Viking River Cruises has released details of its fleet development program, which includes eight new builds and two comprehensive refurbishments: a USD250 million commitment over the next three years.
Adding eight new vessels will bring the total number of ships operated by the company to 26, an increase in capacity of more than 40%, thus reinforcing Viking’s position as the world’s largest river cruise line. The first new ship, Viking Prestige, will premier in Europe in 2011. Also making its debut in 2011, Viking Emerald will sail in China as a replacement for Viking Century Sun. Additional European vessels will follow in 2012 and 2013.
Viking is the only river cruise company to operate in the five regions of Europe, Russia, Ukraine, China and Egypt and claims the industry’s highest market share—more than double that of its nearest competitor.
New ships: Making its debut in 2011 is Europe’s Viking Prestige, a 189-bed sister ship to the company’s flagship Viking Legend, the industry’s first “green” river cruise ship. With the same efficient, hybrid propulsion system, it’s claimed Viking Prestige will use significantly less fuel and provide a smoother, quieter ride than other ships. Viking Prestige will operate the popular 8-day Romantic Danube itinerary, sailing from Budapest to Nuremberg.
In 2004, Viking was the first to have western-operated ships sailing China’s Yangtze River. In 2011, Viking will introduce Viking Emerald, a 264-guest vessel which will feature the largest suites in river cruising—the 840-square-foot Presidential Suites will have separate sitting and sleeping areas, two flat-screen televisions, panoramic windows and a private wrap-around balcony—as well as deluxe 269-square-foot staterooms with hotel-style beds and private balconies. Like Viking Century Sun, It will feature a state-of-the-art kitchen where Asian and European cuisine will be prepared by a catering staff trained and managed by Viking’s Swiss management team.
