Viking Unveils Grand Plans: 10 New Longships Set to Navigate Europe’s Rivers

Viking, a trailblazer in river cruising, has just set the maritime world abuzz with the announcement of 10 additional Viking Longships® joining its European river fleet. Responding to the surging demand for European river voyages, these new vessels are set to navigate the iconic Rhine, Main, Danube, and Seine rivers. The construction journey officially commenced with a symbolic keel laying ceremony at Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock, Germany, the very site where all Viking Longships have taken shape since their inaugural voyage in 2012.

Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking, expressed the company’s commitment to delivering unparalleled travel experiences. “Ever since we started Viking 26 years ago, our mission has been to help our guests explore the world in comfort. We focus on the destination, and we build elegant, innovative ships,” stated Hagen. “We look forward to welcoming these new Longships to our European fleet and introducing The Viking Way of exploration to even more guests in the coming years.”

The expansion includes eight Longships set to grace the Rhine, Main, and Danube, while an additional two will join the picturesque Seine River. This announcement follows the reveal of a Viking Longship for the Seine River in February 2023. Five of the new vessels are slated for delivery in 2025, with the remaining five scheduled for 2026.

Viking’s river fleet already boasts 80 river ships, making it the industry’s leading river line. The award-winning Viking Longships, comprising the majority of the river fleet, are designed to host 190 or fewer guests. Known for their innovative patented design, these vessels offer an array of stateroom choices, the revolutionary indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, and the signature Scandinavian design aesthetic. The new additions will feature a hybrid propulsion system with batteries and are equipped for shore power, minimising reliance on fuel while in port. Onboard solar panels further contribute to the ships’ energy efficiency.

This announcement marks yet another significant milestone for Viking. Just last month, the company celebrated the float-out of its newest ocean ship, the Viking Vela®, scheduled to debut in December 2024. Additionally, plans were unveiled for a new ship, the Viking Tonle, set to navigate the Mekong River in 2025. Viking made history in October, securing the #1 position for rivers, oceans, and expeditions in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure’s 2023 World’s Best Awards.

As the maritime giant charts new waters, travellers eager to embark on these transformative journeys can make bookings or gather more information by calling 0800 458 69 00 or visiting www.viking.com. Viking continues to redefine river cruising, promising an enchanting exploration of Europe’s rivers on its upcoming Longships.