Longship

A longship is a broad catagory of design, but typically it is straight keeled with either a steer board rudder or (especially in the south) a centerline rudder.  Hulls are long, narrow lapstrake construction with a raised stem and stern.  Single masted with a square sail, lognships are also designed to be operated by oars positioned along the length of the ship.
These ships are fast, maneuverable and rugged, capable of long open-ocean voyages and trips far upriver on waterways too shallow for most other sailing craft.  Depending on length, these ships can transport an impressive amount of cargo and have even been known to move large numbers of horses and cattle with relative ease.  What makes the longship so successful, however, is its versatility.  It can be adapted from cargo hauler and trade vessel to warship in (literally) a matter of minutes.  Their shallow draft and narrow profile make them an obvious choise of vessel for coastal or river trade and/or combat.

A schematic view of a typical longship, this design is specific to the coast of Colo.

Rarity

Very common

Width

Typically 20% to 25% of the length of the ship.

Length

From 40' to 120'

Speed

As much as 12 mph under ideal conditions

Cargo & Passenger Capacity

8 to 10 tons per 20' of length.