Viking has announced that seven travel advisors will serve as godparents of its newest river ships. Selected in recognition of their longstanding partnership with Viking and contributions to the travel industry, the seven advisors and industry leaders represent some of the company’s most valued relationships across the global travel advisor community.
Of the seven new river ships, the Viking Haki, the Viking Halogi, the Viking Sjofn and the Viking Rota will sail Viking’s most popular itineraries along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. The Viking Sekhmet and the Viking Ptah will sail the Nile River, while the Viking Fjolvar will sail itineraries on the Seine River.
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These vessels will join Viking’s award-winning fleet of more than 100 ships. Leah Talactac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking, said that: “For nearly 30 years, our travel advisor partners have helped curious travellers explore the world with Viking. These seven individuals represent the strength of those longstanding relationships, and we are proud to honour them as godparents of our newest river ships.”
The maritime tradition of appointing a ceremonial godmother for each new ship dates back thousands of years. Viking has adapted this custom and extended it to include godfathers. Viking’s tradition is to appoint individuals who have made an impact—either in the world or in the life of Viking.
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The company invited the following valued travel advisor partners to serve as godparents: Shelby Steudle, President, Pavlus Travel – Godmother of the Viking Fjolvar; Carol Porter, Co-Owner, The Roaming Boomers – Godmother of the Viking Haki; Carol Shaddix, Owner, Imagine Going There – Godmother of the Viking Halogi; Michael Londregan, Senior Vice President, Global Operations, Virtuoso – Godfather of the Viking Ptah; Ealeen Wong, Senior Director, Strategy, Partnership and Sales, Expedia Cruises – Godmother of the Viking Rota; Michael Consoli, Owner, Cruise Planners – Godfather of the Viking Sekhmet; and Danielle “Dani” Galloway, Global Managing Director, Premium Leisure and Independents, Flight Centre Travel Group – Godmother of the Viking Sjofn.
Viking plans to celebrate the official naming of the seven new river ships during a ceremony in Amsterdam on Oct. 15, 2026. During the event, the godparents will officially name their ships and welcome them to Viking’s award-winning river fleet.