As a rule, Dwarves are afraid of the sea. The ocean's sound is unfamiliar, the boats unstable, and the water unpredictable as compared to solid mountain stone. It is the ineffable deep that they cannot delve nor understand -- it is too vast and too unwieldy.

Rules, of course, are meant to be broken, and stereotypes are not to be tolerated. Thus, there are some Dwarves who attempt the sea, using their strong constitution and hardiness to their advantage. This has especially been the case in Ered Luin for some generations, since Kheledûl was founded by the late King Thorin Oakenshield. Dwarves can trust Dwarves best to transport Dwarven goods, of course... even if that means braving the waters.

More recently, the port was taken by Dourhands during the Steward Gormr's reign; the few Longbeard families and workers who occupied it were forced to leave, and the once goodly boats are now used mostly for trade with Angmar. Even though Lord Dwalin has taken the throne back, this is still a prevalent issue... to those who take issue with it, at least!

This is where Kivnír comes in.

This individual, considered to be a Dourhand by some and a plain Blue Mountains Dwarf by others, has taken up the mantle of 'sailor' for many years (though 'pirate' isn't unheard of). While once afraid of the sea, they now cherish it. They, obviously, have no qualms with the port city being in Dourhand control, as they are one of the frontrunners.