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Video transforms Viking Star sea trials into art, ship called 'major step forward'

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Capt. Svalastog - Viking Star 'to exceed the expectations of the most well-traveled guest'
Every newbuild undergoes sea trials but Viking Cruises has elevated this vital technical procedure for its first ocean-going newbuild into an artistic documentary using music, sweeping images and a dramatic voice-over.

'What began with a whisper soon became a symphony of activity,' the narrator says in opening the six-minute clip about Viking Star's mid-December sea trials in the Adriatic.

The nearly week-long series of intense diagnostics included more than 80 tests that evaluated everything from Viking Star’s engine and propulsion performance to navigation systems and cabin acoustics. Following the trials, Capt. Gulleik Svalastog and other key officials expressed their satisfaction.

The captain said Viking Star is 'destined to exceed the expectations of the most well-traveled guest.'

'We all feel very proud. We feel emotional actually,' added Jon Rusten, a seasoned naval architect who has worked on numerous newbuilds during his career. The head of development and new construction for Viking Cruises added that 'This is the first ship, I think, that many of us have had the opportunity to grow from scratch.'

Rusten proclaimed Viking Star quiet and vibration-free, and said the vessel 'moves very graciously in the water.' All in all, he deemed it 'a major step forward for the cruise industry.'

Currently back at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard for final outfitting and interior decorating, Viking Star is scheduled to embark its first passengers on April 11. The ship will then sail from Istanbul, making its way through the Mediterranean and into the Atlantic en route to be christened in Bergen, Norway, on May 17.

Viking Cruises promises a celebration 'that will be seen throughout the world.' The event takes place on one of Norway's most important holidays, Constitution Day, and the line said dignitaries from around the country and thousands of Bergen residents are expected to gather along the waterfront to welcome Viking Star to port and share in the festivities.

Bergen Mayor Trude Drevland will serve as the godmother.

The sea trials video is here.