Sons of Norway Establishes Official Fundraising Site in Partnership with the Draken Harald Hårfagre

The charitable Foundation of Sons of Norway, a Minneapolis-based financial services and cultural organization, and the Draken Harald Hårfagre Viking ship team have established a partnership to immediately handle a deluge of interest in donating to allow the vessel to continue its voyage as part of Tall Ships Challenge® Great Lakes 2016.

The Draken – the world’s largest modern Viking ship – needs $430,000 to cover unexpected fees for pilots to help the ship navigate the Great Lakes as it sails on the Tall Ships route. Sons of Norway and its members naturally have a keen interest in the historical aspects of the ship and want to help the Draken team accomplish their goals for the Great Lakes voyage, recognizing that over a million people are anticipating its arrival at multiple Great Lakes ports this summer.

Sons of Norway CEO Eivind Heiberg stated,

“The Draken’s voyage has stirred the imagination of so many people around the world and inspired the hearts of those within our organization, too. Its urgent need fits with Sons of Norway’s mission to promote and to preserve the heritage and culture of Norway, and we’re pleased to help facilitate and coordinate sanctioned fundraising efforts to bring the Draken to all those who have worked and planned their summer schedules around her visit.”


Those who wish to “Help the Draken Sail Again” may donate at www.sonsofnorway.com/draken.


Draken Captain Björn Ahlander said,

“On behalf of the Draken Harald Hårfagre sailors, crew and supporters, we’re happy that Sons of Norway reached out to us to partner to raise funds toward our continued participation in the Tall Ships Challenge® Great Lakes 2016. We’re amazed and grateful for the support of numerous communities and invite all to donate to “Help the Draken Sail Again,” bringing her to all the people who eagerly await her visit to multiple ports.”