Wednesday, July 2, 2025
On Monday, Viking Cruises officially christened its newest ocean vessel, Viking Vesta, in an elegant naming ceremony held in the picturesque port city of Split, Croatia. The event marked a special occasion for the company as Viking Vesta joined the fleet of Viking’s small ocean ships, and it highlighted the long-standing traditions of Viking Cruises that blend Nordic customs with modern luxury.
The grand ceremony took place against the stunning backdrop of Split’s historic coastline, offering a blend of cultural heritage and maritime spirit. Viking Vesta, designed to continue the legacy of Viking’s renowned ocean voyages, will now embark on its inaugural season, sailing through some of the most sought-after destinations in Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The ship’s intimate design—boasting 499 staterooms—means it can accommodate 998 guests, making it a true representation of Viking’s commitment to offering personalized, luxurious travel experiences.
The Naming Ceremony: Tradition Meets Celebration
In true Viking tradition, the ship was named by a distinguished figure in Norwegian journalism, Lene Tangevald-Jensen, who served as the godmother of Viking Vesta. Tangevald-Jensen, known for her philanthropic and journalistic endeavors, took part in the symbolic naming ceremony by using a Viking broad axe to cut a ribbon. The event concluded with a traditional Nordic blessing as a bottle of aquavit, a Scandinavian spirit, was smashed against the ship’s hull.
The ceremony was made even more special by the presence of celebrated musicians. Sissel Kyrkjebø, the famous crossover soprano and godmother of Viking Jupiter, delivered a captivating performance, alongside renowned Norwegian violinist Tor Jaran Apold, who added a touch of classical elegance to the occasion. Their performances echoed through the air as Viking Vesta officially became part of the Viking Cruises family.
About the Viking Vesta and its Role in Viking’s Fleet
Viking Vesta is the latest addition to Viking Cruises’ fleet of small ocean ships. Like its sister ships, Viking Vesta features 499 staterooms designed with understated luxury and comfort in mind. At 54,300 tons, it has a gross tonnage that allows for ample space while still maintaining the intimate, boutique experience Viking Cruises is known for. The ship is designed to accommodate a maximum of 998 guests, ensuring each passenger experiences personalized service, whether on a Mediterranean cruise or exploring the scenic shores of Northern Europe.
The new ship will primarily sail in these regions, providing unforgettable voyages through the coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean and the Northern European waters. Guests aboard Viking Vesta can expect to enjoy luxurious amenities, fine dining, and immersive shore excursions designed to bring the essence of each destination to life.
The Role of Godmother Lene Tangevald-Jensen
Lene Tangevald-Jensen, the godmother of Viking Vesta, is a respected figure in Norway and beyond. Her career spans decades of journalistic work, including contributions to prominent Norwegian publications like Kapital and Finansavisen, where she focused on financial topics. Her philanthropic work is equally impressive, having been involved with organizations like the LEON Trust, which supports education for children in Kenya, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, and Make-A-Wish Foundation Norway.
Tangevald-Jensen also founded TBS Gallery, an art space in Oslo dedicated to showcasing the work of Norwegian sculptor Tore Bjørn Skjølsvik. A close friend of Viking Cruises CEO Torstein Hagen, she has worked closely with Viking, even joining an expedition to Antarctica aboard Viking Polaris to film a documentary about the frozen continent.
Torstein Hagen Reflects on Viking Vesta’s Significance
Viking’s CEO Torstein Hagen expressed his pride in the naming ceremony, emphasizing the importance of Viking Vesta to the company’s future growth. “As we celebrate 10 years of ocean voyages in 2025, we are pleased to welcome the new Viking Vesta to our award-winning fleet of elegant sister ships,” Hagen stated. “We are also very grateful to Lene for serving as godmother. In addition to her personal and professional accomplishments, Lene embodies the values that are very important to me and to Viking—she is kind, honest, hardworking and, of course, curious. I am proud to count her as a friend and a valued member of the extended Viking family.”
The Future of Viking Cruises: A Commitment to Excellence
The christening of Viking Vesta is a testament to Viking Cruises’ commitment to expanding its fleet and enhancing the experiences it offers to its guests. As the cruise industry evolves, Viking continues to prioritize innovation, sustainability, and personalized travel experiences. The ship’s addition comes as part of Viking’s broader mission to redefine what it means to travel in comfort, all while maintaining an intimate, small-ship experience.
With Viking Vesta now officially part of the fleet, guests can expect even more extraordinary journeys ahead. Whether it’s exploring the serene landscapes of the Mediterranean or the rugged beauty of Northern Europe, Viking Vesta promises to deliver unparalleled experiences, guided by Viking’s longstanding tradition of excellence.
Sources:
- Viking Cruises
- Norwegian Government (Philanthropy Section)
- Norwegian Media (Kapital, Finansavisen)
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