Viking partners with Lufthansa for exclusive Newark-Malta nonstop flights

These will be available exclusively for passengers who'll sail on Viking Star, Viking Sea and the new Viking Venus starting in July until early fall. The ships will offer three different 11-day itineraries.

Space and departure dates for flights are limited.

Malta opens to most US travelers

Viking's announcement comes as the Maltese government eased rules for the arrival of international travelers, including Americans. Like many countries, Malta has developed a traffic light system for arriving visitors. Beginning today, June 17, Malta has added most US states and territories — covering the vast majority of the population — to its 'amber list.'

Travelers from 'amber' places may enter Malta with proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival.

US lists Malta at Level 1 'low risk'

Yesterday, the European Union recommended its member countries begin lifting restrictions on US travelers, with a formal announcement expected on Friday.

Additionally, on June 7, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention eased travel recommendations for 110 countries and territories, including listing Malta as Level 1 or the lowest risk for COVID-19.

'Now that we have successfully restarted operations, welcoming guests back on board in England and in Bermuda, we look forward to launching our new voyages from Malta. We applaud the government of Malta for being such a supportive destination partner and for making the arrival and embarkation process even easier for our guests,' Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen said.

High guest satisfaction

Viking restarted operations in May and has been sailing in England with British passengers since May 22. Nearly 100% of passengers on these sailings have rated their experience as 'excellent' or 'very good.' Yesterday, the company welcomed its first American customers back on board in Bermuda for the first of eight sailings.

Later this month, Viking will introduce sailings around Iceland.

Viking's cruises are open to travelers fully vaccinated for COVID-19.