Viking Names New Ocean Beauty—Viking Vesta Makes a Grand Entrance in Croatia
Ahoy happy sailors!
Viking Names New Ocean Beauty—Viking Vesta Makes a Grand Entrance in Croatia
Raise a glass of aquavit and cue the fjord-inspired fanfare—Viking Vesta has officially joined the fleet!
In a picture-perfect ceremony on June 29, 2025, Viking welcomed its newest ocean ship, Viking Vesta, with style, tradition, and a splash of Norwegian flair in the vibrant port of Split, Croatia. And yes, there was a Viking axe involved.
The ship’s ceremonial godmother, Lene Tangevald-Jensen, wasn’t just there for show. In true Viking fashion, she used a broad axe to slice a ribbon and send a bottle of Norwegian aquavit crashing against the ship’s hull—a bold welcome for a bold ship. The moment was pure magic, complete with performances by soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø and violinist Tor Jaran Apold that gave guests goosebumps.
As Viking celebrates 10 years of ocean cruising in 2025, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen couldn’t have been prouder. “Lene embodies the values that matter to us kindness, curiosity, honesty, and hard work,” he said. “She’s not just a friend, she’s family.”
Now, let’s talk about the ship. Viking Vesta is a small ship with big presence—hosting 998 guests in 499 all-veranda staterooms, with a sleek Scandinavian design that’s all about comfort, light, and open spaces. Expect elegant lounges, inviting dining venues, and plenty of al fresco moments to soak in those sea views.
She’ll be spending her inaugural season cruising the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, bringing that signature Viking blend of understated luxury and destination-focused discovery.
This naming celebration follows a wave of awards for Viking, including top honours from Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and U.S. News & World Report, not to mention glowing recognition from Forbes Travel Guide and Cruise Critic. When it comes to ocean, river, and expedition cruising, Viking isn’t just in the game, they’re setting the bar.
Viking Vesta is now sailing, and let’s just say, she’s ready to impress.
To explore itineraries or learn more, head to www.viking.com.