On December 5th, Viking celebrated the naming of its newest ocean ship, Viking Vela, with a ceremonial event in Trieste (Italy). This milestone also underscored Viking’s enduring collaboration with Fincantieri, one of the world’s premier shipbuilders headquartered in Trieste. The city, recognized for its storied maritime heritage and status as the terminus of the maritime Silk Road, is now Italy’s foremost commercial port.
Ivana Elice, Vice President and Project Manager of Fincantieri’s Cruise Business Unit, served as the ship’s ceremonial godmother. With 12+ years overseeing the design and engineering of Viking’s ocean vessels, Elice’s role highlights the partnership’s shared commitment to maritime excellence. As part of the ceremony, she received a historic Viking broad axe from Ann Ziff, Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera and godmother of the Viking Saturn, who had used the same axe during the naming of that vessel in June 2023. Following tradition, Elice pressed a button to release a bottle of Norwegian aquavit, which shattered against the hull, officially christening the ship.
The event featured performances by celebrated Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebo, godmother of the Viking Jupiter, and renowned Italian tenor Alessandro Safina, blending cultural tributes from Norway and Italy.
The Viking Vela, the latest addition to Viking’s award-winning fleet of ocean-going sisterships, exemplifies the line’s signature design philosophy. Classified as a small ship, she boasts a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons and accommodates 998 guests across 499 all-veranda staterooms. The vessel features Scandinavian-inspired interiors, light-filled public areas, and plentiful al fresco dining options, maintaining the refined atmosphere Viking is known for.
For her inaugural season, the Viking Vela will sail itineraries through the Mediterranean’s "quiet season," offering guests a more tranquil experience before transitioning to voyages in Northern Europe.