An American archaeologist has tragically died after an expedition aboard a replica Viking boat capsized off the coast of Norway. The boat, named the Naddoddur, was part of the Sail2North expedition group and had six people on board when it overturned near the town of Stad during their fourth day at sea.
On Tuesday, tragedy struck off the coast of Norway as a replica Viking ship carrying six people capsized, resulting in the death of an American archaeologist. The Naddoddur, piloted by the Sail2North expedition group, encountered turbulent seas and strong winds, leading to its unfortunate demise.
According to the BBC, five of the individuals on board managed to escape on an inflatable life raft, while one remained unaccounted for. Sadly, on Wednesday, the body of a woman was discovered in the water, identified by Norwegian media as 29-year-old Karla Dana.
American Archaeologist Karla Dana Dies in Viking Ship Replica Capsize
Sail2North's Instagram page paid tribute to Dana, describing her as "the youngest member of our crew" who "epitomized the spirit of exploration." The U.S. State Department confirmed the death of an American citizen to Fox News Digital, extending its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
Norwegian police have attributed the capsizing to a strong wave, describing it as a "tragic accident." The Sea Rescue Society reported challenging conditions at the time of the incident, with winds reaching 40 knots and waves as high as 16 feet.
American Archaeologist Karla Dana Dies in Viking Ship Replica Capsize
Dana's LinkedIn profile indicates her passion for archaeology, with a focus on the Viking era. She had extensive international experience, having worked and studied in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Spain, England, Germany, Morocco, China, and Taiwan.
The Sail2North expedition group issued a statement expressing their profound sorrow and extending their thoughts to Dana's family and friends. They emphasized their commitment to providing support and cooperating with the authorities during the investigation.
American Archaeologist Karla Dana Dies in Viking Ship Replica Capsize
The Viking ship replica is currently moored at the quay in Måløy, Norway, as authorities continue their inquiries. An official statement is expected to be released on Friday at 11 a.m. CET.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with maritime expeditions, especially in challenging conditions. The loss of Karla Dana, a dedicated archaeologist with an insatiable thirst for exploration, leaves a void in the archaeological community. Her spirit and passion will undoubtedly inspire future generations of adventurers.
