Viking takes delivery of new river cruise ship
Viking has taken delivery of its newest river cruise vessel, Viking Rota, expanding its European fleet as the company continues its long-term shipbuilding programme.
The delivery, announced on 7 October 2026, adds another Viking Longship to the company’s river operations. The vessel is designed to accommodate 190 passengers and is scheduled to operate itineraries along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.
The addition comes as Viking prepares for further fleet expansion across its river, ocean and expedition cruise segments over the coming years.
Viking Rota joins European river fleet
The Viking Rota has accommodation for 190 guests across 95 staterooms and follows the established design of the company’s Longship series.
Its features include a square-bow configuration that allows for three full decks, an indoor and outdoor Aquavit Terrace, and an asymmetric corridor arrangement designed to accommodate two-room suites.
The vessel is scheduled to operate several established European itineraries, including Rhine Getaway, Grand European Tour, Danube Waltz and Tulips & Windmills. Seasonal programmes will also include Christmas on the Rhine and Danube Christmas Delights.
“The delivery of the Viking Rota marks another milestone for our award-winning river fleet,” said Leah Talactac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking.
Talactac added that the company remains focused on expanding travel opportunities as interest in river cruising develops.
Further fleet deliveries planned through 2032
The latest delivery forms part of Viking’s broader fleet development strategy, supported by an existing orderbook covering river, ocean and expedition vessels.
According to the company, it expects to take delivery of 18 additional river ships by 2028, alongside 11 ocean ships by 2032 and two expedition ships by 2031.
Based on these committed orders, Viking projects that its river fleet will reach 114 vessels in 2028, while its combined ocean and expedition fleet is expected to total 28 ships in 2032.
These figures represent the company’s current fleet projections and remain subject to the delivery schedules and other conditions associated with its shipbuilding programme.
The delivery of Viking Rota adds capacity to Viking’s European river operations while the company continues preparations for its planned fleet additions.
