by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:20 PM ET, Tue May 13, 2025
The newly relaunched Victory Cruise Lines has officially christened Victory II.
The festivities took place in Chicago on Monday, with founder and chief executive officer John Waggoner’s granddaughter, Molly Applegate, christening the 190-guest vessel.
Applegate broke a bottle of Maker’s Mark across the ship’s bow at Navy Pier.
“There is no city in the world quite like Chicago, and we are delighted to celebrate here today at Navy Pier as Victory II joins Victory I in sailing the Great Lakes once again,” says Waggoner. “We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has made it possible for us to showcase all five Great Lakes and provide guests with the opportunity to create lasting travel memories together.”
Sister ship Victory I was christened in Toronto on April 27 by Waggoner’s daughter. The two ships are spending the summer sailing the Great Lakes, with departures from Chicago, Toronto, Milwaukee and Montreal. The cruise line will offer 33 departures this year that visit all five Great Lakes.
“Victory Cruise Lines will bring thousands of visitors to Chicago and we are proud the cruise line is docking right here downtown at Navy Pier,” says Jordan Engerman, vice president of partnerships for Choose Chicago. “Cruise visitation supports local jobs and businesses across the city and is yet another way for travelers to explore our rich and diverse destination.”
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