Viking celebrates milestone with float out of new Viking Vesta ocean vessel

Viking, the acclaimed cruise line, marked a significant construction milestone today with the float out of its latest ocean vessel, the Viking Vesta, from Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona. This event signifies the first time the Viking Vesta has touched water, heralding its entry into the final stages of construction. Slated to debut in July 2025, the Viking Vesta is a testament to Viking’s commitment to elegant and thoughtful ocean cruising.

The Viking Vesta, classified as a small ship like all Viking ocean ships, boasts a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons and can accommodate up to 998 guests in 499 staterooms. The ship’s inaugural season will feature itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, offering guests the refined and intimate experience Viking is known for.

Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition: “It is always a good day when a new ship meets water for the first time. Over the last decade, we have built the world’s most elegant small ocean ships together with Fincantieri. As we prepare to welcome the Viking Vesta next summer, as well as her identical sister ship, the Viking Vela, this fall, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to the Viking way of exploration.”

The float out ceremony is a traditional maritime event that marks a ship moving from the dry dock into water, signifying a major phase in the shipbuilding process. The ceremony began on July 4th at approximately 11:00 AM local time, initiated by the Viking team cutting a cord that allowed water to flow into the ship’s building dock, a process that took two days to complete.

After floating out, the Viking Vesta was moved to a nearby outfitting dock where the final stages of construction will occur, including the interior build-out. This phase is crucial as it brings the ship closer to the sophisticated standard Viking’s guests expect.

Viking’s philosophy of catering to “The Thinking Person” emphasizes creating intellectual and culturally enriching experiences, rather than trying to appeal universally. This approach has garnered Viking top ratings from travelers and critics alike. In 2023, Viking was rated #1 for Oceans, Rivers, and Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the Readers’ Choice Awards, a testament to its dedication to quality and guest satisfaction.

As Viking continues to expand its fleet, the introduction of the Viking Vesta and her sister ship, Viking Vela, represents a continuation of the line’s vision to offer unrivaled ocean experiences that are both luxurious and thoughtful. The Viking Vesta’s journey from conception to its upcoming inaugural voyage is a showcase of Viking’s enduring commitment to innovation and excellence in the cruise industry.

The strategic introduction of the Viking Vesta into Viking’s fleet not only enhances its offering but solidifies its position as a leader in the luxury small ship ocean cruise market. This strategic expansion caters to a niche market of travelers looking for immersive, culturally-rich experiences, ensuring Viking’s continued growth and popularity in the competitive cruise industry.