Photo: Viking
Viking (NASDAQ: VIK) has officially welcomed the Viking Nerthus, the newest river cruise ship in its fleet — and, according to the company, the most modern vessel of its kind in Europe.
Constructed at the renowned Neptune Werft shipyard, part of Germany’s Meyer Werft group, the ship features 84 staterooms and accommodates up to 168 passengers. The Viking Nerthus is set to operate on the company’s popular 8-day Seine River itinerary, sailing round-trip from Paris to Normandy. The route includes scenic and cultural stops in destinations such as Giverny, Rouen, and the Normandy coast.
In Paris, Viking ships dock at Port de Grenelle, conveniently located within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.
"We are proud to welcome the Viking Nerthus to our ever-growing fleet of award-winning Viking ships," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. "France continues to be a fascinating destination for our guests, and with the arrival of our newest ship on the Seine, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to the region's rich history and cultural treasures in the 'Viking Way'."
The new Viking Nerthus is also designed with the characteristic square bow of other ships in the fleet. The vessel is powered by a hybrid propulsion system and emissions treatment.
The company also reported that it expects to receive 25 additional river ships by 2028 and 9 more ocean ships by 2030. With these orders, the Viking fleet will include 109 river ships by 2028 and 21 ocean ships by 2030.
A Luxurious and Unique Experience
River cruising in Europe has emerged as one of the most sought-after travel trends of the past decade. Offering a blend of luxury, relaxation, and cultural immersion, it allows travelers to explore breathtaking landscapes and iconic destinations while gliding along historic waterways like the Danube, Rhine, Seine, and Loire. More than just a journey from one place to another, a river cruise is an experience in itself — featuring curated excursions, rich local traditions, and unforgettable stopovers in charming towns and vibrant cities
Accessibility to Stunning Locations: Unlike large cruise ships, river cruising allows access to lesser-known yet equally stunning destinations, such as picturesque towns, medieval castles, and ancient cities located along the rivers.
Local Experiences: During the cruise, you can enjoy a variety of attractions and culinary journeys based on the local cuisine of each country, with the opportunity to learn about the local cultures and history, as each stop provides an authentic and unique experience.
Comfort and Luxury: River cruising offers high comfort and top-notch facilities, with plush accommodations, exceptional services, and gourmet restaurants featuring rich gastronomic menus. The cruise itself is conducted at a relaxed pace, allowing passengers to feel at home.
Diverse Destinations: European rivers cross many countries, so river cruising allows for the experience of several countries and cities at once. For example, a cruise on the Danube might include visits to cities like Budapest, Vienna, or Bucharest.
A More Intimate and Smaller Environment: Since river ships are often smaller, they provide a more intimate experience compared to larger cruise ships, leading to more personalized service and a sense of community.
