Viking Vesta Joins Ocean Fleet with Grand Christening in Split, Croatia, Launching 2025 Mediterranean and Northern Europe Voyages
Viking Cruises marked a major milestone in its decade-long journey of luxury ocean exploration with the official christening of its newest ocean ship, the Viking Vesta, in a spectacular ceremony held in Split, Croatia. The event, which took place over the weekend, celebrated not just the launch of a state-of-the-art vessel but also the enduring traditions and cultural richness that define the Viking brand.
Crafted by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, the Viking Vesta is the tenth ocean ship in Viking’s fleet. Designed to carry 988 guests across 499 elegant staterooms, the ship continues the cruise line’s legacy of offering refined, destination-focused voyages across the world’s most iconic regions. With her maiden season set to sail through the Mediterranean and Northern Europe in late 2025, Viking Vesta embodies the cruise line’s commitment to luxury, cultural depth, and timeless Scandinavian-inspired design.
A Milestone for Viking in 2025
This christening coincides with Viking’s celebration of 10 years of ocean cruising, a significant anniversary for the cruise line that began its ocean operations in 2015. Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, addressed the audience during the event, emphasizing the brand’s consistent focus on quality and immersive travel.
“We are proud to welcome the Viking Vesta to our fleet as we mark a decade of redefining ocean cruising,” said Hagen. “Every ship we build reflects our promise to deliver enriching, elegant, and culturally meaningful experiences at sea.”
The Viking Vesta’s inaugural routes are expected to cover a wide range of ports in Italy, France, Spain, Norway, and the Baltic, offering travelers a refined blend of iconic cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Honoring Tradition: Lene Tangevald-Jensen as Godmother
In keeping with maritime tradition, Viking appointed a ceremonial godmother to bless the new ship. Norwegian journalist Lene Tangevald-Jensen was honored with this prestigious role. Known for her dedication to truth, culture, and integrity in journalism, Tangevald-Jensen personifies the values that Viking holds dear—curiosity, wisdom, and authenticity.
During the traditional naming ritual, she used a Viking broad axe to sever a ribbon, triggering the symbolic breaking of a bottle of Norwegian aquavit against the ship’s hull—an homage to Viking heritage and a wish for safe voyages ahead.
Chairman Hagen lauded her as “kind, honest, hardworking, and curious,” affirming her alignment with the company’s ethos and its Scandinavian roots.
A Cultural Showcase on the Adriatic
Guests at the ceremony were treated to a moving performance by Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø, who is also the godmother of the Viking Jupiter. Her rendition of classical pieces captivated attendees under the Adriatic sky. She was joined by celebrated violinist Tor Jaran Apold, whose performance added to the grandeur and elegance of the evening.
The event blended Viking’s signature minimalism with deeply rooted Norse symbolism, underscoring the cruise line’s continued dedication to its heritage even as it expands globally. With Split’s historic harbor serving as the perfect backdrop, the christening ceremony highlighted Viking’s mission to enrich travelers through cultural discovery and refinement.
New Standards in Luxury Cruising
The Viking Vesta mirrors the design of her sister ships, including open-plan Scandinavian interiors, abundant natural light, and environmentally conscious technology. Amenities include multiple dining venues with regionally inspired menus, a Nordic spa with thermal experiences, and the Explorers’ Lounge designed for storytelling and stargazing.
Each itinerary aboard the Vesta will focus on cultural immersion, featuring exclusive shore excursions, onboard lectures from historians, and curated performances. Viking continues to offer its hallmark “no children, no casinos” policy, catering to culturally curious adults who seek meaningful travel.
With Split as its symbolic starting point, the Vesta’s presence is also expected to boost Croatia’s positioning as a rising hub for luxury cruise operations. The Croatian National Tourist Board has consistently promoted its Adriatic coastline as a top-tier cruise destination, and Viking’s return further underscores the region’s appeal.
Sailing into a New Decade
Looking ahead, Viking has already announced future expansions and new ships under construction in partnership with Fincantieri, which has become a long-term collaborator in realizing the cruise line’s vision of minimalist luxury.
The Viking Vesta sets a precedent for what the next generation of ocean travel looks like: respectful of tradition, artistically enriched, and environmentally conscious. As it begins its first season exploring Europe’s maritime wonders, the ship represents more than just another vessel in the fleet—it is a floating testament to Viking’s unique approach to ocean cruising.
With the christening complete and anticipation building, Viking Vesta is now ready to chart new horizons across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, offering travelers unforgettable experiences rooted in elegance, culture, and connection.
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