Viking has reached a significant operational milestone by now operating more than 100 ships across its river, ocean, and expedition fleet. To commemorate this achievement, the company hosted a global naming celebration spanning six countries, officially welcoming nine new river ships with distinguished godparents representing Viking's extended family. The ceremonies highlighted Viking's commitment to cultural discovery and partnership with travel advisors.
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 a ceremony in Basel, Switzerland. The name "Honir" derives from Norse mythology, where the god Honir was known for wisdom, reflection, and the gift of reason—attributes that align with Saegesser's decades of dedication to travel advisors. Widely admired for her mentorship and educational leadership, Saegesser has been instrumental in shaping Viking's world-leading reputation through steadfast support for partners.
Heather Viking, a dedicated travel advisor at Club Cruise™, emphasized the significance of honoring internal leaders rather than celebrity-driven marketing. "It's refreshing to see Viking celebrate the leaders who shape the guest experience," she noted. "That's what loyalty looks like. And that's why advisors like me honor Michele and the Viking leaders who believe so strongly in this mission." The newly named river ships include the Viking Annar with Godmother Michelle Patterson, Viking Dagur with Godmother Sara Conley, Viking Eldir with Godmother Yumi Kim, Viking Nerthus with Godmother Allison Becker, Viking Gyda with Godmother Chitra Goswami, Viking Tonle with Godmother Laura Perlman, Viking Thoth with Godfather Youssef Fouad Amin, and Viking Amun with Godfather Sherif El Banna. Guests at the ceremonies enjoyed cultural performances that reflect Viking's hallmark of enrichment.
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. Later this week, Heather and Amanda 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 focused on culture, history, and genuine discovery, revolutionizing river experiences and evolving ocean and expedition travel. This 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 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.
