If you’re planning a cruise vacation, Viking Cruise Lines might be on your radar. But have you ever wondered who owns this popular cruise line? In this article, we’ll explore the history of Viking Cruise Lines, its ownership, and what sets it apart from other cruise lines.
The History of Viking Cruise Lines
Viking Cruise Lines was founded in 1997 by Torstein Hagen. The company’s first ship was the MS Viking Star, which set sail in 2015.
Since then, Viking has become one of the fastest-growing cruise lines in the world. It currently operates a fleet of over 60 river and ocean vessels that visit destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
Who Owns Viking Cruise Lines?
Viking Cruise Lines is privately owned by its founder Torstein Hagen. Hagen is a Norwegian billionaire who made his fortune in shipping and logistics before founding Viking.
What Sets Viking Cruise Lines Apart?
One of the things that sets Viking apart from other cruise lines is its focus on cultural enrichment. Onboard activities include lectures on history and art, cooking demonstrations featuring local cuisine, and performances by local musicians and dancers. Additionally, each ship has a library stocked with books about the destinations visited on the itinerary.
Another unique feature of Viking is its emphasis on destination-focused cruising. The company’s ships are smaller than those of many other cruise lines, allowing them to access ports that larger ships cannot. This means that passengers can experience off-the-beaten-path destinations that are often inaccessible to larger groups of tourists.
The Future of Viking Cruise Lines
As one of the fastest-growing cruise lines in the world, it’s clear that Viking Cruise Lines has a bright future ahead. The company has announced plans to expand its fleet even further over the next few years, with new ships set to sail in Europe, Asia, and North America.
In conclusion, Viking Cruise Lines is a privately owned cruise line founded by Norwegian billionaire Torstein Hagen. The company’s focus on cultural enrichment and destination-focused cruising sets it apart from other cruise lines. With plans to expand its fleet even further, it’s clear that Viking Cruise Lines will continue to be a major player in the cruise industry for years to come.