Viking Ocean Cruises has successfully completed the sea trials of its first ship Viking Star in the Adriatic Sea.
The new vessel, built by Fincantieri shipyard, is expected to start operating in April.
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During the trial, maritime experts carried out more than 80 different tests to evaluate the vessels’ engine, propulsion performance, navigation systems and cabin acoustics.
Viking Cruises chairman Torstein Hagen said: "Following six months of non-stop construction since her float out, this was a major milestone for Viking Star, and we are proud to be another step closer to launch.
"Now we can focus on the finishing touches and we look forward to welcoming guests onboard in two months’ time."
Viking Star was designed by SMC Design of London and its interior was managed by Rottet Studio in Los Angeles.
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By GlobalDataFeatures of the vessel include staterooms, explorer suites, two pools, a spa, an explorer’s lounge and wintergarden, and restaurants, and it will be capable of accommodating 930 passengers.
The vessel is currently undergoing final outfitting and interior decorating at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy.
Once delivered, it will sail routes in Scandinavia, the Baltic, and the western and eastern Mediterranean.
In October 2013, California-based river cruise operator Viking Cruises launched its new cruise line, Viking Ocean Cruises, in the UK.
The second and third ships of the Viking Ocean Cruises, Viking Sea and Viking Sky, are under construction at Fincantieri and delivery of the vessels is expected to be in early and mid-2016 respectively.
Image: Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Star is set to debut in April. Photo: courtesy of Viking Cruises.
