Viking Unveils New Ocean Ship in Celebration of Partnership
Viking Launches New Ship: The Viking Vela
Viking® (NYSE: VIK) has made headlines with the grand naming ceremony of its newest ocean vessel, the Viking Vela. This significant event took place in Trieste, Italy, a city renowned for its naval significance. This announcement not only highlights the introduction of a remarkable ship but also cements the longstanding relationship between Viking and Fincantieri, one of the largest shipbuilding groups globally.
A Tradition of Excellence in Shipbuilding
Viking's newest ship, the Viking Vela, embodies luxury and modern design. As the ship was officially named, it celebrated Viking's collaboration with Fincantieri, which has been instrumental in the creation and development of the Viking ocean fleet. Known for its epic maritime history, Trieste also serves as Italy's most pivotal commercial harbor. The ceremonial godmother of the Viking Vela is Ivana Elice, Vice President and Project Manager of Fincantieri—signifying the attention given to detail throughout the design and engineering process.
Words of Leadership
During the ceremony, Viking's Chairman and CEO, Torstein Hagen, expressed immense pride in the new addition to their fleet. He remarked, “With Fincantieri as our partner, we believe we have built the world's most elegant fleet of small ocean ships. We are thankful to Ivana Elice for her role as the godmother; her dedication to our ships has been invaluable.” His words resonate with Viking's vision of luxury travel that prioritizes passenger experience and architectural beauty.
The Naming Ceremony
The naming ceremony was steeped in tradition, where Ivana Elice received a historic Viking broad axe—an important symbol in maritime history. This broad axe was notably used in the naming ceremony of another ship in Viking's fleet, the Viking Saturn. Following this ceremonial moment, Ivana completed a time-honored tradition of breaking a bottle of Norwegian aquavit against the ship's hull, signifying the official introduction of the Viking Vela into service.
Cultural Celebrations
Adding to the festive atmosphere, guests were treated to live performances from renowned artists, including Sissel Kyrkjebø and Alessandro Safina, who celebrated the cultures of Norway and Italy. This blend of music and tradition underscored the spirit of Viking's commitment to cultural appreciation and engagement.
Introducing the Viking Vela
As a state-of-the-art cruise ship, the Viking Vela is designed for comfort and elegance. It features 499 staterooms capable of accommodating nearly 1,000 guests. Each stateroom includes a veranda, ensuring scenic views and an exceptional onboard experience. The ship boasts a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons, making it a prime example of modern engineering in the cruise industry. The Viking Vela is poised to navigate the Mediterranean during its inaugural sailing season before it heads towards Northern Europe, captivating travelers along the way.
Innovations for a Sustainable Future
Viking is not only committed to luxury but also to sustainability. The company is currently developing a partial hybrid propulsion system that incorporates innovative technologies like liquid hydrogen and fuel cells. This initiative aims to facilitate zero-emission travel within sensitive environments like the Norwegian Fjords. The Viking Vela has been meticulously designed with these future technologies in mind, ensuring the vessel is robust enough to adapt to innovations as they become available.
Recent Accolades
Viking continues to receive recognition for its outstanding service and ship design. The company has garnered multiple awards, being ranked #1 for Oceans, Rivers, and Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler for two consecutive years. This achievement is a testament to Viking's commitment to providing extraordinary experiences for its guests. Furthermore, Viking has been named Best Luxury Line and recognized in various categories by U.S. News & World Report, illustrating its prominent position in the cruise industry.
About Viking
Founded in 1997, Viking (NYSE: VIK) operates with a focus on destination-centered journeys across the globe. Their offerings blend optionality and cultural enrichment, showcasing the essence of exploration for discerning travelers. Under the leadership of Torstein Hagen, Viking has established itself as a leader in the cruise sector, receiving numerous accolades for superior service and luxury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Viking Vela?
The Viking Vela is the newest ocean ship in Viking's fleet, designed for luxurious travel experiences.
What was the significance of the naming ceremony?
The naming ceremony celebrated Viking's partnership with Fincantieri and highlighted various maritime traditions.
Who was the ceremonial godmother of the Viking Vela?
Ivana Elice, Vice President and Project Manager at Fincantieri, served as the ship's ceremonial godmother.
What are some features of the Viking Vela?
The ship has 499 staterooms with verandas, elegant designs, and various dining options.
How does Viking prioritize sustainability?
Viking is developing a hybrid propulsion system to operate with zero emissions in sensitive environments.
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