Here are four of the most important points from this exciting journey:

• The Viking Star’s launch in 2015 marked Viking Cruises’ successful and bold entry into the ocean cruise market, significantly expanding their offerings beyond river cruises.
• The ship’s debut led to the rapid growth of Viking’s ocean fleet and established them as a major global player in both ocean and river cruising.
• The Viking Star’s design, inspired by their successful riverboats, introduced key features like the Aquavit Terrace and set the standard for Viking’s signature luxury ocean experience.
• Viking Cruises is demonstrating a strong commitment to the future with plans for hydrogen-powered ships and further fleet expansion, building on the legacy of the Viking Star.

Here’s a look back at a decade of excellence as Viking Cruises celebrates the 10th anniversary of its magnificent flagship, the Viking Star! This isn’t just a milestone for one ship; it’s a testament to Viking’s incredible journey and triumphant expansion into the world of luxury ocean cruising. Launched on March 28, 2015, the Viking Star, a stunning 930-passenger vessel built in Italy, marked a vibrant new era for a brand already celebrated for its exceptional river voyages. Her debut was a bold and brilliant move, instantly establishing Viking as a major force in the competitive ocean cruise market and paving the way for a remarkable fleet of ocean ships, expedition vessels, and more!

Before the Viking Star, Viking had already perfected the art of river cruising. But with the arrival of this beautiful ship, new horizons truly opened up! Viking’s fleet has since blossomed to include 10 ocean ships, two expedition ships, a Mississippi vessel, and a vast collection of riverboats, solidifying their place as a global leader in both realms. The Viking Star’s maiden voyage was an unforgettable nine-night adventure through the Eastern Mediterranean, sailing from the historic wonders of Istanbul to the romantic canals of Venice, with captivating calls in Turkey, Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro.

The official christening in Bergen, Norway, in May 2015, was a joyous occasion, setting the stage for the Viking Star’s decade of delivering unparalleled luxury and service. Her initial season also included breathtaking journeys through Scandinavia and the Baltic, showcasing a perfect blend of rich history and stunning natural beauty. Guests and experts alike quickly fell in love with the ship’s elegant Scandinavian design and exceptional service, setting a high standard for the Viking ocean fleet that followed.

Today, the Viking Star continues to enchant guests with year-round Mediterranean cruises from popular ports like Civitavecchia, Venice, Piraeus, and Barcelona, with voyages planned through early 2027. Her enduring popularity highlights the desire for upscale, immersive experiences in this captivating region. Drawing inspiration from Viking’s successful riverboats, the Viking Star boasts sleek design and superb craftsmanship, featuring highlights like the light-filled winter garden and the delightful Aquavit Terrace, offering incredible dining with a view.

Looking ahead, the future is incredibly exciting for Viking! They are pioneering sustainable cruising with the upcoming hydrogen-powered vessels, Viking Libra and Viking Astrea, set to debut in 2026 and 2027. These groundbreaking ships, based on the very design of the Viking Star, underscore Viking’s deep commitment to environmental responsibility. With 11 more ocean ships on the horizon by 2033, Viking is dedicated to blending luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology to exceed the expectations of travelers worldwide. The Viking Star’s 10th anniversary is a magnificent celebration of past successes and a bright beacon for Viking’s continued leadership in redefining the world of ocean cruising!