Detailed dendrochronology analysis has placed the construction of the Kvalsund ship at 780-800 AD (originally, it was believed to be older), which is the start of the Viking Age.

[1] Being from around the start of the Viking Age and likely part of an offering in a pond or bog, the Kvalsund ship represents an important link between later Viking Age ships and earlier, pre-Viking Age vessels (like the Nydam boat) and rituals.

Both the ship and the smaller rowboat that was found with it were deliberately destroyed before being placed in the pond or bog, and no human remains have been found (i.e., the offering does not appear to have been part of a burial).

[1] The ship featured a detachable rudder on one side that could be removed in shallow water, and its shape suggests it might have had a sail.

[1] A mast was found at the smaller Kvalsund I boat, but it is unclear if it belongs to it.