Viking ships, known as longships or dragonships, were indeed open vessels without any lower decks for shelter. This unique design characteristic had both advantages and disadvantages for the Vikings who sailed on them.
One of the main advantages of having an open boat was the flexibility it offered in terms of maneuverability. The lack of a lower deck meant that the crew had more space to move around and adjust their positions as needed during battle or navigation. This allowed the Vikings to swiftly change their tactics or respond to unexpected situations, giving them a significant advantage in combat.
However, the absence of a lower deck also posed several challenges and risks for the Vikings. One of the most significant dangers they faced was swamping. Since the boats were open, they were more susceptible to being flooded by waves or heavy rain. This not only made the crew uncomfortable but also increased the risk of hypothermia, especially during colder weather conditions.
To combat the risk of swamping, Vikings employed various strategies. One such strategy was to carry small buckets or containers on board to bail out water in case the boat started to flood. Additionally, the Vikings were skilled seafarers who possessed a deep understanding of the weather patterns and the sea. They would carefully plan their voyages, taking into account the prevailing conditions to minimize the risk of encountering heavy weather.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to sail on a replica Viking longship during a historical reenactment event. The absence of a lower deck was quite noticeable as there was no place to take shelter from the elements. Even during calm weather, the boat would occasionally take on small amounts of water, requiring us to use buckets to bail it out. It gave me a firsthand understanding of the challenges the Vikings would have faced on their long voyages.
Viking ships did not have below decks. While this made them more agile and adaptable in combat, it also exposed the crew to the risks of swamping and hypothermia. The Vikings had to rely on their skills, knowledge of the sea, and practical strategies to mitigate these dangers and ensure successful voyages.