Viking Names Seven River Ships, Honoring Travel Advisor Partners

Viking has announced the naming of its seven newest river ships during a simultaneous ceremony in Amsterdam that virtually connected locations across Europe and Egypt.

"Throughout history, rivers have inspired exploration, connecting people, cultures and civilizations," said Leah Talactac, president and chief executive officer of Viking.

"For nearly 30 years, Viking has carried forward that spirit of discovery, introducing curious travelers to the world's most remarkable destinations. As we name our seven newest river ships, we are especially proud to honor travel advisor partners who have been an integral part of our journey," added Talactac.

"It is a privilege to recognize seven of these exceptional partners as godparents in gratitude for their meaningful contributions to Viking's success."

In a press release, the company said the celebration honored seven distinguished travel advisors and industry leaders who served as godparents, recognizing their longstanding relationships with Viking and their contributions to the company's success.

The ceremony was held in Amsterdam alongside the Viking Rota and the Viking Haki and was connected virtually to five other new ships in three additional countries.

Of the seven new river ships, the Viking Haki, Halogi, Sjofn and Rota will sail Viking's itineraries along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

The Viking Ptah sails the Nile River, and the Viking Sekhmet will also begin sailing there in 2027. The Viking Fjolvar sails the Seine River.

During the ceremony, each godparent offered good wishes for the safety of their ships' guests and crew.

The seven travel advisors and industry leaders honored as godparents include:

• Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel, Godmother of the Viking Fjolvar
• Michael Londregan, senior vice president, Global Markets, Virtuoso, Godfather of the Viking Ptah
• Ealeen Wong, senior director of strategy, partnerships and sales for Expedia Group's Global Cruise Business, Godmother of the Viking Rota
• Michael Consoli, owner, Cruise Planners, Godfather of the Viking Sekhmet
• Carol Porter, co-owner, The Roaming Boomers, Godmother of the Viking Haki
• Carol Shaddix, owner, Imagine Going There Travel, Godmother of the Viking Halogi, and
• Danielle Galloway, global managing director, luxury and independent, Flight Centre Travel Group, Godmother of the Viking Sjofn.