Humans have long harbored curiosity about what lies beyond the sea. To explore these unknown realms, they needed sophisticated ships capable of enduring long voyages. Thus, ships evolved with various forms and features depending on the region, but the general trend was towards designs that could travel faster and were capable of safely carrying increasing amounts of cargo.

Ancient boats were powered either by rowing or by sails that harnessed the wind. There were many varied forms used throughout the world, like reed boats, log boats, and rafts. Let's start by examining Exhibit No. 1, the "Model of Papyrus Ship." True to its name, this model was made from a type of reed called papyrus. The ancient Egyptians not only used this plant to make paper, but the word 'paper' in English is actually derived from 'papyrus.' This ship represents one of the oldest primitive boat types known.

Next, if you look at the wall, you will see a long log boat. This is Exhibit No. 2, the "Dug Out Canoe." This exhibit is an actual vessel used in Papua New Guinea in the South Pacific, characterized by its unique patterns carved on both the bow and stern. Its form is a typical primitive log boat, made by hollowing out the inside of a log.

After that, ancient ships were gradually developed and get larger with bigger sails. Exhibit No. 6 “Model of an Galley Ship” is typical of ancient ships, which had been used in Mediterrenean Sea during Greco-Roman period. It is featured that the ship was mostly operated by multiple oars, while sails just assisted navigating. Galley ships can navigate faster than other ships, therefore it was used mainly for warships.

Now, let's move to the “Viking Ship” exhibit. The Viking Ship was a type of vessel built by the Norse people of the North Sea region, particularly in Sweden and Denmark, between the 8th and 11th centuries. These ships utilized both sails and oars for movement. However, the sails were much simpler in design, and there were fewer rowers compared to other contemporary ships. Both ends of the ship were similarly shaped and often rose sharply, with decorations such as a dragon’s head sometimes added to make them more imposing. Larger Viking Ships typically served as warships, while smaller ones were used as trading vessels. The Viking Ship you are looking at now is a reproduction, faithfully restored to its actual size. It was based on a ship found in 1993 in Gislinge, Denmark. Officially named 'Estrid', this ship is believed to have been used from around 1130 to 1150. It was rowed by a team of 3, with each person using two oars, and is estimated to accommodate up to four adults.