Viking Christens 7 New River Cruise Ships During Ceremony in Amsterdam

Viking, the world’s largest river cruise line, christened seven new river ships during a ceremony in Amsterdam that honored valued travel advisor partners.

Seven distinguished travel advisors and industry leaders served as godparents, recognizing their longstanding relationships with Viking and contributions to the cruise line’s success.

Two of the new ships were in Amsterdam for the ceremony while the other five connected virtually across three additional countries.

The ceremony included performances by Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of Viking Jupiter, and Norwegian violinist Tor Jaran Apold.

The new river ships will sail cruises in Europe and in Egypt on many of Viking’s most popular itineraries. 

New River Ships Christened

• Viking Haki, Viking Halogi, Viking Sjofn, and Viking Rota: Longships for the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers
• Viking Sekhmet and Viking Ptah: River ships in Egypt to sail on the Nile River
• Viking Fjolvar: Ship for the Seine River in France

Godparents

Viking chose travel advisors and industry leaders to serve as godparents for these seven new river ships.

• Shelby Steudle, President, Pavlus Travel – Godmother of Viking Fjolvar
• Michael Londregan, Senior Vice President, Global Markets, Virtuoso – Godfather of Viking Ptah
• Ealeen Wong, Senior Director of Strategy, Partnerships & Sales for Expedia Group’s Global Cruise Business – Godmother of Viking Rota
• Michael Consoli, Owner, Cruise Planners – Godfather of Viking Sekhmet
• Carol Porter, Co-Owner, The Roaming Boomers – Godmother of Viking Haki
• Carol Shaddix, Owner, Imagine Going There Travel – Godmother of Viking Halogi
• Danielle “Dani” Galloway, Global Managing Director, Luxury and Independent, Flight Centre Travel Group – Godmother of Viking Sjofn

Leah Talactac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking, gave the following statement:

“Throughout history, rivers have inspired exploration, connecting people, cultures and civilizations. For nearly 30 years, Viking has carried forward that spirit of discovery, introducing curious travelers to the world’s most remarkable destinations.

“As we name our seven newest river ships, we are especially proud to honor travel advisor partners who have been an integral part of our journey. It is a privilege to recognize seven of these exceptional partners as godparents in gratitude for their meaningful contributions to Viking’s success.”