Inverness Hosts Historic Viking Ship Amid Nolan Film Production

Inverness, Scotland — The Draken Harald Hårfagre, recognized as the world's largest modern-built Viking ship, has docked at Inverness' Seaport Marina during the filming of Christopher Nolan's upcoming movie, 'The Odyssey.' This cinematic adaptation of the ancient Greek epic features acclaimed actor Matt Damon and explores the legendary journey of Odysseus. The production has been utilizing various scenic locations along the Moray Firth coast, including the fishing port of Buckie and the historic ruins of Findlater Castle near Cullen.

The presence of the Draken Harald Hårfagre has generated considerable excitement among local residents and historians alike. Emanuel Persson, Chief Executive of the Draken project, remarked, "Her presence in Scotland is part of a wider voyage and an exciting chapter in her ongoing story. While we can’t comment directly on any specific film activity, we can confirm that Draken has been engaged in various international projects this year, including collaborations within the film and television industry." He emphasized Scotland's rich Norse heritage, highlighting the cultural significance of the ship's visit.

Constructed under the direction of Norwegian entrepreneur Sigurd Aase, the Draken Harald Hårfagre was launched in 2012 after two years of rigorous building. The ship measures 35 meters (115 feet) in length and is not merely a replica but a fully functional vessel designed to evoke the spirit of Viking exploration. Its first ocean voyage in 2014 saw it sail from Haugesund, Norway, to Liverpool, England, although it faced challenges including a mast break en route. A new mast was subsequently constructed from Douglas fir sourced from Dumfries and Galloway.

The filming of 'The Odyssey' comes on the heels of Nolan's critical success with 'Oppenheimer,' which won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, at the 2024 Oscars. Historically, Nolan has filmed several of his projects in Scotland, including scenes for 'The Dark Knight Rises' in the Cairngorms in 2011, showcasing the region's diverse landscapes and historical sites.

The Draken's involvement in film and television projects underscores a growing trend of utilizing historical vessels for cinematic storytelling. According to Dr. Laura Smith, a maritime historian at the University of Glasgow, “The use of authentic vessels like the Draken in film productions helps bridge the gap between history and contemporary storytelling, providing audiences with a tangible connection to the past.”

As the film crew continues to work in the region, local businesses and tourism operators are optimistic about the potential economic benefits stemming from increased visibility and interest in Inverness and its surrounding areas. The local Highland Council has expressed support for the production, recognizing its potential to attract visitors and boost community engagement with the region's Viking heritage.

As 'The Odyssey' continues its filming schedule, the Draken Harald Hårfagre's presence acts as a reminder of the enduring fascination with maritime history and the stories that shape cultural identities. The film is expected to be released in late 2024, promising to captivate audiences with its rich narrative and visually stunning depictions of ancient seafaring adventures.