An interesting phenomenon that has popped up since tours on DRAKEN HARALD HÅRFAGRE began at the end of June is that people bring their Viking horns with them to blow on the deck. The horn was important on any Viking sea voyage, as it was used to let ports know that an incoming vessel meant no harm to the local inhabitants. It was also critical to have a skilled horn-blower on the crew, as this video demonstrates: it's not as easy as it looks. The DRAKEN is open for deck tours through Sept. 4. Se

The Viking war horn is a traditional Nordic signaling instrument, typically carved from animal horn or wood, which produces a deep, commanding sound whose power belies its simple design. During the Viking Age, war horns – symbols of courage and calls to action – were used to communicate across great distances, rallying warriors, signaling attacks, and initiating gatherings and sacred rituals. Evoke the Viking marauder’s spirit in your compositions with the war horn’s deep, resonant blast and get