By
Rebecca Gibson |
Viking Cruises has taken delivery of its sixth ocean ship, Viking Jupiter, following a traditional handover ceremony at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy.
Viking Jupiter, which can accommodate 930 guests in 465 staterooms, will begin her maiden season on 16 February, embarking on Viking’s first-ever ‘Journey to Antiquities’ itinerary between Athens, Greece and Rome, Italy. The 47,800gt vessel will also sail cruises throughout the Mediterranean and Scandinavia before being christened in Oslo, Norway on 6 June. Norwegian soprano singer Sissel Kyrkjebø will serve as godmother.
“It is always a proud moment when we are able to welcome a new ship to our fleet,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking. “Viking Jupiter is our sixth ocean vessel in just four years – a clear sign of the positive response to our approach to ocean cruising. We are different because we focus on the destination, and that resonates with our guests. We are pleased that with continued growth we have the opportunity to introduce even more travellers to the Viking way of exploration.”
Viking Jupiter’s sister ships include Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky, Viking Sun and Viking Orion. Ten additional ships are also planned for delivery starting in 2021, which could bring Viking’s ocean fleet to 16 ships by 2027.