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Veteran NCL captain signs on with Viking Ocean Cruises

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Capt. Mikael Hilden on the bridge of Viking Star in St. Petersburg. He'll be donning his uniform, and taking command, next week in Copenhagen
After more than 15 years at the helm of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, Capt. Mikael Hilden is starting a new chapter at Viking Ocean Cruises.

He's currently aboard Viking Star in preparation for handover of the command in Copenhagen on July 24.

'I am very excited to work for Viking and on their beautifully designed ships and with such a fantastic and guest-orientated crew,' Hilden said. 'I can already see why Viking have been voted the best luxury cruise line in the world.'

Hilden joined Norwegian in 2002, following three years as a captain and staff captain with Star Cruises. Earlier he served as a captain aboard tankers and had a stint as a first officer with Princess Cruises.

At Norwegian Hilden sailed on many of the line's present and past ships, around North and South America, all over Europe and on several trans-Atlantic and repositioning cruises. He was involved with the construction and delivery of Norwegian Gem in 2007 and in the planning and drydocking of ships in the US and Europe.

Hilden called his many years with NCL 'delightful,' adding: 'I look back with fond memories as I continue my career with the world's best luxury cruise line, Viking Ocean.'

He expressed excitement about taking command of the 'luxurious and beautiful Viking Star, to sail with her, providing the best travel experience for our guests.'