Major Three Year Expansion Planned For Viking River Cruises/Eight New Vessels to Enter Service By 2012
Viking River Cruises, the world's largest river cruise line and the only river cruise company to offer all-inclusive itineraries to Europe, Russia, Ukraine, China and Egypt, has announced plans for a $250 million fleet expansion over the next three years.
The the construction of eight new vessels will bring the total number of ships operated by the company to 26, an increase in capacity of more than 40%,.
The Viking Prestige will begin operation in Europe in 2011 while the Viking Emerald will sail on China's Yangtze River; additional European vessels will follow in 2012 and 2013.
The first “green” river cruise vessel in the industry, the 189 passenger Viking Prestige will use significantly less fuel and provide a smoother, quieter ride than other river ships; Among its itineraries will be the popular8-day Romantic Danube from Budapest to Nuremberg.
With French balconies on the top two decks, all-outside staterooms and the largest suites on the Danube, the ship represents the environmentally responsible future of Viking’s European vessels.
Meanwhile the Viking Emerald will be the newest and most elegant ship to cruise the Yangtze.The 264 passenger vessel will feature the largest suites in river cruising—the 840-square-foot Presidential Suites will have separate sitting and sleeping areas, two flat-screen televisions, panoramic windows and a private wrap-around balcony—as well as deluxe 269 square-foot staterooms with hotel-style beds and private balconies.
It will also feature a state-of-the-art kitchen where Asian and European cuisine will be prepared by a catering staff trained and managed by Viking’s Swiss management team.
In addition to new ships, Viking River Cruises has announced plans for two complete refurbishments to its existing fleet. Scheduled for completion in 2011, Viking Pakhomov will undergo a full bow-to-stern renovation. The rebuilt ships will contain deluxe staterooms with hotel-style beds, flat-panel televisions and the latest amenities. Public areas, such as the restaurant, lounges, library and bar, will also be completely remodeled with Viking’s signature Scandinavian décor.
The Pakhomov will sailing Russia’s famed Volga, Neva and Svir Rivers between Moscow and St. Petersburg. Meanwhile the Viking Schumann, purpose-built for Europe's Elbe River with a shallow draft and pump-jet engines, will receive bow-to-stern refurbishments to match those of sister ship Viking Fontane. The refurbishment includes upgrades of the restaurant, bar and lounge; the most substantial changes are planned for accommodations as eight 180-square-foot deluxe staterooms will be built on the upper deck while all standard staterooms will be upgraded.
Viking’s all-inclusive pricing features accommodations, all meals, and daily shore excursions led by English speaking guides. For additional information call 1‑877‑668‑4546 (1‑877‑66VIKING) or contact http://www.vikingrivercruises.com.
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