Viking River Cruises renews sponsorship of PBS's 'Masterpiece'

The new sponsorship deal, extending through 2016, will support programming that includes the sixth and final season of the Emmy Award-winning series 'Downton Abbey,' as well as the hit series 'Mr. Selfridge,' the Emmy-nominated 'Sherlock,' the new series 'Poldark' and the upcoming 'Indian Summers.'

'Together with "Masterpiece," we engage with audiences of people who strongly believe in enriching their lives through the arts, culture, history and exploration,' said Richard Marnell, svp marketing for Viking River Cruises.

'Masterpiece' executive producer Rebecca Eaton called the relationship with Viking a 'dream partnership,' adding that 'our viewers and their current and potential travelers are cut from the same cloth.' Viking's support of the expanded 'Masterpiece' schedule, including 'Wolf Hall' and 'Grantchester,' has worked well for everyone, Eaton said.

Viking became a 'Masterpiece' national corporate sponsor in 2011. 'Masterpiece' is presented on PBS by WGBH Boston.

In addition to its sponsorship and as a response to the popularity of 'Downton Abbey,' Viking offers an optional excursion to Highclere Castle, the setting of the hit series. The 'Oxford & Highclere Castle' pre- or post- trip add-on is available to passengers on the 'Cities of Light' or 'Paris & the Heart of Normandy' itineraries.

Co-created with the owners of Highclere Castle, the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, the program includes three days in England’s countryside, with a champagne welcome and special tour of the famous home.