The Viking Ship ‘Hugin’ on permanent display at Pegwell Bay, Ramsgate is a replica of the Viking ship which sailed from Denmark to Thanet in 1949. This project celebrated the 1500th anniversary of the invasion of Britain, the traditional landing of Hengist and Horsa and the betrothal of Hengist’s daughter, Rowena, to King Vortigen of Kent. Out of 53 crewmen in 1949 only the navigator, Peter Jensen, was a professional seaman. Viking conditions were faithfully observed and the only instrument carried was a sextant.
Watch the Pathe News silent video, 1949