On June 30, 2025, Viking officially christened its latest ocean vessel, the Viking Vesta, with a traditional naming ceremony in Split, Croatia. Delivered fresh from Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, this new ship represents both a celebration of Viking’s 10-year ocean cruise legacy and a confident step into the next era of luxury small ship cruising.
A Ceremony Rich with Tradition
Norwegian journalist Lene Tangevald‑Jensen served as godmother of the Viking Vesta in a ceremony that blended Viking heritage with Scandinavian elegance. She used a ceremonial broad axe to cut a ribbon, sending a bottle of Norwegian aquavit crashing against the hull. Guests also enjoyed live performances by soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø and violinist Tor Jaran Apold, both of whom have strong ties to Viking’s previous ship events.
Small Ship Design with Big Appeal
The Viking Vesta is the 13th ship in Viking’s ocean fleet and follows the proven Star-class design with a few modern upgrades. This ship carries just 998 guests and features 499 staterooms, each with its own private veranda. There are no inside cabins. Staterooms start at 288 square feet and go up to over 1,400 square feet in the Owner’s Suite, complete with separate living areas, a sauna, and a full dining room.
Everything onboard is designed for comfort and clarity. Interiors are Scandinavian-inspired, public spaces are peaceful and well-appointed, and the overall experience focuses on what Viking does best: Calm Luxury. Guests can enjoy two swimming pools, a full-service spa with a thermal suite and ice grotto, multiple lounges, a fitness center, curated libraries, and a range of enrichment programming.
First Voyages: Mediterranean and Northern Europe
The Viking Vesta’s inaugural season begins with a 12-night Mediterranean Odyssey, followed by a variety of sailings through Italy, the Western Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. Ports include Croatia, Malta, France, Spain, and the British Isles. These itineraries offer a mix of classic highlights and lesser-known gems.
Thanks to its size, the Vesta docks closer to city centers and in smaller harbors. This means less time in transit and more time exploring destinations on foot or by local transport.
Ready for the Future
While the Viking Vesta currently runs on traditional fuel, she’s built to support future conversion to hybrid or hydrogen-based propulsion. This aligns with Viking’s broader fleet plans, including the upcoming hydrogen-ready Viking Libra and Viking Astrea. Viking aims to grow its ocean fleet to 23 ships by 2031 and is also adding nearly 30 new river vessels.
Why Viking Vesta Matters
This isn’t just another new cruise ship. The Viking Vesta highlights everything travelers appreciate about small ship luxury cruising:
- Space and comfort without the crowds
- All-veranda staterooms with thoughtful layouts
- Shore excursions that prioritize enrichment over entertainment
- Inclusive pricing with no surprises
- Adults-only atmosphere that promotes relaxation
Viking’s Commitment to Calm, Connected Travel
Viking has built a reputation for consistent quality across its fleet. The Vesta reinforces that approach with upgrades that feel intuitive, not flashy. Whether you’re enjoying the onboard spa, attending a classical music performance, or sipping wine on your private veranda, everything is designed to help you slow down and stay present.
With no casinos, no kids, and no gimmicks, Viking’s ocean cruises appeal to travelers who value cultural depth, comfort, and service that feels human.
The Bottom Line
The Viking Vesta is a strong addition to the world of luxury small ship cruising. With its elegant design, immersive itineraries, and future-ready build, it hits all the right notes for guests seeking a more thoughtful way to explore the world.
Whether you’re eyeing the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, or just a quieter cruise experience, the Vesta delivers.
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