Viking Vela’s Inaugural Call Kicks Off Dover Port’s 2025 Cruise Season

On March 25th, the Port of Dover in England will officially welcome the Viking Vela, the latest ship from Viking Cruises, marking the start of its 2025 cruise season. This inaugural visit is part of a lineup featuring eight ships scheduled to make their first calls at the port this year, with Ponant’s Le Bellot set to follow on May 5th.

Throughout the 2025 season, Viking’s fleet will make a total of 19 calls to Dover, with four ships — Viking Jupiter, Viking Saturn, Viking Sky, and Viking Vela — operating from both cruise terminals and a multi-use berth. This setup will facilitate pedestrian access to the renowned Dover Waterfront for guests.

The Viking Vela is expected to host around 1,000 passengers during her visit, who will have the opportunity to explore Dover and the surrounding areas of Kent through organized excursions. This stop is part of a 14-day cruise itinerary from London to Bergen, showcasing the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of the British Isles.

Peter Wright, Head of Cruise at the Port of Dover, expressed excitement about the partnership with Viking Cruises, noting the port’s eagerness to welcome the Viking Vela and its anticipated many visits this season. Meanwhile, Wendy Atkin-Smith, Managing Director of Viking UK, highlighted the significance of this inaugural call as guests are eager to experience local attractions such as the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, Capel-le-Ferne, and the historic town of Sandwich, known for its charming streets and architecture.

The Port of Dover plans a bustling 2025 with over 90 cruise ship calls, serving various cruise lines, including Fred Olsen and Carnival. These companies have chosen Dover for its excellent transport links to London and its smooth embarkation and disembarkation processes.

The cruise season at Dover will wrap up on November 6th with the arrival of AIDAbella, capping off a year of increased activity and growth for the port’s cruise operations.

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