The Norwegian-Flagged Viking Mars Named in Malta on Norway Day by the Countess of Carnarvon

During the naming ceremony of the Viking Mars, Charlotte of Highclere Castle (left) and Karine of Viking (right), use a replica of De Valette’s battle sword to cut a ribbon allowing a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to smash on the ship’s hull, in keeping with maritime tradition (Image - May 2022)Viking today (May 17, 2022) named its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Mars®, during a private ceremony in Valletta, Malta.

As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother Lady Fiona Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

This week the new ship will begin her maiden season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Northern Europe, before repositioning at the end of the year for voyages around Australia and New Zealand.

“It is always a proud day when we welcome a new sister ship to our fleet. The Viking Mars will allow us to offer even more opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Many of our guests were introduced to both Viking and Highclere Castle while watching Downton Abbey, and over the years we have continued a close friendship with the Carnarvon family as they have welcomed our guests into their home. We are very grateful that Lady Carnarvon has honored us by serving as godmother of our newest ocean ship.”

“I am honored and privileged to be the godmother of the Viking Mars. I have no doubt she will delight the many guests who travel with her around the world. For more than a decade, Viking and Highclere have been linked through both Downton Abbey and life, and we look forward to continuing welcoming the extended Viking family to explore our home for years to come,” said Lady Carnarvon.

Full story at PRNewswire

(Viking)

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