The original Maelstrom is a powerful current off the Norwegian coast. Formed by the conjunction of currents passing through the straits between islands in association with the amplitude of the tides, the powerful current can reach close to 28 km/hour.

They tell things differently in the Barbaric Archipelago.

To the Vikings of the Archipelago, the Maelstrom is an immense and unending storm, situated the the far southeast of the islands, blocking the path to the alien lands beyond. The immense winds would rip apart any ship foolish enough to attempt the crossing. The ferocious lightning would blast the longboats to matchwood. And the roaring thunder would deafen and terrify the most stoic of warriors.

No one on dragon back has ever tried to pass through the chaos.

No one knows if it is possible to pass through the storm-or return. Because everyone who has vanished into the storm has never been seen again.