Viking breaks record for launches with bake star Mary Berry 
21.03.2014
Viking breaks record for launches with bake star Mary Berry
Celebrity baker Mary Berry has helped Viking Cruises to launch 14 ships in under 24 hours to break a Guinness World Record.
The TV baker was on hand this week as Viking launched 14 of its deluxe Longships, in three countries and three cities in just 24 hours.
Mary christened Alsvin in Amsterdam by smashing a bottle of champagne across its bows, becoming the official Godmother to the vessel. The launch completed the record for most ships inaugurated in one day by one company.
As well as Amsterdam, ceremonies were held in Avignon, France and Rostock, Germany. Each of the Viking Cruises Longships christened will now set sail along river routes, including the Danube, Rhine and Rhone.
Wendy Atkins-Smith, UK managing director, Viking Cruises, said: “Mary embodies the Viking spirit of exploration – and also the spirit of the curious, experienced travellers who sail with us all over the world.
“For us, though, the real achievement of these launches comes from being able to offer our guests a fleet of new, state-of-the-art Viking Cruises Longships on which to enjoy some of Europe’s most iconic river routes.”
Mary Berry said: “After spending some time on board the Alsvin, I can see why people are so taken with river cruising. As someone who is fascinated by travel, culture and food destinations you certainly get a sense of the Viking spirit on board.”
Like the other vessels in the company’s 50 strong river and ocean cruising fleet, the new Longships are named after ancient Norse gods. All feature a sleek design and advanced engineering, including energy-efficient hybrid engines that produce minimal onboard vibrations. Each also includes outstanding amenities, spacious accommodation and a stylish interior created by Norwegian maritime architects, Yran & Storbraaten.