The response to Viking Line’s new flagship, Viking Glory (CruiseMapper), has been overwhelming and the number of bookings, which currently exceeds 350,000, has exceeded all expectations. In its first month in service, Viking Line has already reinforced its market share to over 70% on the Turku-Åland-Stockholm route as more than 70,000 passengers sailed on the new vessel in March. In addition nearly 280,000 passengers have booked a trip and are waiting for their turn.
On March 1, Viking Line’s new flagship, Viking Glory, was launched in service on the Stockholm–Mariehamn–Turku route. It is one of the world’s most climate-smart vessels and offers passengers top-class comfort and a wide range of experiences. More than 70,000 passengers have already managed to enjoy wonderful vistas through the large windows that provide views of the world’s most beautiful archipelago.
During the launch, there was uncertainty about placing a new vessel in service given the impact of the Covid pandemic on travel. But people’s interest and sales have both exceeded expectations, and since tickets went on sale almost 350,000 passengers have booked a trip on Viking Glory.
“With Viking Glory, we now have not just a new cruise concept but indeed a full-out cruise experience with an international atmosphere on the Baltic Sea. Many guests we’ve spoken to have compared their experience on board to a modern city hotel with lounge bars, piano players, jazz trios and modern DJs. They say we’ve created something new on the Baltic Sea, and that’s high praise,” says Johanna Boijer-Svahnström, Communications Director on Viking Line.
Now that travel restrictions have been lifted, there is also increased interest in cruises, cabin holidays and hotel packages among people travelling to both Finland and Åland.
“After a long and challenging period, we can see that interest in cruises and holiday travel in nearby areas is growing and to some extent approaching normal, which is a little extra special this year given that Åland is also celebrating 100 years of autonomous rule in 2022. The whole of Åland is celebrating, with all kinds of exciting events during the spring and summer, including musicals, exhibitions and concerts, so there are at least 100 reasons to visit Åland this very year,” adds Johanna Boijer-Svahnström.