March was a big month for Viking Cruises as they officially named their newest ocean ship and confirmed plans to expand their fleet even more.
Shanghai, China hosted the christening of the Viking Sun amid much fanfare. The ceremony was the first of its kind to take place on the Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront with a view. It also marked the first visit of a Viking Ocean ship to China.
Speaking to the assembled crown, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen said, “I am very pleased to officially name our newest ship in Shanghai. We care deeply about tourism in China, and we have been bringing river cruise guests here since 2004. China is the home of Viking Sun’s Godmother, Mrs. Yi Lou, and in the coming year, Shanghai will also welcome our fifth ship, Viking Orion. We look forward to introducing thousands of new travelers to the cultural treasures in Shanghai and throughout China.”
The Viking Sun is in the midst of a World Cruise that began in Miami in mid December and will conclude in London this May. Ports of call on this extraordinary itinerary have included Havana, Cuba, Bora Bora, seven stops in New Zealand, seven stops in Australia, visits to Vietnam and India.

Given the overwhelmingly positive reception of Viking's ocean-going ships since the introduction of their first ship the Viking Star three years ago, it comes as no surprise that the cruise line will continue to expand its fleet. On March 6, Viking announced a new agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri to deliver six additional vessels beyond those previously on order. This will bring the total number of Viking Ocean ships to sixteen by 2027. “In our first two years of operation, we have been named the #1 Ocean Cruise Line, and this new order speaks to the positive response we have received from our guests and the industry. As we continue to expand our brand, we look forward to bringing guests to more destinations around the world and introducing them to the Viking way of exploration,” Hagen said of the agreement. All ships will offer Viking's signature features including all balcony staterooms, free WiFi ship wide, an included stateroom in each port of call, free self service laundry facilities, included specialty dining and complimentary beer and wine at lunch and dinner.
At Epic Odysseys we have a wonderful relationship with the people at Viking and proudly offer all of their itineraries on rivers and on the high seas. Call us today at (571) 252-7700 to discuss your next adventure.
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