Viking Ocean Cruises Reflects On 2025 Milestones And Prepares For 2026 With Sustainable Growth And Legacy Expansion

At the end of the year 2025, Viking Ocean Cruises is getting ready for a big celebration, as it has gone through a year full of major achievements, new ships and being green as a main goal. Torstein Hagen, the cruise line’s Chairman and CEO, posted a video with a message to the public, looking back on the company’s successful year and its gradual advancement.

Hagen took pride in the delivery of Viking’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Vesta, which joined the fleet in June 2025. This marked a significant achievement for the company, as the Viking Vesta was the 12th newbuild in Viking’s impressive fleet. The 998-guest vessel was officially named during a ceremony in Split, Croatia, a moment that exemplified Viking’s ongoing commitment to excellence in the cruising industry.

The cruise line’s expansion didn’t stop at sea; Viking also marked a pivotal milestone in its river cruise operations with the addition of nine new riverboats in 2025. This remarkable growth was celebrated with a simultaneous naming ceremony for the new ships, which included the debut of Viking’s 100th vessel, a huge accomplishment in the company’s journey.

A Publicly Traded Success Story: Viking’s Transition to the NYSE

The year 2025 also marked a historic shift for Viking Ocean Cruises, as it completed its first full year as a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange. Despite the transition from private ownership, Hagen assured that Viking’s core values remained unchanged.

In his message, Hagen shared his pride in the fact that the move to the NYSE did not alter Viking’s corporate culture. The company, which remains a close-knit Viking family, continues to uphold the principles of kindness, honesty, hard work, and thankfulness. These values have guided the company since its inception, and Hagen emphasised that they would continue to shape the company’s future growth and customer service ethos.

Sustainability and Innovation: Looking to the Future with the Viking Libra

As Viking Ocean Cruises looks ahead to 2026, the company is focusing on sustainability and innovation in a way that will shape the future of cruising. Hagen pointed to the upcoming Viking Libra, which will be the world’s first cruise ship partially powered by hydrogen fuel cells. This groundbreaking vessel will be able to operate with zero emissions while sailing through the Norwegian Fjords, a step forward in Viking’s ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

Hagen stressed the importance of designing ships that not only offer exceptional comfort and luxury but also reduce fuel consumption and harmful emissions. With the Viking Libra leading the charge, Viking is taking a bold step in the pursuit of more sustainable travel options for its guests. This innovative approach to cruising demonstrates Viking’s desire to push the boundaries of environmental responsibility in the cruise industry.

Viking’s Continued Support for Education and Youth Development

Beyond its impressive fleet expansion, Viking Ocean Cruises also took great pride in its involvement in the wider community. The company announced that it would be the main sponsor of the Norway National Soccer Team Academy and its youth national teams. This partnership is particularly significant as it highlights Viking’s commitment to supporting the development of young talent.

Hagen expressed the company’s belief that with hard work, nothing is impossible, and noted how proud Viking is to contribute to youth development and future generations of talent. Through this sponsorship, Viking continues to demonstrate its dedication to giving back to the communities it serves, reinforcing its core values of support and growth.

A Thriving Future: Bookings Strong and Looking Ahead to 2026

With the success of 2025 behind it, Viking Ocean Cruises is already looking forward to the future. Hagen shared that bookings for 2026 are already incredibly strong, with 70 percent of inventory already sold for the upcoming year. The company has also opened departure dates for 2027, encouraging guests to book early to secure the best possible selection.

The demand for Viking’s exceptional cruise offerings continues to grow, with guests from around the world eager to experience the comfort and luxury that Viking is known for. As the company moves forward into 2026, there is much to look forward to, with new destinations, continued innovation, and a renewed commitment to sustainability and quality service.

Hagen’s reflection on the company’s journey resonated with the Viking Ocean Cruises’ ethos, which centres around the belief that travel enriches lives. Viking’s dedication to promoting cultural exchanges remains at the heart of its operations. Hagen noted that Viking guests often return home as ambassadors for the countries they visit, and these cultural exchanges play a crucial role in fostering a more compassionate and connected world.

Looking Beyond 2026: The Legacy of Viking Ocean Cruises

As Viking Ocean Cruises steps into 2026, it continues to honour its legacy while expanding its reach and improving its offerings. The company’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community involvement will undoubtedly shape its future and ensure its continued success in the years to come.

The company’s dedication to providing world-class cruises, fostering cultural exchanges, and advancing sustainable practices sets Viking apart in the competitive cruise industry. With a legacy built on hard work and a strong family ethos, Viking Ocean Cruises is poised to remain a leader in the industry for many years to come.

Image Credit: Viking Ocean Cruises

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