For centuries ships similar to this raided the coasts of Europe and sailed deep into the huge landmass that was the Russian hinterland.
Their simple sails meant that they could only sail with the wind or to a very limited degree either side. If they had to sail into the wind they would have to pull the sail down and travel on under oar power. Despite this, there is reasonable evidence to show that the Vikings reached North America as well.
The model is nice but unlike the real ships it is carvel built - i.e. the planking is arranged edge to edge rather than clinker built - i.e. each successive course overlaying the one below it. The various bits were reasonably well cut from the original wood sheets with a limited amount of shaping required easily achieved by following the instructions!
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