Viking named its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Mars, during a small ceremony in Malta yesterday (17 May) while the ship was docked in Valletta’s Grand Harbour.
During the event, attended by friends and business partners of Viking and local officials, the ship’s Godmother, Lady Carnarvon, offered her blessing via video from her home, Highclere Castle, and a bottle of Norwegian aquavit was smashed on the hull.
The event paid tribute to Norwegian Constitution Day – 17 May – and featured a performance by renowned Norwegian singer Sissel Kyrkjebø.
Instead of a large-scale event, Viking and Lady Carnarvon jointly decided to celebrate the naming of the Viking Mars and Viking’s 25th anniversary in a private and more meaningful way, donating £10,000 each to 25 worthy charities covering a spectrum of causes important to both the company and the Carnarvon family.
Viking Mars arriving in Valetta’s Grand Harbour to celebrate her christening on Norway Day. Top of page: Charlotte of Highclere Castle (left) and Karine of Viking use a replica of De Valette’s battle sword to cut a ceremonial ribbon
Lady Carnarvon said: “I am honoured and privileged to be the godmother of the Viking Mars. I have no doubt she will delight the many guests who travel with her around the world.
“For more than a decade, Viking and Highclere have been linked through both Downton Abbey and life, and we look forward to continuing welcoming the extended Viking family to explore our home for years to come.”