Viking’s fourth ocean ship, Viking Orion, made her inaugural call in the Caribbean country of St. Kitts & Nevis today.
Throughout the fall and winter 2021-2022 season, the vessel is scheduled to make a total of ten calls to the country’s capital of Basseterre. Orion‘s arrival marked the fourth cruise ship to call there since the cruise industry began sailing again after its shutdown.
Viking came to St. Kitts for the first time in the 2016-2017 season with its second ocean vessel, Viking Sea. Since then, Viking Sky, Sun, and Star have all visited.
Of the occasion, the Honorable Lindsay F.P. Grant, Minister of Tourism, Transport, and Ports, said “It is with great pleasure that we welcome Viking Orion today. This visit is symbolic of the continued relationship between Viking Cruises and St. Kitts, it demonstrates Viking’s confidence in St. Kitts the destination. The restart of cruise globally requires all of us in the Federation to their part so old and new cruise visitors can experience our one-of-a-kind attractions, dynamic culture, rich history, simply the authentic Caribbean.”
MORE: Two Cruise Ships Meet in Bahamas For First Time [PHOTOS]
While in port, passengers will be able to choose from a selection of approved excursions. Highlights include the Brimstone Hill Fortress and National Park, Caribelle Batik where batik cloth is made, the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, Palms Court Gardens filled with tropical flora, the Amina Craft Market, and a number of beaches.
“We want to thank Viking Cruises for their valued partnership and for including St. Kitts & Nevis on the itinerary of the Viking Orion’s inaugural season,” said Racquel Brown, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority. “While St. Kitts has often been a destination for inaugural vessels, this visit is exceptionally significant at a time when the cruise lines and the destinations are working together to rebuild the sector in the wake of the global pandemic. We look forward to having Viking Cruises back and look forward to our ongoing partnership for many years to come.”
Currently and for the remainder of this fall and the upcoming winter season, Viking Orion is sailing long 14+ night cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale.
READ NEXT: Cruise Ship Rescues 8 People Off the Coast of Florida [VIDEO]
