members are experts in boat handling, archaeology, and living history.
Nydam Tveir is moored at the naust in Sottrupskov.
Photo: Patricio Soto
The Viking Ship Guild Sebbe Als – Sebbe Als
From Augustenborg Harbour, Sebbe Als sets sail — a full-scale reconstruction of Skuldelev 5, an original Viking ship found in Roskilde Fjord.
Built in 1969, Sebbe Als has since hosted hundreds of voyages and educational events, both locally and internationally.
The voyages combine solid craftsmanship and strong community spirit, carried by generations of sailors and history enthusiasts.
Sebbe Als winters in the naust at Augustenborg Fjord. In summer, she lies at anchor in Augustenborg Harbour.
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