Viking Celebrates 100+ Ship Milestone with Global Naming Ceremonies Honoring Industry Leaders

Viking has reached a significant operational milestone with more than 100 ships now active across its river, ocean, and expedition fleet. The company marked this achievement through a global naming celebration spanning six countries, officially welcoming nine new river vessels with ceremonies that emphasized Viking's commitment to cultural discovery and partnership with travel advisors. This expansion represents substantial growth in the luxury travel sector with implications for human resources professionals supporting the industry.

One of the most notable honors went to Michele Saegesser, Viking's Vice President of Trade Development & Training, who was named Godmother of the new Viking Honir during ceremonies in Basel, Switzerland. The name derives from Norse mythology, where the god Honir represented wisdom, reflection, and reason—attributes that align with Saegesser's decades of dedication to travel advisors. Her recognition highlights the importance of internal leadership development and mentorship programs within successful organizations.

Heather Viking, a dedicated travel advisor at Club Cruise™, emphasized the strategic significance of honoring internal leaders rather than relying on celebrity-driven marketing. This approach to employee recognition demonstrates how authentic appreciation can foster loyalty and strengthen partner relationships across the supply chain. The newly named river ships include Viking Annar, Viking Dagur, Viking Eldir, Viking Nerthus, Viking Gyda, Viking Tonle, Viking Thoth, and Viking Amun, each with distinguished godparents from Viking's extended family network.

Amanda Huber, CEO of Club Cruise™ and an internationally recognized luxury cruise expert, highlighted how Saegesser's leadership ensures advisors are heard, respected, and supported, ultimately benefiting every Viking guest through knowledgeable care. She noted increasing demand for Viking World Cruises and immersive Asia itineraries across 2026–2027 travel planning, indicating significant market expansion opportunities for HR vendors serving the travel industry. Later this week, industry leaders will join Saegesser aboard the Viking Yi Dun for the Jewels of Japan & China Ocean Executive Training Retreat, designed to strengthen expertise and enhance media coverage for future travelers.

Viking's founding leadership, including Chairman Torstein Hagen and Karine Hagen, has maintained focus on culture, history, and genuine discovery, revolutionizing river experiences while evolving ocean and expedition travel. This consistent strategic vision has contributed to Viking being recognized as the most awarded cruise line globally, holding top rankings from Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, U.S. News & World Report, Forbes Travel Guide, and Cruise Critic. Additional industry insights are available on the Club Cruise™ Blog, reinforcing Viking's position as the only cruise line to hold both top river and ocean leadership simultaneously. For HR professionals, Viking's growth trajectory demonstrates how strategic talent development, strong vendor partnerships, and consistent corporate vision drive industry leadership and market expansion.