Sponsored By

Viking reportedly exploring IPO to raise at least $500mViking reportedly exploring IPO to raise at least $500m

Viking is considering an IPO to raise at least $500m, according to a Bloomberg report.

Anne Kalosh, Editor, Seatrade Cruise News & Senior Associate Editor, Seatrade Cruise Review

February 15, 2024

1 Min Read
Credit: Seatrade Cruise News

Bloomberg said Viking is working with Bank of America Corp., JPMorgan Chase, UBS Group and Wells Fargo, with an eye to a possible US listing as early as the second quarter.

Seatrade Cruise News reached out to Viking's US public relations firm and will report any response from the company.

Fleet expansion

Chairman Torstein Hagen in June said Viking was planning 10 ocean newbuilds by 2030, some for China.

These include 2024's Viking Vela and 2025's Viking Vesta. Further in the series would be one ship in 2026, one in 2027, two in 2028, two in 2029 and two in 2030.

China and Japan sourcing

Besides Viking's primary North American source market, the company operates a ship in China in conjunction with China Merchants Shekou, recently opening its domestic sailings to international customers, plus it tailors European river cruises for Chinese travelers.

It is now making a push to court the Japanese market with Japan-dedicated sailings and a stronger Asia trade presence.

Current fleet numbers more than 100

Viking's combined river, ocean and expedition fleet currently numbers more than 100 ships.

The company took delivery of 16 vessels during the pandemic.

About the Author

Anne Kalosh

Editor, Seatrade Cruise News & Senior Associate Editor, Seatrade Cruise Review

Anne Kalosh covers global stories, reporting both breaking and in-depth news on cruising's significant people, places, ships and trends. A sought-after expert on cruising, she has moderated conferences around the world, including the high-profile State of the Industry panel at Seatrade Cruise Global. She created and led the acclaimed itinerary-planning case study for Seatrade's cruise master classes held at Cambridge and Oxford universities. She has been the cruise columnist for AFAR.com, and her freelance stories have appeared in a wide range of publications, from The New York Times to The Miami Herald.

The latest cruise news, analysis and more straight to your inbox
Get the free newsletter read by industry experts

You May Also Like