The Crossing

On the Trail of William 1027 - 2027

This project aims to symbolically recreate the route of the Mora, the emblematic ship of William the Conqueror, between Barfleur and Pevensey in England, in order to promote the history and maritime heritage of Normandy.

The crossing is made by the DREKNOR, a faithful replica of a Viking ship from Gokstad, labeled as a "Heritage Interest Vessel." With stops in Normandy and England, the journey allows the public to discover the ship docked and participate in activities rather than boarding for the crossing.

At each stop, the boat becomes a true living educational resource, accessible to all. Guided tours, cultural mediation, and exchanges with the crew allow for exploration of the maritime know-how of the High Middle Ages, the history of the conquest of England, and the central role of the sea in European circulation.

Cultural, heritage-based, and cross-channel, this project helps to strengthen the sense of a shared heritage between the two shores of the English Channel.

NOTE: The schedule of stops in the various ports is subject to change depending on current weather conditions to ensure safe navigation for both the ship and the crew.

Practical Information: 

All public

Free

Cooperation France / United Kingdom

Partnerships :  Eastbourne, Pevensey, Hastings, Battle, Departments of Manche, Calvados, Seine-Maritime, and Somme / Cotentin Agglomeration / Towns of Caen and Bayeux / Carentan, Barfleur, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Port-en-Bessin, Dives-sur-Mer, Fécamp, Dieppe, Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme