New Cruise Ships: Viking Sky Delivered

Viking Ocean Cruises has taken delivery of Viking Sky, the company's third ship. 

The delivery ceremony took place when the ship was presented at Fincantieri's shipyard in Ancona, Italy. On February 25, Viking Sky will set sail from Rome's port at Civitavecchia and will make its way through the Mediterranean on its inaugural voyage. After sailing spring itineraries throughout the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, Viking Sky will make its way to officially be christened under Norway's "midnight sun" on June 22 in Tromsø – a nod to Viking's Norwegian heritage. Following the christening, Viking Sky will continue its inaugural season sailing itineraries in Scandinavia and the Baltic before crossing the Atlantic in September on its way to the Americas and the Caribbean.

"By the end of 2017 – our 20th year in business – we will also welcome our fourth ship, doubling our fleet in less than a year," said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises.

The all-veranda Viking Sky is a sister ship to the Viking Star and Viking Sea, which launched in 2015 and 2016, respectively.

Viking's ocean ships have 465 staterooms and accommodate 930 guests. In November 2017, Viking will also welcome Viking Sun, which will spend its inaugural season sailing the company's first-ever World Cruise, which spans 141 days, five continents, 35 countries and 66 ports. Viking Spirit will join the fleet in 2018 and will sail itineraries in Australia, Asia and Alaska. A sixth, yet-to-be-named ship will be delivered in 2019 and will mark Viking as the largest small ship ocean cruise line, according to the company. 

Designed by the same team responsible for Viking's fleet of Viking Longships, Viking's new ships incorporate details that pay homage to its Nordic heritage. A glass-backed infinity pool cantilevered off the stern offers unobstructed views; indoor-outdoor spaces offer options for al fresco dining; huge windows and skylights let in light; and a wrap-around promenade deck is available for strolling.

While onboard, guests enjoy talks from local experts and carefully selected lecturers in The Theater. Dining options range from the World Café, which features global cuisine with live cooking and open kitchens; to Mamsen's Norwegian-style deli. The Chef's Table celebrates cuisines from around the world with multi-course tasting menus and wine parings; and Manfredi's Italian Restaurant serves Tuscan and Roman cuisine. With the Kitchen Table experience, guests have an opportunity to shop, cook and eat with the Executive Chef. 

Every cruise fare includes a veranda stateroom, shore excursions in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including: beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa; and 24-hour room service.

Visit www.vikingcruises.com