Viking Cruises yesterday, March 8, announced that its 4th ocean ship, Viking Sun, was named during an official ceremony on The Bund, in Shanghai's heart.
The ship is now sailing Viking’s 141-day World Cruise from Miami FL to London UK, and its visit to Shanghai marked the first time one of line’s ocean liners has called in China.
Viking Sun is the first-ever cruise ship to be christened on the Bund in Shanghai. The 930-passenger ship arrived in Shanghai yesterday morning, navigating into the mouth of Yangtze River and then up Huangpu River into central Shanghai city, where Sun received a warm welcome from boats in the harbor and local residents.
After arriving, Viking Sun stopped at Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal, adjacent to a special concert stage constructed for the celebration.
Mrs. Li You, Vice President of CMBFL (China Merchant Bank Financial Leasing), served as ceremonial godmother. She offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the newbuild, a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years. Mrs. Li You cut a ribbon which allowed a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to break on ship’s hull.
Today, March 9, Viking Sun sets sail from Shanghai to Southeast Asia and India, prior to making her way through Red Sea and Suez Canal into Mediterranean, following the route of 21st Century Maritime Silk Road (“One Belt One Road” Initiative).
After the ship arrives in London UK on May 5, Viking Sun will have visited 5 continents, 35 countries and a total of 64 ports during her first World Voyage. Viking Sun will go on sailing the globe during 2019 World Cruise, a 128-day itinerary out of Miami to London.