New Build Increases Fleet To 24 Ships, Reinforcing Company As
World Leader In River Cruising

LOS ANGELES (April 19, 2004) - To meet the growing demand for European river cruises, Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, announced today that it is adding another ship to its European-deployed fleet: Viking Sun.

Currently under construction at Netherlands' Merwede Shipyard, Viking Sun will deliver in early spring 2005, and is scheduled to sail an 11-night itinerary along the Rhine River between Antwerp, Belgium and Basel, Switzerland starting April 2005. Ports of call include: Antwerp, Brugge, Delft, Rotterdam, Gouda, Amsterdam, Arnhem, Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdeshiem, Heidelberg and Strasbourg, before ending in Basel, Switzerland.

Viking Sun is a state-of-the-art river cruise vessel designed by world-famous architects Yran & Storbraaten, who have designed cruise ships for Seabourn, NCL and Disney. Viking Sun provides all 198 of its passengers with the level of comfort, elegance and service one would experience in a fine hotel. All-outside cabins guarantee passengers picturesque river views and the ship's 50-person crew ensures intimate, personalized service for all guests. The three-deck ship also features a restaurant with panoramic windows, lounge with dance floor, bar, library/game room, plus sun deck.

"Viking River Cruises strives to provide the best experience possible for the seasoned traveler, offering exciting insights into beautiful countries and cities around the world," says Viking River Cruises chairman Torstein Hagen. "With Viking Sun, we are able provide our passengers with the unique and intimate travel experiences they desire, while transporting them in the style and comfort they expect."

About Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China's most majestic rivers. In 2004, the company was named as one of only two river cruise companies to be promoted on the exclusive Condé Nast Traveler "Gold List." The "Gold List" is one of only two major "best of" lists based entirely upon consumer recommendations. Ranked in 2003 and 2004 by Condé Nast Traveler readers as one of the "Top-Ten Small Ship Cruise Lines" in the world, Viking Europe was also named the top river cruise ship in Europe. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown its fleet to 24 vessels. It provides a unique and affordable vacation to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history. For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises toll-free at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) or visit the company online at vikingrivercruises.com.

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