During its inaugural world cruise, Viking just christened its fourth ocean ship-the Viking Sun-in Shanghai on March 8, 2018. The ceremony took place during the ocean line's maiden call in China, also signifying the first cruise ship to be named on the Bund in the city.
"I am very pleased to officially name our newest ship in Shanghai. We care deeply about tourism in China, and we have been bringing river cruise guests here since 2004," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking, in a press release.
"China is the home of Viking Sun's Godmother, Mrs. Yi Lou, and in the coming year, Shanghai will also welcome our fifth ship, Viking Orion. We look forward to introducing thousands of new travelers to the cultural treasures in Shanghai and throughout China."
As a perfect reference back to river cruising, the oceanic Sun traversed the mouth of the Yangtze and up the Huangpu to arrive at the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal. A waterfront stage hosted a tribute to the Norwegian and Chinese relationship conveyed by a wavy projection screen and narrative display of the silk trade between the two countries. Further energizing the foreground stage were kinetic dancers interpreting nautical motifs.
Shanghai television personality Michelle Wang also presented live music by the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra and Chinese operatic tenor Dai Yuqiang, in addition to the incomparable Norwegian crossover soprano Sissel Kyrkjebo-internationally known for her haunting backing vocals in the film score for "Titanic."
Another highlight of the ceremony was when Viking senior vice president, Karine Hagen, addressed the crowd in seemingly impeccable Chinese to the delight of local guests.
The duty of christening the ship, of course, went to Mrs. Li You-Vice President of China Merchant Bank Financial Leasing. After traditionally wishing good fortune and safe passage for the ship and its passengers, she cut the ribbon to release a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to ceremonially crash upon the hull.
Specific just to the Sun, though, is newly added table tennis on the aforementioned sports deck, plus a slightly redesigned Cruise Consultant desk area.
Even as the fourth ship in the fleet, the Viking Sun is relatively just the start for the line's ocean vessels with now up to a staggering 16 scheduled by 2027.
Through March 31, 2018, U.S. residents can take advantage of Viking's 2-for-1 cruise rates on certain 2018 ocean and river cruise itineraries, and extra savings are available on international flights.
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