It took an experienced crew to orchestrate an effective ramming attack. The perfect angle, the optimum speed and the ability to back-water to disengage once the damage had been dealt: all required precision and timing. The most devastating blow was often delivered to the stern, although broadside impacts were more common and didn’t require as much speed to inflict damage. Skilful crews could sweep in parallel to an enemy, retracting their oars whilst shearing off those of their opponent. This would cripple an enemy ship, allowing the attacker to circle and carry out a more precise ramming attack.
