There was a distinctly Australian flavour to an extraordinary international celebration as luxury cruise company Viking officially welcomed seven new river ships to its fleet, with two Aussies given the honour of becoming ship godparents.
The spectacular naming ceremony, held on October 15, connected ships in four countries, bringing together celebrations in the Netherlands, Germany, France and Egypt.
And among the seven travel industry figures chosen for the prestigious ceremonial roles were Australians Danielle Galloway and Michael Londregan, marking the first time Viking has appointed Australian godparents.
Galloway, a senior executive with Flight Centre Travel Group, was named godmother of the Viking Sjofn, a beautiful new river ship destined to carry passengers along Europe’s famous Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.
Meanwhile, Londregan, a senior executive with luxury travel network Virtuoso, became godfather of the Viking Ptah, which will take travellers on unforgettable journeys along Egypt’s legendary Nile River.
For both Australians, the recognition was an emotional moment.
Galloway admitted she was moved to tears when she first learned she had been selected.
“It’s the most incredible honour,” she told TravelTalk, describing the appointment as a reflection of the longstanding relationship between Flight Centre and Viking.
Londregan was equally delighted, although he admitted the news came as something of a surprise.
He revealed that he first learned of the honour while shopping at Bunnings, of all places!
Describing the experience as both flattering and a little embarrassing, Londregan said the recognition demonstrated the growing importance of Australian travellers to the international cruise industry.
“We [the Aussies] have got a seat at the table,” he said.
The occasion was particularly special because Viking chose to honour travel industry professionals rather than celebrities, recognising the people who have helped introduce generations of travellers to river cruising.
Traditionally, ships are christened by a godmother, who offers a blessing for the safety of the vessel and everyone who sails aboard.
Viking has expanded the custom to include godfathers, with each of the seven honourees taking part in the naming celebrations.
And Viking has its own distinctive twist on the centuries-old maritime tradition.
Rather than breaking a bottle of champagne against the hull, the company uses Norwegian aquavit, a traditional Scandinavian spirit, to wish its new ships good fortune.
The main ceremony took place in Amsterdam, where the Viking Rota and Viking Haki were moored alongside the waterfront.
Live video connections linked the festivities to five other vessels in Germany, France and Egypt, allowing all seven ships to be celebrated as part of one international event.
Viking’s executive chairman, Torstein Hagen, welcomed guests, while Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø and violinist Tor Jaran Apold provided musical entertainment.
Company president and chief executive Leah Talactac said the celebration reflected Viking’s continuing commitment to helping travellers discover the world through its rivers.
“Throughout history, rivers have inspired exploration, connecting people, cultures and civilizations,” she said.
“For nearly 30 years, Viking has carried forward that spirit of discovery, introducing curious travelers to the world’s most remarkable destinations.”
The seven new vessels will offer plenty of opportunities for travellers dreaming of exploring Europe and Egypt.
Four ships – Viking Haki, Viking Halogi, Viking Sjofn and Viking Rota – will operate on the Rhine, Main and Danube, taking guests through some of Europe’s most picturesque countryside, historic cities and charming riverside villages.
Another, Viking Fjolvar, will explore France’s Seine River, offering the chance to discover Paris and the beautiful landscapes of Normandy.
For those drawn to ancient history, Viking Ptah is already sailing the Nile, while its sister ship Viking Sekhmet will begin operations in 2027.
Both Egyptian vessels accommodate just 82 passengers and operate Viking’s 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, combining a river voyage with visits to some of Egypt’s most extraordinary ancient treasures.
The European Longships, meanwhile, carry 190 passengers in 95 staterooms, offering an intimate alternative to the enormous ocean-going cruise ships.
The seven additions are part of Viking’s continued expansion, with the company now operating a fleet of more than 100 vessels across its river, ocean and expedition cruising divisions.
And while none of the seven new ships will be sailing in Australian waters, their two Australian godparents will remain permanently connected to the vessels they helped christen.
For Galloway and Londregan, it is a remarkable personal honour.
And for Australian travellers who love discovering the world by water, it is another reminder that our corner of the globe is making quite an impression on the international cruising scene.
