They could cross the open oceans under sail and then switch to oars ... In marked contrast to modern sailboats, the ships' lack of a big, vertical keel meant that they were highly maneuverable ...

Mobile, Ala. shipbuilder Austal USA held a keel laying ceremony to mark the official start of construction on the future USNS ...

Fincantieri has held a keel laying ceremony for Seven Seas Prestige, the ultra-luxury cruise ship being built for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The keel laying ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s ...

Oar-holes could be closed when under sail, sealing out water in heavy seas. The Vikings built their ships starting with the keel and outer planking, only later adding internal framework and supports.