Viking, the “thinking person’s cruise” line has launched its seventh ocean ship, the 930-passenger Viking Venus in Italy.

Scheduled to debut early next year, Viking Venus will spend her maiden season sailing in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

The traditional floating out ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard in Italy yesterday.

“As the world continues its path to recovery from COVID-19, we remain focused on the future and with strong bookings for 2021 and the enthusiasm of our guests, we are optimistic about what is to come,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking.

With Viking Venus afloat, she will be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for the final construction and interior fit-out.

Viking Venus will have 465 staterooms and will have an expansive Viking living room, the Explorers’ Lounge, a library, fitness centre, snow grotto, spa, sauna and several dining venues including the Chef’s Table, Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant and Private Dining.

Viking has also launched its 2021-22 ocean cruises brochure featuring new ports and itineraries.

“We know you are itching to travel once more, when the time is right. If you’re seeking some inspiration, our 2021-22 ocean cruises brochure has you covered. It’s packed with over 200 pages of destination information, ship insights as well as our newest and most popular itineraries departing in 2021 and 2022,” said Michelle Black, Viking ANZ managing director.

Prices for a 15-day itinerary from Stockholm to Bergen in April next year start from $8445 per person. You can save up to $1500 per couple if you book before 31 July. To view the brochure online, click here.

For more information visit vikingcruises.com.au or phone 138 747.