North Atlantic Voyages

The North Atlantic Ocean is a big body of cold water between Europe and North America. Long ago, sailors from places like Norway, Iceland, and England sailed across it. The trips were dangerous because of storms, icebergs, and huge waves. These voyages helped open the way for more explorers later on.

The Vikings

The Vikings from Scandinavia were some of the first to sail across the North Atlantic. Their long wooden ships were made for the open sea. A Viking named Leif Erikson reached North America around the year 1000. He called the place Vinland, which means 'wine land.' Remains of a Viking village have been found in Canada.

Later Sailors

Hundreds of years later, other sailors crossed the same ocean. John Cabot, an Italian sailing for England, reached Canada in 1497. Fishermen came to catch lots of cod fish in the cold waters. Sailors used wind, stars, and simple tools to find their way. Each voyage taught people more about the huge Atlantic.

Fun Facts

• Viking ships could sail in shallow water and on open seas.
• The North Atlantic has some of the biggest waves in the world.
• Icebergs from the Arctic often float into the North Atlantic.

Did You Know?

The famous ship Titanic sank in the North Atlantic in 1912 after hitting an iceberg on its very first trip.